13 Fun Nighttime Activities In Durham, Nc

As the sun sets and the city lights up, Durham, NC transforms into a vibrant playground for those seeking to experience a nightlife unlike any other. From dance parties to food festivals, the Bull City offers a multitude of exciting activities for night owls. So, whether you're a resident looking for something new, or a visitor seeking to spice up your nights, we've curated a list of 13 fun nighttime activities that will make your time in Durham unforgettable. Get ready to dive into the energetic nightlife scene as we explore the top picks in Durham.

Watch a movie at the Retro Film Series at Carolina Theatre

Durham, NC is a buzzing city that offers a plethora of activities for people of all ages and interests. However, when the sun goes down, the city takes on a different vibe with options that cater to those seeking a fun and exciting nightlife. One such activity that is highly recommended is watching a movie at the Retro Film Series at Carolina Theatre.

The Carolina Theatre in Downtown Durham is one of the most iconic and historic theaters in the area. It has been a cultural cornerstone of the city for over 95 years and has been restored to its former grandeur. The Retro Film Series showcases classic films that have stood the test of time and still manage to attract audiences even decades after their initial release.

The best part about the Retro Film Series is that it is not restricted to a specific genre or demographic. You can expect to see anything from timeless comedy films like "The Pink Panther" and "Airplane!" to cult classics like "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" and "The Big Lebowski" on the lineup. With a wide range of films to choose from, you're guaranteed to find something that catches your interest and provides a nostalgic experience that you won't find at your typical movie theater.

If you're a movie buff or just looking for a fun night out with friends or family, the Retro Film Series is an excellent choice. You can expect seats that are spacious and comfortable, and state-of-the-art equipment that provides a crisp and clear audio-visual experience. The theater even offers concessions such as popcorn, candy, and soda, which is always a plus when watching a movie.

Take note that the Retro Film Series at Carolina Theatre only runs on weekends, with showtimes usually starting at 7 pm. The theater also observes COVID-19 safety protocols, such as reduced seating capacity and mandatory mask-wearing, to keep the audience safe.

In conclusion, watching a movie at the Retro Film Series is an excellent way to spend a night out in Durham, NC. You'll have the opportunity to relive classics on the big screen in a historic and charming atmosphere that will leave you reminiscing for years to come. So grab some friends or family and make a night of it. You won't regret it.

Take a moonlit stroll in Sarah P. Duke Gardens

Durham, North Carolina has a lot to offer to those who enjoy spending their evenings outdoors. With its warm weather, beautiful ambiance, and cultural richness, Durham becomes a great destination for a variety of night activities. One of the best ways to experience the city's charm after the sun goes down is by taking a moonlit stroll in the Sarah P. Duke Gardens.

Located in the heart of Durham, the Sarah P. Duke Gardens are a must-see for anyone exploring the area. The gardens span across 55 acres and offer a stunning collection of plants and flowers from all over the world. With 5 miles of hiking trails, 4 distinct gardens, and a plethora of scenic spots, the gardens provide visitors with endless possibilities for nocturnal exploration.

As the sun sets, the gardens come alive with a peaceful and romantic atmosphere. The nightscape creates a dramatic contrast between the moonlight and the natural environment. The sculptures, lawns, and pavilions take on an air of mystery and allure, beckoning visitors to walk amongst them.

There are several suggested walking routes to choose from at the Duke Gardens, but one of the most popular is the Sara W. Duke Memorial Garden. This garden features a romantic fishpond, antique sculptural pieces, a stunning water wall, and several benches to sit back and enjoy the scene.

The Asiatic Arboretum, another lovely spot for an evening walk, offers several illuminated pathways that lead visitors through the gardens. Secluded benches and small pavilions offer a quiet spot for those who want to relax with the soothing sounds of the garden’s waterfalls.

The Sarah P. Duke Gardens are open from dawn to dusk and admission is free. However, visitors should keep in mind that some trails may be closed off after dark for safety concerns. Besides that, visitors should also be mindful of their noise level out of respect for other visitors and the wildlife.

In conclusion, if you want to experience the beauty of Durham, North Carolina after dark, a moonlit walk through the Sarah P. Duke Gardens is the perfect place to start. With its charming atmosphere, lush scenery, and tranquil settings, the gardens provide visitors with a romantic and peaceful experience that is sure to leave them enchanted. So, put on your walking shoes and let the moonlight guide you through the most beautiful gardens in Durham.

Go stargazing at the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center

Characteristic	Description
Name	Morehead Planetarium and Science Center
Type	Planetarium in Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Website	Go to website
Address	250 E Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Phone	(919) 962-1236
Hours	Sunday - 1–6 PM Monday(Memorial Day) - Closed Tuesday - Closed Wednesday - Closed Thursday - Closed Friday - 2:30–6 PM Saturday - 10 AM–6 PM
Profiles

Durham, North Carolina is a beautiful city with plenty to offer both day and night. One of the most unique and captivating experiences you can have in Durham at night is stargazing at the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center.

Located on the picturesque University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill campus, the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center is a state-of-the-art facility offering visitors a range of exhibits, shows, and experiences. However, few things are more awe-inspiring than viewing the stars and planets in the sky above.

Morehead Planetarium and Science Center has a state-of-the-art room called the Star Theater, which projects full dome videos in a 360-degree view, that mimics the night sky. Visit the Star Theater and you’ll be able to explore the universe in a whole new way.

Whether you’re a diehard astronomy enthusiast or simply curious about the cosmos, the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center at night promises to be an unforgettable experience. As you look up at the night sky from the outdoor observation deck, you’ll marvel at the sheer magnitude and beauty of the stars, moons, and planets above.

In addition to stargazing, the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center also offers regular shows and events that give visitors the opportunity to learn more about the science of astronomy and the universe. You’ll expand your knowledge while viewing the stars and planets through their state-of-the-art equipment.

To experience astronomy at its finest, plan a visit to the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center in Durham, North Carolina. Stargazing at this facility promises to be an enchanting and educational experience in a way that few other places in the city can provide. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable opportunity to explore the sky above Durham at night.

Play glow-in-the-dark mini golf at Frankie's Fun Park

Durham, North Carolina is a city that comes alive at night. The charming streets of downtown Durham and its surrounding areas offer a variety of activities for those who are looking for some late-night fun. One of the best places to enjoy a night out in Durham is Frankies Fun Park, where visitors can play glow-in-the-dark mini golf.

Frankies Fun Park is a popular entertainment destination for people of all ages. The park offers a variety of activities like arcade games, laser tag, and go-kart racing. However, one of the most unique experiences you can have at Frankies is playing mini golf in a glow-in-the-dark course.

This putt-putt course transforms into a magical world at night, with colorful neon lights illuminating the way. The golf balls glow, and the obstacles, targets, and decorations light up in brilliant colors. This is an exciting and unforgettable way to spend an evening with friends or family.

Frankies Fun Park's mini golf course is challenging yet enjoyable, with 18 holes that require different skill levels. The course tests your accuracy and your putting skills, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned golfers alike. The vibrant colors and lights add an extra level of excitement to the game and make for a unique and memorable experience.

Frankies Fun Park is open until late at night, making it a perfect destination for those who want to enjoy Durham's nightlife. Visitors can play mini golf until midnight on weekdays and as late as 1am on weekends. This gives visitors enough time to enjoy other activities, like laser tag, go-kart racing, and arcade games, before capping off the night with a round of glow-in-the-dark mini golf.

In conclusion, Durham is a city filled with exciting activities at night, and Frankies Fun Park's glow-in-the-dark mini golf is among the best. Playing mini golf in a colorful and illuminated course is a unique and memorable experience. So, if you're looking for something fun and different to do in Durham at night, head over to Frankies Fun Park and experience the exciting world of glow-in-the-dark mini golf.

Enjoy some late-night bowling at AMF Durham Lanes

Durham, NC is a bustling city that comes to life at night. With a variety of entertainment options, it can be difficult to decide how to spend your evening. If you're looking for a fun and unique late-night activity, why not try bowling at AMF Durham Lanes?

Conveniently located at 4508 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd, AMF Durham Lanes is open until midnight on weekdays and 2 am on weekends. This makes it the perfect spot for a casual night out with friends or a unique date idea.

Once inside, you'll find a sleek and modern bowling alley with plenty of lanes to choose from. The atmosphere is lively and fun, with neon lights and upbeat music playing in the background. The staff is friendly and accommodating, ensuring that your experience is a memorable one.

As for the bowling itself, you'll find that AMF Durham Lanes offers a variety of options to suit your style. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a novice, there are different bowling balls available to match your skill level. The lanes are well maintained and equipped with automatic scoring, so you can focus on having fun and competing with your friends.

In addition to bowling, AMF Durham Lanes also offers an arcade area with classic games like skeeball, air hockey, and racing games. If you're feeling hungry or thirsty, there's a snack bar and bar area where you can grab a bite to eat or a drink.

Overall, AMF Durham Lanes is an excellent spot for a night out in Durham, NC. With its late night hours, variety of activities, and lively atmosphere, it's sure to be a hit with anyone looking for something fun to do after dark. So grab your friends, lace up your bowling shoes, and enjoy a fun night out at AMF Durham Lanes.

Visit the nightlife scene of Downtown Durham

Durham, North Carolina is a bustling southern city that has quickly become a hotspot for visitors from all over the world. With its rich history, trendy art scene, and delicious foodie culture, it's no wonder why Durham is a must-visit destination. And when it comes to experiencing Durham's nightlife, Downtown Durham is the place to be.

Downtown Durham has a vibrant nightlife scene that offers a little something for everyone. Whether you're looking to catch a live show, dance the night away, or indulge in some delicious late-night eats, you'll find it all here.

One of the best places to start your night out in Downtown Durham is at The Durham Hotel. This luxury boutique hotel is located in the heart of the city and boasts one of the best rooftop bars in North Carolina. On the roof of The Durham, you'll find a stunning cocktail bar with sweeping views of the city skyline. It's the perfect place to watch the sunset and enjoy a delicious craft cocktail or glass of wine.

If you're looking for live music, head to Motorco Music Hall. This iconic venue has been a staple of the Durham music scene for over a decade and attracts top-notch artists from all over the country. From indie rock to hip hop, Motorco has something for music lovers of all genres. And if you're feeling hungry, grab a bite to eat at Parts & Labor, the restaurant connected to the venue.

Another great spot for live music is The Pinhook. This cozy venue has a reputation for hosting some of the best underground and indie acts in the region, and its intimate setting makes for an unforgettable experience.

If you're in the mood for dancing, head to The Bar or The Social. These two clubs are located just a few blocks away from each other and are popular spots for locals and visitors alike. The Bar is well-known for its craft cocktails and trendy atmosphere, while The Social boasts one of the best sound systems in the city.

Finally, no night out in Downtown Durham would be complete without stopping by one of the city's late-night eateries. Some of the most popular spots include Cosmic Cantina, a 24-hour Mexican joint that serves up some of the best burritos in town, and The Federal, a gastropub that specializes in delicious small plates and craft beers.

In conclusion, Downtown Durham is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the nightlife scene in North Carolina. From rooftop bars to underground music venues, dance clubs to late-night eateries, there's something for everyone in this vibrant southern city.

Take a haunted pub crawl with Tobacco Road Tours

Durham, North Carolina is a bustling city during the day, but what about at night? If you're looking for a spooky evening adventure, look no further than Tobacco Road Tours' haunted pub crawl.

This 2.5-hour walking tour takes you on a journey through Durham's historic downtown, visiting some of the city's oldest and most haunted pubs. With a knowledgeable and engaging guide leading the way, you'll learn about the history of the area and the ghostly legends that still haunt its streets.

One of the stops on the tour is Bull McCabe's Irish Pub, which is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former bartender who died on the premises. Another stop is The Federal, a bar housed in a building that was once a funeral home and is rumored to be visited by the spirits of the deceased.

At each location, your guide will share stories about the ghosts and paranormal activity associated with the pub. You'll also have the opportunity to grab a drink and soak up the eerie atmosphere.

But don't worry, this tour isn't all frights and chills. Tobacco Road Tours also aims to showcase Durham's vibrant nightlife scene and the unique personalities of each pub. The tour is suitable for all ages, though drinking alcohol is, of course, limited to those 21 and older.

So if you're looking for a memorable and spine-tingling night out in Durham, consider joining Tobacco Road Tours on their haunted pub crawl. Just be sure to keep your eyes peeled for any ghostly encounters along the way.

Attend a live show at Motorco Music Hall

Durham, NC is a bustling city that never sleeps. It's a city where you can always find something to do, even after the sun sets. If you're looking for a night out in Durham, one of the most popular spots to check out is the Motorco Music Hall.

Motorco Music Hall is a premier live music venue in Durham, NC, known for its eclectic lineup of local and national artists. Located in the bustling Central Park neighborhood, Motorco Music Hall is a great option for a night out with friends, a date night, or a solo adventure.

One of the best things about Motorco Music Hall is its commitment to showcasing a diverse range of musical genres. From indie rock and hip hop to blues and country, there's always something new to discover at Motorco. The venue is also known for hosting events beyond just live music, including film screenings, comedy shows, and more.

Another highlight of attending a live show at Motorco Music Hall is the venue's intimate atmosphere. With a capacity of just 500 people, the venue's stage feels like it's in your living room. This creates a special energy and connection between the artists and the audience that can't be found anywhere else.

While enjoying the music, you can also indulge in fantastic bites and drinks that are served in the venue's restaurant and bar. You can order a wide range of dishes, such as BBQ pulled pork sandwiches, kale salad, and nachos. Local beers and specialty cocktails also complement the menu to complete your dining experience.

Overall, attending a live show at Motorco Music Hall is an excellent experience and a great way to spend a night out in Durham, NC. With a variety of musical styles, nightly activities, delicious food, and drinks, there's something for everyone. Whether you're a local or a visitor, a night spent here is guaranteed to be unforgettable.

Try virtual reality gaming at The VR Center

Characteristic	Description
Name	Augmentality Labs LLC | Virtual Reality Arcade
Type	Video arcade in Durham, North Carolina
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 322
Address	3519 Witherspoon Blvd SUITE 104, Durham, NC 27707
Phone	(919) 748-4578
Hours	Sunday - 1–7 PM Monday(Memorial Day) - Closed Tuesday - 12–8:30 PM Wednesday - 12–8:30 PM Thursday - 12–8:30 PM Friday - 12–8:30 PM Saturday - 12–8:30 PM
Profiles

Durham, North Carolina is a city that is constantly evolving and expanding, especially at night. One of the most popular places to visit after dark is the VR Center, where gamers can immerse themselves in a virtual world of their choosing.

Located in the trendy American Tobacco Campus, the VR Center offers a state-of-the-art entertainment experience that attracts people from all over the city. Whether it's a group of friends looking for a fun night out or a family seeking a unique way to spend quality time together, the VR Center has something for everyone.

At the VR Center, gamers are given the opportunity to enter an entirely new world through virtual reality technology. With over 20 different games to choose from, there's a game for every type of player. From zombie experiences to escape rooms, the VR Center has it all. And with the latest technology, the games are nearly indistinguishable from reality!

The staff at the VR Center makes the experience even better by providing excellent customer service. They are knowledgeable about the technology and games and are always happy to help. They are committed to making sure that everyone who visits the center has a fun and safe experience.

Another great thing about the VR Center is that it's not just for gamers. They also offer a variety of other experiences, such as team-building activities, birthday parties, and even corporate events. The VR Center is committed to offering something for everyone and ensuring that each group has a memorable experience.

Overall, the VR Center is an excellent way to spend an evening in Durham, especially for those who love gaming or who are looking for a unique experience. With the latest technology and a variety of games to choose from, the VR Center is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a fun night out in Durham.

Go on a ghost tour with Bull City Ghost Tour

Durham, NC is a fascinating city full of history, culture, and supernatural sightings. If you're looking for an exciting and spooky way to explore the area, consider signing up for a ghost tour with Bull City Ghost Tour.

The Bull City Ghost Tour is a unique and entertaining way to experience Durham at night. Led by experienced guides, the tour takes visitors through the streets of downtown Durham to explore some of the city's haunted hotspots. These tours are not only informative but also full of fun and eerie experiences that are sure to delight and thrill both skeptics and believers alike.

The tour begins at the Carolina Theatre, and from there, you'll embark on an educational and entertaining journey to some of Durham's most active paranormal sites. The Bull City Ghost Tour highlights places like the Old Durham County Courthouse, the Kress Building, and the Liggett-Myers Tobacco Company Building, all of which are well-known spots for ghost sightings and paranormal activity.

As you stroll through downtown Durham at night with your guide, you'll learn about the rich history of the city and some of its most infamous and mysterious characters. You'll also hear about the legendary hauntings that have taken place in these historic buildings and landmarks.

The Bull City Ghost Tour is a perfect option for locals looking to experience their city in a unique way and tourists looking for something off the beaten path. Even if you're not a believer in ghosts or the supernatural, the tour offers a fascinating look into Durham's past and present.

So, if you're looking for a thrilling and unforgettable way to explore Durham at night, consider booking a tour with Bull City Ghost Tour. It's the perfect way to experience the city's history while getting in touch with the supernatural side of things. Who knows, you might even spot a ghost or two!

Enjoy an escape room challenge at Escape Room Durham

Characteristic	Description
Name	Escape on Purpose
Type	Escape room center in Durham, North Carolina
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.9 / 219
Address	7072 NC-751 STE 102, Durham, NC 27713
Phone	(919) 244-4887
Hours	Sunday - Closed Monday(Memorial Day) - 10 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 10 AM–5 PM Wednesday - 10 AM–5 PM Thursday - 10 AM–10 PM Friday - 10 AM–10 PM Saturday - 12–10 PM
Profiles

Durham NC is a vibrant city with a lot to offer. From live music to local breweries, there is always something to do. But what about those who are looking for something a little more interactive? If you are on the hunt for an engaging and thrilling nighttime activity, then you should visit Escape Room Durham.

Escape Room Durham is a challenging and fun activity for groups of friends, families, and coworkers. This escape room is a great way to exercise your brain, work together with others, and have a great time while doing so. It is located in the heart of Downtown Durham and is easily accessible from all parts of the city.

The core concept of escape rooms is to solve puzzles and riddles that will lead you to the key that unlocks the door to your freedom. Each room has a unique storyline that is meticulously crafted to ensure that you are fully immersed in the experience. The rooms are also full of hidden clues and surprises, so you will never know what you will find as you progress through the puzzles.

Escape Room Durham has multiple rooms available, each with their own unique challenges and surprises. Two of the most popular rooms are "The Cursed Cabin" and "The Mad Scientist." The Cursed Cabin takes you back in time to the 1800s where a family has disappeared without a trace. You must enter the cabin to discover what happened and escape before the curse claims you. The Mad Scientist has you and your team trapped in a lab with only one hour to find the formula for the elixir of life and escape before the lab self-destructs.

One of the best things about Escape Room Durham is that it is open late into the night. If you are looking for something to do after dinner or a night out in the city, this escape room is the perfect option. You and your team can work together to solve the puzzles and escape before the clock runs out.

In conclusion, if you are in Durham NC at night, be sure to check out Escape Room Durham. This fun and challenging activity is the perfect way to spend an evening with friends, family, or coworkers. With multiple rooms available, there is always a new challenge waiting for you. Plus, the thrill of escaping before the time runs out is a rush like no other. Book your reservation today, and try to make it out of the escape room before dawn breaks.

Attend a trivia night at Fullsteam Brewery

Characteristic	Description
Name	Fullsteam Brewery
Type	Brewery
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 708
Address	726 Rigsbee Ave, Durham, NC 27701
Phone	(919) 682-2337
Hours	Sunday - 12–8 PM Monday(Memorial Day) - 12–10 PM Tuesday - 12–10 PM Wednesday - 12–10 PM Thursday - 12–10 PM Friday - 12–11 PM Saturday - 12–11 PM
Profiles

Durham, North Carolina is known for its lively culture and exciting nightlife. If you're looking for something fun and unique to do in the evenings, why not attend a trivia night at Fullsteam Brewery? This popular spot is a local favorite and offers a range of tasty beers and delicious food that is difficult to resist.

Fullsteam Brewery is located in downtown Durham, just steps away from other popular eateries and attractions. The brewery is housed in a historic building, which has been beautifully renovated to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that is perfect for socializing with friends or meeting new people.

Every Tuesday night, Fullsteam Brewery hosts trivia night, providing an opportunity for people to showcase their knowledge, compete, and have fun. The trivia starts at 8 pm, so it's the perfect way to spend an evening after work.

The trivia night at Fullsteam Brewery is perfect for anyone, whether you're a beer enthusiast, a trivia buff, or just looking for something exciting to do in Durham. The trivia is engaging, challenging, and covers a wide range of topics, so everyone will have a chance to shine. In addition, Fullsteam Brewery offers a variety of beers on tap, including their flagship IPA, the "Fullsteam forward" Pale Ale, and other seasonal beers.

What makes Fullsteam Brewery unique is their commitment to local ingredients and artisans. They use locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible, which ensures that their beer and food are fresh, flavorful, and made with love. The brewery also works closely with local farmers and artisans, supporting the local community and contributing to Durham's vibrant cultural scene.

In addition to their trivia night, Fullsteam Brewery hosts other events throughout the week, including live music, food trucks, and craft fairs. No matter what your interests are, there's always something exciting happening at Fullsteam Brewery.

Overall, attending a trivia night at Fullsteam Brewery is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Durham, NC. It's a fun, engaging, and unique way to spend your evening, and it's an experience that you won't forget anytime soon. So, gather your friends, head to Fullsteam Brewery, and get ready for a night full of entertainment, great beer, and good times.

Take a sunset kayak tour with Frog Hollow Outdoors

Characteristic	Description
Name	Frog Hollow Outdoors
Type	Canoe & kayak tour agency in Durham, North Carolina
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 32
Address	614 Trent Dr #3927, Durham, NC 27705
Phone	(919) 416-1200
Hours	Sunday - Closed Monday(Memorial Day) - Closed Tuesday - 9 AM–4 PM Wednesday - 9 AM–4 PM Thursday - 9 AM–4 PM Friday - 9 AM–4 PM Saturday - Closed
Profiles

Durham, North Carolina is a vibrant city with bustling streets, delicious food, and exciting nightlife. But have you ever considered exploring the city from a new perspective - from the water? One of the best ways to experience Durham at night is by taking a sunset kayak tour with Frog Hollow Outdoors.

Frog Hollow Outdoors is a local company that offers a variety of outdoor activities, including kayaking tours. Their sunset kayak tour is a unique experience that allows you to explore the city from a different angle. The tour starts at sunset, when the sky is ablaze with beautiful colors, and lasts about two hours.

As you paddle along the calm waters of the Eno River, you’ll be surrounded by the tranquil beauty of nature. You’ll see the city in a whole new light - literally. The sunlight reflects off the buildings and creates a beautiful shimmering effect on the water. It’s a truly magical experience that’s perfect for anyone looking for a little adventure.

The tour is suitable for all skill levels, as the guides are experienced and will provide all the necessary equipment and instruction. You’ll also learn about the history of Durham and the surrounding area from your knowledgeable guide. They’ll point out interesting landmarks and share fun facts about the area.

Apart from the breathtaking views, there’s also a chance to see some wildlife. The Eno River is home to a variety of creatures, including otters, turtles, and birds. Depending on the season, you may even spot fireflies or other nocturnal creatures.

Paddling through the city at sunset is a serene and peaceful experience that’s perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers. You’ll find it easy to forget about the hustle and bustle of the city and lose yourself in the beauty of the river.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable way to experience Durham, consider taking a sunset kayak tour with Frog Hollow Outdoors. It’s a relaxing and scenic adventure that you won’t find anywhere else. Book your ticket today and get ready to be amazed by the beauty of Durham at night.

Frequently asked questions