Whether you're relocating or just spending a weekend in Durham, here's a curated guide to the city’s best attractions. Our local picks help you take full advantage of everything Durham has to offer.
1. Sarah P. Duke Gardens
Spanning 55 acres on Duke University's West Campus, these beautifully landscaped gardens offer walking paths, terraces, and specialty plant collections ⏤ ideal for tranquil strolls or photographing seasonal blooms.
Tip: Be sure to stay updated with the Duke Gardens Garden Gateway Project as its construction will affect parking.
2. Durham Bulls Athletic Park
Cheer on the Durham Bulls—a minor league baseball team with charm and history. Built into the downtown skyline, this park also hosts fireworks nights on Fridays and Saturdays.
3. American Tobacco Historic District
Once a tobacco factory, now a thriving mixed-use hub. Enjoy dining, live music, co-working spots, and public art in beautifully restored buildings—a perfect introduction to Durham’s redevelopment and culture .
Tip: In the warmer months, visit the American Tobacco Campus and check out the cedar‑shake cabin where Burt Shavitz (of Burt’s Bees) once lived—and don’t miss the live bee observation hive right outside, showing the inner workings of a real colony
4. Museum of Life + Science
Great for families or the curious adult alike. Features include interactive indoor exhibits, a butterfly house, dinosaur trail, and outdoor wildlife experiences in a lush, park-like setting.
5. Eno River State Park & American Tobacco Trail
Whether you’re into hiking, biking, or kayaking, these green escapes deliver. The 22-mile American Tobacco Trail connects urban areas to peaceful nature, while Eno River winds through wooded trails and swimming holes.
6. Durham Central Park & Farmers’ Market
This arts-forward park draws locals with its pavilion, weekly market, seasonal festivals, and community events. A great way to relax and support local farmers and makers.
7. Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC)
One of the top venues in the region for Broadway shows, concerts, stand-up comedy, and more. DPAC brings national touring acts to downtown Durham year-round.
8. Duke Lemur Center
The world’s largest primate research center dedicated to lemurs. Public tours run seasonally (May–September) and offer close-up encounters with these unique animals—a memorable, educational experience.
9. Durham Distillery & Mystic Farm
Located just outside downtown, Durham Distillery crafts award‑winning gin, and Mystic Farm & Distilling offers tours and tastings of their Broken Oak Bourbon in a laid-back, rural setting.
10. Festivals & Seasonal Events
Durham’s event calendar fills up fast. Noteworthy 2025 highlights include:
Bull City Food & Beer Experience (March 2)
Full Frame Documentary Film Festival (April)
Biscuits & Banjos Festival celebrating Black music & food (April 25–27)
American Dance Festival (June–July)
Festival for the Eno (July 4–5)
These community-centered events bring art, food, film, and fun to the heart of Durham
Why Durham Is More Than Just a Stopover
Durham is full of green spaces, bold flavors, and creative energy. Locals spend their weekends hopping between breweries, browsing farmers’ markets, catching a game, or exploring local art—all in a city that balances history with a fresh, modern feel.