There’s nothing quite like competing for a national championship. All of the hard work that began in August culminates on December 21 at Durham County Memorial Stadium with the NAIA crowning a football national champion. For the fans who have supported all year long, we want to ensure that you too have the ultimate championship experience in the Bull City.
Whether it’s your first trip to Durham or you’re a returning fan, read our guide below on how to make the most of your NAIA championship experience in Durham.
North Durham/Near Durham County Memorial Stadium
Along I-85 in North Durham and surrounding Durham County Memorial Stadium lies a bevy of visitor resources along with diverse dining and engaging things to do. Just a mile away from the stadium, you’ll find the Museum of Life and Science, an award-winning, family-friendly indoor and outdoor experiential science center with one of the largest butterfly houses in the United States.
Enjoy some eastern North Carolina-style barbecue at Bullock’s Bar-B-Que, one of the oldest restaurants still operating in Durham, or Hog Heaven. Or indulge in authentic tacos and a salsa bar at Super Taqueria.
Within walking distance, you will also find many familiar favorites— Panera Bread, Chipotle, Chick-fil-A, Five Guys, Dunkin’ Donuts and Marco’s Pizza.
Fan Hotels in North Durham
- Hampton Inn & Suites Durham/North I-85
Downtown Durham
Visit downtown Durham on Friday night and you’ll feel the energy of a city that’s overflowing with entertainment options. Behind historic storefronts there’s a new generation of entrepreneurs, foodie innovators and artisans who are ready to welcome you to the city they love. Durham County Memorial Stadium is just 3.1 miles away from the center of it all, making for an easily accessible excursion.
Alongside Durham Central Park, home to the Durham Farmers’ Market, you’ll find the celebrated Durham Food Hall with everything from Chinese dumplings and fresh fish sandwiches to homemade crunch-wraps and wood-fired pizza. Downtown’s official footprint is one square mile, making for a walkable city center. Of the visitor-facing businesses, 90% started in North Carolina and 70% started right here in Durham, ensuring that those who come to explore will have a uniquely Durham experience. Enjoy a drink at one of the many breweries and distilleries right in the heart of Downtown, or if you’re looking for an activity for the group, look no further than Boxcar Bar + Arcade or Clouds Brewcade + Kitchen, both of which are home to numerous arcade games that will be fun for the whole group.
Fan Hotels Near Downtown Durham
- Residence Inn Durham McPherson/Duke University Medical Center
- Hilton Garden Inn Durham/University Medical Center
Duke University/Ninth Street
One of the leading universities in the country, Duke is both an academic and athletic powerhouse. On an off day, stroll around campus where you won’t want to miss cultural attractions like the Nasher Museum of Art, Duke Chapel, and Sarah P. Duke Gardens. The Duke Basketball and Sports Hall of Fame located within the hallowed Cameron Indoor Stadium is a must for any college sports fan – a perfect activity for student-athletes, families and fans. For a college town vibe, head over to Ninth Street. It’s a short walk from Duke’s East Campus and has staples like Whole Foods, Harris Teeter and restaurant chains as much as you’ll find locally owned Vietnamese restaurants, book stores, vintage stores, dive bars and a Mexican-inspired popsicle shop.
Fan Hotels Near Duke University
- Home2Suites By Hilton Durham Univeristy Medical Center
- Hilton Durham Near Duke University
- Comfort Inn & Suites Durham Near Duke University
- Hampton Inn & Suites Durham University Medical Center
Southpoint/South Durham
The Southpoint area is anchored by The Streets at Southpoint, a shopping and dining destination that houses high-end retailers and department stores with more than 150 shops, perfect for the last minute holiday shopping while you’re in town. The mall was once named by USA Today as one of the nation’s “top 10 great places to spend it all in one place.” There are also numerous restaurants perfect for accommodating large groups, an IMAX movie theater and other lifestyle entertainment options. Southpoint is located just off of Interstate 40.
Fan Hotels Near Southpoint/South Durham
- Hilton Garden Inn Durham Southpoint
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Durham Southpoint
- Hampton Inn & Suites Chapel Hill/Durham, Area
- Staybridge Suites Durham/Chapel Hill, an IHG Hotel
- Hyatt Place Durham Southpoint
If you’re looking for a place on Friday night or after the game Saturday to watch sports, check out our blog on the best sports bars in Durham. From local favorites like the Tobacco Road Sports Cafe and Bull McCabe’s Irish Pub to familiar chains like Kickback Jack’s and Buffalo Wild Wings, we have you covered.
