The very best 12 nightlife spots in Durham, United States
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Looking for a wild night out in Durham? Fear not, weary traveler, for we've got you covered with our guide to the 12 best nightlife spots in this fair city. From cozy pubs serving up craft brews to swanky cocktail lounges that'll have you feeling like a movie star, there's something for everyone here. So grab your dancing shoes and a designated driver (safety first, folks!), and let's explore the best Durham has to offer after dark.
Save destination1. The Atomic Fern
Welcome to The Atomic Fern, where the ferns are atomic and the cocktails will knock your socks off (or maybe that's just the novelty drinkware). This cozy bar in Durham is the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring the city, or to start your night on the town - just be warned, you may end up staying longer than you intended with so many inventive cocktails to choose from. And if you're lucky, you might even get to catch a game of Cards Against Humanity or witness a heated debate over which sci-fi movie is the greatest of all time.
2. Bull McCabe's Irish Pub
427 W Main St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
Nestled in the heart of downtown Durham lies the infamous Bull McCabe's Irish Pub. The décor transports you straight to the Emerald Isle, with cozy dark wood furnishings and walls adorned with nostalgic Irish memorabilia. The menu boasts some of the best Fish and Chips this side of the Atlantic, and the live music is sure to put a jig in your step (or at least a pint in your hand).
Learn more3. Motorco Music Hall
723 Rigsbee Ave, Durham, NC 27701, USA
Nestled cozily in Durham, Motorco Music Hall is a hidden gem that caters to music enthusiasts and beer lovers alike. The atmosphere is lively and eclectic, with its colorful walls adorned with graffiti that'll make your head spin. If you're looking for a hip place to catch some great music, be sure to put Motorco on your bucket list!
Learn more4. Beyu Caffe
341 W Main St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
If you're looking for a caffeine hit in Durham, look no further than Beyu Caffe! With its funky decor and cozy atmosphere, you'll feel right at home as you sip on your latte and people-watch. And if you're feeling peckish, the menu has plenty of tasty treats to choose from - just be sure to save room for their famous banana bread!
Learn more5. Rue Cler
401 E Chapel Hill St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
Welcome to Rue Cler, or as I like to call it, the "French-est" street in Durham. With its charming cobblestone streets and cute cafes with outdoor seating, this street is perfect for pretending you're in Paris (je ne parle pas français, though). Don't forget to stop by the cheese shop and pick up some fromage for a picnic in the park, or risk committing an unpardonable French faux pas.
Learn more6. Fullsteam Brewery
726 Rigsbee Ave, Durham, NC 27701, USA
Welcome to Fullsteam Brewery, where the beer flows like honey and the atmosphere is as cozy as your grandma's knitted sweater. Take a seat at one of the communal tables and strike up a conversation with a stranger, or grab a pint and venture out to the lively outdoor patio. With a focus on using local ingredients and unique brewing techniques, every sip tastes like a little piece of Durham. Cheers to good beer and good times at Fullsteam!
Learn more7. Durty Bull Brewing Company
206 Broadway St #104, Durham, NC 27701, USA
Durty Bull Brewing Company in Durham is where the beer and the laughs flow freely. With its industrial decor and creative brews, this brewery is a must-visit destination for those looking to get their hop on. So saddle up to the bar, grab a pint of their famous Russian imperial stout, and let the good times roll at Durty Bull.
Learn more8. Arcana
331 W Main St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
Durham's Arcana is the spot where caffeine addicts gather to fuel their daily grind. This stylish coffee house in downtown Durham is as hip as it gets, with exposed brick walls and funky metallic light fixtures. And don't be fooled by the obscure names of their brews, whatever you choose is sure to give you a kick in the pants!
Learn more9. The Blue Note Grill
709 Washington St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
Nestled in the heart of Durham lies a hidden gem that's sure to jazz up your taste buds. That's right, it's The Blue Note Grill - the perfect spot for music lovers and foodies alike. Known for their smoky ribs and sultry jazz, this joint is a must-visit for anyone looking to spice up their night in Bull City.
Learn more10. The Pinhook
117 W Main St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
In the heart of Durham's thriving downtown, a boisterous watering hole known as The Pinhook awaits. A hub for artsy folks and quirky characters alike, The Pinhook offers a unique blend of live music, craft beers, and offbeat events. Be sure to check out their famous dance parties, where you'll find locals letting loose and cutting a rug to tunes you won't hear anywhere else in town.
Learn more11. Alley Twenty Six
320 E Chapel Hill St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
Welcome, thirsty travelers, to Alley Twenty Six in Durham! Located in a charming alleyway, this establishment offers a cozy yet classy atmosphere perfect for a night out with your drinking buddies or a romantic evening with your significant other. With a menu featuring a wide array of cocktails and spirits, we guarantee you won't be disappointed by the drinks or the fantastic service.
Learn more12. The Durham Hotel
315 E Chapel Hill St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
The Durham Hotel is proof that good things come in small packages. While other hotels may be grandiose and sprawling, The Durham Hotel makes up for its size with charm and quirks. The hotel's rooftop bar is a must-visit, not just for the stunning views but also for the chance to mingle with the hipster crowd.
Learn moreHow to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Durham by plane is to fly into Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU). From the airport, you can take a shuttle or taxi to Durham which takes approximately 20-30 minutes.
Car
The best way to get to Durham by car is to take the I-40 or I-85 highways. If you are driving from the north, you can take the I-95 until it joins the I-85. If you are driving from the south, you can take the I-95 until it joins the I-40. Both routes will take you to Durham.
Train
While there are no direct train services to Durham, you can take a train to either Raleigh or Greensboro and then take a bus or taxi to get to Durham. The closest Amtrak station to Durham is located in Raleigh, which is approximately a 30-minute drive away.
Boat
Durham is a landlocked city and can only be accessed by road. There are no seaports or navigable waterways that lead to Durham or the surrounding areas.
Bus
The best way to get to Durham by bus is to take the Greyhound bus which runs daily from various cities in the USA, including New York and Atlanta. The Greyhound bus station in Durham is located in the downtown area and is easily accessible by foot or taxi.