Thank you, Carolina

May is just around the corner, senior day is this weekend, graduation gown is purchased... and I'm feeling a little nostalgic. Becoming a Tar Heel went from being a childhood dream to almost being over waaaay too quick. Looking back at my past few years, I am filled with gratitude and love for Carolina. This town took a Jersey girl and welcomed her with open arms to join their southern slice of heaven to make memories, friendships and relationships that will last a lifetime. I now understand why they say Tar Heels bleed Carolina blue for life... We share a special bond that is glued together by unique Carolina experiences that we will cherish forever. Although I might be graduating, my love for UNC will last a lifetime and I will be forever grateful for my time here.

Luckily, I'm not going anywhere just yet. UNC stole my heart and I am not ready to leave anytime soon. I have decided to use my NCAA extra year of eligibility to pursue an M.A. in Strategic Communication at the Hussman Graduate School AND fight for another (yes, "another" because we plan to win this year) National Championship with the UNC women's lacrosse team.

Okay, enough about me! Since we are on the theme of talking about how much we love Carolina, let's highlight the local businesses that make UNC, UNC. Here are some iconic places in Chapel Hill that you must visit if you want to feel what it truly means to be a Tar Heel.

Merritt's Grill

You can't visit Chapel Hill without indulging in Merritt's world-famous bacon, bacon, bacon, bacon, lettuce, tomato (aka BLT) sandwich on sourdough. These people know how to make a to-die-for BLT, and don't worry, they won't skimp out on the bacon. Since introducing its famous BLT in 1992, Merritt's has been featured in hundreds of southern food magazines, food shows, articles and books, and is a staple of the town of Chapel Hill. Check out Merritt's menu here.

Al's Burger Shack

Head down Franklin Street for the best burger in America (yes, my opinion - but others think so too - 2018 Food & Wine Magazine and Trip Advisor). Al's serves exceptional burgers, dogs and shakes using fresh ingredients from local farmers. Its mission is to provide local, fresh, sustainable food and drink with a hefty dose of southern hospitality. Your trip to Chapel Hill is not complete without a visit to Al's Burger Shack! Check out the menu here.

The Carolina Inn

The Carolina Inn is an iconic landmark in Chapel Hill. Located near the heart of campus, this hotel has been hosting visitors, special events and lodging since 1924. The Carolina Inn is the perfect place to unwind and embrace the Carolina culture with its luxury accommodations, southern charm and prime location. Crossroads, the hotel's restaurant serves delicious breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks in its dining area and beautiful outdoor patio. Visit its website to learn more and to book a room for your next trip!

He's Not Here

Head over to the "Home of the Blue Cup" for a good time at Chapel Hill's legendary bar, He's Not Here. He's Not has been serving up refreshing beer and good times since 1972. Its indoor and large outdoor setting make He's Not a great place to make memories with friends. In addition to the atmosphere and refreshing beers, He's Not attracts crowds with its interesting specials: Karaoke Night on Sundays, $5 Blue Cups on Tuesdays, or Pint Night on Wednesdays. Be sure to head over and get yourself an iconic Blue Cup (or 5 - yes, you get to take them home) and enjoy a great time! While you're there, make sure to check out one of Chapel Hill's most iconic murals - “Greetings from Chapel Hill” postcard.

Sutton's Drug Store

Located in the heart of downtown Franklin Street, Sutton's is an iconic place that has been feeding Chapel Hill since 1923. Its friendly atmosphere, great food and Carolina spirit make it a UNC landmark. When you walk through the doors and sit in one of the booths, you are surrounded by thousands and thousands of pictures of Carolina students, fans and residents from over the years. It truly embodies how the university and the town and its local businesses are what make UNC so special. The town of Chapel Hill would not be the same without Sutton's Drug Store.

Top of The Hill

Whether you're looking for the perfect spot to watch thousands of UNC students rush Franklin Street after winning a National Championship or beating Duke, relax and enjoy a great meal, or sip on delicious craft beer while overlooking the town during sunset, Top of the Hill is a UNC landmark that you must experience. Located in the center of town, TOPO and its amazing outdoor patio that overlooks Franklin Street is a place that you need to see to embrace the Carolina spirit.

I could write for days about all of the amazing local businesses that you should support, but these are just a few that came to mind when thinking about what it means to be a part of the Carolina community. Chapel Hill is truly an amazing place and I don't think there is anywhere else in the world like it. The historical buildings, incredible professors, talented students, and impressive sports teams make UNC great, but it is the town of Chapel Hill and all of its small businesses that support Carolina that make this place unforgettable.

I am so grateful to be able to call Chapel Hill my home, and I hope you feel inspired to support these iconic local businesses after reading this blog!

#SupportLocal

Here is the link to The Barstool Fund, a fund that is supporting local businesses in need of help due to COVID-19 across the nation. Check it out!!

Link to blog: https://www.thehelpingheel.com/post/thank-you-carolina