Top 5 Things To Do In Durham NC

Durham, NC is one of many cities that has been in the process of recreating itself. Probably best known for their tobacco history. The tower in the center of downtown is well preserved and full of history for the local community.

1.The American Tobacco District

The American Tobacco District is what it is called now, but historically it was the center of tobacco distribution. Durham produced 90% of America’s tobacco at one time. If you ever watched Madmen you probably heard them say tobacco is king. That was definitely true in Durham. The building probably touched everyone’s life in someway.

The Place To Find Really Good Food

The area has been recreated into a mecca for good food. Local creators and connoisseurs gather on cool spring, hot summer and calm fall evenings to enjoy the company of friends and family.

The water feature that was made in the center of this district is amazing. Restaurants encircle the area.There are tables outside as well as benches and grassy spots to sit on. The sound of the water falling on the old bricks is calming and give a sense of peace.

Bands and all kinds of musician gather there to play in some of the grassy open areas. It is just a pleasure to walk around and inhale all of the smells from the restaurants and listen to water fall, mingled with musical entertainment.

2. Durham’s Farmers Market

Doesn’t everyone love a farmers market. North Carolina is known for their farms. Durham’s farmers market will not disappoint you. It is not only filled with fresh seasonal flowers but also local fruits and vegetables.

North Carolina produces many of the foods on your table. Cabbage, corn, squash, watermelon, tomatoes, cucumbers and pumpkins are some of the few. These are the ones NC is known for.

If you would like to know more about what’s grown in North Carolina, check out our agricultural statistics book, published by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The book is published and updated annually and has information about vegetable crops, fruit crops, animal production and much more. Check it out!

Chris Gunter NC State professor

Craftsman and Vendors

I have enjoyed a few farmer’s markets recently. Durham’s is especially fun because of all the vendors. The craftsmen there ranged from pottery, to wood work, handmade bowls and jewelry. There were so many beautiful items to purchase available.

Food trucks were also lined up at the market. You should definitely go with an empty stomach. Coffees, teas, local honey and pastries of every kind filled the air with delightful smells.

The Durham Farmer’s Market will not disappoint you. If has been in the same place since 1999. Parking is easy and trees lined some of the merchants spots. It will make a very pleasant visit in the morning.

3. Sarah P Duke Gardens

You just do not want to miss the Sarah P Duke Gardens. It is internationally known and draws a big crowd during the summer months. The park is open 365 days a year so you have plenty of time to get there.

I will tell you , though, it can be quite crowded. There are many parking lots leading into the gardens, so parking is usually not a problem. Tour buses come in as well so just pick a time early in the morning or after lunch for smaller crowds.

It is 55 acres of public gardens, so you may not get to see all of it the first time you go. The beauty and splendor of the garden was overwhelming to the first time that I saw it. There are so many paths to meaner through. So get you a map when you start off. If you need assistance there are people all over the park to offer their help.

Just remember, it is North Carolina, so some days can be extremely hot and humid. Take a water bottle with you and comfortable shoes. Enjoy the walk and don’t worry if you do not get to see ALL of the park the first time you go.

4. Duke University

There are just not as many campuses as beautiful as Duke University. The entire campus is built with the Georgian-style architecture, while the Gothis style is seen at the West Campus . Although many buildings have been added since 1839 they architecture has not changed too much. Builders try to maintain the unique style throughout the campus.The contemporary buildings built now try to maintain the beauty and unique qualities of the original structures.

Trees surround the campus and make it a comfortable place to walk around. Of course we can’t go without mentioning the famous Cameron Stadium where many Duke basketball games have been won. This is probably the place that most people will recognize the famous Blue Devil mascot from. You just have to see the university.

5. The Durham Bulls Athletic Park

No American town is complete without a baseball field , right? Durham is no exception. The stadium is located downtown and is easily accessible. It holds about 10,000 people. Now, it is a baseball stadium, so hotdogs and popcorn are a must have there.

The park is home to the Duke Blue Devils baseball team as well as the Durham Bulls, which is a Triple A professional team. I just think of baseball as summertime fun and this stadium is a great place to enjoy America’s favorite past time.

There are several nice restaurants around the perimeter of the park and of course the American Tobacco District is right across the street. The Tobacco District also offers a rich night life after the Bulls baseball game is over!

So if you thought there was nothing to do in Durham, NC,you were wrong. The city is full of really good restaurants, bars, nightlife, hotels and entertainment. There is variety, good weather and great people. You can’t ask for more than that.

If you have been there before let me know about your experience. I hope you will give it a try and enjoy. Honestly, Janet