Life in Durham and Surrounding Areas

Those who live in Durham get the best of both worlds--breathtaking scenery and the slower pace of New England country and small-town life, with the ability to access the best in arts, culture, and sporting events whenever one wants to.

The Seacoast

Visit the sandy ocean beaches at Wallis Sands or the rocky wildlife refuge at Odiorne Point. Challenge yourself by kayaking out of Oyster River and into Great Bay, New Hampshire's unique salt marsh bay and estuary. If you're a history buff, explore old bunkers at Fort Foster in Kittery, Maine, or take a cruise on the Piscataqua to learn about WWII submarines that navigated in and out of the Navy Yard (including the famous "Thresher" that sank off the coast), colonial settlements on Strawbery Banke, and the first six story "skyscrapers" built on Ceres Street in Portsmouth.

The White Mountains

In the winter, travel north for some fine skiing in New Hampshire's famous White Mountains. Or go hiking, camping, and shopping there in the summer (New Hampshire has no sales tax). With gorges, notches, and spectacular views all the way to Canada from some areas, you'll never be disappointed by what awaits you.

Sports

Enjoy a round of golf at nearby Rockingham Country Club or at any of the area's many quality courses. Play tennis or swim at the facilities on the UNH campus or work out at any of the nearby state-of-the-art athletic clubs.

Culture and Dining

Take in an evening show at the University's impressive new Whittemore Center or cheer on the college teams of UNH and the Yankee Conference. Visit the many art galleries of nearby Portsmouth, or go out for a night of theater at the Seacoast Repertory or the UNH campus. The Music Hall in Portsmouth offers the best in independent and art films, as well as concerts and shows by nationally known musicians and performance artists. If it's food you're looking for, you won't have to go far--Portsmouth has the most restaurants per capita in the country! From all-night breakfast to lunches at bistros to gourmet fresh seafood dining, you're bound to find what you're craving. Speaking of atmosphere and fine food, check out the Three Chimneys Inn, situated at the edge of downtown Durham. It's a night you'll remember.