Hillsborough was first home to Native Americans tribes as the Great Indian Trading Path crossed the Eno River in this area. European settlers saw the value in this location and founded a town in 1754. Significant events of the Revolutionary War and Civil War occurred in the following years. Today, Hillsborough's downtown district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and features more than 100 historical structures. The town is a bustling center of festivals, farm markets, art walks, live entertainment, and more.
When should you visit Hillsborough, North Carolina?
The most popular time of year to visit Hillsborough is in the fall and early winter. You'll find that temperatures from September to December begin to cool down from 80 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit as the weeks pass. Summers in Hillsborough are hot and muggy, with temperatures hovering around 90 degrees from May to August. Winters are cold but short, with a very small chance of snowfall. The best time to visit Hillsborough for warm days with little chance of rain is from mid-May to late June and from mid-August to early October.
Besides the weather, you'll also want to consider the events going on in Hillsborough throughout the year. There are annual events that draw crowds, like the two-day Hillsborough Hog Day BBQ Festival each September.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Hillsborough, NC:
Hillsborough by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs demonstrating mean price patterns by star rating class in Hillsborough, NC. You can use these line graphs to determine the cheapest seasons to book in Hillsborough for your upcoming travels.
What are the top hotels near Hillsborough, NC?
4 Star Average Prices: $117.86
The Umstead Hotel and Spa in Cary is a place where nature and art collide and is only 20 minutes from Hillsborough. With a stay at the Umstead, you can escape from the world and leave feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Peaceful guest rooms and suites include complimentary internet, nightly turndown service, and 24-hour room service. Other hotel amenities include concierge services any hour of the day, valet parking, yoga classes, laundry service, and complimentary tea and coffee each morning. Dine at the AAA Five Diamond Signature Restaurant and enjoy nightly live entertainment at the full-service bar and lounge.
Pet-friendly rooms are available at the Umstead, as well, and include access to an enclosed playground for your pet. Stay active with complimentary bicycle rentals and access to fitness facilities. An outdoor pool with private cabanas and a pool bar is open seasonally for all guests to enjoy. Pamper yourself at the full-service spa that offers a full menu of spa treatments, relaxation lounges, sauna, whirlpool, and meditation gardens. All of this and more creates the most memorable stay by a picturesque lake in Cary.
The 21c Museum Hotel Durham is a unique property located in the heart of downtown Durham, less than 20 minutes from Hillsborough. It's home to a contemporary art museum, a boutique hotel, and the Counting House Restaurant. Luxurious and spacious guest rooms boast high ceilings, large windows, and custom furnishings. The rooms also include amenities like Wi-Fi, HDTV, mini bars, Nespresso coffee makers, and luxurious bedding. Original artwork decorates the space, as well. You can also enjoy in-room dining for any meal of the day.
The 21c hotel is also home to one of the most desirable spas in the city. It's located near the sauna, steam room, and state-of-the-art fitness center. If you're planning on going off property, a complimentary van service can take you anywhere within a 5-mile radius. The hotel also offers convenient 24-hour valet service. Be sure to take time to visit the museum and explore the current exhibition.
What are the affordable hotel options in Hillsborough, NC?
3 Star Average Prices: $125.72
The Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Hillsborough is an affordable hotel located near the heart of downtown. The hotel is off Interstate 85 and offers quick access to local attractions, Duke University, and the Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area. The Raleigh-Durham International Airport is just 30 minutes away. The Microtel Inn offers standard guest rooms with free Wi-Fi and cable TV. Upgrade to a suite for extra amenities like a kitchenette and sitting area. Book your group travel here to receive special discount rates on a block of rooms.
Another affordable hotel located along I-85 is the newly renovated Holiday Inn Express Hillsborough. Special rates are available to North Carolina state government employees and senior adult travelers at this location. The Holiday Inn Express also has a discounted military appreciation rate. Whether you're here for business or pleasure, be sure to take advantage of the free breakfast buffet and stay connected with free Wi-Fi. If possible, book a stay here during the week in order to find the lowest prices.
