If you’re looking for a travel destination loaded with history, culture, and scenic beauty, Durham should definitely be on your list. With our Durham Itinerary 5 Days, you’ll discover some of the best things to do and see in this vibrant city in North Carolina. Our Durham Travel Guide will help you plan your trip so you can make the most of your time in Durham.
Get ready to explore Durham’s unique blend of Southern hospitality and urban charm. With plenty of attractions, delicious culinary options, and outdoor adventures, you won’t be disappointed. Let’s get started!
Day 1: Historic Exploration
Start your Durham adventure by exploring the city’s rich history. Durham is home to many top attractions that are perfect for those interested in history and culture.
Duke Homestead State Historic Site
The Duke Homestead State Historic Site is a must-visit destination for any history enthusiast. This site is a living museum dedicated to the history of the tobacco industry. You’ll find a visitor center, tobacco barn, and historic farmhouse on this sprawling 300-acre property. Take a tour of the grounds and learn about the Duke family and their contributions to the tobacco industry.
Bennett Place Historic Site
After visiting the Duke Homestead State Historic Site, head to the Bennett Place Historic Site. Here, you can learn about the largest surrender of the Civil War, which took place on this very site. Take a tour of the visitor center to see exhibits showcasing Civil War artifacts. Then, explore the grounds and walk in the footsteps of history.
| Top Attractions in Durham for History Buffs | Description |
|---|---|
| Duke Homestead State Historic Site | A museum dedicated to the history of the tobacco industry. |
| Bennett Place Historic Site | The site of the largest surrender of the Civil War. |
| Stagville State Historic Site | A preserved 19th-century slave plantation. |
Day 2: Cultural Delights
Immerse yourself in Durham’s vibrant culture on day 2. Begin with a visit to the Nasher Museum of Art, showcasing a diverse collection of contemporary and classical works. Explore the American Tobacco Historic District, known for its revitalized tobacco warehouses offering shops, restaurants, and live entertainment.
Top Attractions in Durham
| Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Duke University Chapel | A stunning Gothic-style chapel on the campus of Duke University, open for tours and worship services. |
| Brightleaf Square | A historic shopping and dining destination in downtown Durham, featuring unique stores and restaurants. |
| Durham Performing Arts Center | A state-of-the-art theater hosting Broadway shows, concerts, and other performances. |
| Bennett Place Historic Site | The site of the largest surrender of the Civil War, featuring an interpretive center and historic buildings. |
Don’t miss out on the rich arts and cultural scene in Durham! With a variety of museums, theaters, and historic sites, there’s something for everyone to see and do.
Day 3: Natural Beauty
Are you ready to explore Durham’s natural beauty? On day 3, you’ll discover two of the city’s most stunning natural attractions.
Eno River State Park
Start your day by heading to Eno River State Park, located just a few miles from downtown Durham. This beautiful park boasts miles of scenic trails, perfect for a morning hike or leisurely stroll. Take in the stunning views of the Eno River and keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer, foxes, and river otters.
Sarah P. Duke Gardens
After your hike, head to Sarah P. Duke Gardens for a serene and tranquil experience. This 55-acre botanical garden is filled with a vast array of colorful flowers and beautifully-landscaped green spaces. Take a relaxing walk through the serene gardens and marvel at the stunning water features.
Day 4: Culinary Delights
On day 4 of your Durham itinerary, get ready to tantalize your taste buds with Durham’s culinary delights, which are sure to leave you craving for more. Start your day by heading to the Durham Farmers’ Market, where you can find an array of fresh local produce and artisanal products to sample and buy. From organic fruits and veggies to handmade pastries and cheese, you’ll find something to please every palate.
For lunch, indulge in some of Durham’s renowned farm-to-table restaurants, offering fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and innovative menus. Enjoy classic Southern dishes like chicken and waffles at Dame’s Chicken and Waffles or try upscale farm-to-table cuisine at Piedmont Restaurant.
In the evening, head to the vibrant Durham Food Hall to savor the best of Durham’s food and drink scene. The Food Hall houses several vendors, each serving a unique and delicious selection of dishes and drinks. From tacos and sushi to craft beer and cocktails, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings.
Must-Visit Restaurants in Durham
| Restaurant Name | Cuisine Type | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Dame’s Chicken and Waffles | Southern | $ |
| Piedmont Restaurant | Farm-to-Table, American | $$ |
| The Durham food hall | multicuisine | $-$$ |
| Scratch Bakery | Bakery,Cafe | $ |
| Taberna Tapas | Spanish | $$ |
Day 5: Discovering Innovation
On your final day in Durham, you will explore the city’s innovative side. Start at the
American Underground
, a hub for entrepreneurial ventures and startups. Here, you can witness firsthand the city’s buzzing tech scene and its creative talent. Next, head to the
Museum of Life and Science
. This interactive museum features exhibits and outdoor spaces that offer educational and entertaining experiences for visitors of all ages. Explore the museum’s hands-on exhibits and learn about science, technology, and the natural world.
To help you plan your day, here’s a complete itinerary of Day 5 in Durham:
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 9:00 AM | Visit the American Underground |
| 11:00 AM | Head to the Museum of Life and Science |
| 1:00 PM | Lunch at the museum’s café |
| 2:00 PM | Continue exploring the museum |
| 5:00 PM | Finish your Durham adventure |
Incorporating Day 5 into your Durham itinerary will allow you to discover the city’s cutting-edge technology and learn about the world around us. It’s the perfect way to end a magical five days in Durham.
Where to Stay in Durham
Planning a trip to Durham and wondering where to stay? Consider the downtown district, where you’ll find a variety of accommodations to suit your needs and budget. Downtown puts you within easy reach of many of the city’s top attractions and dining options, making it the perfect home base for your stay in Durham.
| Hotel | Price Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| The Durham Hotel | $$$ | A boutique hotel located in a historic building, offering stunning views of Durham’s skyline and serving up Southern-inspired cuisine at their rooftop restaurant. |
| Aloft Durham Downtown | $$ | A modern hotel located in the heart of downtown, featuring a lively bar and lounge area, pool table, and fitness center. |
| 21c Museum Hotel Durham | $$$ | A contemporary hotel that doubles as an art museum, with rotating exhibits throughout the property. |
| Residence Inn by Marriott Durham | $$ | An all-suite hotel featuring full kitchens, complimentary breakfast, and an outdoor pool. |
Other popular options include the Durham Marriott City Center, the Hampton Inn & Suites Durham/Chapel Hill, and the Unscripted Durham.
Where to Eat in Durham
Durham is renowned for its culinary diversity, offering a thriving dining scene with options to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re craving international cuisine or classic American fare, you’ll find it in Durham.
For a true taste of the city, be sure to try Durham’s famous barbecue, slow-cooked to perfection and served with tangy sauces. Some of the must-visit spots include The Pit, Q Shack, and Picnic.
If you’re in the mood for something more upscale, Durham won’t disappoint. One hotspot is Mateo Bar de Tapas, an award-winning restaurant serving Spanish-style small plates in a chic, cozy atmosphere.
For a touch of Southern comfort, head to Dame’s Chicken and Waffles, offering a variety of mouth-watering combinations. And don’t miss out on Durham’s thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries offering unique blends and flavors.
Top Dining Recommendations
| Name | Type of Cuisine | Price Range | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Pit | Barbecue | $$ | Downtown |
| Mateo Bar de Tapas | Spanish Tapas | $$$ | Downtown |
| Dame’s Chicken and Waffles | Comfort Food | $$ | Downtown |
| Picnic | Barbecue | $$ | North Durham |
| Fullsteam Brewery | Craft Beer | $ | Downtown |
Exploring Beyond Durham
If you have extra time, you may want to consider visiting some of the nearby destinations in addition to Durham. Here are some Durham tourist attractions that you shouldn’t miss:
| Destination | Description |
|---|---|
| University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a public research university located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Founded in 1789, it is the oldest public university in the United States. |
| Hillsborough | Hillsborough is a historic town that offers a glimpse into North Carolina’s early days. Walk along the brick-lined sidewalks and admire the well-preserved architecture from the 18th and 19th centuries. |
| Durham County | Take a scenic drive through the rolling countryside of Durham County. With its picturesque views and quaint small towns, you’ll be able to experience the natural beauty of North Carolina. |
No matter what you choose to do, the surrounding areas near Durham will not disappoint. Don’t forget to add these stops to your Durham sightseeing itinerary!
Insider Tips for Durham
Before embarking on your Durham adventure, here are some insider tips to enhance your experience.
Check the Local Events Calendar
Make sure to check out the local events calendar for festivals, concerts, and special events happening during your visit. Durham is home to a variety of cultural and artistic events that showcase the city’s vibrant community.
Explore Durham’s Music Scene
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience Durham’s eclectic music scene. From the historic Carolina Theatre to the intimate Motorco Music Hall, Durham offers a range of venues for live performances. Check out The Blue Note Grill for a taste of the city’s famous blues music.
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Visit Durham Farmer’s Market | For locally-sourced food, head to the Durham Farmer’s Market, open every Saturday from 8 am to noon. |
| Use Public Transportation | Durham offers an affordable and convenient public transportation system, including the Durham Area Transit Authority (DATA) and free Bull City Connector buses. |
| Take a Walking Tour | Join a walking tour to explore Durham’s historic neighborhoods and hidden gems. Check out Taste Carolina for food tours and Preservation Durham for history tours. |
Take Advantage of Durham’s Outdoor Spaces
With over 60 parks and recreational areas in Durham, there are endless opportunities for outdoor fun. Rent a bike and explore the American Tobacco Trail, or pack a picnic and head to the scenic Duke Forest for a relaxing afternoon.
Plan Ahead
To make the most of your Durham itinerary, be sure to plan ahead. Reserve tickets for popular attractions in advance and make restaurant reservations to avoid long wait times.
Conclusion
Now that you have explored this 5-day Durham itinerary, you have discovered the top attractions, hidden gems, and culinary delights that make Durham a must-visit destination on any North Carolina travel guide. By immersing yourself in Durham’s rich history, vibrant culture, natural beauty, and culinary scene, you have experienced a Southern adventure that will be unforgettable.
Remember to plan your Durham itinerary in advance, stay in the downtown area to be close to top attractions, and indulge in the local cuisine. If you have extra time, consider exploring nearby areas such as the famous University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill or the historic streets of Hillsborough.
We hope this Durham travel guide has inspired you to embark on your own Durham itinerary 5 days long, and discover the best of North Carolina. Get ready for an unforgettable Southern escape.
