- The list below includes 132 free or cheap things to do in or near Durham, North Carolina, including 56 different types of inexpensive activities like Hiking Trails, Family Fun Center, Dog Park and Nature & Wildlife Areas.
- From Sarah P. Duke Gardens to Duke University, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Durham and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Raleigh, Cary, Wake Forest and Chapel Hill.
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0.0 Miles
Brightly colored rounds zoom across themed competition fields during daylong paintball outings, which include full equipment rental
2.0 Miles
Spanning 55 acres, Duke University's Sarah P. Duke Gardens are the aesthetic heart of the institution. The beautifully manicured gardens are always open and free to all visitors. Donations are gratefully accepted.
1.5 Miles
Duke University is one of the largest and most respected universities in the United States. It has over 13,000 students and a legendary sports program. Duke's beautiful campus is open to visitors throughout the year.
7.2 Miles
American Tobacco Trail is over 22 miles and is a mix of paved trail and gravel path where visitors can find snakes, turtles, rabbits, and deer. The trail is suitable for bikers, runners, walkers, and skateboarders among others.
5.1 Miles
Featuring historical sites and buildings, West Point on the Eno is a popular tourist spot in the Durham area. Visitors can also explore nature along the walking trails or enjoy a relaxing picnic by the river.
3.1 Miles
93%
28 votes
Cameron Blvd & Erwin Road, Durham, NC 27705
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Named in honor of a former ACC champion track coach at Duke University, the Al Buehler Cross Country Trail comprises over three miles of trails suited for walking and running. The trails wind around a golf course.
0.5 Miles
Hosting events for the community, Durham Central Park offers visitors open fields, gardens, and paths to explore. At the park, visitors can attend movie screenings, enjoy picnics, and attend food truck festivals.
5.5 Miles
Piney Wood Park is a scenic community park in Durham. The family and pet-friendly park features a children's playground, dog park, picnic areas and wide open grass fields for sports play.
2.1 Miles
Two enclosed areas make Northgate Dog Park suitable for all sizes and ages of dog. Amenities of the park include water fountains for the pups, bags for dog waste, benches, and a kiosk.
2.4 Miles
The spiritual center of Duke University is the Duke Chapel, a massive structure in the English Gothic Revival Style. Its towering spire, intricate stonework and beautiful stained-glass windows also make the chapel a coveted wedding venue.
3.6 Miles
Duke University's Duke Lemur Center is one of the world's most important zoological institutes dedicated to lemurs. Tours are available seven days a week and must be scheduled in advance. All tour proceeds benefit lemurs and support the Lemur Center's research initiatives.