No.	Activity	Brief Description
1	Tour Duke University	Explore the historic campus, including Duke Chapel and various landmarks.
2	See a Durham Bulls Baseball Game	Enjoy a minor league baseball game with family-friendly entertainment.
3	Explore the Nasher Museum of Art	Visit the museum on Duke’s campus featuring diverse art collections.
4	Tour a Tobacco Warehouse at American Tobacco Campus	Discover Durham’s tobacco history through guided tours of repurposed warehouses.
5	Dame’s Chicken and Waffles	Savor Southern food at this iconic, James Beard-recognized restaurant.
6	Relax at Duke Gardens	Enjoy the beauty of 55 acres of gardens and woodlands on Duke University’s campus.
7	Explore History at Duke Homestead	Learn about the tobacco industry and Durham’s origins at this historic site.
8	Bennett Place State Historic Site	Visit the site of the largest Confederate Army surrender during the Civil War.
9	Museum of Life + Science	Experience interactive science exhibits and outdoor activities.
10	Catch a Show at DPAC	Attend performances at Durham Performing Arts Center, from Broadway shows to concerts.
11	Chow Down on BBQ	Enjoy authentic North Carolina barbecue at local joints.
12	American Tobacco Trail	Hike, jog, or cycle on this 22-mile trail tracing historic railroad tracks.

From exploring museums and rooting for the local minor league baseball team to eating at James Beard-recognized restaurants, Durham has something for everyone. Here are the top 12 things to do on a trip to Durham:

Tour Duke University

Name and Location: Duke University, Durham, NC

History and Significance: Duke University was founded in 1838 as Brown’s Schoolhouse and later renamed Trinity College in 1859 when it moved to Durham. It was renamed Duke University in 1924. Duke is a prestigious private research university.

What to Expect: Tour the historic East and West campuses, see the iconic Duke Chapel, visit the Sarah P. Duke Gardens, explore the Nasher Museum of Art, and check out campus life.

Visitor Information: Free walking tours are offered year-round. Book in advance online. Admission to attractions may require fees.

Duke University is one of the top private universities in the country and Durham’s claim to fame. Touring the historic campus makes for a great activity during your visit. Stroll through the gorgeous Gothic architecture buildings, stopping to admire Duke Chapel with its stunning stained glass windows.

Pause at the James B. Duke statue and the historic quad. An official guided tour will take you inside buildings like the Sarah P. Duke Gardens. Can’t get enough Blue Devil pride? Shop for souvenirs at the campus bookstore. Exploring the grounds of this elite institution is a must-do.

See a Durham Bulls Baseball Game

Name and Location: Durham Bulls, Durham Bulls Athletic Park, Durham, NC

History and Significance: The Durham Bulls are a minor league baseball team founded in 1913. Their ballpark opened in 1995. The Bulls gained fame from the movie “Bull Durham.”

What to Expect: Enjoy an affordable, fun baseball game with typical ballpark food and entertainment. Fireworks nights are popular. The team has a loyal local fanbase.

Visitor Information: Games run April-September. Ticket prices start around $9. Parking is $5-10.

Nothing says Americana like cheering on your hometown minor league baseball team! The Durham Bulls are the Triple-A affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays and play at the downtown Durham Bulls Athletic Park. Watch future major league stars as you enjoy a hot dog and peanuts.

Don’t miss the iconic snorting and smoking bull sign over left field, similar to the one in the 1989 hit movie “Bull Durham.” For a special treat, catch a game during a fun theme night celebration. With exciting baseball and family-friendly entertainment, a Bulls game should be on your Durham agenda.

Explore the Nasher Museum of Art

Name and Location: Nasher Museum of Art, Duke University, Durham, NC

History and Significance: Founded in 2005, the museum has over 13,000 works in its collection. The striking modern building was designed by architect Rafael Viñoly.

What to Expect: View diverse exhibits of medieval to modern and contemporary art. Exhibits change regularly. Guided tours are offered.

Visitor Information: Open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Thursday until 9pm, and Sunday Noon-5pm. Admission is free.

Located on Duke’s campus, the striking Nasher Museum of Art holds impressive collections of medieval, Renaissance, and contemporary works. Browse European masters, intriguing modern pieces, and creations by local North Carolinian artists.

Some highlights include Dalí sculptures, Picasso paintings, dazzling African art, and a massive collection of Pre-Columbian artifacts. Don’t miss the peaceful sculpture garden with rotating installations. Art lovers will appreciate the Nasher’s impressive, diverse collection showcasing important works both past and present.

Tour a Tobacco Warehouse at the American Tobacco Campus

Name and Location: American Tobacco Campus, Durham, NC

History and Significance: The 14 acre campus contains the historic Lucky Strike cigarette factory and Bull Durham tobacco warehouses. It is now a vibrant mixed-use district.

What to Expect: Take a self-guided tour of the outdoor Bull Durham Athletic Park or join a guided walking tour to explore the tobacco history.

Visitor Information: Free 2-hour walking tours offered Saturdays at 10am. Self-guided tours anytime.

Durham has strong ties to tobacco, as cigarette manufacturing giant American Tobacco Company was headquartered here in the late 1800s through the mid 1900s. Pay homage to this history by touring one of the tobacco warehouses that now make up the American Tobacco Campus.

This complex of repurposed warehouses now contains shops, restaurants, and event spaces. Take a guided tour of the Lucky Strike Water Tower and other historic sites related to Durham’s tobacco industry legacy. Browse the campus’ wide selection of restaurants and the charming farmers market held here on Saturdays.

Dig into Southern Food at Dame’s Chicken and Waffles

Name and Location: Dame’s Chicken and Waffles, Durham, NC

History and Significance: Dame’s is a Durham institution known for southern comfort food since 1938. They serve fried chicken, waffles, mac and cheese, greens, and more.

What to Expect: A casual, lively setting with counter or table service. Expect freshly fried, crispy chicken, fluffy waffles, and sweet tea. Cash only.

Visitor Information: Open Tuesday-Sunday 7am-9pm. Closed Mondays. Reasonably priced plates from $5-15.

No visit to Durham is complete without grabbing comfort food at the iconic Dame’s Chicken and Waffles. Originally a food truck, Dame’s has moved into a bright downtown storefront without losing its casual ambiance and down-home flavors.

This James Beard-recognized restaurant serves up fried chicken, thick waffles, mac and cheese, collards, and other soul food favorites. Be sure to try their signature chicken and waffles plate with maple syrup on the side. Dame’s uses family recipes to create quintessential Southern dishes best enjoyed in a laidback, friendly environment.

Relax at Duke Gardens

Name and Location: Duke Gardens, Duke University, Durham, NC

History and Significance: Part of Duke University, these stunning gardens have 55 acres of diverse botanical collections. Founded in the 1930s, it is a beloved Durham landmark.

What to Expect: Explore themed gardens, greenhouses, art installations, and more. Enjoy beautiful flowers, trees, and nature trails year-round.

Visitor Information: Free to visit. Open daily from 8am to dusk. Some areas require paid admission.

Located on Duke University’s campus, the picturesque Sarah P. Duke Gardens cover 55 acres and include both meticulously curated formal gardens and peaceful woodland trails. Stroll through the stunning Terrace Gardens overlooking Crowell Plaza.

Meander through the shady Blomquist Garden of Native Plants. Let your stress melt away as you sit by the lush flowers and fountains of the Historic Core gardens. With so much natural beauty, it’s easy to lose yourself for hours in these award-winning gardens. Admission is free, making the Duke Gardens one of the best places in Durham for relaxation.

Explore History at the Duke Homestead

Name and Location: Duke Homestead State Historic Site, Durham, NC

History and Significance: This was the birthplace and childhood home of tobacco tycoon Washington Duke in 1820, founder of Duke University.

What to Expect: Tour the restored home, farm buildings, and tobacco factory. Historical exhibits tell the story of the Duke family legacy.

Visitor Information: Open Tuesday-Saturday 9am-5pm. Free tours at 11am and 2pm. Admission is free.

Step back in time to Durham’s origins at the Duke Homestead State Historic Site. Tour the 1852 home, farm, and tobacco factory of Washington Duke, founder of the American Tobacco Company. See how a simple log farmhouse grew into an expansive tobacco empire.

Picnic while overlooking the scenic farmland. Browse the visitor’s center exhibits detailing Durham’s progression from rural community to bustling tobacco processing hub. At this well-preserved historic site, you’ll gain insight into one of the major companies that put Durham on the map.

Cheer on the Durham Bulls at a Baseball Game

Name and Location: Durham Bulls Athletic Park, Durham, NC

History and Significance: The Durham Bulls are a Triple-A minor league baseball team playing in downtown Durham since 1995. Known from the movie “Bull Durham.”

What to Expect: Enjoy an action-packed game with typical ballpark food and entertainment. Fireworks nights are popular draws.

Visitor Information: April-September season. Affordable ticket prices from $9. Parking $5-10.

Take me out to the ball game! Cheer for the hometown Durham Bulls baseball team during a Minor League game at their downtown stadium. Watch future MLB stars take the field as you enjoy an all-American atmosphere complete with hot dogs, popcorn, and cold beer.

Since the release of the 1988 hit movie “Bull Durham,” the team has become even more legendary. Don’t leave without getting a photo with the iconic snorting bull sign above left field. Peanuts and Cracker Jacks not included but highly encouraged!

Explore History at Bennett Place State Historic Site

Name and Location: Bennett Place State Historic Site, Durham, NC

History and Significance: This is the site where Confederate General Johnston surrendered to Union General Sherman in 1865, ending the Civil War.

What to Expect: Tour the reconstructed farmhouse, witness reenactments, and explore exhibits about the end of the Civil War.

Visitor Information: Open Tuesday-Saturday 9am-5pm. Free admission. Living history days on weekends.

For an immersive experience into Civil War history, visit Bennett Place State Historic Site. This is the location of the largest surrender of the Civil War, when General Johnston surrendered the Confederate Army of Tennessee to General Sherman of the Union Army in 1865.

Take a guided tour of the historic Bennett farmhouse used during negotiations. Walk the land where more than 89,000 Confederate soldiers laid down their arms. See memorabilia and exhibits detailing this pivotal event. Bennett Place provides perspective into the war’s end and lasting effects.

Go Back in Time at the Museum of Life + Science

Name and Location: Museum of Life and Science, Durham, NC

History and Significance: This science museum opened in 1946 and provides interactive science exhibits and experiences.

What to Expect: Indoor and outdoor exhibits including a dinosaur trail, farm, and butterfly house. Lots of hands-on activities for kids.

Visitor Information: Open daily 9am-5pm. Admission fees $8-18. Discounts available online.

At this combination science center and outdoor park, you’ll encounter everything from dinosaurs to butterflies. Indoors, get hands-on with interactive science exhibits in the Explore the Wild gallery. Say hello to the resident animals.

Walk through a recreation of a historical North Carolina village. Outdoors, take a shuttle or walk to the woodland trails, wild animal exhibits, and working farm complete with milking cows. From fossils to Faraday electricity demonstrations, the Museum of Life + Science engages visitors of all ages with fun educational experiences.

Catch a Show at DPAC

Name and Location: Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC), Durham, NC

History and Significance: DPAC is a premier performing arts venue that opened in 2008. It hosts over 200 performances a year.

What to Expect: See touring Broadway shows, concerts, comedy acts and more in an elegant, state-of-the-art facility.

Visitor Information: Box office open M-F 10am-6pm. Ticket prices vary by show. Parking $5-10.

Attend an unforgettable performance at the Durham Performing Arts Center, known locally as DPAC. This premier venue located in the heart of downtown hosts touring Broadway shows, well-known music artists, comedians, family entertainment, and other productions.

DPAC’s almost 3000-seat main theater provides an intimate yet grand setting for taking in a show. From “Hamilton” to Chris Rock, the theater brings major acts to Durham. Treat yourself to a night out on the town enjoying the arts at DPAC.

Chow Down on BBQ

Name and Location: Multiple BBQ restaurants in Durham, NC such as The Pit, Picnic, Q Shack, Barbee’s, and more.

History and Significance: North Carolina is renowned for its barbecue, especially Eastern-style with wood smoked pork shoulder and vinegar-based sauce. Durham has many classic joints.

What to Expect: Savor melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork, ribs, chicken, Brunswick stew, hushpuppies, collards and more served counter-style. Expect a casual dining experience.

Visitor Information: Most Durham BBQ spots are open daily for lunch and dinner. Prices range $10-$20 per person. Cash only at some.

North Carolina is revered for its down-home barbecue, and Durham has plenty of mom and pop BBQ joints that have perfected the craft. Fill up on deliciously smoked pulled pork, brisket, ribs, chicken and all the classic sides like mac and cheese, hush puppies, baked beans, and collard greens.

Local favorite joints include Bullock’s Bar-B-Cue, The Q Shack, Barney’s BBQ, and Picnic. Don’t leave North Carolina without sampling authentically cooked barbecue!

Stretch Your Legs on the American Tobacco Trail

Name and Location: American Tobacco Trail, Durham, NC

History and Significance: This 22-mile trail follows the path of the railroad that once served the American Tobacco Company. Opened in 2000 as a multi-use trail.

What to Expect: Pavement trail through woodlands ideal for walking, running, biking. Picnic areas and restrooms available. Close to central Durham.

Visitor Information: Trail open daily 8am-dusk. Free to use. Parking access at various trailheads like behind Durham Bulls Athletic Park.

This 22-mile multi-use trail traces the path of the railroad tracks that once served the tobacco industry in Durham. Today, it makes for excellent hiking, jogging, cycling, and even horseback riding through forests and open space overlooking the Little River.

Enter the trail at one of its many access points around the city. Or, for a short walk or ride, enjoy the one-mile segment passing right through the American Tobacco Campus. Surrounded by nature but close to town, the American Tobacco Trail lets you explore Durham’s beautiful outdoor spaces.

Conclusion

With its unique blend of Southern charm, ties to tobacco history, and the prestige of Duke University, Durham has so much to offer visitors. Learn about the city’s origins at historic sites like the Duke Homestead. Explore Duke’s stunning campus or get your art fix at the Nasher Museum.

Catch a Durham Bulls baseball game and chow down on finger-licking good barbecue for the quintessential Southern experience. From science museums to live performances to outdoor pursuits, Durham provides activities for all interests. Use this list to experience the best of what “The Bull City” has to offer.