Founded in 1999, Chatham Hill Winery was one of the first wineries around. Tasting tours are offered daily where participants can not only taste eight of their award-winning wines but they also get to take home a souvenir wine glass. Rubio, Cherry Berry and Viognier are some of their most popular wines. The local winery also offers a meeting space where private parties, celebrations and even weddings can be conducted. Food tours, parties, trivia nights and other events are also organized by the winery where not only can you indulge your taste buds in great wines but also mingle with other wine enthusiasts.

Once the center of Durham's famously successful tobacco industry, Brightleaf Square is housed in two large early 20th-century brick warehouses. Stroll the original cobblestone walks and enjoy the flower-filled courtyard that separates the two buildings. Inside you'll find high-end specialty shops catering to young Durham professionals. Check out the latest men's fashions at B. Hyman and Company, browse the wares at Horizon Gallery and hunt for that perfect accent piece at James Kennedy Antiques, Ltd.

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 Raleigh Rose Garden displays dozens of varieties of roses, including all new roses presented by the All American Rose Society, on beautifully landscaped grounds just behind the Raleigh Little Theater. An outdoor theater with stone seating hosts theater and music performances from time to time, and a fountain and small stone shelter are the center of small private events and weddings. The roses bloom from late May until early fall in October and November; these times are best for visiting.

West Point on the Eno-City of Durham Park is a scenic park located along the course of the Eno river. Avail of the picnic amenities available at the park, take a stroll down the picturesque little nooks, or simply take in the calm aura of the place. The river makes for an ideal spot for those who want to go canoeing or kayaking. Be sure to include the West Point Mill, the Packhouse and the Hugh Mangum Museum of Photography and the McCown and Mangum House in your itinerary. The park is home to an amphitheater, which along with the Mangum House, is an ideal venue for hosting community and cultural events. The park is open from 8:00a until sunset.