Although the history of the city of Durham is synonymous with the spread of tobacco throughout the south and the United States, today the city of Durham is most closely associated with Duke University, the prestigious school which calls Durham home. The school is nestled comfortably right inside town, and whether you come to visit a student or to enjoy the cultural and historic delights of Durham, hotels in Durham offer plenty of comfort. Some of the best accommodation Durham offers can be found right on campus, and there are also some excellent hotels in Durham near downtown.
Washington Duke Inn and Golf Club
Speaking of a hotel Durham right on the Duke campus; here it is. This inn and golf club is found a few miles from the highway and is on campus grounds. As the name suggests, the hotel has its own 18-hole golf course, which is available to hotel guests for a discounted price. Not only is this one of the nicest hotels in Durham, but it is the largest, with multiple units priced between $200 and $300 for a double room, and between $500 and $950 per night for a suite. Some interesting furnishings complete this Durham hotel, including Washington Duke’s original writing desk and other antique memorabilia from the Duke household which gave the university its name (and a large chunk of its money). This hotel is within walking distance of some of the best attractions on campus, including the botanical gardens and the famous neo-gothic chapel with bells and a pipe organ.
Arrowhead Inn
Though much smaller than the Duke hotel Durham, this inn is just as accommodating, and is often mentioned in magazines which review hotels as some of the best accommodation Durham offers. Private owners, a married couple, add a personalized touch to all of these Durham hotel amenities. A full (continental if you prefer) breakfast is included in the room rates, which are between $100 and $300. The higher priced rooms are actually two-bedroom log cabins located on these Durham hotel grounds, adding a bit more privacy and space.
Clarion Hotel at Research Triangle Park
The Clarion hotel is one of the newer hotels in Durham, built recently in 2002. As such, many of the rooms and amenities are still squeaky clean, offering great modern services and accommodation Durham. Although not located close to downtown or the main attractions of Durham, it is only a short drive into town and is a bit cheaper than some of the big name inns and resorts. Rooms cost between $100 and $120 for the night for a double, and there are no suites. This Durham hotel is especially popular among business travelers or anyone looking for simple, inexpensive accommodation. If you plan to head into town for sightseeing, you will likely need a rental car if you are staying at this hotel, as it is not walking distance from town.
