A Weekend in Durham, NC

Travel Advisor Gail Graham in a plaid sweater in front of houses and water at sunset.
Curated By

Gail Graham

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  • Food & Wine

  • Road Trip Travel

  • Arts & Culture

  • Active Travel

  • North Carolina

  • Outdoors

  • Shopping

  • Downtown

view of buildings Durham city NC
Curator’s statement

Durham, NC is close to the hustle and bustle of Raleigh, NC and the Research Triangle Park, but has a small town feel. You don't have to be a Duke fan to explore and appreciate the university campus, museums and local cuisine. The downtown/American Tobacco Campus area has several hotels in a walkable part of town close to theater, sporting events, breweries and restaurants.

The Fora Difference

Book with Gail to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

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Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

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Personalized recs

Customized travel planning for your style

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Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay in Durham, NC

21c Museum Hotel Durham

Modern boutique property with funky, art-inspired rooms and suites.

Fora Perks
  • ★

    Hotel / resort credit.

  • ★

    Breakfast daily.

  • ★

    Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club

Cozy inn-style hotel situated on 300-acres with country-inspired rooms and suites.

The Durham Hotel

A chic and retro-inspired boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Durham, North Carolina, providing a unique blend of mid-century aesthetics and modern hospitality.

Travel Advisor Gail Graham in a plaid sweater in front of houses and water at sunset.

Unlock perks by contacting Gail to book your trip.

Things to do in Durham, NC

bridge in forest Durham

Durham Performing Arts Center

Catch a Broadway show or your favorite comedian at this world-class performing arts theater.

Duke Chapel

Gorgeous, English Gothic chapel that towers 210 in the center of Duke’s campus.

Sarah P Duke Gardens

55 acres of walks and pathways through the gardens and wooded areas.

Duke Lemur Center

85 acres Lemur sanctuary.

Durham Bulls

Minor league baseball team, with Ripley the bat dog. Fun atmosphere for baseball lovers and even non-baseball fans.

Eno River State Park

The park offers plenty of recreational opportunities (hiking, camping and fishing) just minutes from city amenities.

Taste Carolina

Downtown Durham tasting/food tours.

Places to eat & drink in Durham, NC

street view peoples and tables IN front of shops

Breweries

A few favorite local breweries: Hi-Wire, Ponysaurus and Clouds.

ZincHouse: Winery with sprawling outdoor space, wonderful wines, craft local beers, food trucks and live music.

Cucciolo Durham: Italian…YUM!

Luna Rotisserie & Empanadas: Friendly staff, amazing South American food.

Parker and Otis: Quaint cafe with gourmet food, serving breakfast and lunch and a wine market.

Guglhupf: Delicious German bakery, cafe and biergarten. Lovely outside seating.

Counting House: Modern restaurant/bar, with rotating art collection next to 21 C Museum hotel.

Travel Advisor Gail Graham in a plaid sweater in front of houses and water at sunset.

Travel Advisor

Gail Graham

Get in touch with Gail

Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

You can normally expect a response from Gail within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).

This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to North Carolina.