A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Durham vs. Detroit for Attractions, Nightlife, Food, and Families

Should you visit Durham or Detroit?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Durham and Detroit can help you decide which place is right for you.

Durham

Durham is a sports oriented, diverse, and student-filled city. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Detroit

Detroit is a overlooked , under-rated, and hardworking city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Durham and Detroit: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Durham or Detroit?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Detroit than Durham, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Detroit is more popular for its nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Durham is known for its museums. Durham is popular for its college town vibe as well as being the home of the famous Blue Devil basketball team. Detroit is popular for its Motown music, blue collar atmosphere, and influential auto industry. It is also home to the Henry Ford Experience.

How is Durham different from Detroit?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Detroit and Durham. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Durham or Detroit?

Durham
Detroit

Durham is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Detroit is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Durham can be an interesting and educational experience. Duke University is one of the most popular destinations in town. There are several museums on campus as well as the famous Duke Chapel. Elsewhere in Durham there's the Durham Museum of Life and Science.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Detroit. Popular museums around town include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Michigan Science Center.


Is the Food Better in Durham or Detroit? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Durham
Detroit

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Durham and Detroit can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Durham area. Barbecue is a favorite around town. You'll also find plenty of restaurants that cater to the student population, particularly along Nineth Street near Duke's campus.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Detroit. There's a local flavor to the food with a number of classic dishes that are popular like square pizza, Coney dogs, and corned beef egg rolls.

Is Durham or Detroit Better for Nightlife?

Durham
Detroit

Detroit is a well-known place for its evening party scene. Also, Durham is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Detroit offers plenty to do in the evening. It's long history in music still influences the nightlife scene. You'll find bars, clubs, and other activities around town. Greektown and Midtown are both popular neighborhoods during the evening.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Durham. The younger population tends to hang out near campus and along Nineth Street. If you're looking for something less student oriented, head to downtown Durham.

Is Durham or Detroit Better for Music?

Durham
Detroit

Detroit is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Durham is not a live music destination.

In Detroit you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Few cities have such an influential music industry. It's home to Motown and is well known for its soul music, jazz, blues, and rap.

Durham is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Durham or Detroit?

Durham
Detroit

Both Durham and Detroit are good shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Durham to go shopping. The Streets of Southpoint is the best mall in the area. Other shopping areas include Brightleaf Square and Nineth Street.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Detroit. There are several shopping streets like Woodward Avenue. There are also outlet malls, shopping centers, and Eastern Market.

Is Durham or Detroit Better for Families?

Durham
Detroit

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Durham or Detroit.

Durham is a family-friendly place to visit. A highlight for kids is a visit to the Durham Museum of Life and Science. It has both an indoor and an outdoor section and brings science to life for families. There's also an impressive playground and climbing area. Other activities in town include the Notasium and Eno River State Park. If you plan ahead you could also organize a trip to the Duke Lemur Center.

Detroit is a family-friendly city. Head to the Detroit Zoo or check out one of the amusement parks in the area. Kids will enjoy a visit to Legoland and there's also the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium. You could also spend some time visiting the unique museums in the area.

Is Durham or Detroit Better for Couples?

Durham
Detroit

Durham is a nice place to visit for its romantic activities. However, Detroit is lacking in good options for couples.

Durham makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Have a picnic at the Sarah P. Duke Gardens or spend the day hiking at Eno River State Park. In the evening there's a wonderful selection of restaurants around town. Then you can check out a show at the Durham Performing Arts Center or see a Durham Bulls game.

Detroit is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's not a city that usually brings to mind romance, but if you find yourself here for a couple of days, there's a RiverWalk area and some interesting local neighborhoods.


Is Durham or Detroit Better for Students?

Durham
Detroit

Durham is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Detroit is not popular with students.

Durham is a great city to visit as a student. Duke University has a stunning campus with a world class garden. There's also nearby Nineth Street, which has shops, restaurants, and bars that are geared toward the student population.

Detroit is not popular with students.

Is Durham or Detroit Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Durham
Detroit

Both Durham and Detroit offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Durham. There are buses around town, but you really need a car to explore the area.

Public transit is mostly limited in Detroit. There's a streetcar and bus system, but the car is still king in Motor City.

Is Durham or Detroit a more walkable city?

Durham
Detroit

Detroit is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Durham is not a good city for its walkability.

Detroit is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of downtown Detroit that are walkable, but most people need a car to get around.

Durham is generally not a very walkable city. Downtown Durham and a few areas near Duke University are the most walkable areas.


For even more information, also check out Is Durham Worth Visiting? and Is Detroit Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Detroit or Durham?

How long in Durham or Detroit?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Durham and Detroit. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Couples should spend more time in Durham than Detroit. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Durham that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Detroit than Durham if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Detroit.


  • How many days in Durham or Detroit? Ideal Length of Stay
    Durham 1-3 
    Detroit 1-3

One day in Durham or Detroit?

In Durham, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Detroit. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Durham or Detroit?

In Durham, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Durham has to offer.

Detroit is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Durham or Detroit?

Durham is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Detroit. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Durham or Detroit?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Durham. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Durham. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the hardworking destination of Detroit. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Detroit or Durham?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Durham is $162, while the average daily cost in Detroit is $133. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Durham and Detroit in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Durham $92
    Detroit $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Durham $184
    Detroit $128
Compare Hotels in Durham and Detroit

Looking for a hotel in Durham or Detroit? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Durham


Hotels in Detroit


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Durham Hotel Prices and Detroit Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Durham $33
    Detroit $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Detroit

Also for Detroit, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Departure Transfer to Detroit Airport DTW: $61
  • Detroit - Wayne County Airport One Way Transfer : $80
  • Private Departure Transfer - to Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Private Arrival Transfer - from Detroit Airport (DTW) by SUV: $90
  • Detroit City to Detroit Airport (DTW) - Departure Private Transfer: $95
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Arrival Private Transfer: $95
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Business Car: $100
  • Departure Private Transfer: Detroit to Detroit Airport DTW in Luxury SUV: $131
  • Private Transfer from Detroit (DTW) Airport to Detroit City: $143
  • Private Transfer from Detroit City to Detroit (DTW) Airport: $143
  • Detroit Airport (DTW) to Detroit City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $189

Is it cheaper to fly into Durham or Detroit?

Prices for flights to both Detroit and Durham change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Durham $44
    Detroit $44

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Detroit

For Detroit, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Fresh Mediterranean Inspired Cooking Class in a Unique Detroit Home: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Durham $26
    Detroit $21

Tours and Activities in Durham

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Durham are as follows:

  • Downtown Durham Historic Walking Tour: $16
  • Durham African American History Tour: $16
  • Durham NC: Art Walking Tour: $20
  • True Crime Tour: $13

Tours and Activities in Detroit

For Detroit, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Spirit and History Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.50
  • Detroit Tigers Baseball Game Ticket at Comerica Park: $6.64
  • Self Guided "Detroit's Spirit and History" Solo Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Ann Arbor by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Ann Arbor by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure Self-Guided City Game: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Windsor by Wacky Walks: $11
  • Ann Arbor Scavenger Hunt: Ann Arbor Adventure: $12
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience Ann Arbor, MI: $15
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Ann Arbor with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Detroit Pistons Basketball Game Ticket: $23
  • Detroit Pistons Basketball Game Ticket at Little Caesars Arena: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Durham $34
    Detroit $20


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Durham and Detroit, we can see that Durham is more expensive. And not only is Detroit much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Detroit would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Detroit and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Durham would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Durham than you might in Detroit.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Durham Expensive? and Is Detroit Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Durham or Detroit?

Detroit has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Durham. When comparing the sizes of Durham and Detroit, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Durham or Detroit?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Durham or Detroit in the Summer?

Both Detroit and Durham during the summer are popular places to visit. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Durham this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Detroit for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Durham is generally a little warmer than Detroit. Daily temperatures in Durham average around 79°F (26°C), and Detroit fluctuates around 74°F (24°C).

In Detroit, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Durham. In the summer, Durham often gets less sunshine than Detroit. Durham gets 259 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 319 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Durham. Durham usually gets more rain in July than Detroit. Durham gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.4 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Durham 79°F (26°C) 
    Detroit 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Durham or Detroit in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Durham and Detroit. Many travelers come to Durham for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Detroit in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Durham is a little warmer than Detroit in the autumn. The daily temperature in Durham averages around 61°F (16°C) in October, and Detroit fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In Durham, it's very sunny this time of the year. Durham usually receives more sunshine than Detroit during autumn. Durham gets 211 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 172 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Durham usually receives more rain than Detroit. Durham gets 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Durham 61°F (16°C) 
    Detroit 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Durham or Detroit in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Durham as well as Detroit. Many visitors come to Durham in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Detroit for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Detroit can be very cold during winter. Durham can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Durham is much warmer than Detroit. Typically, the winter temperatures in Durham in January average around 40°F (5°C), and Detroit averages at about 25°F (-4°C).

In the winter, Durham often gets more sunshine than Detroit. Durham gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Detroit receives 120 hours of full sun.

Durham usually gets more rain in January than Detroit. Durham gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 2 inches (50 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Durham 40°F (5°C) 
    Detroit 25°F (-4°C)

Should I visit Durham or Detroit in the Spring?

Both Detroit and Durham are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Detroit because of the activities around the city.

In April, Durham is generally much warmer than Detroit. Daily temperatures in Durham average around 60°F (16°C), and Detroit fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Detroit. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Durham. Durham usually receives more sunshine than Detroit during spring. Durham gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Detroit receives 223 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Durham usually receives around the same amount of rain as Detroit. Durham gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Detroit receives 3.2 inches (80 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Durham 60°F (16°C) 
    Detroit 49°F (9°C)

Typical Weather for Detroit and Durham

Durham Detroit
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 2 inches (50 mm)
Feb 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm)
Mar 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 37°F (3°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Apr 60°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.2 inches (80 mm)
May 68°F (20°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3 inches (76 mm)
Jun 76°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 70°F (21°C) 3.8 inches (97 mm)
Jul 79°F (26°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 74°F (24°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Aug 78°F (26°C) 4.9 inches (125 mm) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 61°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 54°F (12°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm)
Nov 53°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Dec 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 31°F (-1°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)