5 Days of Fun in Durham, NC

Discover the charm of Durham, where Southern hospitality meets modern innovation.

22 April 2023

Durham is a charming city in North Carolina, located in the heart of the Research Triangle. Tourists can explore the many interesting cultural and historical sites, such as the Duke University campus, the American Tobacco Campus, and the Durham Bulls Athletic Park. Foodies will also appreciate the city's excellent culinary scene, including a variety of farm-to-table restaurants and local breweries.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Durham!

  • Check-in to The Durham Hotel, a hip and modern hotel with rooftop bar and views of the city skyline.
  • Visit the Durham Farmers' Market and sample local delicacies like Chapel Hill Creamery cheeses and Lo & Behold natural sodas.
  • Tour Duke University's beautiful campus and the Nasher Museum of Art, home to over 10,000 works from around the world.
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth at The Parlour, a local ice cream shop with unique flavors like sweet potato maple and lavender honey.
Day 2

Explore Durham's Culinary Scene

  • Start your day with brunch at Pompieri Pizza, known for their wood-fired pizzas and biscuits with homemade jam.
  • Take a food tour with Taste Carolina that includes stops at nine different local eateries.
  • Visit Ponysaurus Brewing Co. for craft beer and lawn games in their outdoor beer garden.
  • End the night with a cocktail at Alley Twenty Six, a cozy speakeasy with a rotating menu of house-made spirits.
Day 3

Get Outside and Active

  • Rent a bike and ride the American Tobacco Trail, a 22-mile paved trail through wooded areas, pastures, and wetlands.
  • Visit Eno River State Park for hiking, swimming, and fishing.
  • Take a guided paddleboard tour on Jordan Lake or Falls Lake.
  • Watch a Durham Bulls baseball game at Durham Bulls Athletic Park, one of the most famous minor league ballparks in the country.
Day 4

Discover Durham's Arts Scene

  • Tour the Durham Performing Arts Center, one of the top Broadway theaters in the country.
  • Visit the 21c Museum Hotel, a contemporary art museum with rotating exhibits and a rooftop bar.
  • Catch a show at the Carolina Theatre, a historic venue that has hosted famous musicians and comedians for over 90 years.
  • Explore the streets of downtown Durham for colorful murals and public art installations.
Day 5

Historic Durham

  • Visit the Duke Homestead State Historic Site, where Washington Duke began his tobacco empire.
  • Go on a walking tour of historic African American neighborhoods, including Hayti and Walltown.
  • Tour the Museum of Durham History, a museum that tells the story of Durham's past and present.
  • Enjoy brunch at Beyù Caffè, a cafe that supports local jazz musicians and serves up soulful breakfast dishes.
  • Safe travels, and enjoy your Durham adventure!

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.

More travel plans

3 Day Durham: History, Culture, and Nature

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.

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.

Durham on a Dime: 5 Days of Adventure

A trip to Durham, United States on a limited budget can still be a great experience. Budget-friendly options for accommodations include Airbnb or hostels. Exploring Durham's local attractions such as the Duke Homestead State Historic Park or hiking at Eno River State Park can also be affordable ways to enjoy the city.

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.