If the thought of waking up at 5 a.m to roast a turkey sounds more like a chore than a celebration, why not pass on the green bean casserole and pack your bags instead? If you’ve thought about getting family or friends together for a Thanksgiving getaway, Durham makes for the perfect vacation everyone will be thankful for. Home to the Neo-Gothic arches of Duke University, with a cultural convergence of folks from all over the world, a trip to Durham will be a holiday tradition you’ll be gathering for year after year.
It’s no secret that Durham is a dining mecca, and no marshmallow strewn yam recipe will hold a candle to the cornucopia of flavors you’ll uncover all over town. From the chicken and waffles you’ll remember forever, and buttery magic of hush puppies, to lining up for authentic Carolina BBQ, and marveling over artfully styled haute cuisine, this city is the stuff of foodie dreams. If you want to live it up like a local, the best food in town is served on four wheels. With dozens of temptations from gourmet grilled cheese, and global classics, to patisserie style baked goods, It’s easy to “taste” why the food truck scene has gained a cult following of devoted fans.
After eating your way through the city (you’ll be hard-pressed not to) Durham has plenty of room to stretch your legs and make room for more pumpkin pie. Catch a showy display of fiery autumn foliage as you stroll or bike along 29-miles of paved trails, toss a football at one of its 68 parks, or find out why Durham Central Park is where everyone goes for zen-like tranquility. Easily rivaling New York’s iconic park-scape, Durham’s 5-acre urban green space is the venue for live concerts, farmers markets, and intriguing sculptural exhibits.
If you’re looking for an alternative to the traditional Black Friday blowout, head to Brightleaf Square. Opened in 1981, this charming promenade surrounded by what were once operational tobacco warehouses, is now a European inspired courtyard lined with high-end shops, a myriad of restaurant options, and art galleries. The holiday season is the perfect time to take advantage of the nightlife scene and head inside for a taste of Durham’s award-winning craft beer, a retro night of cocktails, and fondue, or getting your loved ones together for an evening of live music. Even if you opted to pass up the gravy for the vibrant energy of Durham, the memories you’ll create in this city will make foregoing the turkey sandwiches well worth it.
