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

Discover family fun in Durham: Experience history, culture, and adventure all in one unforgettable trip!

19 July 2023

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.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Dur-Ham It Up!

  • Start the day with a hearty brunch at Dame's Chicken and Waffles, where the crispy fried poultry meets fluffy waffle goodness in a divine marriage of flavors.
  • Get your adrenaline pumping at the Museum of Life and Science, where you can walk on the wild side with lemurs, take a thrilling ride on the Butterfly Whisperer Carousel, or paddle down the Dinosaur Trail.
  • Grab a mid-afternoon snack at The Parlour, a local favorite for homemade ice cream. Indulge in unique flavors like Sweet Cream and Rose Petal or S'Mores Brownie Explosion.
  • Explore the enchanting Sarah P. Duke Gardens, a haven bursting with vibrant flowers and peaceful walking paths. Don't forget your camera, because this place is an Instagrammer's dream!
  • For dinner, head to Bull City Burger and Brewery, where they pride themselves on their locally sourced ingredients and scrumptious burgers. Pair your meal with one of their handcrafted brews and savor the flavors of Durham.
  • End the day on a sweet note at The Durham Hotel's rooftop bar. Sip on a signature cocktail while taking in panoramic views of the city skyline. Cheers to a day well-spent in the charming city of Durham!

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

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More travel plans

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.

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.

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.

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.