Home of Research Triangle Park and Duke University, Durham is a growing town abundant with museums, the arts, culture and outdoor attractions. With its rich history, Durham has always been an eventful Southern town.
Just a couple of weeks after Gen. Robert E. Lee surrendered in the Civil War, Union Gen. William T. Sherman and Confederate General Joseph E. Johnston met at Bennett Place, a plantation home in Durham, and negotiated the war’s largest surrender. After the war, the city grew into a prominent tobacco town, which led to other development, including the construction of the first mill to make denim.
Durham continues to have historical appeal as well as modern attractions. Just a six-hour drive from Atlanta, the town has something to offer people of varying ages and interests.
Don't miss
Sarah P. Duke Gardens
The Sarah P. Duke Gardens at Duke University were voted among the 10 best public gardens in the South in Southern Living magazine's 2009 Readers' Choice Awards. More than 300,000 visitors each year stroll through the 55-acre gardens, sightseeing, picnicking and just meandering the 5 miles of trails.
There are three main sections, including the terrace; the Blomquist Garden of Native Plants, comprised of Southeastern vegetation; and the Culberson Asiatic Arboretum, featuring plants native to eastern Asia. Free. 426 Anderson St. 919-684-3698, www.hr.duke.edu/dukegardens.
North Carolina Museum of Life and Science
Explore, learn and be amazed at the North Carolina Museum of Life and Science. The 84-acre museum includes both indoor and outdoor exhibits, and children of all ages can indulge in hands-on and interactive activities. Surround yourself with thousands of butterflies in the Magic Wings Butterfly House, investigate insects in the Bayer Crop Science Insectarium, catch a close-up glimpse of baby bears and lemurs in the outdoor habitat, or take a train ride around the museum's campus. Admission is $12.50 for adults, children ages 9 to 12 are $9.50, and children under 3 are free. 433 Murray Ave. 919-220-5429, www.ncmls.org.
Experience Durham's history
Some of the last fighting in the Civil War was around Durham. In addition to Bennett Place, you can visit the Maplewood Cemetery and pay your respects to those who lost their lives fighting in the war. Also open to visitors is the Duke Homestead, located on Duke University's campus, where the state's tobacco industry was launched. And you can wander around the grounds of Historic Stagville, one of the South's largest plantation houses. Most historic locations have no admission fees. www.civilwardurham.com.
Durham Bulls
Sports lovers and baseball fans should put a Durham Bulls game atop their list of things to do in the North Carolina town. The minor league baseball team has won three Governors' Cups and in 2009 was the AAA national champion. The team's big claim to fame was being spotlighted in the 1988 movie "Bull Durham," starring Kevin Costner, Susan Sarandon and Tim Robbins. The season begins in April and ends in September. Ticket prices range from $7 to $9. 409 Blackwell St. 919-687-6500, www.dbulls.com.
Eno River State Park
Located just minutes from downtown Durham, the Eno River State Park offers relaxation and adventure. Lace up your hiking books and travel along the trails of the 3,900-acre park. Walk along the swift waters of the Eno River, and pass by a few historic mill sites and bluffs. Aside from hiking, guests can canoe, raft, picnic, fish or try to catch an up-close glimpse of native birds or wild animals. Free. 6101 Cole Mill Road. 919-383-1686, www.ncparks.gov.
Getting there
Durham is about 380 miles northeast of downtown Atlanta, about six hours driving time. From Atlanta, take I-85 North.
Where to eat
Vin Rouge. The menu at this French Bistro ranges from sautéed salmon to gratin de macaroni to trout amandine. The Boston Globe named Vin Rouge one of Durham's best restaurants. Entrees run from $10.95 to $19.95. 2010 Safeway St. 919-416-0466, www.vinrougerestaurant.com.
Fishmonger's Restaurant and Oyster Bar. Serving just about every kind of seafood imaginable, this bar and restaurant, located in downtown Durham, specializes in fish and chips. Entrees run from $11.95 to $24.95. 806 W. Main St. 919-682-0128, www.fishmongers.net.
Where to stay
The King's Daughters Inn. Built in the 1920s, this 17-room boutique B&B is within walking distance of Duke University and downtown Durham. $160-$260. 204 N. Buchanan Blvd. 919-354-7000, www.thekingsdaughtersinn.com.
Carol's Garden Inn. This B&B offers relaxation and comfort in a country setting. Downtown Durham is about 2 1/2 miles away. $85 per night for one person and $15 for each additional person. 2412 S. Alston Ave. 919-740-1240, www.carolsgarden.com.
Visitor information
Durham Convention and Visitors Bureau. 919-687-0288, www.durham-nc.com.
Provided by Demand Studios
About the Author
The Latest
Featured
