The Best Hotels And BBs To Book Near Duke University Durham

Ideal for returning alumni, proud parents visiting their studying kids, or holiday-makers keen to take in Durham’s charms, these university-linked hotels – bookable with Culture Trip – all score an A grade.

Duke University is one of the top schools in the United States, cultivating a campus full of talented academics and athletes. It’s an institution in the Research Triangle city Durham, so a visit to Duke’s impressive grounds is a must for any fan of ground-breaking research and record-setting sports teams. Get as close to campus as possible without bunking in a dorm, when you stay at these hotels and B&Bs near Duke University.

1. JB Duke Hotel

Hotel

You won’t need to pay a semester’s worth of boarding to stay on the campus of Duke University – just check in to JB Duke Hotel, and you’re good to go. Any alumnus or avid Blue Devils fan will love the guest suites decked out in the university colors. Wallace Wade Stadium is just 0.5mi away (0.8km), making JB Duke one of the best tailgating spots on campus. Mix it up with beer and burgers at the MarketPlace, then go cheer on Durham’s burgeoning superstars.

2. Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club

Inn, Golf Hotel

4f0650c3 - Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club

However you like to take in North Carolina’s natural beauty, Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club will oblige. Neighboring 300-acres (121ha) of pine woods, right alongside Duke Forest, this hotel has instant trail access. Had enough walking for one day? Take in the rest of the property’s manicured greens from a golf cart, as you play through one of the top courses in the state. Seeking more peace and calm? Brew up a cup of coffee, and admire the landscaped grounds from your suite’s window.

4. The Durham Hotel

Hotel

You may be visiting Duke, but you don’t have to crash in Durham, student-style. Let the Durham Hotel walk your bags up to the Penthouse Suite, where the city is at your fingertips. The view from the private terrace never gets old, but there’s no shame in hanging out in the spacious living room and mixing up cocktails at the butler’s bar. Invite your old college chums up, and spend a night reminiscing about the good old days of exam-cramming over ramen dinners.

5. Unscripted Durham

Motel

The playfully designed rooms at Unscripted brilliantly play with the line between retro and modern. Color pops, geometric shapes, walnut woods and brass furnishings are offset with LED headboard lights and bedside USB outlets. And there’s no happier medium than when you queue up a bit of Marvin Gaye on the Bluetooth sound system. Pick the poolside suite, and crank up the Beach Boys for the partygoers on the Patio to hear.

6. The Siena Hotel, Autograph Collection

Chain Hotel, Boutique Hotel

cf2b9b14 - The Siena Hotel, Autograph Collection

North Carolina culture needs no outside inspiration, but we will admit that the European influences evident at the Siena Hotel make it stand out in Chapel Hill. Marble bathrooms, Juliette balconies and complimentary Belgian chocolates will never be unwelcome, while you’ll find rustic Italian cuisine at Il Palio only footsteps from your room. Other small, yet thoughtful amenities, such as overnight shoe shines and membership to the YMCA, add an extra layer of value.

7. 21c Museum Hotel Durham

Hotel

Many hotels have rooftop lounges, but only 21c Museum has an old bank vault as its hangout space. It also has got a fantastic restaurant, relaxing spa and full-blown art museum within the walls of its art deco building. It has everything, even an excuse to stay in your guest room: large windows, high ceilings and contemporary custom furnishings create a space as relaxing as can be, especially if you’re lucky enough to snag the terrace suite.

8. Arrowhead Inn

Bed and Breakfast, Inn

Looking to rekindle an old college romance? Let Cupid’s bow lead you to the Arrowhead Inn. Check in to your suite, and hang that “do not disturb” sign on your door. A flickering fireplace, steamy shower and spa-style whirlpool tub will set the mood just right. Earn yourself an extra snuggle or two by reserving a romance package with your suite: flower petals lead to a bottle of wine, chocolate-covered strawberries and a box of luxury bath products to lather up the night.

Looking for somewhere different to stay? Book into one of the best hotels in North Carolina for every kind of traveler, or, if you’re traveling with a four-legged friend, book into a top pet-friendly stay. Inspire your Old North State itinerary with the most beautiful spots to see fall foliage, or make the most of nearby Raleigh with its top things to do.

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