Searching for the Elusive White Squirrel
By Dani Halliday
THE HIGHWAY 64 PROJECT
The Piedmont Region
Lexington
Called the “Barbecue Capital of the World” by many, travelers along Highway 64 would certainly find it worth their while to stop by Lexington. The town is situated neatly between High Point, Winston Salem, and Greensboro, making it a city in the center of the Piedmont Triad. Other areas to explore in Lexington include vineyards, lakes and rivers, and numerous street festivals like the Lexington Barbecue Festival.
Asheboro
Home to the North Carolina Zoo, Asheboro hosts one of the world’s largest natural habitat zoos. Businesses and sports clubs have branded themselves in honor of the city’s crown jewel, including the town’s baseball club: the Asheboro Zoo Keepers. Outside the zoo, travelers to Asheboro can visit the North Carolina Aviation Museum, the American Classic Motorcycle Museum, and more in a town of 27,000 residents.
Siler City
Founded in 1884, Siler City has been the largest city of Chatham County, North Carolina. With a historic district with rich history, Siler City is a quintessential rural town along Highway 6 for its emphasis on family and a tight knit community. Stores and restaurants breathe life and togetherness in a town with monthly events and gatherings.
Saxapahaw
A special village along Highway 64, Saxapahaw is a census-designated community and part of Alamance County. It is home to former mill villages and Haw River, a river with many attractions that lovers of nature will feel right at home with. Other places of interest include the renowned Haw River Ballroom music venue and Saxapahaw Museum.
Pittsboro
Known as a “commuter town,” or a residential town rather than industrial, Pittsboro is a picturesque, quaint North Carolina town. It is located in Chatham County and serves as the county seat. Many rivers surround the area, and there are many attractions and activities for visitors within the town, including the Chatham County courthouse. So, while Pittsboro is not renowned for its booming industry, it capitalizes on its quaintness and natural beauty and makes for a great place to stop along Highway 64.
Apex
With a population of over 58,000 residents, Apex is the 18th largest municipality in North Carolina. The town is part of Friendship, an unincorporated community within the county. Apex is a center of trade, and it has many options for dining, shopping, and entertainment. With the motto “The Peak of Good Living,” Apex is an ideal town to visit in North Carolina.
Raleigh
Raleigh is North Carolina’s capital city and boasts nearly half a million residents, making it the second most populated city in the state. It is home to North Carolina State University, making it part of the “Research Triangle” alongside Durham’s Duke University and Chapel Hill’s UNC. The city is also known as the “Smithsonian of the South” for its abundance of free museums. With many activities and attractions to explore, Raleigh is a must-visit in North Carolina.
