The Bull City has earned itself a name as an innovative place, as evidenced by its flourishing music scene, which boasts such bands as Branford Marsalis, Iron & Wine, and Red Clay Ramblers.
Special counsel John Durham recently presented a report detailing the origins and findings of FBI’s probe into possible Trump-Russia ties, drawing great scrutiny.
What to Do in Durham
Durham is home to one of the country’s renowned universities, Duke University. Therefore, many of Durham’s must-see attractions can be found there; its iconic chapel, Sarah P. Duke Gardens and Nasher Museum of Art among them. Following an educational day or sightseeing expedition head back downtown district for drinks, music and shopping!
Durham’s downtown features a vibrant, independent vibe reflected in its restaurants and shops. Visit Durham Vintage Collective to find everything from plaid miniskirts to leather jackets; or browse Chet Miller’s gift shop for Durham-themed throw pillows, small press travel guides and game night jigsaw puzzles. Located nearby is EUtopia Design for Polish glassware made by local artisans.
Are you looking for an exciting way to spend an exciting day with the kids? Look no further than Durham Science Center! This museum is home to educational exhibits on math, science and history for children of all ages; as well as featuring a rainforest setting where visitors can witness hundreds of live butterflies flying freely around.
Durham Museum of History provides children with another great way to learn more about Durham’s long and rich history. Offering permanent and changing exhibitions that explore its roots through stories from its residents, this museum provides children with a great educational experience about this beautiful city’s past.
Durham offers many enjoyable outdoor activities during winter that are great for families. Eno River State Park provides a peaceful hike without heat or bugs; or visit The Streets at Southpoint for shopping.
Durham Farmers’ Market provides an intimate shopping experience. Open every Saturday of the year, it allows locals to buy fresh produce, artisan bread and cheese products, locally brewed beer and wine as well as live entertainment from talented artists and performers.
If you’re looking to grab drinks with friends or date, Durham offers plenty of bars that provide food, drinks and outdoor seating. Motorco’s Parts and Labor (723 Rigsbee Ave) is one popular spot. Another excellent bar option would be The Accordion Club (316 W Geer St). Both offer cocktails, atmosphere and outdoor seating – great options when looking to unwind after work!
Eat & Drink
Durham’s unique Southern spirit shines through in its food and drink scene, featuring restaurants, bars and breweries that will satisfy your senses. You’ll find everything from casual pub grub spots offering craft cocktails to fine dining restaurants offering panoramic city views – you won’t go hungry here.
The Durham Food Hall offers something fun for groups of all sizes. Offering chef-driven restaurant stalls as well as a bar, coffee shop and the best bagels around, visitors can come for brunch to sample Old North Meats’ $5 breakfast sandwich topped with pastrami; for lunch stop by Ex-Voto with its hearty crunch wraps filled with roasted chicken thighs and chipotle crema. You can grab a signature cocktail from their upstairs bar before taking advantage of one of many tables available throughout their dining area – perfect!
Vine Rouge in Durham is an authentic French bistro offering romantic date-night dishes and drinks in an intimate environment reminiscent of Paris. Don’t miss the delicious escargot on their menu – or the steak frites or grilled octopus either!
Lonerider Distillery and Taproom in Durham offers something special for whiskey aficionados. This popular Raleigh distillery now has their first location here as well. Enjoy their extensive collection of whiskeys, bourbons, cocktails and beer while taking it easy in this relaxed environment.
At the other end of the scale are several neighborhood pubs where everyone knows your name. One such establishment, off University Drive known as The Green Room has long been a fixture of Durham life and made famous by scenes in Bull Durham. Offering pool tables, friendly service and a solid selection of beer and simple cocktails.
The Accordion Club in nearby South Durham draws crowds for karaoke nights and trivia night. Their burgers and wings are top notch, while their beer list boasts impressive brands like Liberty & Plenty vodka, Bronze Bull Whiskey and Rye or Cap & Cane Rum; you’re sure to find something suitable at this pub!
Shop & Dine
Durham is full of small, independent businesses that celebrate local culture. For an unforgettable shopping experience, head to Brightleaf Square: an area of restored tobacco warehouses filled with boutiques, galleries and eateries – only Burger is beloved among locals for its fresh made-to-order burgers and milkshakes! If pizza’s your thing, Cugino Forno features three cousins who spent years perfecting their craft to create delicious Neapolitan-style pies that you won’t find elsewhere in Durham!
The 21c Museum Hotel in Durham blends Durham’s historical and contemporary sides by uniting museum exhibits with luxurious hotel amenities. Discover its green marbled foyer leading up to a silver leaf ceiling, as well as its gallery featuring intriguing exhibitions.
Are You Searching for Fried Chicken in Durham? L&D Kitchen and Grocery, a cash only establishment where locals gather, is an ideal starting point. Lines often stretch out of its doors as patrons enjoy classic Carolina-style chicken. Other favorites include Geer Street Garden’s cafeteria-style meals in an old Gulf station setting as well as Only Burger, an independently-owned family business.
Harvest 18 Restaurant is known for their farm-to-table chef-driven cuisine that sources over 80% of their ingredients from nearby farms and ranches, so when hunger strikes stop by and experience this Durham institution for yourself.
If casual dining with your children is your preference, Durham offers many kid-approved restaurants. Stop in Elmo’s Diner for pancakes and scrambled eggs; otherwise try UHills which offers family-friendly items such as chicken & waffles, grilled cheese sandwiches and an array of healthy choices – great places for casual meals with the whole family!
After dinner, take in a show at Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC). You may catch an iconic comedian or musical artist! For drinks and conversation with locals afterwards, Bar Virgile or Annexe are great places. Also make sure you subscribe to City Connect digital newsletter for regular updates of what’s happening across Durham including our bi-weekly update from City Manager Wanda as well as highlights on programs and events making a difference throughout our city!
Stay & Play
Durham offers an excellent university, bustling brewery and bar scene, historical landmarks and more – not to mention some cool hotels that provide unforgettable boutique experiences.
Not being an especially large city makes getting around relatively straightforward on foot; Uber is always available if you prefer fast transportation; alternatively there’s a regular bus service to get you around; plus there are bike rental shops for exploring the local bike trails!
Durham is generally safe to reside in; however, as with any large city it’s always wise to exercise common sense and remain aware of your surroundings. The downtown core offers pedestrian-friendly zones and there are several interesting hotels such as 21c Museum Hotel Durham (a hotel/art gallery hybrid), The Durham Hotel, and Unscripted Durham to name just a few of Durham’s premier options.
Hotels each offer their own distinct experiences and amenities; when selecting one to stay at, make sure it suits your travel needs and preferences. For instance, if you need access to a pool, maybe choosing a more residential area rather than one more likely to provide party atmosphere would be best suited for you.
Are you in search of an idyllic spot to unwind and unwind? Parks and gardens offer great places for this purpose, especially Sarah P Duke Gardens with their exquisite flowerbeds, lakes and open green spaces lined with walking paths. In addition, concerts at Duke University Performing Arts Center or swimming and hiking opportunities at Falls Lake Recreation Area should not be missed!
Streets at Southpoint is the ideal spot for retail therapy! Boasting over 170 stores ranging from clothing, food, electronics and pet-friendly stores – you’re sure to find something here for everyone in the family! Plus there are pet-friendly shops here, too – why not bring Fido along to enjoy all this fun shopping?