Raleigh-Durham residents love its climate, its tempo and its location, just three hours from both the beach and the mountains. The region offers great shopping and dining, as well as a vast array of opportunities to explore historical and educational attractions. Here are some examples of what both Raleigh and Durham have to offer:
DURHAM ATTRACTIONS
The Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University
Named for Duke Alumnus and philanthropist Raymond D. Nasher, the museum is 65,000-square feet. The new museum holds the university's permanent collections, traveling exhibitions and sculpture gardens. Durham residents enjoy the attractions in this museum for free.
The Museum of Life and Science
This cutting-edge museum features interactive indoor and outdoor science and technology exhibits. Many exhibits are hands-on, and there are daily science shows. Highlights include the Magic Wings Butterfly House, Ellerbee Creek Railway and the Bayer CropScience Insectarium.
The Carolina Theatre
The Theatre is at the center of the lively downtown Durham nightlife. The restored theatre was built in 1926, and now plays host to events including the Full Frame documentary film festival, the Retrofantasma film festival, the Escapism Film Festival, the Nevermore film festival and the North Carolina Gay and Lesbian Film Festival. Live performances are featured, and there are many nearby clubs and restaurants to enjoy.
Eno River State Park
The 2,600-acre park features historic mill sites, river bluffs covered with flowering shrubs and fords used by early settlers. Situated along the Eno River, there are rapids for adventurers as well as tranquil waters for those looking to relax.
RALEIGH ATTRACTIONS
Zydeco Downtown
Raleigh native and NFL football player Antwan Harris owns this spot for live jazz and down-home southern cooking. Features include a 60-seat horseshoe bar with a large, built-in aquarium. Known for its comfortable atmosphere, it is the home of some of the best jazz in the region.
The Longbranch Saloon
The Longbranch is North Carolina's longest-running nightclub. For more than 20 years, hundreds of Nashville's finest, as well as new talent have appeared here. Stars who have graced the stage include Reba McEntire, Barenaked Ladies and Trace Atkins.
North Carolina State Capitol
Built in the Greek Revival architectural style in 1840, this historic building offers daily tours. Within the rotunda stands a marble statue of George Washington.
North Carolina Museum of Art
Works by Monet, Botticelli and Rubens are highlights of this 181,000-plus square foot museum's famous European collection. There are also several galleries devoted to American artists, as well as galleries featuring African and Jewish ceremonial art. Outside the museum is a 100-acre park with an amphitheater as well as a walking trail adorned by sculptures.
North Carolina Museum of History
This museum boasts a replica of the Wright Brothers' plane as well as an extensive offering of exhibits. North Carolina history from Colonial days to the present is featured, as well as artifacts, flags and other displays.
Pullen Park
Pullen Park has it all. Boat rentals, picnic areas and tennis courts are included in the vast array of recreational activities the park has to offer. It's also a great place to take a book or a nap. The park features Raleigh's Theatre in the Park and Aquatic Center.