Durham on a Dime: A 4-Day Adventure

Discover Durham on a dime.

21 June 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Discover Downtown Durham

  • Check-in at The King's Daughters Inn, a cozy and budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Durham
  • Stroll down Parrish Street to admire the colorful murals and street art
  • Head to Durham Bulls Athletic Park for a minor league baseball game and some classic American snacks
  • Visit the Durham Farmer's Market, where you can taste fresh produce and local specialties
  • End the day with a pint at Fullsteam Brewery, known for its creative and unique beer flavors
Day 2

Explore Duke University

  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Monuts, a local favorite spot for bagels and coffee
  • Take a tour of Duke University's beautiful campus, including the stunning Duke Chapel and the Nasher Museum of Art
  • Hike the Duke Forest, a sprawling natural preserve with miles of trails and peaceful picnic spots
  • Grab lunch at The Mad Hatter's Café, a colorful and quirky eatery that serves delicious sandwiches and salads
  • Catch a show at the Durham Performing Arts Center, a top-notch theater venue that hosts a variety of performances throughout the year
Day 3

Experience Durham's History

  • Visit the North Carolina Museum of History to learn about the state's fascinating past and culture
  • Take a guided tour of the Stagville State Historic Site, a former plantation that showcases the lives of enslaved people and their contributions to society
  • Stop by the Hayti Heritage Center, a cultural center that celebrates African American art, history, and culture
  • Enjoy dinner at Dame's Chicken & Waffles, a beloved local restaurant that serves crispy chicken and fluffy waffles in creative combinations
  • End the night with a drink at The Cotton Room, a stylish and sophisticated bar housed in a former textile warehouse
Day 4

Outdoor Adventure

  • Start the day with a picnic at Eno River State Park, a beautiful natural area with hiking trails, river access, and scenic vistas
  • Rent a bike at The Bicycle Chain and explore the city's network of bike-friendly pathways
  • Take a scenic drive along the Durham-Orange County historic byway, which offers stunning views of rolling hills, farmland, and quaint small towns
  • Enjoy a late lunch at Bull City Burger and Brewery, a local favorite that serves top-quality burgers, fries, and beer
  • Finish your stay with a relaxing evening at The Blue Note Grill, a cozy blues bar with live music and a soulful vibe

Length of stay

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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.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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