The Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) is North Carolina’s center for live entertainment and the performing arts. Opened in 2008 as one of the largest centers of its kind in the Carolinas, DPAC hosts hundreds of performances a year, ranging from high profile concerts to Broadway productions, stand-up comedy routines, and festivals. The center is recognized for its contemporary steel and glass design, and features 2,700 seats with intimate sightlines. DPAC’s “Heart of the Arts” community outreach program runs master theater classes for local students, and invites the students to backstage tours, orchestra rehearsals, and post-performance discussions.
The Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area encompasses an area of 221 acres (89.43 hectares) near the charming town of Hillsborough. A picturesque location to explore the region's Great Outdoors, Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area is home to the imposing Occoneechee Mountain, which towers above the park at a height of 867 feet (264.26 meters). Featuring a network of scenic trails dotted with groves of trees, shrubs, overlooks, and glimpses of the river, the area is a delight for outdoor and nature enthusiasts.
Founded in 1934, The Sarah P. Duke Gardens offers 55 acres (22 hectares) of world-class gardens in the center of Duke University. More than five miles (eight kilometers) of pathways lead visitors on walks through four sections of beautifully landscaped terraces, gardens, and arboretums. The Duke Gardens host gardening, photography, and natural history classes, and a summer concert series. A cafe and a visitor center are on the grounds. Walking and trolley tours are given four days a week; reservations are recommended.
The North Carolina Museum of Life & Science offers a number of interactive educational exhibits suitable for children and adults. Visitors can walk through a tornado, turn their movements into sound sculptures, and make contact with one of the largest butterfly conservatories on the American East Coast. The museum also features bear, red wolf, and lemur sanctuaries, and a forested tree house learning environment, which gives views of a landscaped forest from 20 feet (six meters) off the ground.
Pull up a bench and revel in nature's beauty in this eight-acre (three-hectare) garden wonderland. This outdoor laboratory for the Department of Horticulture at North Carolina State University is a delight for visitors and locals alike. Sit in the shade of trees from over 50 different countries, wander down the 450-foot (137-meter) long mosaic of the Perennial Garden, or bring a good book and relax in the Reading Garden. The Victorian gazebo in the Klein-Pringle White Garden is a popular choice for local brides and the Japanese and Paradise gardens are must-sees.
This chapel built in the center of Duke University in the Collegiate Gothic style was completed in 1932. Its tower soars 210 feet (65 meters) into the sky, and its founder, James B. Duke, felt that its inspirational presence would influence campus music, faith, and learning. Fine ornamentation, stained glass, and four beautifully crafted organs, including a Flentrop, or "Bach's Organ," draw thousands of admirers to the chapel every year. Free, guided tours of the chapel are offered every Sunday after an 11a worship service.
The Titmus Theatre at the NC State University is a creative outlet for all the students learning there. The semi circular auditorium is housed inside the brick exposed building of the Frank Thompson Hall. The interiors are modern and basic with less distance between the main stage and the seat. A variety of original works and also plays inspired from books are performed here. This theater gives a great exposure to aspiring actors, playwrights and musicians.
Looking for a cozy spot for an elegant and intimate wedding in Cary? The Parish Center of the Saint Michael Church fits the shoe perfectly. The beautiful facility is equipped with hardwood floors, versatile lighting and an excellent catering service. The venue is also suitable for other private parties and events. Visit their website for more details about the facility.
Located in the University of North Carolina, the Old East is a historic hall. This Italianate residence hall was built in 1793, and is one of the first constructions on site. It comprises of study rooms, kitchen, laundry, television room and lounges. Some of the amenities include smoke detectors, alarms, air-conditioning and sprinkler system. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The St. Matthew's Episcopal Church is a historic shrine encompassing an area of 5 acres (2.0 hectares). Constructed in 1825, it displays the Gothic Revival style of architecture. The church's beautiful design has been done by Francis Lister and Hawks. It has been put up in the National Register of Historic Places and continues to function as an active congregation.