1. Durham Performing Arts Center

Nestled in the heart of Durham, the Performing Arts Center is a must-see attraction for any culture lovers and music enthusiasts alike. With a seating capacity of over 2,700, it's the perfect place to catch a show and rub elbows with fellow artsy types. Whether you're into Broadway or blues, there's something for everyone at this venue, so grab a drink and settle in for a night of entertainment that will blow your socks off - and probably your hair, too.

www.dpacnc.com

2. Durham Convention Center

Nestled snugly in the heart of Durham, the Convention Center stands proudly as a beacon of event planning prowess. With its grand entranceway and towering interior, it's almost like walking into a royal palace, if that palace happened to host conferences and trade shows instead of balls and banquets. The perfect place to network, schmooze, and maybe even discover the next big thing in your industry (or at least snag a free pen or two).

www.durhamconventioncenter.com

3. Brightleaf Square

Welcome to Brightleaf Square, where you can delight in the sights and sounds of Durham while sipping on a frothy latte. Take a stroll through the courtyard and admire the charming brick buildings, where you can find everything from upscale boutiques to a killer slice of pizza. And don't forget to snap a photo with the statue of a bull, because nothing says "I'm in Durham" like a bronze bovine.

onemedical.com

4. Bennett Place State Historic Site

If you're into Civil War history and enjoy the thrill of staring at old buildings, then Bennett Place State Historic Site in Durham, North Carolina is your jam. This site features a preserved farmhouse and some cabins with that distinct "old-timey" smell that history buffs will find irresistible. Learn about the surrender of the last Confederate army here, and then take a stroll around the grounds and try to avoid accidentally joining a reenactment.

historicsites.nc.gov

5. DPAC – Durham Performing Arts Center

As you visit Durham, make sure to catch a show at the DPAC, or, as the locals call it, the "Durham Palace of Arts and Culture". This place is so fancy-pants that even the parking garage is a work of art. Plus, rumor has it that if you stick around long enough, you might catch a glimpse of the ghost of James Brown shimmying across the stage.

www.dpacnc.com

6. Fullsteam Brewery

Fullsteam Brewery is a good time waiting to happen. The beer flows like the Eno River during a thunderstorm and their duck fat popcorn is a crispy companion for any pint. But it's not just the beer and food that make Fullsteam worth visiting, their quirky decor will have you feeling like you're drinking in the living room of a really cool uncle who collects vintage cans and taxidermy.

www.fullsteam.ag

7. Hayti Heritage Center

Nestled in the vibrant and lively city of Durham, the Hayti Heritage Center brings you a slice of African American culture and history. Steeped in the rich and diverse legacy of the past, this center is the perfect spot to explore the roots of the community and dive into its fascinating narrative. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for a fun day out, the Hayti Heritage Center is not to be missed!

hayti.org

8. American Tobacco Historic District

Welcome to the American Tobacco Historic District in Durham, where tobacco used to reign supreme and the air was filled with the sweet smell of nicotine. Nowadays, you won't find any tobacco warehouses here, but instead you'll find an area bustling with trendy restaurants, cool bars, and a fancy cinema. So bring your appetite, your love for history, and your willingness to pay for overpriced popcorn – this district has it all!

americantobaccocampus.com

9. Duke Lemur Center

Nestled in the heart of Durham lies the Duke Lemur Center, a place where monkeys roam free and lemurs reign supreme. Visitors can witness these furry critters prance around their habitats, playing games of tag and chasing each other up trees. Don't forget to snap a selfie with the wide-eyed primates, but watch out - they're known to steal the spotlight with their adorably mischievous antics.

lemur.duke.edu

10. Cameron Indoor Stadium

Cameron Indoor Stadium, the hallowed home of Duke University's Blue Devils, is a place where the squeak of sneakers on the polished hardwood floor echoes with the memories of championship victories and heartbreaking losses. With a seating capacity of just over 9,300 fans, the atmosphere is cozy, intimate, and just a little bit intense. Don't let the lack of legroom fool you, though - when the crowd roars as one, you'll feel like you're part of something bigger than yourself (and your cramped knees).

www.goduke.com

11. Museum of Life and Science

Nestled in Durham, you'll find the Museum of Life and Science, a place where kids can be kids, and adults can pretend they're kids again! With its interactive exhibits and activities, it's the ultimate playground for science enthusiasts of all ages. It's like Jurassic Park meets Bill Nye the Science Guy, but without the risk of dinosaur attacks or outdated fashion choices.

lifeandscience.org

12. Sarah P. Duke Gardens

Welcome to Sarah P. Duke Gardens, where you can enjoy the ultimate garden experience in Durham. With over 55 acres of stunning landscapes and a variety of plant species, this place is sure to make every botanist go bananas. Take a stroll through their famous Japanese garden, and make sure to say hello to the koi fish – they're always eager to show off their skills at mooching for food from unsuspecting visitors.

gardens.duke.edu

13. Wallace Wade Stadium

Welcome to the home of the Duke Blue Devils! Wallace Wade Stadium is where dreams come true and rivalries are born. With a seating capacity of 40,000, this stadium is the perfect place for fans to put their vocal cords to the test. So grab a hot dog and prepare to cheer until you're blue in the face!

www.goduke.com

14. Durham Public Library

If you ever find yourself in the charming town of Durham, make sure to visit its crown jewel, the Durham Public Library. With its stunning modern architecture and impressive collection of books, you'll immediately feel smarter just being inside. And who knows, you may even become the envy of all your friends after browsing their vast selection of cooking and crafting books.

durhamcountylibrary.org

15. Nasher Museum of Art

As you stroll past the regal Duke University buildings, you might overlook a hidden gem: the Nasher Museum of Art. Once inside, you'll have several options for exploring the exhibits, including wandering aimlessly, feigning interest in contemporary art to impress your date, or pretending to be a sophisticated art critic while secretly just trying to find the air conditioning. If you're lucky, you might catch one of the museum's events, such as a talk from a visiting artist or the annual "Nasher at Night" party where you can sip wine and discuss the merits of abstract expressionism under colorful strobe lights.

nasher.duke.edu

16. The Streets at Southpoint

Welcome to The Streets at Southpoint, where shopping and entertainment collide to create a bustling hub of excitement and credit card swipes. As you meander through the various stores and kiosks, be sure to keep an eye out for the infamous fountain - the perfect place to toss in your spare change and make a wish for your bank account to forgive you. And if you find yourself in need of a breather, why not catch a movie or refuel with some delicious food at one of the many eateries? Just be prepared to fight the crowds - it's a jungle out there!

www.streetsatsouthpoint.com

17. Eno River State Park

Nestled in the quaint town of Durham, the Eno River State Park is an idyllic getaway for nature lovers and avid hikers. With its scenic trails and striking Piedmont landscapes, it's the perfect place to forget about civilization and commune with Mother Nature. Plus, if you're lucky, you might even spot a deer or two, which is a refreshing break from the usual city rats.

www.ncparks.gov

18. Durham Farmers' Market

If you're looking for a place to sample some of the freshest local produce in Durham, the Durham Farmers' Market is the spot for you. This market has everything you need to make a meal fit for a king, or at least a very satisfied farmer. With a wide variety of vendors, you'll have no trouble finding everything from fresh eggs to artisanal cheeses, and maybe even a talking goat or two.

www.durhamfarmersmarket.com

19. Durham Bulls Athletic Park

Welcome to the Durham Bulls Athletic Park! Don't let the name fool you, there aren't any bulls playing ball here. But what you will find is a gorgeous ballpark, complete with a manual scoreboard that's the envy of any Little League coach. Grab a hotdog, sit back, and watch the home team "bull"-doze their way to victory.

www.durhambulls.com

20. Durham Central Park

Durham Central Park is like the lovechild of a community garden and a food truck rodeo. Expect a charming mishmash of local art, live music, and dogs in tutus. Bring a blanket, your furry friend, and an appetite for adventure.