Durham, North Carolina, is a vibrant city with a lot to offer, but sometimes you may feel the urge to explore beyond its borders. Luckily, there are plenty of exciting day trips from Durham NC that allow you to experience the beauty and culture of the surrounding areas. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature, indulge in delicious food and wine, or delve into history and art, these day trips offer something for everyone. From the charming town of Hillsborough to the scenic beauty of Eno River State Park, there are endless possibilities for memorable day excursions just a short drive away from Durham.
Raleigh, NC
Travel tips
- Distance from Durham, NC to Raleigh, NC: Approximately 25 miles
- Time to get there: Around 30-40 minutes by car
- How to get there from Durham, NC: You can take the GoTriangle bus service from Durham Station to Raleigh Station. Alternatively, you can also take the Amtrak train from Durham to Raleigh.
- Click for Google maps directions: Raleigh, NC
Exploring Raleigh, NC: Things to do
Raleigh, NC, the vibrant capital of North Carolina, is a must-see destination for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures. One of the top attractions in Raleigh is the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, the largest natural history museum in the Southeast. Visitors can explore fascinating exhibits on dinosaurs, marine life, and the state’s diverse ecosystems.
For art enthusiasts, the North Carolina Museum of Art offers a stunning collection of European, American, and contemporary art. The museum’s outdoor park features impressive sculptures and a tranquil setting for a leisurely stroll. History buffs will appreciate a visit to the North Carolina State Capitol, a historic landmark that showcases the state’s political heritage.
Raleigh is also known for its thriving food scene, with a wide range of culinary options to satisfy every palate. From trendy cafes to upscale restaurants, visitors can indulge in delicious Southern cuisine and international flavors. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample local favorites like barbecue, fried chicken, and sweet tea.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of activities to enjoy in Raleigh’s parks and green spaces. William B. Umstead State Park offers hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas for a day of outdoor fun. Pullen Park, the oldest public park in North Carolina, features a carousel, paddle boats, and playgrounds for families to enjoy.
Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or nature, Raleigh, NC has something for everyone. Plan your day trip from Durham to Raleigh and discover all that this dynamic city has to offer.
Chapel Hill, NC
Travel tips
- Distance from Durham, NC: 10 miles
- Time to get there: Approximately 20 minutes by car
- How to get there: You can take the GoTriangle bus service from Durham Station to Chapel Hill or drive via I-40 W. There is no direct train service between the two cities.
- Click for Google maps directions: Chapel Hill, NC
Exploring Chapel Hill, NC: Things to do
Chapel Hill, NC, is a vibrant town known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and lively atmosphere. One of the must-see places in Chapel Hill is the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a prestigious institution with beautiful architecture and a bustling campus. Visitors can explore the university grounds, visit the Carolina Basketball Museum, or catch a performance at the PlayMakers Repertory Company.
For outdoor enthusiasts, a visit to the North Carolina Botanical Garden is a must. This serene oasis offers a variety of native plants, themed gardens, and walking trails, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. Additionally, the nearby Carolina Inn, a historic hotel, is worth a visit for its Southern charm and elegant ambiance.
Food lovers will delight in Chapel Hill’s diverse culinary scene. From farm-to-table restaurants to cozy cafes and food trucks, there is something to satisfy every palate. Be sure to try the famous Carolina barbecue or indulge in some Southern comfort food at one of the local eateries.
Art and history buffs will appreciate the Ackland Art Museum, which houses an impressive collection of European and Asian art, as well as rotating exhibitions showcasing local artists. The Morehead Planetarium and Science Center is another popular attraction, offering interactive exhibits and planetarium shows for visitors of all ages.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, food, or culture, Chapel Hill, NC, has something for everyone. Plan a day trip from Durham to explore this charming town and discover all it has to offer.
Greensboro, NC
Travel tips
- Distance from Durham, NC to Greensboro, NC: Approximately 55 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1 hour by car
- To get to Greensboro from Durham, you can take the Greyhound bus from Durham Station to Greensboro Depot. Alternatively, you can take the Amtrak train from Durham Station to Greensboro Station.
- Click for Google maps directions: Greensboro, NC
Exploring Greensboro, NC: Things to do
Greensboro, NC is a vibrant city in North Carolina that offers a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities. One of the must-see places in Greensboro is the International Civil Rights Center & Museum, where visitors can learn about the pivotal role the city played in the civil rights movement. For art enthusiasts, the Greensboro Cultural Center is home to various galleries and studios showcasing local talent.
Nature lovers can explore the Greensboro Arboretum, a beautiful botanical garden with walking trails and a variety of plant species. The Bog Garden is another serene spot to enjoy nature within the city. History buffs will appreciate a visit to the Blandwood Mansion, a historic house museum that offers insight into the region’s past.
Sports fans can catch a game at the Greensboro Coliseum Complex, a major sports and entertainment venue in the area. Additionally, foodies will delight in the diverse culinary scene of Greensboro, with numerous restaurants offering everything from Southern comfort food to international cuisine.
Overall, Greensboro, NC is a dynamic destination that caters to a wide range of interests, making it a must-visit city in North Carolina.
Winston-Salem, NC
Travel tips
- Distance from Durham, NC: Approximately 80 miles
- Time to get there: Around 1.5 hours by car
- How to get there: You can drive from Durham to Winston-Salem via I-40 W. If you prefer public transportation, you can take a Greyhound bus from Durham Station to Winston-Salem Transportation Center. There is no direct train route between the two cities.
- Click for Google maps directions: Winston-Salem, NC
Exploring Winston-Salem, NC: Things to do
Winston-Salem, NC, is a vibrant city known for its rich history and cultural attractions. One of the must-see places in Winston-Salem is the Old Salem Museums & Gardens, where you can step back in time and explore the restored Moravian village. History buffs will enjoy visiting the Reynolda House Museum of American Art, which showcases a stunning collection of American art in a historic setting.
For outdoor enthusiasts, a visit to Tanglewood Park is a must. This expansive park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and even a golf course, providing plenty of opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. If you’re a fan of art and innovation, be sure to check out the Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art (SECCA), which features rotating exhibitions of contemporary art from both established and emerging artists.
No trip to Winston-Salem would be complete without sampling some of the local cuisine. The city is known for its thriving food scene, with a wide range of restaurants offering everything from Southern comfort food to international cuisine. Be sure to try some North Carolina barbecue or indulge in a sweet treat at one of the local bakeries.
Overall, Winston-Salem, NC, is a must-see destination for those looking to explore a blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities in a vibrant Southern city.
Asheville, NC
Travel tips
- Distance from Durham, NC to Asheville, NC: Approximately 240 miles
- Time to get there: Around 4 hours by car
- To get to Asheville from Durham, you can take I-40 W all the way to Asheville. If you prefer public transportation, you can take a Greyhound bus from Durham Station to Asheville Bus Station. There is no direct train route between the two cities.
- Click for Google maps directions: Asheville, NC
Exploring Asheville, NC: Things to do
Asheville, NC is a vibrant city nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Known for its eclectic arts scene, craft breweries, and stunning natural beauty, Asheville is a must-see destination for any traveler.
One of the top attractions in Asheville is the Biltmore Estate, a grand mansion built by the Vanderbilt family in the late 19th century. Visitors can tour the opulent rooms, expansive gardens, and winery on the estate grounds.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers breathtaking views and numerous hiking trails. Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River, is a popular spot for hiking and enjoying panoramic vistas.
Downtown Asheville is a hub of creativity and culture, with art galleries, boutiques, and farm-to-table restaurants lining the streets. The River Arts District is a must-visit for art lovers, where you can watch local artists at work in their studios.
Don’t miss the chance to sample the local craft beer scene in Asheville, which boasts more breweries per capita than any other U.S. city. Take a brewery tour or simply relax with a pint at one of the many cozy pubs in town.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, art, or simply soaking in the laid-back mountain vibe, Asheville has something for everyone. Plan your visit to this dynamic city and discover why it’s a favorite destination for travelers from near and far.
Wilmington, NC
Travel tips
- Distance from Durham, NC to Wilmington, NC: Approximately 150 miles
- Time to get there: Around 2.5 to 3 hours by car
- How to get there from Durham, NC: You can drive down I-40 E towards Wilmington or take a Greyhound bus from Durham Station to Wilmington Station. Alternatively, you can take an Amtrak train from Durham Station to Wilson Station and then transfer to a bus to Wilmington.
- Click for Google maps directions: Wilmington, NC
Exploring Wilmington, NC: Things to do
Wilmington, NC is a charming coastal city that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. One of the top attractions in Wilmington is the historic downtown area, where you can stroll along the Riverwalk and admire the picturesque views of the Cape Fear River. History buffs will enjoy visiting the USS North Carolina Battleship Memorial and exploring the Bellamy Mansion Museum.
For outdoor enthusiasts, a visit to Wrightsville Beach is a must. You can soak up the sun on the sandy beaches, go surfing or paddleboarding, or simply relax with a beachfront picnic. Nature lovers should not miss a trip to the Airlie Gardens, known for its stunning azaleas and camellias.
If you’re a fan of TV shows and movies, Wilmington has a rich filming history and offers guided tours of famous filming locations. Don’t forget to indulge in some fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants or check out the vibrant art scene in the city.
Overall, Wilmington, NC is a must-see destination for those looking to experience a mix of history, nature, and coastal charm all in one place.
Charlotte, NC
Travel tips
- Distance from Durham, NC to Charlotte, NC: 143 miles
- Approximate travel time: 2.5 hours by car
- To get to Charlotte from Durham, you can take the Greyhound bus from Durham Station to Charlotte Transportation Center. Alternatively, you can take the Amtrak train from Durham Amtrak Station to Charlotte Amtrak Station.
- Click for Google maps directions: Charlotte, NC
Exploring Charlotte, NC: Things to do
Charlotte, NC is a vibrant city known for its rich history, diverse culture, and bustling urban scene. A must-see place for visitors, Charlotte offers a mix of attractions that cater to all interests.
One of the top things to do in Charlotte is to visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame, a shrine to the history and heritage of NASCAR racing. Racing enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the exhibits showcasing legendary drivers, iconic cars, and thrilling races.
For those interested in history, a visit to the Levine Museum of the New South is a must. This museum provides a comprehensive look at the post-Civil War South, highlighting the region’s evolution and cultural diversity.
Nature lovers will appreciate a trip to the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, a stunning oasis of lush gardens and beautiful landscapes. Take a leisurely stroll through the various themed gardens and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
No visit to Charlotte is complete without experiencing the vibrant food scene. From upscale dining establishments to food trucks serving delicious street food, Charlotte offers a culinary adventure for every palate.
In addition, sports fans can catch a game at the Bank of America Stadium, home to the Carolina Panthers football team, or the Spectrum Center, where the Charlotte Hornets basketball team plays.
With its blend of history, culture, nature, and entertainment, Charlotte, NC is a destination that has something for everyone. Plan your day trip from Durham and immerse yourself in all that this dynamic city has to offer.
