Things to do in Durham

Find and book activities, attractions and tours
Photo by George Foster
Photo by George Foster

Durham Attractions

They say the best things come in small packages, and this endearing city is no exception. From amazing tourist attractions to exciting activities, there are so many things to do in Durham.

If you're ready to discover the best of Durham, sign up for a few of the top tours & day trips on offer, and let an expert show you some of the most popular sights. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our {14 fun activities in Durham fun activities in Durham} are also worth looking into.

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Durham must see attractions

1. Hampton Beach

Hugging the southeastern corner of New Hampshire, Hampton Beach is renowned as one of the cleanest beaches in the U.S. Most of the area’s attractions revolve around the Atlantic Ocean.
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Hampton Beach which includes outdoor art, a statue or sculpture and art

2. Ogunquit Beach

Smell the salt air and walk with the sand beneath your feet at Ogunquit Beach. The beach lies between the Atlantic Ocean and the Ogunquit River. It is within convenient walking distances from the town center. Explore its 3.5 miles (5.6 kilometers) of shoreline and enjoy the sea and surf.
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Ogunquit Beach showing a sunset, general coastal views and a sandy beach

3. Marginal Way

Set between land and sea, Marginal Way is a 1.25-mile (2-kilometer) cliff walk between Ogunquit Beach and Perkins Cove. Watch Atlantic Ocean waves crashing into the rocks and spraying the tide pools beside the path, while surfers and divers venture out into the salty water. Considered one of the most walkable communities in Maine, Ogunquit is understandably proud of this scenic coastal path. The land for the walkway was donated to the community by Josiah Chase Jr. in 1925.
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Marginal Way

4. Perkins Cove

If you want to experience an authentic Maine fishing village, visit Perkins Cove. In this enclave of Ogunquit, located just south of the town center, explore an array of shops, restaurants and scenic walking routes.
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Perkins Cove which includes a small town or village and street scenes as well as a small group of people

5. Long Sands Beach

Find much to appreciate along the pretty swath of sand at York’s popular Long Sands Beach. For 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers), you can surf, sun, stroll and enjoy the scenic sights, including the Nubble Lighthouse and Boon Island.
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Long Sands Beach featuring general coastal views and a coastal town as well as a family

What to do in Durham

Free Things to Do in Durham

A visit to Durham doesn't have to cost a lot. You won't even need your wallet if you check out:

University of New Hampshire - Stroll around this historic place and find out a few secrets from days gone by.

Adams Point - It's easy to feel connected with Mother Earth at this spectacular attraction.

Things to Do in Durham with Kids

There are lots of incredible experiences in Durham that the whole gang will love. These are a few of the most popular family friendly experiences in the area.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Durham? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Durham on a sunny day?
When the weather is perfect, these outdoor experiences really shine:


What to do in Durham on a rainy day?
If it’s raining cats and dogs, these fun indoor activities will keep you out of mischief — and nice and dry!:


What should I not miss in Durham?
If you’ve only got time to explore one thing here, make it University of New Hampshire.
Are there cheap things to do in Durham?
You’ll find tons of fun experiences here that are perfect if you’re traveling on a budget:


What can you do in Durham for free?
The only thing more exhilarating than a free attraction is a couple of them, like University of New Hampshire and Adams Point.

Discover the most popular places to visit in Durham

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University of New Hampshire

4.5/5(195 reviews)

Take a campus tour or just explore the area of University of New Hampshire, during your travels in Durham. Amble around this family-friendly area's waterfront or attend a sporting event.

University of New Hampshire
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Adams Point

Explore the great outdoors at Adams Point, a lovely green space in Durham. Wander the waterfront and beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area.

Adams Point
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Lundholm Gymnasium

Catch an event at Lundholm Gymnasium during your trip to Durham. You can enjoy the restaurants while in the area.

Lundholm Gymnasium
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Betty and Barney Hill Archive

You can learn about the history of Durham with a stop at Betty and Barney Hill Archive. You can enjoy the restaurants while in the area.

Betty and Barney Hill Archive
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Smith Chapel

You can learn about the history of Durham with a visit to Smith Chapel. You can enjoy the restaurants while in the area.

Smith Chapel

Popular day trips from Durham

Photo by Vamshi Krishna Korivi

Dover

Portsmouth showing a bay or harbor

Portsmouth

Photo by ‎Haleigh Przybyla

Lee