3 Day Durham: History, Culture, and Nature

Discover the charm of the South in Durham, USA.

03 May 2023

Durham, a city in North Carolina is a perfect destination for tourists who are seeking a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the city's historic downtown or visit the renowned Duke University campus. Durham's outdoor attractions include the Sarah P. Duke Gardens and the Eno River State Park, which offer scenic views and ample hiking trails.

Save and get deals

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Get to Know Durham

  • Hotel The Durham Hotel
  • Start your day with coffee at Cocoa Cinnamon, a quirky coffee shop offering a range of unique coffee blends.
  • Head to Sarah P. Duke Gardens, a 55-acre public garden with stunning flora and fauna.
  • For lunch, stop by the Durham Farmers Market, offering fresh produce and local cuisine.
  • After lunch, visit the Nasher Museum of Art, showcasing contemporary art from around the world.
  • End your day with dinner at Mateo Bar de Tapas, offering delicious Spanish-style small plates.
Day 2

Explore Durham's History

  • Hotel 21c Museum Hotel
  • Start your day with breakfast at Monuts, famous for their housemade bagels and donuts.
  • Visit the Duke Homestead and Tobacco Museum to learn about Durham's tobacco industry and cultural heritage.
  • Next, head to the Historic Durham Athletic Park, a historic baseball stadium used in the movie Bull Durham.
  • For lunch, visit Dames Chicken and Waffles, serving up Southern comfort food classics.
  • After lunch, explore the Museum of Durham History and learn about the city's growth and development.
  • End your day with dinner at Pizzeria Toro, offering wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizza.
Day 3

Get in Touch with Nature

  • Hotel Aloft Durham Downtown
  • Start your day with brunch at Guglhupf Bakery, offering European-inspired pastries and dishes.
  • Visit the Eno River State Park for hiking trails, swimming, and fishing in a scenic natural setting.
  • For lunch, head to Gocciolina, an Italian restaurant serving fresh handmade pasta.
  • After lunch, visit the historic American Tobacco Campus for shops, restaurants, and beautiful views of the Durham skyline.
  • End your day with dinner at The Parlour, a local favorite for homemade ice cream.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Dur-Ham It Up! A Fun-Filled Family Day Trip to Durham, USA

A trip to Durham, United States is perfect for a family-friendly vacation. Explore the charming streets of downtown Durham with its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Visit the Museum of Life and Science, where kids can enjoy interactive exhibits, outdoor play areas, and even get up close with animals. Don't forget to take a stroll along the scenic trails of Duke Forest, offering a peaceful escape into nature for the whole family to enjoy.

Discovering Durham's Best on a Budget

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.

Escape on a 4-Day Romantic Retreat to Durham

Durham, United States, is a charming destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway. This city is famous for its historic landmarks, scenic beauty and delectable cuisine. Couples can enjoy a romantic stroll along the Eno River, visit the Duke Gardens, and indulge in a variety of culinary delights from the local eateries.

Durham's Dreamy 3-Day Romantic Getaway

Durham, located in North Carolina, offers a romantic getaway for couples looking for a blend of history, entertainment, and nature. Stroll hand-in-hand through the vibrant American Tobacco Historic District before enjoying a picnic in one of the parks along the Eno River. Top off your evening with a romantic dinner at one of Durham's acclaimed restaurants.