Local Recommendations

Ideal's Sandwich & Grocery: If you have the time and are willing to wait in line, this is a must. Don't leave without the Philly Roast Pork.

Loaf: Local bakery putting out some of our favorite breads and pastries in the area.

Monuts: Cute café with a sizeable menu, great BYO sandwiches, and, of course, donuts.

El Jefecito: Small taco shop Macklin frequented during his law school days.

PRESS Coffee: Chic breakfast spot for crepes and coffee right next to Durham Bulls stadium.

The Original Q Shack: Local favorite for stick-to-your-bones BBQ.

Saltbox Seafood Joint: James Beard-winning chef serves up a variety of local, seasonal seafood.

Dashi: Tasty Japanese fare and a favorite of ours for lunch or dinner.

Hutchins Garage: Scratch the pizza-and-a-beer itch in a converted mechanic's garage.

Hi-Wire: Brewery in a fun space with indoor and outdoor seating. You can order food in from the neighboring Cugino Forno (pizza) and finish things off with local ice cream at Two Roosters (just across the lawn).

Ponysaurus: Fan favorite brewery and the Cookery's source for our reception's hoppy libations!

Queeny's: Sister restaurant to our after-party bar, Queeny's is a community gem with a killer chicken salad sandwich, among other things.

Bull City Burger & Brewery: A one-stop shop for creative burgers and beers in the center of town.

Parts & Labor: A personal favorite for a series of smaller bites and good drinks, Parts & Labor is a standout on a street that has a ton to offer.

Sarah P. Duke Gardens: You could spend an hour or a whole morning/afternoon here. Just the best!

If a garden won't cut it and you're scheming for a hike:

American Tobacco Trail: Less than 3/4 of a mile from the city center, an ATT trailhead offers tens of miles of paved rail trail perfect for running/cycling.
Al Buehler Trail: Loop just shy of 3 miles that borders the Washington Duke golf course.
Eno River State Park: Offers several 1-4 mile loops as well as a 7.5-mile out-and-back along the Eno River.
Occoneechee Mountain State Park: Modest 2+ mile loop for those looking to gain some elevation.
Falls Lake State Park: Offers several points of access to the out-and-back Mountains-to-Sea hiking trail.
William B. Umstead State Park: Offers easy to moderate difficulty hikes from ~1-7 miles.

Raleigh: Just ~25 minutes away, Raleigh offers a host of great restaurants and shops that are worth the trip. If you go, don't miss Boulted Bread.

For those interested in golf: Check out Topgolf, Hillandale, Washington Duke, and more!