Durham is a colorful, energetic city in the heart of North Carolina which has more than 260,700 residents and attracts over 6.3 million visitors annually. Although the city offers many things to see, Durham’s outdoor activities are not to be missed and include sports, guided tours, and nature programs.  Whether you prefer extreme adventures or relaxing nature walks, Durham, North Carolina, has something for you. Check out these suggestions from Leith Honda Raleigh.

One of the most popular outdoor sports in Durham is golf, and visitors can choose from at least 10 public and private golf courses throughout the city. Among these is the Treyburn Country Club course, a Tom Fazio course that has been ranked among the state’s top 10 courses by Golf Digest. Many of the city’s country clubs also offer outdoor tennis courts.

If you want to get outdoors in Durham, you might consider one of the city’s or county’s parks, which collectively offer a long list of amenities. Travelers and residents alike frequent Durham’s parks to camp, hike, bike, picnic, and even walk their dogs. One of the most famous trails is the American Tobacco Trail, which offers more than 22 miles of trails across the Triangle region. Numerous playing fields, disc golf courses, and other athletic facilities can also be found at parks throughout the city. Opportunities for horseback riding exist at a handful of local farms and stables.

Several rivers, lakes, and creeks can also be found in Durham, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, sailing, rafting, and wildlife viewing. Some of the popular destinations for water activities include Eno River State Park, Flat River, Little River Lake, Jordan Lake, and New Hope Creek.

You can also get outdoors in Durham while taking in the many sights and sounds of the city through a guided tour. Horse-drawn carriage tours are available that allow visitors to enjoy fresh air and beautiful views without wearing out their sneakers. However, if you prefer to get some exercise, pick up a two-to-four-mile walking guide of the city’s historic downtown area at the Durham Visitor Information Center. If you want fuel for your journey, take a walking tour that involves tasting some of the city’s best eats.

Another exciting way for travelers to see the city is via the Carolina Barnstormers Flightseeing tour. You won’t exactly be outdoors, but you’ll feel like you are when you feel the wind whipping at your face from the open cockpit of owner Mike Ratty’s bi-plane. These exhilarating tours last from 30 minutes to an hour, and sights include birds’ eye views of the North Carolina Central University and Duke University campuses, Falls Lake, Research Triangle Park, and downtown Durham.

These are just a few of the outdoor recreation options just waiting to be discovered in Durham. Other opportunities include relaxing public gardens and some outdoor spectator sports, including the famous Durham Bulls. Regardless of what type of outdoor adventure you prefer, you’ll find something to suit your needs when you travel to Durham, North Carolina.