Durham, North Carolina, is a vibrant city with a rich history, a lively food scene, and abundant cultural attractions. Known for its blend of Southern charm and modern innovation, Durham is where visitors can experience everything from world-class museums to innovative eateries. Here’s a guide to 48 of the best activities in Durham, from sampling local dishes to exploring the arts and natural beauty.

Visit The Nasher Museum Of Art

The Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University is a must-see for art lovers. This museum is a cultural gem in Durham, featuring contemporary and classical art collections. Explore exhibitions that showcase everything from global contemporary art to medieval paintings.

Walk Through Sarah P. Duke Gardens

These stunning gardens on Duke University’s campus offer 55 acres of beautifully landscaped areas. Whether you’re into botany or enjoy a peaceful walk, Sarah P. Duke Gardens is a tranquil spot to relax and take in the beauty of nature.

Explore the Durham Performing Arts Center

For lovers of the arts, the Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) offers a chance to catch Broadway shows, concerts, and other live performances. With its top-tier acoustics and a wide variety of performances, DPAC is one of the premier entertainment venues in the Southeast.

Stroll Along the American Tobacco Campus

The American Tobacco Campus is a historic area revitalized into a bustling hub of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Once a tobacco factory, the area now features beautiful brick architecture, a river walk, and lively spaces perfect for an afternoon stroll.

Check Out the Museum of Life and Science

The Museum of Life and Science is an interactive experience for families. From its hands-on exhibits to the outdoor butterfly house and nature park, there’s something here for everyone. Kids will especially love the dinosaur trail and space exhibits.

Enjoy Durham Bulls Athletic Park

If you’re a sports fan, catch a Durham Bulls baseball game at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park. This minor league team’s games are packed with energy, and the ballpark offers excellent food and a lively atmosphere. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon or evening with friends or family.

Dine at Dame’s Chicken & Waffles

Durham’s food scene is known for its creativity, and Dame’s Chicken & Waffles is a perfect example of the city’s culinary magic. Offering a unique blend of crispy fried chicken served with fluffy waffles, it’s a dining experience you won’t want to miss.

Discover the Historic Brightleaf District

The Brightleaf District is a historic part of Durham that has been transformed into a trendy area filled with boutiques, restaurants, and galleries. The red brick buildings offer a glimpse into Durham’s past, while the modern amenities make it a vibrant place to explore.

Visit the Duke Lemur Center

One of Durham’s most unique attractions is the Duke Lemur Center, which houses the largest population of lemurs outside Madagascar. You can take a guided tour to learn about these fascinating creatures and the research being done to conserve them.

Explore Eno River State Park

For outdoor enthusiasts, Eno River State Park offers beautiful hiking trails and opportunities for kayaking and fishing. The park’s natural beauty, including lush forests and flowing rivers, makes it a perfect spot for hiking or a picnic by the water.

Enjoy Craft Beer at Fullsteam Brewery

Durham is home to a growing craft beer scene, and Fullsteam Brewery is one of the best spots to enjoy locally brewed beer. Known for its farm-to-beer ethos, Fullsteam creates unique brews that reflect the agricultural traditions of the South.

Attend the Durham Farmers’ Market

The Durham Farmers’ Market is a bustling place where locals and visitors can buy fresh produce, baked goods, and artisan crafts. It’s a beautiful way to experience Durham’s farm-to-table culture and support local farmers.

Take a Duke University Campus Tour

Duke University is one of the most prestigious universities in the U.S., and its campus is stunning. Take a tour to see iconic landmarks like Duke Chapel, the Gothic-style buildings, and the beautiful West Campus.

Explore the History at Bennett Place

Bennett Place is a historic site where the Civil War’s most prominent troop surrender occurred. Visitors can explore the restored farmhouse and learn more about this critical moment in American history through exhibits and reenactments.

Relax at Bull City Ciderworks

Bull City Ciderworks is the place to go if you’re a cider fan. This local cidery is a fun spot to hang out and try something different, offering various ciders, including creative flavors like pineapple or jalapeño.

Visit the Carolina Theatre

The Carolina Theatre is a beloved historic venue that showcases everything from indie films to live performances. Located in the heart of downtown, it’s a great place to catch a show after dinner.

Discover Local Art at Golden Belt

Golden Belt is an arts and cultural center in a former textile mill. Today, it’s home to artist studios, galleries, and event spaces. To get your creative juices flowing, visit the local art scene, attend an exhibition, or take a workshop.

Take a Food Tour of Downtown Durham

Consider taking a guided food tour to sample the best of Durham’s culinary scene. Local guides will take you to some of the top restaurants and hidden gems, allowing you to try various dishes while learning about Durham’s food culture.

Explore the Scrap Exchange

For something quirky, visit the Scrap Exchange, a creative reuse arts center that encourages sustainability by reusing materials. You can find various craft supplies and even participate in workshops to create your art.

Walk the Al Buehler Trail

Located near Duke University, the Al Buehler Trail is a scenic walking trail that’s perfect for getting some fresh air. The trail loops through forests and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, making it ideal for a morning or afternoon walk.

Sip Coffee at Cocoa Cinnamon

Cocoa Cinnamon is one of Durham’s most popular coffee shops. It’s known for its locally roasted coffee and cozy atmosphere, making it a great place to relax with coffee or catch up on work.

Visit the Pauli Murray House

The Pauli Murray House is the childhood home of civil rights activist Pauli Murray. Now a National Historic Landmark, the house offers insight into Murray’s life, social justice, and civil rights contributions.

Catch a Show at Motorco Music Hall

Motorco Music Hall is one of Durham’s top music venues. It offers live music from local and national artists and a laid-back beer garden, making it a great place to enjoy live music in a casual setting.

Learn at the Durham History Hub

The Durham History Hub is a small museum that tells the story of Durham through interactive exhibits. It’s a great way to learn about the city’s history, from its roots as a tobacco town to its evolution into a cultural and educational hub.

Visit the Stagville Plantation

Stagville Plantation is one of the most prominent former plantations in the South. Today, it serves as a historical site where visitors can learn about the lives of enslaved people and the history of the plantation through tours and exhibits.

Enjoy a Cocktail At Alley Twenty-Six

This stylish cocktail bar in downtown Durham is known for its craft cocktails made with locally sourced ingredients. It’s the perfect spot for a date night or a casual evening out with friends.

Durham, NC, offers a rich history, culture, food, and natural beauty blend. Whether you’re into art, outdoor adventures, or enjoying good food, there’s no shortage of activities to fill your days. From museums to local breweries, Durham is a city that invites exploration and promises unforgettable experiences.