Durham, Connecticut Travel Guide – History, Travel, Hotels, and More!

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life in Durham, Connecticut. This charming rural town offers a perfect blend of comfort and tranquility. You’ll find peace in Durham’s scenic landscapes, from rolling hills to lush forests. Durham shines brightest during its annual Durham Fair, a beloved event drawing over 200,000 visitors each fall. It’s a chance to experience small-town warmth and community spirit at its finest.

Nature lovers, you’re in for a treat. Durham boasts easy access to Miller Pond State Park and Tri-Mountain State Park. These outdoor havens provide ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and simply soaking in the beauty of Connecticut’s countryside.

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Whether you’re seeking a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Durham promises a refreshing break from the everyday grind.

How To Get To Durham

Durham, Connecticut is easy to reach by various means of transportation. You have several options to get there quickly and comfortably. By car, Durham is accessible via major highways. Take I-91 and exit onto Route 68 or Route 17. The drive is scenic and takes about 30 minutes from Hartford. Renting a car is a good choice if you want freedom to explore. It allows you to visit nearby attractions at your own pace.

Public transportation is available too. The closest train station is in Meriden, about 15 minutes away. From there, you can take a short taxi ride to Durham.

For those flying in, the nearest airports are:

Bradley International Airport (BDL) – 45 minutes away
Tweed New Haven Airport (HVN) – 30 minutes away

Book a flight to either of these airports for easy access to Durham. Once in Durham, getting around is simple. The town is small and walkable. For longer trips, taxis and rideshare services are available. Remember to check traffic conditions before your trip. This helps you plan the best route and avoid delays.

What To See In Durham

Durham offers a mix of rural charm and natural beauty. You’ll find plenty to explore in this quaint Connecticut town. The Durham Fair is a must-see event. Held annually since 1916, it’s one of the largest agricultural fairs in New England. You can enjoy rides, food, and live entertainment. Nature lovers will want to visit Tri-Mountain State Park. It offers scenic trails for hiking and stunning views of the surrounding area.

Durham’s serene landscapes are perfect for a relaxing drive. You’ll pass by picturesque farms and rolling hills. For a taste of local flavor, stop by a deli in town. You can grab a sandwich and have a picnic in one of Durham’s lovely parks. Don’t miss the chance to visit some of Durham’s historic farms. Many offer tours where you can learn about local agriculture and even pick your own produce. Remember to bring your camera. Durham’s natural beauty provides plenty of photo opportunities. From lush forests to open fields, you’ll find countless scenic spots to capture.

Read our articles on the best things to do in Durham, Connecticut and best restaurants in Durham, Connecticut for even more ideas!

Where to Stay in Durham

Read our article on hotels near Durham, Connecticut for the best options for your stay. Here’s a short list of some options:

If you’re looking to stay in a vacation home, apartment, BnB, or VRBO in Durham, Connecticut, we recommend you search on VRBO, Hotels.com, and Booking.com for up-to-date options.

History of Durham

Durham, Connecticut has a rich past dating back to 1699. The town got its name in May 1708 and became official in October that year. Originally, Native Americans called the area Coginchaug, meaning “long swamp.” The Mattabesset people often visited this land. Durham started as a farming community. It’s part of Middlesex County and sits just south of Middletown on the Coginchaug River.

The town played a role in early American transportation. You can learn about stagecoach travel in Durham at the local historical society. Durham’s history also includes some surprising industries. Did you know there was once coal mining in Durham? To dive deeper into Durham’s past, you can visit the Durham Historical Society. They offer exhibits and information about the town’s development over the centuries.

Towns Near Durham

Durham, Connecticut is surrounded by charming towns worth exploring. You’ll find plenty of options for day trips and short getaways. Middletown is just a 15-minute drive north. This vibrant city offers great restaurants and shops along Main Street. Don’t miss the Wesleyan University campus and its art museum.

Head east to Middlefield for rural beauty and outdoor activities. You can pick apples at Lyman Orchards or hit the slopes at Powder Ridge Mountain Park in winter. To the west, Wallingford boasts a quaint downtown with historic buildings. Stop by for antique shopping or a meal at one of the local eateries. South of Durham, you’ll discover Guilford. This coastal town features a picturesque town green and beautiful beaches. Spend an afternoon strolling the shops or relaxing by the water.

For bigger city experiences, New Haven is about 30 minutes away. Home to Yale University, it offers world-class museums, theaters, and dining options. Hartford, the state capital, lies 30 minutes north. Here you can tour the Mark Twain House or catch a show at the Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts.

Durham 2025 Deals!
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Durham! Look for deals here:
Durham Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs