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.

Save and get deals

Day trip plan

Getting latest place information
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

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

Durham Delights: A 3-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

Durham, in the heart of North Carolina, offers an enjoyable family-friendly trip with its blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. Explore the renowned Museum of Life and Science, where kids can interact with hands-on exhibits and experience the wonders of science firsthand. Indulge in the city's diverse culinary scene and take scenic hikes in surrounding parks for a perfect getaway that caters to every member of the family.

Durham Delights: A 4-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

Durham, located in North Carolina, offers a fantastic family-friendly trip that combines history, education, and outdoor activities. Explore the renowned Museum of Life and Science, where kids can get hands-on with interactive exhibits and enjoy the beautiful outdoor exhibits and scavenger hunts. Visit the Duke Lemur Center, where the family can get up close and personal with these fascinating creatures, or head to Eno River State Park for hiking, picnicking, and swimming in the stunning natural surroundings.

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.

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.