Durham is renowned as a hub for information, science and learning. As a visitor, that means you get to tap into world-class museums, behind-the-scenes tours and insights you won't find anywhere else. Don't waste the opportunity.
Innovation and inspiration aren't only parts of Durham's history, they're in our DNA. Durhamites have invented the barcode, BC Headache Power, AZT, 3-D Ultra-sound, Astroturf and LED lighting. And that passion for learning extends into our visitor attractions.
The same creative and scientific energy that makes Durham thrive also makes it endlessly fascinating to explore. Educational opportunities here don't follow the usual script. So carve out time during your visit to dig into this side of Durham. You'll leave equipped with plenty of impressive dinner party conversation.
Durham takes the urge to learn seriously. Our schools attract some of the best students and researchers from around the world. Home to both Duke University and North Carolina Central University, Durham doesn't mess around when it comes to education. There are many ways to experience these institutions, whether you're a prospective student or not.
Find inspiration while walking through the campus at NCCU. Photo: Discover Durham
Take a guided or self-guided campus tour. NCCU and Duke both have art museums filled with statues, paintings and more that are well worth a visit. Fans of plants and ecology won't want to miss Duke Gardens. For those looking to hit the books, Duke offers a lecture series that is open to the public.
Durham is home to the largest high technology research and science park in North America, Research Triangle Park, or RTP for short. Founded in 1959, RTP now covers over 7,000 acres, a majority of which is in Durham county, and has been the origin of many technological innovations since its inception.
RTP is now more visitor friendly than ever, with the additions of Boxyard and HUB RTP. The area is also a perfect place to plan a meeting in Durham, with meeting places, conference venues, and co-working spaces all around
Whether your main interests are science or the humanities based, Durham's museums will have something for you. For family friendly scientific fun, The Museum of Life and Science is an ideal destination. Kids and adults alike will find something to learn in this magic filled museum. The same goes for the Duke Lemur Center, which offers multiple types of tours that allow guests to view wildlife.
The Museum of Life and Science offers opportunities to learn around every corner. Photo: Museum of Life and Science
Art lovers will find more areas of interest than they know what to do with, from the Duke's Nasher Museum to the many galleries you'll find throughout the city like Five Points Gallery and the Artists Studios at Golden Belt. History buffs will find multiple destinations worth marking on the map as well as institutions like the Hayti Heritage Center and The Museum of Durham History.
Swap the lab coat for sunscreen or a puffy jacket and step into nature's laboratory in Durham. The Bull City has no shortage of opportunities for outdoor education and recreation. Take a hike in Duke Forest or at the Eno River. Go for a paddle or find aquatic wild life at Falls Lake.
