Welcome to Durham, North Carolina.
Over the past decade, this city has experienced a massive revitalization effort. It got its beginnings in the tobacco industry for much of the 20th century until its eventual decline, leading much of the area (especially downtown) to be neglected and abandoned.
In the 2000s, the city then decided to make significant efforts in revitalization by renovating historical districts, repurposing industrial areas, and making improvements to overall infrastructure. This, in turn, drew in newer residents, businesses, and other cultural ventures.
This city has also become known for its art, sports, and entertainment industries. See a comedy or broadway show at the Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC), or the Carolina Theatre. Fancy sports? This city has an abundance of options, especially given the presence of Duke University. Try seeing a game at the famous Durham Bulls Athletic Park (DBAP), the city’s famous minor league baseball team. The quaint park is located downtown and is a quintessential American baseball experience. Of course, the biggest attraction in town is the Duke University Mens Basketball team who play at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Since the days of ‘Coach K’ (Mike Krzyzewski), they have regularly competed for championships.
Also consider a stop at the Motorco Music Hall, which was amusingly an auto repair shop in its past life, but has now been converted into a bustling live music venue. Here, you can see musical acts almost any week during the year. While not hosting concerts, it serves as a community hub for people to gather.
If nothing else, take a stroll through Durham’s Central Park. Here you will find all sorts of community events, food trucks, farmers markets, and outdoor performances. Central Park has been a ‘central’ piece in the community’s revitalization efforts. Not to mention the countless museums, restaurants, and other places to hang out. In all, it makes Durham an attractive, affordable, and (therefore) underrated place to visit!
