Here’s how to make the most of your visit to the heart of the Bull City
By Amanda MacLaren | Photography by John Michael Simpson
History meets modern vibrancy in downtown Durham’s City Center District, where a dynamic blend of arts, retail, entertainment and more combine to create the bustling heart of the Bull City, all set among historic buildings interspersed with shiny new skyscrapers.
Gallery hopping on Third Friday Durham art nights is a most enjoyable civic duty. Take in brightly colored activist art, earnest landscape drawings, abstract portraits and stunning photographs. There are several galleries within City Center alone – 5 Points Gallery, Through This Lens, 21c Museum Hotel, The Artisan Market @ 305, Durham Art Guild, Durham Arts Council and Exotique – that often host exhibition receptions and showcases during this monthly event, which also typically features street performances by local musicians in areas in and around Five Points.
Take in stunning skyline views paired with rooftop drinks, delicious bites and lively events at The Roof at The Durham, Unscripted Durham and The Velvet Hippo – plus, at the latter, you can bring your pup for “Yappy Hours” on Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 6 p.m.!
Explore Durham’s rich past, from its early beginnings to its modern-day significance, through engaging exhibits, interactive displays and fascinating stories at the Museum of Durham History, located inside a revitalized downtown bus station. Gain insights into the diverse cultures, pivotal events and remarkable individuals that have shaped Durham’s unique identity with compelling and educational programming and events.
Stroll and shop along West Main Street, starting with the stylish clothing designs and accessories at Vert & Vogue down to Letters Bookshop, the perfect place to get lost looking for your next good read. Your inner child will also enjoy the fun and funky nature of Dolly’s Vintage; a huge portion of the store is devoted to vintage clothing (and gloves, jewelry, purses, etc.) along with cute gifts and trinkets to browse, including some local Durham swag.
It’s been about 20 years since Major, the massive and familiar bronze bull sculpture, arrived in CCB Plaza. “Major has watched the city transform around him,” says Leah Foushee Waller, who designed, fabricated and installed the piece along with her husband, Mike Waller. “We wanted the bull to be that image of Durham,” Mike says. Most would say it has become just that.
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