Welcome to Durham!

Introduction: Welcome to Durham, North Carolina – the Bull City! Whether you’re here for business, pleasure, or a bit of both, Durham has something for everyone. This vibrant city seamlessly blends a rich history with a modern, creative energy, making it a unique destination. This travel guide will help you make the most of your stay.

Getting Here:

By Air: Durham is conveniently served by Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU). From there, you can easily reach your Airbnb accommodation via taxi, rideshare, or rental car. If coming from the west coast, it may be more convenient to fly into Charlotte, NC and then drive just over 2 hours to the area.

By Car: If you’re driving, Durham is well-connected by major highways. Check your GPS or map app for the best route, and don’t forget to explore the scenic beauty of North Carolina on your way!

Neighborhoods:

Downtown: Explore the heart of Durham in the downtown area. Discover locally-owned shops, diverse dining options, and the Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) and other music and concert venues for world-class entertainment. The historic Tobacco Campus is a must-visit, offering a glimpse into Durham’s industrial past.

Ninth Street District: Known for its bohemian charm, Ninth Street is a bustling area with trendy boutiques, eclectic cafes, and a lively atmosphere. It’s a great place to stroll and soak in the local vibe.

Brightleaf Square: This historic district is home to Brightleaf Square, a renovated tobacco warehouse turned shopping and dining destination. Enjoy the cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and delicious restaurants.

Things to Do – All ages:

Durham Bulls Athletic Park: Catch a game at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park, home to the famous Durham Bulls minor league baseball team. The atmosphere is electric, and it’s a quintessential American pastime experience.

Sarah P. Duke Gardens: Escape the hustle and bustle at the Duke Gardens, a stunning 55-acre public botanical garden on the Duke University campus. Perfect for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful afternoon picnic.

Museum of Life and Science: Ideal for families, the Museum of Life and Science features interactive exhibits, outdoor attractions, and a butterfly conservatory. It’s a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Farmers Market: Saturday mornings. Please check website for specific hours and locations.

Activities for Children:

Playgrounds/Parks

• Duke Park
• Northgate Park
• Durham Central Park

Spring haven farm – Fun, open place with many goats and farm animals for children to feed and handle. Book special experiences with baby goats!

Coffee:

Here are some of our favorite coffee spots:

Cocoa Cinnamon

Joe Van Gogh

Bean Traders

Omie’s Coffee Shop and Roastery – this is the coffee featured in the K-cups in Hugo:)

Dining:

Foodie Paradise: Durham is a food lover’s dream. Try the local BBQ joints, savor globally-inspired cuisine, and explore food trucks for a taste of the city’s diverse culinary scene. Don’t miss the famous Durham food tour for a delicious adventure. Here are some of our faves:

Breakfast/Brunch:

• Elmo’s Diner: A classic American diner with a retro vibe, Elmo’s Diner is a popular spot known for its extensive menu offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. Expect a diverse range of comfort foods, including hearty breakfast platters, sandwiches, and classic diner fare.
• Vin Rouge Brunch (Sunday only): Vin Rouge, a French restaurant, offers a special brunch experience on Sundays. Known for its elegant and cozy atmosphere, Vin Rouge Brunch features a curated menu with French-inspired dishes, emphasizing quality ingredients and a delightful dining ambiance.
• Local 22: Local 22 is a gastropub that prides itself on its commitment to using locally-sourced ingredients. With a diverse menu and a focus on craft beers, this restaurant offers a modern twist on pub favorites, creating a welcoming environment for patrons looking for a casual yet upscale dining experience.
• Guglhupf: Guglhupf is a European-style bakery and cafe, renowned for its artisanal bread, pastries, and contemporary dishes. With a warm and inviting ambiance, Guglhupf combines a cafe setting with a bakery, providing a unique dining experience with a European flair.
• Foster’s: Foster’s Market is a community-oriented eatery offering a variety of fresh and locally-sourced foods. From sandwiches and salads to baked goods, Foster’s emphasizes a farm-to-table approach, creating a menu that reflects the seasonal and regional flavors of North Carolina.
• Dame’s Chicken and Waffles: A Southern-inspired restaurant, Dame’s Chicken and Waffles is known for its unique combination of crispy fried chicken and sweet, fluffy waffles. The menu features a variety of creative waffle combinations and flavorful fried chicken, offering a delicious and distinctive dining experience.
• Isaac’s Bagels: Isaac’s Bagels is a go-to spot for bagel enthusiasts in Durham. Offering a variety of freshly baked bagels, spreads, and toppings, Isaac’s is known for its authentic New York-style bagels. The menu includes classic and inventive bagel sandwiches, catering to a diverse range of tastes.
• Monuts: Monuts is a popular bakery and cafe that specializes in both sweet and savory handcrafted donuts. Beyond donuts, the menu features a selection of breakfast and lunch items made with locally-sourced ingredients, creating a laid-back and inviting atmosphere for patrons.
• 9th Street Bakery: A local favorite, 9th Street Bakery is a community-oriented establishment known for its artisanal bread, pastries, and coffee. With a commitment to using high-quality ingredients, the bakery offers a range of baked goods, sandwiches, and beverages in a cozy and relaxed setting.

Lunch:

• Foster’s: Foster’s Market is a community-oriented eatery offering a variety of fresh and locally-sourced foods. From sandwiches and salads to baked goods, Foster’s emphasizes a farm-to-table approach, creating a menu that reflects the seasonal and regional flavors of North Carolina.
• M Sushi (weekdays): M Sushi is an upscale Japanese restaurant in Durham known for its exquisite sushi and sashimi offerings. The menu features a variety of fresh, high-quality seafood and traditional Japanese dishes, prepared with precision and artistic flair.
• M Kokko – Ramen (weekdays): M Kokko specializes in authentic ramen dishes, offering a cozy and casual dining experience. The menu includes a range of flavorful ramen bowls, each crafted with rich broths, fresh noodles, and a variety of toppings to satisfy ramen enthusiasts.
• Ideals (Sandwich Shop): Ideals is a charming sandwich shop in Durham that prides itself on crafting delicious sandwiches using high-quality ingredients. With a diverse menu featuring both classic and inventive sandwich options, Ideals caters to a range of tastes, making it a go-to spot for sandwich enthusiasts.
• Durham Food Hall: Durham Food Hall is a culinary destination that brings together a variety of local food vendors under one roof. This food hall offers a diverse range of cuisines, from international flavors to local favorites, providing a communal and vibrant atmosphere for patrons to explore and enjoy a variety of culinary delights.
• Heavenly Buffaloes (Wings): If you’re a fan of wings, Heavenly Buffaloes is the place to be in Durham. Renowned for its mouthwatering chicken wings with a variety of flavorful sauces, this casual eatery offers a laid-back setting for wing enthusiasts. Whether you prefer mild or spicy, Heavenly Buffaloes has options to satisfy every taste bud.
• Bull McCabe’s (for Watching Sports): Bull McCabe’s is a sports bar in Durham, recognized for its vibrant atmosphere and dedicated sports-watching experience. With multiple screens broadcasting various games, this bar is a favorite among sports enthusiasts looking to catch the latest matchups while enjoying pub-style food and drinks.

Dinner:

• M Sushi: M Sushi is an upscale Japanese restaurant in Durham known for its exquisite sushi and sashimi offerings. The menu features a variety of fresh, high-quality seafood and traditional Japanese dishes, prepared with precision and artistic flair.
• M Kokko – Ramen: M Kokko specializes in authentic ramen dishes, offering a cozy and casual dining experience. The menu includes a range of flavorful ramen bowls, each crafted with rich broths, fresh noodles, and a variety of toppings to satisfy ramen enthusiasts.
• Gocciolina – Italian: Gocciolina is an Italian restaurant in Durham, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere. The menu showcases classic Italian dishes with a modern twist, featuring fresh pasta, flavorful sauces, and a carefully curated selection of wines to complement the dining experience.
• Mateo – Tapas: Mateo is a popular tapas restaurant in Durham, known for its vibrant atmosphere and inventive small plates. The menu highlights Spanish-inspired dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, and guests can enjoy a diverse selection of tapas, charcuterie, and Spanish wines.
• Viceroy – Indian: Viceroy is an Indian restaurant in Durham that brings the rich and diverse flavors of Indian cuisine to the area. The menu includes a variety of traditional and contemporary Indian dishes, featuring aromatic spices and bold flavors that cater to a range of tastes.
• Mothers and Sons – Italian: Mothers and Sons is an Italian restaurant offering a rustic and charming setting. The menu celebrates Italian culinary traditions, showcasing handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and a selection of dishes inspired by regional Italian cuisine.
• Super Taqueria: Super Taqueria is a casual Mexican eatery in Durham, known for its authentic and flavorful tacos. The menu features a variety of tacos with diverse fillings, along with other Mexican street food favorites, providing a taste of Mexico in a laid-back setting.
• Bar Virgile: Bar Virgile is a stylish bar and lounge in Durham, known for its craft cocktails and relaxed ambiance. The bar offers a diverse selection of expertly crafted drinks, and the menu includes small bites and snacks that pair well with the beverage offerings.
• Namu: Namu is a Korean restaurant in Durham, offering a contemporary take on traditional Korean cuisine. The menu features a mix of Korean-inspired dishes with a modern twist, showcasing bold flavors and creative combinations.
• Hutchins Garage: Hutchins Garage is a trendy restaurant in Durham, known for its eclectic menu and industrial-chic vibe. The menu features a variety of dishes with global influences, offering a diverse range of flavors to suit different preferences. The restaurant’s setting in a former garage adds a unique and edgy touch to the dining experience.

Burgers:

• Bull City Burger: Bull City Burger in Durham is a beloved local spot known for its commitment to using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Specializing in handcrafted burgers made with high-quality beef, the menu also features inventive toppings, house-made condiments, and a selection of craft beers, creating a unique and flavorful dining experience.
• Al’s Burger (Chapel Hill): Al’s Burger Shack in Chapel Hill is a popular burger joint celebrated for its mouthwatering burgers and commitment to using North Carolina-raised beef. With a focus on simplicity and quality, Al’s offers a menu of classic and specialty burgers, hand-cut fries, and milkshakes, making it a go-to destination for burger enthusiasts in the area.
• Durham Filling Station: The Durham Filling Station is a cozy eatery known for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu. Specializing in comfort food, the restaurant offers a range of dishes, including sandwiches, salads, and hearty entrees. With a focus on using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, the Durham Filling Station provides a relaxed dining experience in the heart of Durham.

BBQ

• Backyard BBQ Pit: Backyard BBQ Pit is a local favorite known for its authentic barbecue dishes. With a focus on traditional pit-cooked meats, this casual eatery offers a menu featuring a variety of smoked meats, classic sides, and hearty barbecue platters in a laid-back setting.
• Blue Note Grill: Blue Note Grill is a unique dining spot that combines live music with a barbecue menu. Known for its bluesy atmosphere, the restaurant serves up a range of barbecue dishes alongside other Southern-inspired comfort foods, making it a destination for both music enthusiasts and barbecue lovers.
• Bullock’s BBQ: Bullock’s BBQ is a longstanding barbecue joint with a rich history in Durham. Renowned for its hickory-smoked barbecue, the restaurant offers a menu of classic North Carolina-style barbecue plates, sandwiches, and traditional sides in a family-friendly setting.
• Byrd’s BBQ: Byrd’s BBQ is a local gem specializing in slow-cooked barbecue dishes. With a commitment to using quality ingredients, this barbecue joint offers a diverse menu featuring smoked meats, sandwiches, and classic sides, providing a true taste of Southern barbecue flavors.
• Hog Heaven BBQ: Hog Heaven BBQ is a no-frills barbecue spot known for its delicious and straightforward approach to smoked meats. With a menu highlighting a variety of barbecue options, this establishment focuses on delivering flavorful dishes in a casual and welcoming environment.
• Home Plate Restaurant: Home Plate Restaurant offers a mix of Southern comfort food and barbecue classics. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, the restaurant serves up barbecue platters, sandwiches, and other homestyle dishes, making it a go-to spot for those craving hearty and satisfying meals.
• Lawrence BBQ: Lawrence BBQ is a contemporary barbecue joint in Durham, combining traditional smoking techniques with modern culinary twists. With a menu featuring a variety of smoked meats and creative sides, the restaurant offers a fresh take on classic barbecue flavors in a casual setting.
• Mike D’s BBQ Smokehouse: Mike D’s BBQ Smokehouse is a popular spot for barbecue enthusiasts, known for its mouthwatering smoked meats and homemade sauces. The menu features a variety of barbecue options, including ribs, brisket, and pulled pork, served in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
• The Original Q Shack: The Original Q Shack is a barbecue establishment offering a diverse menu of smoked meats and Southern-inspired dishes. Known for its signature sauces and hickory-smoked barbecue, the restaurant provides a casual and comfortable setting for patrons to enjoy classic barbecue flavors.
• Picnic: Picnic is a farm-to-table barbecue restaurant committed to using locally-sourced ingredients. With a focus on traditional wood-smoked barbecue, the menu features a range of meats, sides, and desserts, providing a fresh and modern take on Southern barbecue in a welcoming setting.

Nightlife:

Brewery Scene: Durham boasts a thriving craft beer scene. Visit the numerous breweries around town, each with its unique charm. Enjoy a laid-back evening with a cold brew and live music.

• Ponysaurus: Ponysaurus Brewing in Durham is known for its inventive craft beers in a modern taproom setting. The brewery offers a diverse range of traditional and experimental brews, creating a unique experience for beer enthusiasts.
• Hi-Wire: Hi-Wire Brewing in Durham is recognized for its approachable and inventive beers, including traditional styles and seasonal releases. The taproom provides a laid-back atmosphere for patrons to explore a diverse lineup of craft brews.
• Dssolvr: Dssolvr, located in Durham, is a cutting-edge brewery known for its experimental approach to brewing and bold flavors. The taproom offers an artistic and vibrant space where visitors can explore an ever-changing selection of unique craft beers.

Bars: The cocktail (and mocktail) scene in Durham is thriving and growing. Here are a few of our favorite watering holes:

• Corpse Reviver (Attached to Conniption Distillery): Corpse Reviver is a bar in Durham, conveniently attached to Conniption Distillery. Known for its craft cocktails and artisanal spirits, this bar offers a unique experience with a focus on inventive drinks crafted using the distillery’s own creations.
• Kingfisher: Kingfisher is a stylish and intimate bar in Durham, known for its curated selection of craft cocktails and attentive service. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet relaxed, making it a popular choice for those seeking a refined drinking experience.
• Queeny’s: Queeny’s is a lively bar in Durham with a vibrant atmosphere. Known for its diverse drink menu and often featuring live music or events, Queeny’s offers a dynamic social setting for patrons looking to enjoy a night out with friends.
• Velvet Hippo: Velvet Hippo is a trendy and eclectic bar in Durham, celebrated for its creative cocktails and unique ambiance. The bar’s stylish decor and innovative drink menu make it a popular choice for those seeking a memorable and contemporary drinking experience.
• Surf Club: Surf Club is a laid-back and beach-inspired bar in Durham, offering a relaxed atmosphere with a coastal vibe. Known for its friendly service and casual setting, Surf Club is a popular spot for patrons looking to unwind and enjoy a drink in a beachy environment.
• Bull McCabe’s (for Watching Sports): Bull McCabe’s is a sports bar in Durham, recognized for its vibrant atmosphere and dedicated sports-watching experience. With multiple screens broadcasting various games, this bar is a favorite among sports enthusiasts looking to catch the latest matchups while enjoying pub-style food and drinks.

Live Music: Durham’s music scene is alive and well. Check out local venues like Motorco Music Hall, Carolina Theatre, and Cat’s Cradle (Chapel Hill) for live performances ranging from indie rock to jazz.

Transportation:

Bike Share: Durham is bike-friendly, and the city offers bike-sharing programs. Grab a bike and explore the city at your own pace.

Public Transportation: The Bull City Connector is a fare-free bus service connecting major points in Durham, making it easy to get around without a car.

Local Etiquette:

Southern Hospitality: Experience the renowned Southern hospitality. Locals are friendly, so don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation and ask for recommendations.

Tipping: Tipping is customary in restaurants, and it’s common to tip around 15-20% for good service. Servers in North Carolina make a server’s wage of $2.13 so they depend on tips for income.

Local Universities:

Duke University: Durham is proud to be home to Duke University, a prestigious institution known for its academic excellence and beautiful campus. Visitors are welcome to explore the Duke Forest, Sarah P. Duke Gardens, and the iconic Duke Chapel. Attend a basketball game at Cameron Indoor Stadium for an authentic Blue Devils experience.

North Carolina Central University (NCCU): Located in the heart of Durham, NCCU is a historically black university with a rich history and a strong commitment to community engagement. Take a stroll through the campus, appreciate the historic architecture, and catch a performance at the NCCU Art Museum.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC): While technically located in nearby Chapel Hill, UNC is an integral part of the Research Triangle area. Visitors can easily access the campus and enjoy attractions like the Old Well, Morehead Planetarium, and the beautiful Carolina Inn. Don’t miss the vibrant Franklin Street for shopping and dining.

Local University Events: Check the university event calendars during your stay. These institutions regularly host lectures, performances, and sporting events that may align with your interests. Attending a college game or cultural event can provide a unique and enriching local experience.

University Influence on Durham: The presence of these universities contributes to Durham’s dynamic cultural scene. The city benefits from a diverse population of students and faculty, influencing everything from the arts to the culinary landscape. Engage with the local academic community to get a deeper understanding of Durham’s intellectual and cultural vitality.

Nearby Hospitals:

• Duke Regional Hospital – 1.7 mi (5 min drive)
• Duke University Hospital – 5.5 mi (12 min drive)
• North Carolina Specialty Hospital – 2 mi (5 min drive)
• UNC Hospitals – 16.7 mi (25 min drive)

Final Tips:

1. Weather: Check the weather forecast before packing. Durham experiences all four seasons, so come prepared.
2. Events: Look for local events during your stay. Durham hosts festivals, art exhibitions, and performances throughout the year.
3. Stay Connected: Stay connected with your Airbnb host for any local tips or recommendations. They can provide valuable insights into the best spots in the neighborhood.

Enjoy your stay in Durham! May your time here be filled with great memories and unforgettable experiences.