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Durham At a Glance


Quick Facts and Everything You Need to Know About Durham, NC. The city of Durham is an independent territory located in the state of North Carolina, part of Durham and Wake. Durham gets a substantial volume of travelers every year for their famous landmarks and local activities. Because of that, we've brought together a few fun facts about the city of Durham you need to know!


History & Etymology


Durham has a rich origin background from being founded in 1771 during the tail end of settlement civilizations to its institution into the United States in 1869 and its status today as an independent town. From the fairs and celebrations that the city holds on a regular basis, to the fantastic local restaurants and bars both the natives and tourists love, Durham is home to a diverse population and intricate culture and history.


Population Stats and Figures on Geography


With a land area of 111.82 sq mi and a water area of 0.82 sq mi, Durham holds a total populace of 278,993. Ranking 4th in the state of North Carolina and 79th in the entire United States, the city of Durham is composed of a particularly varied mix of people, coming from all walks of life and experiences. And with NCL only a ways off from the heart of the city, it's not shocking that Newcastle International Airport sees hundreds and thousands of people coming and going into Durham on a daily basis, whether for business or pleasure.


Culture and Popular Establishments


Coming from an elaborate history as a city and part of the state of North Carolina, Durham hosts some of the top restaurants and world-renowned hotels. Take a look at our Top 5 lists of the city's finest dining experiences and fanciest hotel rooms for when you're in Durham. And while you're here in the area, you might as well explore some of Durham's most well-known landmarks to make the most of your trip here, like the Sarah P. Duke Gardens, Museum of Life and Science, and Bennett Place. Whether you're an art aficionado, want to enjoy a nice day out in the park, or want to take your young ones to see and learn about animals in the zoo, Durham has got the place for you!


After that, if you would like to unwind and enjoy a chill night in, you can check out some of the city's most notable bars and joints to get a little downtime and relaxation after a long day. If you time your vacation just right, you might even be able to catch one of our annual fairs and events. If you're a sports fan, you could even catch a game or two at Durham County Stadium. Whether you come here regularly for work or are visiting on a holiday, we're sure you'll enjoy your stay at Durham.


Click here to find out the best places to visit in Durham, NC.