Attractions and Places To See in Durham County - Top 20
Attractions and places to see in Durham County, North Carolina, offer a mix of historical sites, natural spaces, and academic landmarks. The region features significant historical districts, extensive botanical gardens, and a prominent university campus. Visitors can explore various trails for walking and cycling, providing opportunities for outdoor activity. This area combines cultural heritage with accessible natural and recreational attractions.
Best attractions and places to see in Durham County
- The most popular attractions is Sarah P. Duke Gardens, an other natural area affiliated with Duke University. These gardens are divided into 4 main areas, featuring multiple trails through diverse botanical collections.
- Another must-see spot is American Tobacco Historic District, a historical site that is a US National Historic District. This former industrial tobacco complex is undergoing urban renewal projects to become a downtown area.
- Visitors also love Duke University East Campus, a settlement featuring Georgian-style architecture. This original campus of Duke University is located in Durham and is worth visiting.
- Durham County is known for its historical sites, botanical gardens, and extensive trail networks. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from cultural landmarks to natural landscapes.
- The attractions in Durham County are appreciated by the komoot community, with 10 upvotes and 27 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
American Tobacco Historic District
Highlight • Historical Site
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Sarah P. Duke Gardens
Highlight • Natural
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Bridge at the trailhead
Highlight • Bridge
The trail & trailhead was named after long time Duke Cross Country coach Al Buehler.
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Bronto Dinosaur Statue, Museum of Life & Science
Highlight • Monument
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Duke University East Campus
Highlight • Settlement
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Sennett Hole
Highlight • River
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American Tobacco Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Riders routinely ride the entire length of the ATT with a road bike. Gatorskin tires will hold up very well. Especially so if you have 28-32mm tires on. Watch out for runners and other trail users!
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East Coast Greenway
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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American Tobacco Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Major the Bull Statue, CCB Plaza
Highlight • Monument
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Tips from the Community
The American Tobacco Historic District is a historic industrial tobacco complex and is now classified as a US National Historic District. At the moment it is being subjected to large scale urban renewal projects to turn it into a chic downtown area.
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CCB Plaza is a popular meeting spot and event space in Durham. The large bull statue, known as Major, is the place to find your friends before heading out to one of the many nearby eating and drinking establishments.
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The East Coast Greenway around Durham blends cycling with rich history. Riding through historic districts like Hayti and Ninth Street, cyclists can explore landmarks such as the Durham Bulls Athletic Park and Duke University's Gothic architecture. The trail offers a captivating blend of urban culture and historical heritage, creating a unique and enriching cycling experience.
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The American Tobacco Trail is a rails-to-trails project that is over 22 miles long in the Triangle Region of North Carolina. This is a paved path that is popular with bikers and runners alike.
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This is "Bronto," the hidden dinosaur of Durham. He's 77 feet in length and more than 50 years old. He was part of the Museum Of Life & Science's original Dinosaur Trail built in the 1960s.
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CCB is a community plaza in the heart of downtown Durham, known for hosting concerts, markets, art & craft festivals, as well as street parties.
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The American Tobacco Historic District is a historic industrial tobacco complex and is now classified as a US National Historic District. At the moment it is being subjected to large scale urban renwal projects to turn it into a chic downtown area.
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This is a super good recreation trail built along an abandoned tobacco railway line. Hence it is aptly named the American Tobacco Trail. It's a 22.6-mile long Rails-to-Trails project that crosses through Durham County, Chatham County, and Wake County. It has a variety of facilities and connector trailheads along the way. Riders routinely ride the entire length of the ATT with a road bike. Gatorskin tires will hold up very well. Especially so if you have 28-32mm tires on. Watch out for runners and other trail users!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular attractions in Durham County?
Visitors frequently enjoy the Sarah P. Duke Gardens, a beautiful botanical garden affiliated with Duke University, and the American Tobacco Historic District, a revitalized area with historical significance. The Duke University East Campus, known for its Georgian-style architecture, is also a popular spot.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Durham County?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Sarah P. Duke Gardens offers multiple trails through diverse botanical collections, perfect for a family outing. The American Tobacco Historic District and Duke University East Campus are also listed as family-friendly, offering interesting sights and spaces to explore.
What natural spaces can I explore in Durham County?
Durham County offers several natural areas. The Sarah P. Duke Gardens is a prime example, featuring various themed gardens and trails. For a more rugged experience, Penny's Bend Nature Preserve provides forest and river trails, while Sennett Hole offers a calm section of the Eno River for relaxation.
Are there historical sites to visit in Durham County?
Absolutely. The American Tobacco Historic District is a US National Historic District showcasing the region's industrial past and urban renewal. The Duke University East Campus, with its historic Georgian architecture, also offers a glimpse into the area's heritage.
What kind of trails are available for walking and cycling?
Durham County boasts an extensive network of trails. The American Tobacco Trail is a popular rails-to-trails project, over 22 miles long, suitable for both bikers and runners. The South Ellerbee Creek Trail also offers opportunities for walking and cycling through natural settings.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions in Durham County?
Yes, accessibility is a consideration for several sites. The Duke University East Campus and the Major the Bull Statue at CCB Plaza are noted as wheelchair accessible. Additionally, sections of the American Tobacco Trail and the South Ellerbee Creek Trail are also wheelchair-friendly.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
Beyond walking and cycling on trails like the American Tobacco Trail, you can explore various outdoor activities. For gravel biking, consider routes like the Lake Crabtree loop. Mountain biking enthusiasts can find trails such as Springhouse and Buckeye Loop. Road cycling routes, including those connecting Durham to New Hope Trailhead, are also available. You can find more details on these activities in the Gravel biking in Durham County, MTB Trails in Durham County, and Road Cycling Routes in Durham County guides.
Where can I find easy hiking trails in Durham County?
For easy hiking, many trails within the Sarah P. Duke Gardens are gentle and accessible. The Sennett Hole trail is a short extension of the Buffalo Trail, offering an easy walk to a calm section of the Eno River. Many sections of the American Tobacco Trail are also flat and paved, making them suitable for easy walks.
What do visitors enjoy most about Durham County's attractions?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical sites, extensive botanical gardens, and accessible trail networks. The urban renewal projects in areas like the American Tobacco Historic District are often highlighted, as are the beautiful and diverse botanical collections at Sarah P. Duke Gardens.
Are there any specific landmarks or monuments to see?
Beyond the historical districts and university campuses, you can visit the Major the Bull Statue at CCB Plaza, a notable man-made monument in the area. The Bridge at the trailhead is also a point of interest for those exploring the local trails.
Can I find places for a quiet break by the water?
Yes, the Sennett Hole, a calm and wider section of the Eno River, is an excellent spot for a short break by the riverbank. It's easily accessible via a short trail.
Most popular routes in Durham County
Most popular attractions in Durham County
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