The area of North Carolina comprising of Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill, known as the Research Triangle, or simply the Triangle, is a hub of academic and corporate activity. Local universities include Duke University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, all prestigious research institutions. There is, however, much more to this area than academics. The arts, culture, entertainment and business that take place here make it a big-city environment without all the trappings of a hectic metropolis. The beautiful beaches, mountains and trails nearby make it an ideal place for experiencing nature.
Looking for a place to stay in the Triangle? Click an area below for hotels in and around Raleigh-Durham or view all metropolitan Raleigh-Durham hotels.
If you love college basketball, the local teams from Duke, North Carolina State University, North Carolina Central University and UNC-Chapel Hill won’t leave you disappointed. The University of North Carolina Tar Heels and the Duke University Blue Devils are especially popular teams during March Madness. College sports are a big deal around here, and many people plan their vacations to this area around the basketball season.
If you’d rather play sports than watch sports, there is plenty for you to enjoy in Raleigh, Durham and the surrounding areas. There are numerous Raleigh-Durham golf courses, such as Hedingham Golf Club, Eagle Ridge Golf Club, Duke University Golf Club, Hillandale Golf Course and Lakeshore Golf Course, all of which are open to the public. There are also many private courses, resorts and golf communities in the area. Outdoor activities for more rugged spirits are also bountiful in the Triangle. William B. Umstead State Park, nestled between Raleigh, Cary, Durham and the Research Triangle Park’s corporate world, is like an oasis. Whether you prefer hiking, mountain biking, fishing, horseback riding, bird watching or just enjoying flowers and nature, this park has something for you. Beaches are only a short drive away from Raleigh and Durham, too.
If you are looking for a cultural activity, the Triangle will not disappoint. There are plenty of museums and theaters in the area, including the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, the North Carolina Museum of Art and the North Carolina Museum of History. The Exploris (Marble Kids Museum) is one of the most unique museums around, boasting outdoor and indoor attractions, as well as a 3D-capable IMAX theater. Many people come to the Raleigh-Durham–Chapel Hill area for business. The Research Triangle Park built in the 1950s became a center for many high-tech businesses, complexes and enterprises.
Shopping is plentiful in the Raleigh-Durham–Chapel Hill region as well. Professional shoppers should visit The Streets at Southpoint, one of the region’s largest malls, complete with fountains and an outdoor shopping section. For a more unique shopping experience, head over to South Hills Shopping Center and check out Grand Asia Market, one of North Carolina’s largest Asian markets. No matter what brings you to town, choose Extended Stay Hotels for a comfortable, convenient, and affordable hotel in the greater Raleigh-Durham metropolitan area.