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
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
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.
Day trip plan
Getting latest place information
- 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
Type of trip
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.