One of the best parts of living in a major city are the museums! Durham is no exception: as a cultural center for North Carolina – surrounded by universities – the Bull City is a great place to learn more about the world. Here are some of our favorite places to get a dose of edutainment.

The Museum of Life and Science

Durham’s Museum of Life and Science is one of the best spots in the city to take the family for a day. The exhibits place a high emphasis on interactivity: visitors can sail their own miniature sailboat, interact with NC wildlife, do aerodynamics experiments, and much more. Kids will love Gateway Park and the Hideaway Woods, huge playgrounds in the trees that can challenge even the most active kids.

Tickets are $23 for adults and $18 for most kids. Due to COVID-19, mask requirements are in effect and all tickets require a reservation.

21c Museum Hotel

Maybe you don’t feel like taking the kids out for a day. The 21c Museum caters to more mature tastes: in addition to a luxury, boutique hotel, it hosts over 10,000 square feet of gallery space showcasing both local artists and traveling exhibitions.

21c also hosts the Counting House, one of the finest restaurants in Durham. Highlights of the menu are a craft cocktail list, steak tartare, and fluffy Japanese milk bread.

Duke Basketball Museum

Even if you aren’t from around here, you probably know about the most famous rivalry in college basketball: Duke vs. UNC. If you’re a Duke fan – or a basketball enthusiast in general – the Duke Basketball Museum is not to be missed. 

All of the team’s trophies are on display, as well as photos and articles covering the most important moments in the Blue Devils’ storied history. Best of all, it’s free and open to the public, with extended hours on home game weekends.

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