Association for Biology Laboratory Education

ABLE 2012 Travel

photo of Coker Arboretum

By Air

The Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) has two terminals serving 10 airlines and is located in the heart of the Research Triangle Park. It is located approximately 17.4 miles (28 km) from Chapel Hill and travel time by taxi or car is about 25 minutes.

Ground Transportation from the Airport

Transportation from the airport to the University is available via the Express RDU Taxi. The conference rate is $35 per passenger one way, or $70 for round trip depending on the number of people sharing the van. To reserve a seat call (1-800-840-8098) before you arrive at RDU. You may also use the phone at the customer service area to call the taxi service. Please be ready to provide them with the following information:

  • Name of Traveler
  • # of people in party
  • Arrival Information: Date & time of arrival and Airline; Destination in Chapel Hill (Dormitory or specific Hotel)
  • Departure Information: Date of return, Flight, and Departure Time; Pick up location at UNC or hotel; Phone Number (cell).

You may pay the driver by cash or credit card. If you wish to pay by credit card you may do so via the credit card processing system provided in the taxi. When calling please identify yourself as an ABLE conference attendee in order to get discounted rates. Additionally, you may choose to use another transportation service, or rental car. All ground transportation services are located near the baggage area. It is recommended to schedule service with ground transportation ahead of time.

Driving Directions

The University of North Carolina is located off of I-40, if you are traveling from the East or West. Please note: when driving in North Carolina it is against the law to text message while driving. All drivers and passengers must wear a seat belt!

Campus Map

Use this Campus Map to help you get familiar with the campus. Campus maps will be provided when you register at the conference to find your way to the residence halls or other venues on campus.

Wild horses at the Outer Banks
Pinehurst Golf Resort

Weather

The average high for mid-June in Chapel Hill, NC is 85F with lows in the 60’s. The humidity can be quite high making it feel very warm and thunderstorms are not unusual in the afternoons this time of year.

Sites to See

North Carolina is a great place to visit if you are interested in vacationing at the beach or in the mountains before or after the conference. The beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains are about 3 hours (217 miles or 313 km) from Chapel Hill. Traveling by car to the Outer Banks from Chapel Hill takes about 5 hours (264 miles or 425 km) depending on where your destination is on the coast. Chapel Hill to Wilmington, NC is just under 3 hours. If you are a golf enthusiast, there are several golf courses in North Carolina to enjoy. Golf course locations include Pinehurst, Grandover, the Highlands and many more.