The Williams House - Craft Taproom: Where Historic Cary Meets Live Music
A Love Story Built in Brick and Terracotta
Step into The Williams House - Craft Taproom, and you're entering one of downtown Cary's most unique architectural treasures. The building was constructed around 1938 by the Rickman Brick Company of Lillington, NC, featuring streamline moderne architecture—one of only two known examples of this style in the Town of Cary. This late Art Deco architectural style, with its sleek curves and horizontal lines, makes the venue instantly recognizable and unlike any other in the area.
The structure is entirely constructed from brick and terracotta, aside from the steel roof beams, giving it a solid, timeless quality. But what truly sets this building apart is the romantic history of its original owners.
Felton and "Peggy" Williams (nee Fussel) purchased the house in 1939, while both were employed at the WPTF radio station. Eight years prior, after meeting at WPTF, they said their "I Do's" live on the air—reportedly the first couple in the southeast to do so. It's a fitting legacy for a space that now brings people together through music, coffee, and craft beverages.
A Journey Down the Street
The Williams House was moved from 318 East Chatham Street to 210 East Chatham Street on November 11, 2018, a remarkable feat of preservation. The historic building was carefully relocated and restored, with modern additions that respect its heritage while creating a functional, welcoming space for today's community.
Your New Favorite Hangout
The Williams House - Craft Taproom isn't just a bar—it's a multifaceted community gathering space that serves everything from morning coffee to evening cocktails. Open Monday-Thursday from 7am-10pm and Friday-Saturday from 7am-11pm, this venue adapts to your schedule whether you need a quiet workspace in the morning or a lively spot for weekend entertainment.
The taproom specializes in craft beer, cider, and hard seltzer, with a rotating selection that keeps things interesting. They also offer cocktails and a full coffee program featuring locally sourced beans and expertly crafted brews—perfect whether you're looking to fuel up for the day or wind down with friends.
Open Mic Nights & Live Music
For musicians and music lovers, The Williams House has become a vital part of Cary's open mic scene. Open Mic Night runs from 6-8pm with sign-ups starting at 5:30pm. It's an intimate, supportive environment where local talent can share their songs, test new material, or simply enjoy performing in a laid-back atmosphere. And here's a bonus: attendees are encouraged to bring cards, board games, and checkers to enjoy during the evening, creating a uniquely social and relaxed vibe.
Beyond open mics, The Williams House regularly features live music performances. Past performers have included artists like 2Digh4, Chris Overstreet, Dudley Baggett, and Cole Spade, offering everything from acoustic sets to full band performances.
Weekly Events That Build Community
The Williams House has developed a solid lineup of recurring events that give regulars something to look forward to:
- Music Bingo - Join in for three rounds of music bingo—recognize some hits and shout BINGO when you have it
- Trivia Night - Weekly trivia with a new theme each week, testing your knowledge while you sip your favorite beverage
- Special Events - From brewery showcases to sake tastings, The Williams House keeps its calendar fresh with unique experiences
Food Trucks & More
While The Williams House focuses on beverages, they regularly partner with local food trucks to ensure you're well-fed. Check their Instagram (@thewilliamshouse) for the weekly food truck schedule—past vendors have included Big T's Birria Tacos, Bulkogi, and other Triangle favorites.
The Vibe
The Williams House masterfully blends historic charm with contemporary comfort. The streamline moderne architecture provides a distinctive backdrop—curved edges, smooth surfaces, and thoughtful design elements that harken back to the machine age optimism of the 1930s. Yet the space feels thoroughly modern and welcoming, with comfortable seating, good lighting for both daytime work and evening socializing, and an atmosphere that encourages lingering.
The venue embraces the philosophy of "turning historic local charm into fresh new memories"—honoring the building's radio-era romance while creating new stories through live music, community events, and genuine connections.
Planning Your Visit
Whether you're a local musician looking for a stage, a coffee lover seeking a historic setting for your morning routine, or someone who appreciates craft beverages in a unique space, The Williams House - Craft Taproom welcomes you. The combination of architectural significance, quality beverages, and consistent live music programming makes it a standout venue in downtown Cary.
Located at 210 E Chatham Street in the heart of downtown, The Williams House is easily accessible and positioned perfectly for exploring other downtown Cary attractions. Park nearby and make an evening of it—or settle in for the afternoon with your laptop and a locally roasted coffee.