Forming North Carolina’s ‘triangle’ along with Chapel Hill, Raleigh and Durham are twin cities in the middle of the state, famous for their numerous higher education institutes. Both cities offer a wealth of museums, galleries and other cultural highlights along with plenty of attractions related to the previously burgeoning tobacco industry.
As the state capital, Raleigh is larger than Durham, with more to offer tourists. Raleigh has a huge number of museums, including the Museum of Art, Museum of History and the Museum of Natural Sciences. Given their status as college cities, Raleigh and Durham both have a good selection of eating venues and a huge number of bars, many of which are good value for money, particularly near the university campuses.
The American Tobacco Trail is the most scenic way to travel between the two cities, a former railroad used in the tobacco industry which has now become a nature trail. Both cities are home to huge expanses of parkland and greenery. Nearby Duke Forest, owned by the university of the same name, is a popular recreation spot for horseback riding, hiking, biking and fishing.
Raleigh/Durham attractions
American Tobacco Trail: take the 22-mile route between both cities, either on foot or by bike, the perfect way to see the surrounding North Carolina countryside.
Museum of Life Science: fascinating for children and adults alike, this varied museum includes Apollo test vehicles and an exotic butterfly house.
The Streets at Southpoint: offer the best shopping in the state, with both indoor and outdoor stores.
Duke Forest: is a university-owned forest devoted to the study of nature, with opportunities for outdoor activities including fishing, cycling and picnics.
Carolina Hurricanes: the state’s only professional sports team, the Raleigh-based Carolina Hurricanes ice hockey team play in the NHL. Watch a game for an action-packed day out.
Raleigh Capitol: check out the statue of George Washington in Roman costume at the Capitol.