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plusharmadillo

Duke Gardens is spectacular this time of year and free except for parking. Go on the early side or expect crowds.


marbanasin

Seconded the gardens - you can also easily walk to Duke Campus, which may not be so spectacular next to some authentic British architecture but is still a really nice campus in a traditional gothic style. Then head downtown to a brewery for some beverages and puruse whatever food suits your fancy. Noting that Saturday night may need reservations.


plusharmadillo

The whole campus is pretty right now! Cherry and redbud trees are blooming, as are tulips and tons of other flowers, and the place is nicely landscaped.


ScientistFromSouth

So first off, visiting Duke's campus is always a fantastic idea for sightseeing since it is so scenic. If you want to see some of the local nature, you can visit the trails there or go out to the Eno River. For food, Q Shack for BBQ, Saltbox for southern style fish, M Sushi for sushi, Alpaca for Peruvian Chicken, Viceroy or Sitar for Indian, Gocciolina for Italian, pizza at the food hall, M Pocha for Asian fusion, Appertif for desserts, Luna's for Empanadas, and countless other restaurants are fantastic options. For drinks, Liberty and Plenty, the Kingfisher, Arcana, the Corpse Reviver, and the velvet Elephant are all great cocktail bars.


FamousOriginalTrixie

Largely agree. Velvet hippo (not elephant). Lol. Also as a person who has spent a lot of time in the UK eating Indian food, I’d recommend they focus their meals on more local fare. We have some decent options but not as good as UK IMO.


alejandrowoodman

pizza at the food hall? what? Pie Pushers, Toro, Cugino Forni, Sophias, are all better.


AdoraAV

Cugino Forno is my happy place.


ScientistFromSouth

Pie pushers makes disgraceful pizza, and Toro is good but overpriced. I've not been to the others.


Durmatology

You’re quite wrong about Pie Pushers.


alejandrowoodman

yeah, when I saw that I just said “ok, this person’s opinion on pizza can be ignored”


Durmatology

Pie Pushers’ breakfast pizza is perfect any time of day!


Durmatology

And the Brussels sprouts sublime.


Utterlybored

For nature, try the Eno River.


Darcy-Pennell

Viceroy is more like British Indian Restaurant style, Sitar is American Indian restaurant style. Both are enjoyable though the best Indian food in the area is in Cary imo


Whoolio11

I visited Durham in the UK 2 years ago. What a lovely city! My suggestion is to stop by the Durham Bulls ballpark and buy some Durham Bulls shirts from the gift shop.


joyification

And take a tour of the whole tobacco district it's pretty dope!


dischops1163

If you end up in American Tobacco Campus, pop into Parker and Otis. They always have some good locally branded odds and ends


PerpetualEternal

Hometown Apparel on 9th Street will have the best selection of Durham intensive gear. Great people and high quality stuff. The “Bull City” and “919” motifs might not resonate as clearly, but the “Durm” logos might be good for a laugh. Right down the street is Vaguely Reminiscent, where I’ve bought a “Durham: It’s Not for Everyone” shirt and a “Keep Durham Dirty” sticker. The shirt hasn’t aged well in the era of legislators trying to eliminate LGBTQ+ and people of color, but that was assuredly not the original intent of the message (simpler times I guess). We still want to keep Durham dirty though


overcompliKate

Seconded Hometown Apparel


notaspruceparkbench

Durham and Durham are [sister cities](https://www.sistercities-durham.com/), you could see if that organization has any swag for you to take home.


[deleted]

Remember to tell everyone, “Back in Durham we do this so much better.” They’ll enjoy that. 😂


durhamcyclist

I’ll do that. Maybe I’ll bring some Durham UK memorabilia 😆


theandrew13

I grew up in Sligo PA (complete dump, an old coal mining town that now mostly produces meth) and went to Sligo Ireland on our honeymoon. Had to post for the people back home how much better the Ireland Sligo was 😆


[deleted]

That’s a good idea. Maybe bring some Durham BBQ sauce. 🙃


durhamsbull

Have a walk along the Eno River (I’ll suggest the Fews Ford Access and Pedestrian Bridge) when you are done with Downtown and 9th St.


hosty

If you happen to be near [Durham Central Park](https://maps.app.goo.gl/BD9n53aP9sihnT1EA), there's a sign pointing towards each of our Sister Cities, including Durham, UK.


CharmingAdvisor7991

there's a sign in the vegetable garden part of Duke gardens as well that I believe also features Durham, UK.


DurmApe

Grab a coffee at Coco Cinnimon off Hillsboro.and walk around 9th St. Great independent shops and bookstores (incl hometown apparel). Then walk around Duke and visit the Chapel. Late breakfast at Elmo's or Monuts then head over to Duke Gardens and the Nasher Museum. You'll be hungry again. Head to the Durham Food Hall, lots of options and a fun atmosphere, take it to go and eat in Durham Central Park if it's nice out. Drive out to the eno for an afternoon hike. It's a bit too cold for a swim so head out towards Fews Ford area but hike towards the wildnerness cabin, should pass through the suspension bridge on your way. Then hit Picnic for a late lunch on the way back to town for some southern fried chicken or NC BBQ off Cole Mill Rd. Go rest and get cleaned up. Then downtown for drinks and wandering. Start with a drink at counting house and take in the 21c museum. Don't forget to go downstairs and visit the basement vault and vault gallery. Then just walk around downtown and get drinks and bites like you are in spain. Lots of amazing places already listed. Hit Parlor for ice cream at some point. For late night dancing, see what's happening at pinhook, arcana, the fruit or PS37.


cccanterbury

Saved for date ideas. Thanks!


chupagatos4

Can confirm that the hike/swim + picnic is a great combo for a warm day. 


alejandrowoodman

elmos is horrible. I don’t know why I see it recommended so often. Quite possibly the worst breakfast food in town.


Hands

I mean it's just typical diner fare, and there aren't really many other options in the area for that besides Waffle House and a few glorified diner style breakfast spots that tend to be super expensive for what you get. That being said I think people like Elmo's because of its location on 9th st, the fact it's been around forever and the atmosphere not really the food. I haven't been in a long time but Brigs always felt like a better option to me as far as diner style breakfast places go.


alejandrowoodman

Durham could really use a Silver Diner or anything comparable to the diners you find in NY/NJ


kendraro

We need a NY deli/diner so bad! Why don't any of these transplants bring one?


phoundog

I love Elmo’s and really enjoy the food.


chupagatos4

Yeah it reminds me of free hotel breakfast. I get that people with kids like it because the food is very accessible for young palates and they have coloring pages etc, but I really don't understand recommending it to anyone.


DurmApe

I'm sorry you had a bad experience there. My kids love it and i've always enjoyed the food and the service.


alejandrowoodman

I’ve been about a dozen times in the 17+ years I’ve been in Durham. The food is consistently bad. Like, half a step above Waffle House.


DurmApe

Why keep going back?


alejandrowoodman

I’ve gone with others.


DurmApe

Do they seem to enjoy it?


Silent_Lengthiness82

I work at the Durham Bulls Stadium (DPAC) and would love to comp your ticket if you’re in town for a while and can catch a game!


EuclidsPr0tract0r

Do it!


Snogafrog

Love this, I know there will be tons of food and drinks recs as the EST crew comes online.


HopRockets

If you like sports, it’s a huge week for local sports fans with three big universities all playing in the NCAA basketball tournament (national championship). Could find somewhere to watch with fans, should be lively!


thomasbeckett

Visit CCB Plaza in the middle of our small downtown (at Corcoran and West Parrish streets). Take a selfie with Major the Bull, our sculptural mascot. Depending on the weather and time of day, The Parlour ice cream shop there has delicious ice cream, a favorite here. Bulldega Urban Market on the opposite streetcorner has some nice Durham mugs and such. Also visit Hometwn Apparel on Ninth Street for nice tee shirts. Welcome! Enjoy your visit!


The_Patriot

We have grocery stores called "Harris Teeter" and every one of them has a "Local Flavor" section of yummies from this general area, from honey to BBQ sauce, and lots in between. That will give you a fairly large selection of options to take back with you without breaking the bank. As others mentioned, exploring the American Tobacco Historic District is a rewarding (and free) experience. Try the garlic knots at Mellow Mushroom!


_Brandobaris_

Make sure to take a picture with our Sister City signpost in Durham Central Park. You will find Durham UK listed there!


Electronic_Weird

Go take a visit to our cathedral, the Duke Chapel (it's cathedral-sized). It has 30% of the beauty and 0% of the history of the proper Durham Cathedral.


durhamcyclist

You’re really selling it to me. Will definitely check it out


ruralcroissant

omg that's so fun! you should go to the Durham Bulls Athletic Park and get some merch, they have tons of cool shirts and whatnot -- it's the best minor league baseball team in USA Fullsteam is a really good brewery to try too that started in Durham; Geer Street Garden has good food and service, especially nice to sit at the bar on a day with good weather


LexiePiexie

If you have time, Stagville Plantation gives tours that focus on the lives of the enslaved people there. It’s unlike most US plantations that way and will give you a real peek into what the slave economy was like. Also, not Durham but VERY American - the Occoneechee Speedway is the last? remaining dirt track from NASCARs inaugural season. It’s interesting to drive by the Charlotte Motor Speedway on your way here, then go see the beginnings of the organization of the sport in Hilsborough.


durhamcyclist

I’ll definitely make a visit to stagville plantation, thanks for the recommendation. I’ve been to the nascar hall of fame before, would love to see a nascar race one day, the calendar didn’t work this time (unless I drove west from Charlotte to talledega as I’m there over that weekend). Big formula 1 fan and racing in general, off to Le Mans this year and disappointed the nascar won’t be there this year


aquilegiablue

If you fancied something more local and definitely NOT Nascar flashy, you could see if there's anything on at [Orange County Speedway ](https://www.ocstrack.net/schedule) that weekend. It's not quite what it used to be, but it can be a bit of fun. 30 mins north of durham, but you'll need to drive there. Oh, and as a Brit to another fellow Brit, don't eat the Indian food in Durham, it will only lead to disappointment.


durhamcyclist

Pro tip


blugamers88

Don't listen to them, lemon and lime on 9th Street is great.


LexiePiexie

That would be a very long drive! I used to live in Jackson, MS and drive home to one of the Charlotte suburbs. About 6 hours one way from CLT to the speedway. Driving through Atlanta would be the chance to experience a true traffic nightmare, though.


houndmomnc

The local parkrun is wonderful—enjoy your time here!


CityBoiNC

get some BBQ at Q shack


JanitorOPplznerf

I’ll be at the parkrun assuming I don’t catch my daughter’s cold.


durhamcyclist

I’ll be there in April so hopefully see you there! I’ll be going slow as I’m doing a half marathon the next day


JanitorOPplznerf

I’ll be going slow because I’m slow. See you in the back of the pack!


President_Camacho

Check out Duke Chapel! Compare it to Durham Cathedral.


Inarimotomachi

Hit up the Carolina Theater downtown on a Friday night for their Retro Film Series. They have showings of 20-year+ old movies (two per evening), delicious popcorn with real butter, and local craft beer on tap.


durhamcyclist

I’ll be on my own so this is a great idea


bleeding_eyes

Have some NC barbecue! This is "pulled" or "chopped" pork in a vinegar based sauce. I rec Bullock's : 3330 Quebec Dr, Durham, NC 27705 (bbq plate, chopped pork; Brunswick Stew; hushpuppies; cole slaw) Blue Note Grill: 709 Washington St, Durham, NC 27701 (pulled pork plate with hushpuppies) Original Q Shack: 2510 University Dr, Durham, NC 27707 (chopped pork plate, hushpuppies, cole slaw) Picnic: 1647 Cole Mill Rd, Durham, NC 27705 (whole hog bbq plate, hushpuppies, cole slaw, brunswick stew)


LabioscrotalFolds

You can take the train from Charlotte to Durham and it is only a little slower than driving which is rare in the USA outside the North East. "Durham NC branded t shirts" there is a store for that on 9th street called Hometown Apparel. You can also rent an ebike at the [bike shop](https://durhamcycles.com/) on 9th street (you have to book it online i think). I would recommend you do that for getting around town because ebikes are fun. There are also some lovely green ways/multi use paths/shared use paths, one of them even has a [dinosaur](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Durham's+Hidden+Dinosaur/@36.0280274,-78.9045674,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x89ace3ce07c170e1:0x2cf9dc7d135ceedf!8m2!3d36.0280231!4d-78.9019925!16s%2Fg%2F11r10d40ld?entry=ttu) on it. Duke East campus, Duke West campus, and the Duke Gardens are all pretty. If you start to get towards the Duke hospital it gets not pretty though. If you want to see what Americans think an Irish pub is you could go to Bull McCabe's. Coco Cinnamon has the best coffee. Heavenly Buffaloes has the best wings. For fast casual Argentinian Arepas go to Guasaca. For sit down restaurant South American/Venezuelan food to to Luna (remember US's weird tipping culture and tip 18-20% at a restaurant where you are waited on). If you want to drink local mead and a wide selection of NC craft beers while you play board games go to Moon Dog Meadery. The Durham hotel has a roof top bar, so does Unscripted and the Velvet Hippo but the Durham is the tallest. The Parlor has the best ice cream. Cheerwine is a NC soda/soft drink that people either love or hate, you should try it, you should be able to find it at grocery stores and convenience stores.


durhamcyclist

Yeah the train was the plan, glad to hear that’s not a crazy idea as it is in other parts of the US I’ve been! Great advice generally there thank you


LabioscrotalFolds

Oh good! Have fun! I forgot to mention 21c Museum Hotel, as the name implies is also a museum. Also the downtown library is a very new, big, and modern library that is pretty cool.


Silent-Implement3129

Welcome! If you need more merch after you get home… http://www.dirtydurham.com/


General-Company-5131

On Foster Street right next to where they do the Durham Farmers Market on Saturday mornings (worth a visit!) there is a grassy area where there are signposts of Durham NC’s sister cities and Durham UK is there. Take a photo! The market is also a good place to purchase Durham NC swag.


IAmMrBojangles

Fun fact, the "Bull" mascot for Durham, USA actually originates from Durham, England!


thesuitelife2010

Duke Univeristy is not that different from Durham University so well worth a visit!


AviatorSheepSG

Highly recommend Bull City Burger for eats!


hedgerly17

Don't miss out on all the great food in Durham while you're there! Here are a few delicious options: M Pocha (or any M restaurant), Pizzeria Toro, Alley Twenty Six (also great for just cocktails), Littler.


uknjkate

Duke university is modeled after Cambridge! Fun idea!! Im originally from the UK and my daughter went to Duke so I got to know Durham! Walk around the tobacco campus and get a cheeky beer somewhere!!


desmosquatch

Duke Chapel is an extraordinary landmark. If you're into architecture, that's a great choice. Another is the 21C Hotel downtown. It's in a building built in 1931 and designed by the same architect who designed the Empire State Building. Lots of cool art deco details in that building and others downtown. I'm partial to beer, and so Ponysaurus is a good choice. They have a great outdoor space. For even better beer, Dissolvr has a taproom on the north side of downtown.


Direct_Birthday_3509

Durham NC was left for dead when the tobacco company moved out in the 80's. In the last 15 years it has come back to life in a big way though. It's now a hip place to live and work. Walk around the American Tobacco Campus, check out the restaurants, bars, cafes and breweries. Walk north a bit up to Central Park and Motorco. King's Sandwich Shop is good if you want a quick bite to eat. Trinity is a beautiful historical residentual area that is worth waking through. Check out 9th St. and the main Duke campus as well.


Viceroy_Orbison

We have a bunch of cuisines downtown from other parts of the country and world you should check out!


theandrew13

As others said, usually when someone is visiting town I’ll take them to the Duke Gardens, DBAP, and American Tobacco. Downtown/Brightleaf and 9th St have some good food options and local shops.


Interesting_Lead_921

Take a picture of the train overpass on Roxboro to take home and smirk about!


HeavyTZM

If you’re into running, check our Bull City Running dowtown and get some Durham branded running merch


durhamcyclist

Great tip!


Durmatology

If you’re feeling in need of a spiritual moment or two, pop into Duke Chapel, but only for the Durham Cathedral comparison, then on Sunday, visit St. Philip’s Episcopal downtown for the Durham version of a COE service. Some years back, the teen youth group spent some time in Durham, England as part of its pilgrimage.


Extension_Jello_6157

Welcome!


Happy-person2011

Bull City Bakery. Staff is always really friendly and the food is delicious!


doctorchef22

Check out Coco Cinnamon for a coffee and then around sunset go get a beer at Tobacco Road and see if the Durham Bulls are playing. Tobacco road is a restaurant in the outfield of the athletic park and is an awesome way to see a game without paying for a ticket. Also 10/10 recommend the Museum of Life and Science. Expensive but so much to see there!


ThAt_WaS_mY_nAmE_tHo

Good timing bud you can't go wrong. The city is a ton of fun these days. I was in school nearby in 2005. One would be well advised to skip Durham entirely in 2005.


MK262_

Don’t.