Things To Do
in Durham
Durham, located in the state of North Carolina, is known for its rich history and vibrant culture. Home to Duke University and North Carolina Central University, Durham has a thriving academic community. The city is also recognized for its diverse culinary scene, with many delicious restaurants serving a variety of cuisines.
Durham offers a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, with several parks and green spaces providing opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local cafe. Afterwards, stroll around the historic downtown area and admire the unique architecture.
Visit the Durham Farmers' Market to sample local produce and artisanal goods. Grab lunch from one of the food stalls and enjoy it in the nearby Central Park.
Head to a local brewery for a refreshing drink and enjoy some live music. End your day with dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant.
Spend the morning exploring the beautiful Duke Gardens. Take a peaceful walk through the blooming flowers and serene ponds.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the gardens, taking in the natural beauty around you. You can also visit the nearby Sarah P. Duke Gardens for more exploration.
As the sun sets, make your way to the nearby Eno River State Park for a relaxing hike. Return to Durham for a laid-back dinner at a local eatery.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural and artistic scene with numerous museums and music festivals.
- Growing job market, particularly in technology, healthcare, and education.
- Access to quality education with renowned institutions like Duke University and North Carolina Central University.
- Pleasant climate with mild winters and warm summers, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Diverse community with a variety of restaurants and local businesses.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue, especially during peak hours.
- Cost of living has been rising as the area becomes more desirable.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger metropolitan areas.
- Some neighborhoods may experience higher crime rates.
- Durham has a relatively high humidity level during summer months, which some may find uncomfortable.
Best Activities in Durham
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy hiking, fishing, picnicking, and wildlife observation along the scenic Eno River.
Go for a walk, run, or bike ride along this scenic trail that spans from Durham to Apex.
Explore this urban park offering green spaces, playgrounds, and the Durham Farmer's Market.
Tours
Uncover the best of Durham with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Durham
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a great view of the city skyline and is a popular spot for capturing the downtown area.
Known for its stunning botanical landscapes, including colorful flowers, peaceful water features, and beautiful architecture, providing ample photo opportunities.
Boasts a blend of historic and contemporary architecture, as well as open spaces that offer picturesque views of the city.
Food in Durham
Durham Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Durham is famous for its mouthwatering barbecue, particularly the use of pit-cooked pork served with tangy, vinegar-based sauces. Be sure to try this Southern classic at The Pit Authentic Barbecue or Picnic.
Must-Try!
A beloved Southern specialty, chicken and waffles are a must-try in Durham. Indulge in this sweet and savory dish at Dame's Chicken & Waffles for a delightful culinary experience.
A Southern staple, pimento cheese is a creamy spread made with cheese, pimentos, and mayonnaise. The variety of inventive uses for pimento cheese can be savored at local spots like The Durham Hotel and Foster's Market.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Durham better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Durham Farmers' Market is a vibrant hub for fresh, locally sourced produce, artisanal goods, and delectable street food. Browse through the stalls and savor diverse street food offerings from savory crepes to gourmet tacos.
For an eclectic street food experience, visit Cocoa Cinnamon, a local gem serving up globally inspired coffee, chocolate, and churros. This is the perfect spot to enjoy unique and flavorful treats in a cozy atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Durham, it's important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when in public spaces.
Politeness is highly valued in Durham, so saying 'please' and 'thank you' is considered respectful in interactions with others.
Durham is a diverse community, and showing respect for different cultural backgrounds and beliefs is essential for maintaining a harmonious environment.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Durham with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Durham
Ensure a smooth experience
In Durham, United States, tipping is customary in most service industries such as restaurants, bars, and for other personal services. A typical tip ranges from 15% to 20% of the total bill.
Payment in Durham, United States is commonly made using credit/debit cards, cash, and mobile payment apps. Most businesses and establishments accept major credit cards, and contactless payment options are increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Durham.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Durham. Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and outdoor events.
Warm weather, perfect for outdoor activities and festivals.
Cooler temperatures, beautiful fall foliage, and harvest festivals.
Cold weather, possible snowfall, and holiday events.
Durham at Night
Hiking in Durham
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful park with trails along the Eno River, offering scenic views, picnic areas, and diverse wildlife.
A large forested area with various trails suitable for hiking, running, and enjoying nature just outside of the Duke University campus.
Features several miles of hiking trails that wind through scenic woodlands and up to a historic viewpoint.
A great park that offers hiking trails along the river, historical sites, and picnic areas.
Located between Raleigh and Durham, with numerous trails for hiking, biking, and running, surrounded by beautiful forest.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Durham through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Durham by plane.
The primary airport serving the Research Triangle region, including Durham, located approximately 14 miles northeast of downtown Durham.
A major international airport located approximately 140 miles southwest of Durham, serving as a hub for both domestic and international flights.
Situated about 85 miles west of Durham, this airport serves the Triad region and offers both domestic and some international flights.
Located around 70 miles south of Durham, it primarily serves domestic flights and some regional destinations.
Approximately 115 miles east of Durham, this airport offers flights primarily to regional destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Durham, historically significant with a rich cultural heritage.
The second-largest demographic group, consisting of various ethnic backgrounds including European descent.
A growing demographic group in Durham, representing diverse cultural backgrounds from Latin American countries.
Includes a variety of cultures and ethnicities, with significant representation from Indian, Chinese, and Vietnamese communities.
Reflects individuals who identify with two or more racial groups, representing a diverse mix of backgrounds.
A small yet significant demographic group, with historical ties to the original inhabitants of the region.
A very small demographic group in Durham, representing individuals from various Pacific Island nations.
The Soul of Durham
Discover the essence of Durham through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is a widely popular sport in Durham, particularly due to the presence of Duke University and its successful basketball program.
Soccer has gained significant popularity in Durham, with youth leagues and local clubs contributing to its growth.
Baseball enjoys a strong following in Durham, especially with the Durham Bulls, a Minor League Baseball team that has a dedicated fan base.
American football is popular in Durham, with many local high school teams and the college football program at North Carolina Central University.
Lacrosse is increasingly popular among youth and high school athletes in Durham, supported by local clubs and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Durham.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Durham's food scene caters extensively to vegetarians and vegans, with many eateries offering diverse and inventive plant-based dishes. Enjoy a satisfying vegetarian or vegan meal at places like The Parlour, which offers an array of delectable vegan ice cream flavors.
For those with gluten sensitivities, Durham's restaurants and cafes provide numerous gluten-free options, ensuring that everyone can savor the city's culinary delights. Places like Gocciolina serve up delectable gluten-free pasta dishes.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Durham with these cultural adventures.
