Discovering Durham's Best on a Budget

Discover Durham's Charm Without Breaking the Bank!

21 June 2023

Durham, located in North Carolina, offers plenty to do on a limited budget. With free museums such as the Nasher Museum of Art and Durham History Hub, as well as outdoor attractions like the Eno River State Park, there's something for everyone. For affordable eats, check out Pie Pushers or Sweet Charlie's for a delicious treat.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Durham's Art and Culture Scene

  • Hotel Recommendation: Red Roof Inn Durham-Duke University Medical Center
  • Start the day with breakfast at Rise Biscuits & Donuts, a local favorite for their creative takes on Southern classics.
  • Head to the Nasher Museum of Art to see impressive exhibitions of contemporary and modern art from around the world.
  • Take a stroll through the Sarah P. Duke Gardens, a stunning 55-acre oasis with multiple themed gardens to explore.
  • For lunch, try local BBQ at The Pit, known for its slow-smoked meats and classic Southern sides.
  • Visit the Durham Performing Arts Center for a live performance, from Broadway shows to comedy acts.
  • End your day with a drink at the stylish rooftop bar, The Durham Hotel, with panoramic views of the city.
Day 2

Discovering Durham's Food and Drink Scene

  • Hotel Recommendation: University Inn Durham
  • Start the day with a brunch at Guglhupf Bakery & Cafe, serving artisanal bread, pastries, and German-inspired dishes.
  • Visit the American Tobacco Historic District, a revitalized complex with shops, restaurants, and outdoor spaces.
  • Take a brewery tour and taste local craft beer at Fullsteam Brewery or Ponysaurus Brewing.
  • For lunch, try one of Durham's food truck options, such as The Parlour, serving creative ice cream flavors.
  • Visit Duke Lemur Center, home to the largest and most diverse colony of lemurs outside of Madagascar, and take a guided tour.
  • End your day with dinner at Littler, a cozy spot serving inventive dishes with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
  • Durham is full of surprises, and with this itinerary, you'll be able to experience some of the best the city has to offer while staying within your budget.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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How 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.

Destination

Durham

Welcome to a city where the past and present collide, much like that time your grandpa tried to rap at a family gathering. Durham may not have a hip-hop career, but it certainly has a rich history and plenty of character to boot.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

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More travel plans

Durham on a Dime: A 4-Day Adventure

Durham, located in North Carolina, is a charming city with plenty to offer visitors on a tight budget. Take advantage of free attractions such as exploring the Duke University campus or strolling through the Sarah P. Duke Gardens. Dine at affordable local eats like NanaTaco or OnlyBurger for a taste of the foodie scene without breaking the bank.

Durham Delight: A Budget-Friendly Day Trip

Enjoy a budget-friendly trip to Durham, with inexpensive accommodations like hostels and motels. Visit the popular Duke University campus for free or go on a hiking expedition in the Eno River State Park while enjoying the scenic beauty. Try the local cuisine at affordable eateries like Bull City Burger and Brewery or grab a snack at the Durham Farmer's Market, all on a minimal budget.

Experience Durham's Best in 2 Days

Durham, United States offers a wealth of cultural, historical and outdoor experiences for tourists. Visitors can immerse themselves in the art scene at the Durham Arts District, enjoy a stroll through the Duke Gardens and campus, and explore the city's rich African American heritage at the Hayti Heritage Center. Additionally, the city is known for its award-winning restaurants and breweries, making it a foodie paradise.

Romantic Durham: A Day of Love

Durham, with its scenic beauty and vibrant cultural scene, is the perfect getaway for a romantic trip. The city offers a variety of activities from strolling through Duke Gardens to exploring the Nasher Museum's art collection. A sunset dinner at the fabulous rooftop restaurant of The Durham Hotel will ensure an unforgettable end to an unforgettable day.