A Couple Of Owls In A Tree

What to See and Do

In the Heart of Bull City

The JB Duke Hotel is steps away from Durham's world-renowned attractions, cultural sites, and dining. The Bull City has something for everyone, whether you are a business traveler and want to sightsee during your downtime, a group of friends eager to try one of the city's many award-winning restaurants, or a family looking to embark on a new adventure.

Nature​​

  • The stunning Sarah P. Duke Gardens, located in the heart of Duke University, is free to the public and boasts 55 acres of specialized gardens.
  • With more than 200 animals across 14 species, the Duke Lemur Center houses the world’s largest and most diverse population of lemurs outside their native Madagascar.
  • The Eno River State Park features some the region's most beautiful green spaces and is a favorite destination among anglers, birdwatchers, and photographers.

Sports

  • The championship 18-hole Duke University Golf Club Course is located across the street at the Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club.
  • Take advantage of our 1,500-square foot fitness center, equipped with workout equipment including treadmills, elliptical trainers, recumbent bikes and weight machines, then enjoy the sauna after a tough work out. If you are interested in tennis, basketball or outdoor swimming (during the summer), we also offer access to the adjacent Duke Faculty Club. 
  • Families love the fun and excitement of Durham Bulls minor league baseball games, and the Durham Bulls regularly hosts unique events for families like 'Bark in the Park' and Camp Out Nights.

Arts & Culture

  • Arts venue DPAC (Durham Performing Arts Center) plays host to hundreds of performances every year, including concerts and touring Broadway productions.
  • Carolina Theatre offers arts and entertainment that highlight regional performers and cultural experiences.
  • With free admission, the acclaimed Nasher Museum of Art at Duke regularly hosts exciting performing arts events, guest lectures, and gallery talks.
  • Duke Chapel, built in 1930, is an iconic structure on campus and in the Durham community. The Chapel welcomes hundreds of visitors every day for services, concerts, ceremonies, tours, and moments of personal reflection.
  • Durham’s NC Museum of Life and Science offers a range of interactive learning, nature play and discovery on an 84-acre campus that includes a science center, butterfly conservatory, outdoor exhibits and zoo. Less than five miles from downtown Durham, the museum features a full-service café, coffee bar and Elements Museum Store – the perfect outing for families.

Shopping

  • The Streets at Southpoint is a vibrant shopping and dining destination featuring restaurants, stores and an IMAX theater.
  • The walkable Ninth Street District is known for its rich history and neighborhood feel.
  • Durham’s Historic Brightleaf Square is an eclectic mix of locally owned restaurants and specialty shops.

Community Events

  • Explore our ongoing community events offered at the JB Duke and our property across the street, the Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club, at our Community Events page. Whether its our weekly artist in residence series or a unique workshop in the Lobby Lounge, these events are open to our guests as well as the Durham community.