Day & Weekend Trips in Durham

Experience the American Tobacco Campus, Durham's premier destination for work and entertainment. This beautifully restored historic campus anchors downtown's renaissance, featuring creative office spaces, diverse dining options, and entertainment venues. From business meetings to baseball games, ATC offers something for everyone.

• 0.4 mi away

• American Tobacco Campus, 300 Blackwell St #104, Durham, NC 27701

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Experience the heart of Durham's cultural scene at the Carolina Theatre, a historic landmark reimagined as the region's premier arts destination. This vibrant venue hosts an diverse array of live performances, film screenings, and educational programs, serving as a cultural hub for Durham and the greater Triangle area.

• 0.4 mi away

• 309 West Morgan St, Durham, NC, 27701

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Hillside Park Sprayground offers a refreshing splash experience during pool hours. Nestled within the pool area, the sprayground is perfect for children and families to cool off on a hot day. Admission fees apply and vary by residency.

• 1 mi away

• 1221 Sawyer St., Durham, NC, 27707

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The Sarah P. Duke Gardens consist of approximately 55 acres of landscaped and wooded areas at Duke University. There are 5 miles of allées, walks, and pathways throughout the gardens. The gardens are divided into four areas, the Historic Core and Terraces, the H.L Blomquist Garden of Native Plants, the William Louis Culberson Asiatic Arboretum, and the Doris Duke Center Gardens (including the Page-Rollins White Garden). The gardens are a memorial to Sarah Pearson Duke, mother of Mary Duke Biddle and wife of Benjamin N. Duke, one of Duke University's benefactors. There is a small shop and cafe available. While admission is free, parking fees apply.

• 1.9 mi away

• 420 Anderson St., Durham, NC, 27705

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The Museum of Life and Science in Durham, NC, features interactive science exhibits, a butterfly conservatory, live animal habitats, and attractions like the Dinosaur Trail and Ellerbe Creek Railway on its 84-acre campus.

• 2.6 mi away

• 433 W. Murray Avenue, Durham, NC, 27704

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Visit the world-renowned Duke Lemur Center, established in 1966 as a global leader in lemur research and conservation. Home to over 200 animals representing 14 species, this Durham facility maintains the largest lemur population outside Madagascar. Seasonal tours offer unique opportunities to observe these fascinating primates in a specialized environment.

• 3.5 mi away

• 3705 Erwin Road, Durham, NC, 27705

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Step back in time at Bennett Place, the historic Durham site of the Civil War's largest Confederate surrender in 1865. This meticulously reconstructed farmstead features James Bennett's original home, kitchen, and smokehouse, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into Civil War-era Southern farm life. As part of the Civil War Trails and NC Historic Sites, this landmark preserves the pivotal meeting place of Generals Johnston and Sherman.

• 4.9 mi away

• 4409 Bennett Memorial Rd., Durham, NC, 27705

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The Piedmont Wildlife Center in Durham features outdoor raptor exhibits and offers educational programs focused on wildlife conservation in its natural park setting.

• 6.8 mi away

• 364 Leigh Farm Rd., Durham, NC, 27707

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Eno River State Park, located just 10 miles from downtown Durham, offers a serene escape with its scenic trails, cascading waterfalls, and wildlife-rich environment. Perfect for hiking, fishing, and picnicking, the park features camping options and serves as a gateway to the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. Admission is free for day visits, with fees for camping and reserved facilities.

• 8.4 mi away

• 6101 Cole Mill Rd., Durham, NC, 27705

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Kidzu Children’s Museum is a dynamic, hands-on space for kids up to age ten. Its multi-sensory exhibits inspire creativity and collaboration, while programs foster community engagement. A future expansion promises even more room for young minds to explore and grow.

• 8.4 mi away

• 1712 Willow Dr, Chapel Hill, NC 27514

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Xtreme Park Adventures offers a 50-acre field located in the heart of Durham. Attractions include paintball, airsoft, lasertag, educational and recreational zipline courses, haunted houses, escape rooms, ropes courses, gem mining, and more. We provide summer camps, corporate team-building, and a range of thrilling activities for all ages.

• 9.2 mi away

• 7460 Wake Forest Rd., Durham, NC, 27703

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This family-friendly farm offers educational experiences, summer camps, and a scenic venue for events.

• 9.6 mi away

• 8913 NC Highway 751 South, Durham, NC, 27713

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The North Carolina Botanical Garden inspires conservation and appreciation of plants through its gardens and programs, promoting sustainable relationships between people and nature.

• 10 mi away

• 100 Old Mason Farm Rd., Chapel Hill, NC, 27517

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Located at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, the Morehead Planetarium offers a GSK Fulldome Theater, science exhibits, and programs for families, including shows, camps, and public viewings of astronomical events.

• 10.2 mi away

• 250 East Franklin Street, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514

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Visit the Ackland Art Museum, UNC Chapel Hill's cultural jewel since 1958. Housing over 18,000 artworks, it showcases North Carolina's finest Asian art collection and an exceptional works-on-paper gallery. Enjoy rotating exhibitions, European masterworks, and contemporary pieces, all with free admission.

• 10.4 mi away

• 101 S Columbia St., Chapel Hill, NC, 27514

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Immerse yourself in Tar Heel basketball history at the Carolina Basketball Museum. Located in the Ernie Williamson Athletic Center, this newly renovated facility showcases UNC's legendary program through interactive displays, precious artifacts, and an engaging seven-minute documentary. Experience the tradition of excellence Monday through Saturday, with adjusted hours on game days.

• 10.4 mi away

• 450 Skipper Bowles Drive, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514

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We are the Crihfield Family, Andrew, Lori, Cullen Ceiran, Chase, and our dogs Lucy, Baxter, and Olive. We have owned Spring Haven Farm since 2002. Lori was the horseback riding instructor for UNC lesson programs, and in addition to that, we did 150 private lessons a week. We started the agritourism festivals, Goat Yoga, and our other events in the fall of 2016. We have loved sharing our farm with the community and everyone who comes and visits! We plan on doing this for a very long time!

• 10.4 mi away

• 5306 Homer Ruffin Rd., Chapel Hill, NC, 27516

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Horton Grove Nature Preserve is a sprawling 708-acre haven with over eight miles of trails, including a family-friendly interpretive path. The preserve highlights the history of Black families once enslaved on this land, combining natural beauty with a powerful narrative of resilience and freedom.

• 11.2 mi away

• 7360 Jock Road, Bahama, NC, 27503

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Eno River Farm is a family-friendly destination committed to enriching the community through integrity, hard work, and exceptional service. Known for its fresh, locally grown produce like strawberries, blueberries, and pumpkins, the farm also offers homemade ice cream crafted daily with its own berries. Seasonal highlights include garden flowers, pecans, Christmas trees, and more.

• 11.3 mi away

• 2127 Saint Marys Rd., Hillsborough, NC, 27278

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Fearrington Village is a charming community blending modern amenities with pastoral charm near Chapel Hill, NC. Built on a historic dairy farm, it features boutique shops, gardens, dining, and an inn. Family-friendly attractions include McIntyre’s Books and a chance to meet the resident goats and cows.

• 17.3 mi away

• 2000 Fearrington Village Ctr, Pittsboro, NC, 27312

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The New Hope Valley Railway offers historic train rides through piney woods and over trestles. Visitors can enjoy outdoor tours of historic equipment and special train events. Train rides operate seasonally with free admission to explore the grounds.

• 23.6 mi away

• 3900 Bonsal Rd., New Hill, NC, 27562

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Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Two Dachshund Fiber and Lavender Farm, a 17-acre agricultural oasis in Franklin County, NC. Our unique agritourism destination offers guided educational tours showcasing our diverse family of fiber-producing animals including alpacas, sheep, llamas, Angora goats, and Angora rabbits. Meet our working farm animals from vigilant donkeys to free-range chickens and Guineas. Discover the art of fiber processing and lavender cultivation while browsing our well-curated farm store featuring local artisan crafts. Visit year-round by appointment to experience the magic of sustainable farming.

• 26.3 mi away

• 313 Cedar Creek Road, Franklinton, NC, 27525

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Discover the Animal Park at the Conservators Center, where wildlife education comes alive. Journey along a three-quarter-mile guided path to meet over 20 species of animals. Offering public tours, private experiences, and educational programs, this wild retreat provides intimate wildlife encounters through knowledgeable guides and seasonal events.

• 29.3 mi away

• 676 E. Hughes Mill Road, Burlington, NC, 27217

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Cool off at our newly renovated aquatic facility featuring a modern splash pad operating daily throughout summer. Enjoy our expanded amenities including a basketball court, multi-sport court, updated playground equipment, and the Caterpillar Stage. Three picnic shelters provide perfect spaces for family gatherings, with continuing improvements enhancing visitor experience.

• 33.6 mi away

• 325 McCullers Drive, Clayton, NC, 27520

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Enjoy a relaxing self-guided float down one of North Carolina's scenic waterways, perfect for family outings or romantic trips. Encounter wildlife and serene landscapes during your 2-5 hour adventure.

• 34.2 mi away

• 2975 Covered Bridge Rd., Clayton, NC, 27527

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Raleigh Road Outdoor Theatre is one of the few remaining drive-in theaters in North Carolina, offering a nostalgic movie-watching experience.

• 34.2 mi away

• 3336 Raleigh Rd., Henderson, NC, 27537

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Located in Harnett County 40 miles southwest of Raleigh, Raven Rock State Park boasts the namesake 150-foot crystalline structure that overlooks the Cape Fear River. The trails along the bluffs that lead to the rock are dotted with beautiful wildflowers, including mountain laurel. Alternate hikes towards the river reward visitors with landmarks like Lanier Falls Rapids, Fish Traps Rapids, and the remains of the Northington Lock and Dam. Other accesses offer bridle trails, bike trails, and a campground with RV camping and camper cabins.

• 36.9 mi away

• 3009 Raven Rock Road, Lillington, NC, 27546

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Embark on a global wildlife journey through hands-on encounters with rescued animal ambassadors from Australia to Africa. This unique facility brings the world's habitats to life through educational presentations and interactive experiences. Visit rain or shine to create lasting memories, with admission starting at $10-15.

• 39.6 mi away

• 1489 Live Oak Rd., Coats, NC, 27521

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Embark on unforgettable adventures with Cape Fear River Adventures, your gateway to outdoor excitement near major NC cities. Choose from an extensive selection of water activities including kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, and river tubing. From beginner-friendly excursions to challenging overnight expeditions, we offer specialized programs including whitewater kayaking, scenic rafting, and youth camps for ages 8-17.

• 40.9 mi away

• 100 South Main Street, Lillington, NC, 27546

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Enjoy delicious BBQ specialties, sandwiches, and breakfast platters while overlooking the runway at the Johnston Regional Airport in Smithfield, NC, or in Lakeland, FL. Accessible by car or plane, this BBQ spot offers a scenic dining experience.

• 42.1 mi away

• 3149B Swift Creek Road, Smithfield, NC, 27577

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Visit CATHIS Farm, a veteran-owned family enterprise offering sustainable farming and memorable events in Lillington. This working farm raises pastured meats while hosting seasonal celebrations including Spring's Sunflower Days, Fall's Pumpkin Hollow and Devils Playground, and Winter Lights. Enjoy farm-to-home delivery service across central North Carolina.

• 42.5 mi away

• 544 Falcon Road, Lillington, NC, 27546

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Visit this orchard for fruit-picking opportunities, famous apple cider slushies, and donuts. It features a playground, a fishing pond, and Granny's Kitchen with a gift shop. Seasonal events occur throughout the year.

• 42.5 mi away

• 506 Parks Crossroads Church Rd., Ramseur, NC, 27316

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Tucker Lake is open in 2022 under the original Tucker Family Management. The Tucker Family built and opened Tucker Lake in 1990. Tucker Lake became the area's hot spot for summer fun and relaxation. Located just 30 minutes from Raleigh, Clayton, Fayetteville, Clinton, and Smithfield near the intersection of Interstates 40 and 95. Tucker Lake is a 30-acre lake fed by clear, spring water with white sand beaches. Whether you want to relax on the beach, float in the water, take a plunge from the 167 ft. waterslide, picnic/grilling, or play volleyball, Tucker Lake is the place to be for your summer entertainment. RV campground is now open adjacent to the lake with 109 full hookup sites. No tent camping is available.

• 47.5 mi away

• 3025 Allens Crossroads Rd., Benson, NC, 27504

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Journey through Aloha Safari Park, where rescue meets education. This 60-acre sanctuary, opened in 2010, houses up to 450 animals including tigers, zebras, monkeys, and lemurs. Under the dedicated care of Lee Crutchfield and family, this working zoo provides a peaceful refuge for exotic and native species alike.

• 48.3 mi away

• 159 Mini Lane, Cameron, NC, 28326

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Formerly Greensboro Children's Museum, this venue provides hands-on learning experiences for children and families, focusing on play, creation, outdoor exploration, and STEM activities.

• 49.9 mi away

• 220 North Church Street, Greensboro, NC, 27401

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Wet 'N Wild Emerald Pointe is the Carolina's favorite waterpark. One of the largest water parks in NC, the waterpark features over 36 water rides and family attractions. With over 3 million gallons of waterpark fun, Wet'n Wild Greensboro has been rated one of the Top 10 Water Parks in America. Sprawling across 41 acres, our park offers family-friendly fun, relaxation, great special events throughout the year, and a wide variety of family dining options for delicious foods and beverages. Join us for a whole summer of fun at Wet'n Wild water park near Greensboro, NC.

• 52.6 mi away

• 3910 South Holden Road, Greensboro, NC, 27406

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