Downing Creek - Chapel Hill, NC

The city of Durham has a history that aligns closely with the rise and fall of the tobacco industry and the founding of the prestigious Duke University. Up until the latter part of the 1900s, the local economy was fed by large cigarette companies. As smoking became less popular, the city experienced a shift towards more of a focus on arts and culture.

Simultaneously, Duke University, which was initially founded in 1838, continued to rise in international prominence. This Ivy League school now includes one of the most advanced and respected medical centers in the world.

Residents consist of a well-educated population of people who keep Duke, UNC-Chapel Hill and their hospitals running. Downing Creek represents just one planned community built to accommodate these workers and provide them with easy access to work.

Today, Downing Creek holds annual Halloween, caroling and Fourth of July events for residents.

For dining options, residents can head west on Highway 54 to visit the Meadowmont neighborhood, which represents another planned community complete with its own shopping and restaurant district.

The Marriott presents the Bistro, which also features a more dressed-up dining room while remaining warm and welcoming. Stop by for a tasty and filling breakfast complete with eggs, turkey sausage, potatoes and toast, or visit for a seasonally inspired dinner of kale, cheddar, and bacon risotto. The menu features many classic and easily recognizable dishes that have been taken to the next level of culinary sophistication.

For a truly casual night of dinner, drive east on 54 to the Amante Gourmet Pizza restaurant where patrons can order from the specials or design their own pie. The thin crust serves as the perfect vehicle for salty prosciutto and gooey, melted cheese. Wash it all down with a few pints of local beer on draft for an inexpensive night of fine food.

Resident have their choice of downtown Chapel Hill or Durham for more entertainment options. Both cities host major universities, so it can be easy to catch a sports game. Chapel Hill also has an active music scene, with popular bands playing at the Local 506 and the legendary Cat's Cradle. In Durham, enjoy great barbecue, ribs, burgers, and live music at the Blue Note Grill on Washington Street. The venue attracts loyal bluegrass, jazz, and blues fans. Options abound in both cities.

Drivers find it extremely easy and convenient to travel the Downing Creek neighborhood, which is bordered by Highway 54 to the north, I-40 to the east and Highway 501 to the West. Commuters can be on a major thoroughfare and headed to their destination in just a few minutes. Parking in the neighborhood remains easy throughout the week and at any time of day.

Passengers also enjoy service from the Chapel Hill transportation system, which offers free rides to all residents. Pedestrians can also safely travel the streets. Many of the major roads have been designed to accommodate bikers, and quiet subdivision streets provide plenty of space for evening strolls.

The Downing Creek neighborhood hosts its own neighborhood park complete with paved, dog friendly walking trails, tennis courts, open spaces and a clubhouse with a pool. Residents can use all the amenities for free. Locals can also take a short drive south to the Jordan Lake State Recreational area, which offers boating, swimming, fishing and hiking as well as playgrounds and a nature center for the kids. A day pass costs $5, and campsites can also be rented for a small fee. North Carolina nature lovers help preserve the park through an annual clean-up event held every October.

The cost of living in this exclusive neighborhood runs notably higher than other parts of the Durham/Raleigh area. A one-bedroom apartment rents for $1,180 per month. Passengers enjoy free public transportation, but drivers pay gas prices that run on par with national averages. Head to a local bar and expect to pay at least $5 for a pint of local beer.

Shoppers should head north on 501 for a variety of options. The University Mall area sits a short drive away and features a combination of popular national chains and local boutiques. Bargain hunt for clothes and household items at TJ Maxx or head to the Southern Season store. This expansive location features gourmet food items, kitchen tools and gifts from around the world. The family owned and operated store specializes in finding ingredients and luxury items that make a real treat for customers or their friends and family.

For groceries, Downing Creek residents can visit upscale store The Fresh Market or head eat to Food Lion or Kroger. The Durham Farmers' Market also opens on Saturday mornings to sell fresh produce and artisan wares. Also be on the lookout for local food truck vendors who set up shop for the crowd.