Welcome to Durham, NC

Ever-changing. Never changing.

Durham is a historical haven, a sanctuary for the spectacular, and a rough-cut gem waiting to be unearthed. Durham’s been a destination on the move for more than 150 years. Perhaps it’s time you discovered it too.

Maybe you’ve heard about our celebrated food scene, top-notch universities or buzzing startup culture. There’s just something about this place. It transcends categories. Durham has something intangible, inspiring and absolutely alluring.

Before our sidewalks were lined with award-winning eateries, they were traversed by our first generation of industrious entrepreneurs. Seeds of equality and justice were planted here long ago, and they have blossomed into a colorful community where murals tell our proud story of inclusivity. We are where inspiration is found, where all are welcome and where the wild, wonderful, bold and beautiful come together in unexpected ways.

Want in? Come discover Durham.

Get to Know Durham

Do It Where Local Thrives

When you experience local, the food tastes bolder, the art is more inspiring, the shops are more lovingly curated, the drinks are more inventive, the entertainment is more moving, the people are more passionate. See how Durham’s small business pride makes it an unforgettable place to visit.

Plan Your Visit
Award-Winning Restaurants

For a small city far from the glittering culinary scenes of New York, New Orleans and Los Angeles, Durham punches far above its weight when it comes to food and drink. It's why visitors are as likely to book a trip for a good meal as they are to catch a Broadway show. Earn your foodie stripes by checking out Durham's most award-winning restaurants and bars.

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Third Annual Bull City Beer Challenge
The Bull City Beer Challenge is back through Dec. 31, 2026. Check in at 12 of the 20 local businesses to collect the 2026 t-shirt.
Take on the Challenge
Support Durham's Black-Owned Businesses
The Durham community supports Black-owned businesses. Period. Here is a robust list of over 200 brick-and-mortar spots, entrepreneurial endeavors, and the next generation of Black business owners based in our community.
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Out and Wonderful: Durham Pride All Year Long
The Best Ways to Enjoy a Durham Bulls Baseball Game
Your Durham Guide to the Good Moon Festival
Ciudad del Toro: Durham Latino Eats for Hispanic Heritage Month
Discover Durham This Fall, Y’all

Durham Visitor Guide

We are barbecue and biscuits, locally sourced small plates and craft cocktails. We’re a gritty tobacco-grown town that’s evolved into the City of Medicine. We’re activists, scholars, artists, and entrepreneurs. We’re always moving, creating, and blazing a new trail — you’ll feel that energy when you get here.

With our Visitor Guide, we invite you to dive in.

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The New York Times Durham Itinerary

Hear it from the pros