Best Train Station & Airport Layover Destinations in Durham, North Carolina, United States
1. Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC)
Enjoy a captivating show at this premier performing arts venue during your layover.
- Broadway Shows: Hosts top-notch Broadway productions and concerts
- Convenient Location: Adjacent to the Amtrak Durham Station
- Accessibility: Easily accessible with wheelchair seating available
2. Saratoga Wine Bar & Shop
Indulge in a wine tasting or pick up a bottle for your journey at this charming spot.
- Extensive Selection: Features hundreds of wines from around the world
- Wine Tastings: Offers daily wine tastings and events
- Friendly Atmosphere: Knowledgeable staff provides excellent customer service
3. Durham Farmers' Market
Experience the local food scene by visiting this bustling farmers' market.
- Fresh Produce: Sells farm-fresh fruits, vegetables, and artisanal products
- Live Music: Features live music performances on Saturdays
- Community Gathering Spot: Brings together local farmers, artisans, and food vendors
4. Duke University Chapel
Take a guided tour of this iconic Gothic Revival chapel on the Duke University campus.
- Architectural Marvel: Stunning architectural design with impressive stained-glass windows
- Historical Significance: A designated National Historic Landmark
- Free Admission: No admission fee to enter and explore the chapel
5. American Tobacco Campus
Explore this historic campus, home to restaurants, shops, and events.
- Historic Venues: Includes restored factory buildings with unique event spaces
- Diverse Dining Options: Offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and food trucks
- Art Installations: Showcases striking public art installations
6. Nasher Museum of Art
Visit this contemporary art museum featuring works from both local and international artists.
- Thought-Provoking Exhibits: Presents engaging exhibitions that challenge and inspire
- Free Admission: Admission is free for visitors of all ages
- Educational Programs: Offers interactive workshops and lectures
7. Bull City Ciderworks
Sip on unique ciders at Durham's first urban cidery during your layover.
- Craft Ciders: Creates innovative and flavorful cider blends
- Tasting Room: Features a cozy tasting room for enjoying flights of cider
- Food Trucks: Often hosts local food trucks on-site
8. Cocoa Cinnamon Durham Central Park
Grab a coffee or breakfast treat at this beloved local cafe.
- Artisanal Coffee: Specializes in small-batch, ethically-sourced coffee
- Breakfast Favorites: Offers a variety of breakfast sandwiches, pastries, and bowls
- Community Space: Serves as a gathering spot for Durham residents and visitors alike
9. Brightleaf Square
Explore this charming historic square filled with shops, restaurants, and events.
- Historic Architecture: Features beautifully restored tobacco warehouses
- Diverse Shops: Offers a range of unique boutiques, antique stores, and gift shops
- Seasonal Events: Hosts events throughout the year, including the popular Bull Durham Beer Festival
10. Durham Central Park
Relax in this urban park, which offers green spaces, picnic areas, and a dog park.
- Green Spaces: Provides ample space for outdoor activities and relaxation
- Dog Park: Features a dog park for furry friends to run and play
- Community Events: Hosts events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals
11. The Carolina Theatre of Durham
Catch a movie or live performance at this historic theater.
- Live Entertainment: Presents a variety of live performances, including music and comedy shows
- Art Deco Architecture: Features stunning Art Deco design elements
- Cinema Classics: Screens classic films and independent movies
12. The Museum of Life + Science
Engage in hands-on science exhibits and explore outdoor habitats at this interactive museum.
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers a variety of exhibits that encourage exploration and learning
- Outdoor Habitats: Features outdoor habitats, including a butterfly garden and wildlife park
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs for both children and adults
13. Fullsteam Brewery
Taste locally brewed beers at this Durham staple.
- Creative Beers: Crafts innovative, Southern-inspired beers
- Tasting Room: Features a welcoming tasting room with indoor and outdoor seating
- Food Trucks: Often hosts local food trucks on-site for meals and snacks
14. Durham County Library
Take a break from your journey with a visit to this modern library.
- Extensive Collection: Features a vast collection of books, magazines, and multimedia resources
- Community Space: Serves as a community gathering space for events, workshops, and classes
- Free Resources: Offers free access to computers, Wi-Fi, and research databases
15. Durham Farm Park
Experience farm life during your layover by visiting this petting zoo and educational farm.
- Petting Zoo: Allows visitors to interact with various farm animals
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs about farming and animal care
- Seasonal Activities: Features seasonal activities, such as pumpkin patch visits during autumn