Residents also participate in educational activities beyond Carol Woods. The Duke Institute for Learning in Retirement holds at least one course per semester on the Carol Woods campus. Residents may audit courses at UNC at no charge. Three and a half miles from UNC, and ten miles from Duke University, many residents subscribe to symphonies and drama series , sports events, and numerous cultural and civic events. Transportation to off-campus events is organized by a resident committee.
Many residents use their time and energy to volunteer in local agencies and service organizations.
The campus itself has many amenities for recreation and leisure. Facilities are available for walking, jogging, biking, bird watching, horseshoes, and fishing. Several pianos and an organ are available for resident use.