DUKE VISITOR’S GUIDE DUKE
WELCOME TO DUKE
NOW LEASING
Next Level Amenities, Vibrant Social Spaces. Centrally Located. Footsteps from Target, Fitness, Restaurants and Retail.
• Adjacent to retail, restaurants, coffee, fitness, Super Target.
• Studios, 1, 2, & 3 Bedrooms
• Co-Working Lounge with Private Study Rooms
• Market Leading Tech Amenities
• High-speed Wi-Fi throughout
• Gated Community with Controlled Building Access and Elevators
• Pet Friendly with private pet runs
• 9’ & 1 o· ceilings
• Full size front loading washer/dryer included
• Package Lockers
• Over 50 murals at UHILL Walls!
DUKE UNIVERSITY Welcome to
On behalf of The Chronicle, we're glad you're here. We hope this guide will help you get acclimated into your new community. Keep up with all Duke University and Durham news at DukeChronicle.com.
DUKE'S HISTORY AT A GLANCE
In 1838, Brown Schoolhouse was opened by Methodists and Quakers. Within fifteen years, it handed out its first bachelor’s degree and rebranded to Normal College. Six years after that it was renamed to Trinity College, beginning to resemble the university we know today.
During the late 1800s, the first women, international student, and Indigenous American student graduated.
In the 1920s, Duke University adopted its current name. James Buchanan Duke renamed the school to honor family members like his late father and tobacco businessman, Washington Duke. The signature moniker Blue Devils was introduced, and the first class of doctors graduated, setting into motion a legacy of world-class academics.
Today, our university sustains elements of the past–our school pride associated with the bold blue hue adopted in 1889–but has also changed, throwing critical historical facts into relief. Like many universities, Duke was racially segregated until the 1960s, and only hired its first black faculty member in 1966. The university has also relied on enslaved labor and workers of color to upkeep the famously manicured campus grounds, to inadequate recognition.
Duke academics remain topnotch, and the university maintains its respected name, especially as empowered students and staff move towards more and more inspiring change. We are fortunate to have a history that has not only given us an illustrious reputation, but allows us to create positive impacts that are real, passionately fueled, and will take that reputation to new and modern heights. Go Duke!
EAST CAMPUS
WEST CAMPUS
All first-year students are required to live in one of 12 residence halls on East Campus. East Campus was originally the site of Trinity College and the Women’s College from 1930-1972, but it became first-year exclusive in 1995. The main features on East Campus include Lilly Library, The Ark dance studio, and Marketplace—the first-year dining hall.
West Campus, home of the famous Chapel, features many other Duke favorites including Cameron Indoor and Wallace Wade Stadium. The campus was created in 1924 when Trinity College underwent an expansion as a result of the Duke Endowment. Sophomores, juniors, and seniors live on West Campus in one of its eight quadrangles. The Richard H. Brodhead Center for Campus Life offers an array of dining venues and study rooms. Additionally, the Duke Student Wellness Center is the home of Counseling & Psychological Services, Student Health, a tranquil garden, the “Oasis” which has a massage chair, meditation pillows and more.
DUKE ATHLETICS
DUKE GARDENS
Since the school’s birth year, our athletics have been enviable. The 1938 football team was known as the Iron Dukes for their impenetrable defense line, and since then our 27 sports teams have flourished. Men’s basketball has won five NCAA Division I championships, thanks to recently retired icon Coach Krzyzewski and his 42-year long career.
More than 900 species and miles of green space started with a simple wish in the 1930’s–Dr. Frederic Hanes, gardener and medical faculty, was determined to turn a debris-filled ravine into something beautiful. He persuaded Sarah P. Duke to donate $20,000 to the cause, and in 1935 over 100 flower beds were planted. Mary Duke Biddle and land designer Ellen Biddle Shipman gave the garden new life after heavy storms and floods, and their creation is still flourishing today.
THE NASHER MUSEUM
In 1969, the acquisition of 200 medieval works allowed the concept of a Duke University Museum of Art to be born. In 2005, the sleek, modern Nasher Museum we know today gave a new home to art housed in a former science building on East Campus. As Raymond D. Nasher, Duke alumnus, collector, and benefactor gazed at the new construction, he supposedly claimed, “This will be one of the most important, most interesting university art museums in the country.”
GOTHIC ARCHITECTURE
West Campus features the most architectural diversity, blending Georgian, the most modern of the modern, and Duke’s signature gothic styles. You can’t miss the Chapel, the intricate and gargantuan pinnacle around which other campus buildings revolve. Julian Abele, prominent African-American architect, served as the chief planner of the university campus from 1924 through the 1950s. Mr. Abele designed the Duke Chapel, among other gothic style buildings on campus like Baldwin Auditorium, Cameron Indoor Stadium, and the Duke Medical School.
Garden Gateway,
Sarah P. Duke Gardens is growing with construction of the a transformational renovation and expansion project designed to enrich the experience for all visitors, opening in 2026.
Duke Gardens
Visitors can continue to enjoy the grounds of Duke Gardens throughout construction, with a few important changes:
Visitors will enter through a temporary pedestrian entrance at 2000 Lewis St. or through one of the gates bordering West Campus.
There is no on-site visitor parking Monday-Friday. We encourage walking, biking or using rideshare options.
If you are arriving by car, we recommend you visit on the weekend, when visitor parking is available in nearby campus lots.
GETTING AROUND
Free and accessible transit services run throughout the campuses and Medical Center!
Bus Routes
C1: East-West
Provides service between East and West Campus at 5-minute intervals to all stops along Campus Drive.
LL: LaSalle Loop
Travels from Circuit Drive, Morreene Road, Campus Walk Avenue and LaSalle Street.
SWS: Swift Avenue Shuttle
Provides service between Swift Avenue, Blue Light, and West Campus at 17-minute intervals.
H2: Hospital Loop
Travels between Parking Garage 3 and remote parking on Hillsborough Rd via Duke Medical Pavilion, Duke Clinic, and Duke Hospital.
RSX: Robertson Express Route
Provides service between Duke and UNC-Chapel Hill every hour, 30 minutes past the hour.
PR1: Basset Research
Serves West Campus from the Grounds lot on Cameron Blvd./Coach K Highway, Science Drive to the Bryan Center, and Circuit Drive to Research Drive and Entry 11 at the Duke Clinics every 25-30 minutes.
Students can track buses at any of the 113 bus stops on and around campus through TransLoc, Duke’s GPS transit system app, available on all smartphones. You can also track Duke Transit buses at parking.duke.edu/track or regional buses at live.gotriangle.org.
Duke’s Signature Living and Learning Experience
Are you interested in the intersection of neuroscience and law? What about science and religion? If so,Duke’sFocusProgramis foryou!Asa FOCUSstudent,youwillexplorea rangeof interdisciplinarytopicsthroughsmallseminar clusters,makelastingconnectionswithyour professorsandclassmatesoverweeklydinners,and shareanEastCampusresidencehallwithother FOCUSstudents.Mostimportantly,youwillbe encouragedtobeintellectuallyandacademicallycurious. The FOCUS Program is open to both first-year Trinity students and first-year Pratt students.
FOCUS OVERVIEW
Two courses (18 students per class or fewer); fall semester only
Weekly dinners with FOCUS cluster faculty,plus additional educational enhancement activities
Living-learning communities in residence halls for full first year
Mentorship from former FOCUS students and faculty.
Cognitive Neuroscience and Law
Free for All: Freedom, Justice, and Citizenship
Exploration of Genetics and Genomics
Geopolitics and Culture
Global Energy: Past, Present, and Future
Global Health: Problems and Paradigms
Humanitarian Challenges
Implications of Artificial Intelligence and Large Language Modules
It’s Not Too Late to Build a Better World Knowledge in the Service of Society
Medicine, Ethics, and Health Policy
Modeling in the Economic and Social Sciences
Science and Religion in Public Life
Science and the Public Science, Invention, and Imagination in the Renaissance
The American Experiences
Thinking through Music and the Arts
Virtual Realities, Fictional Worlds, and Games
Visions of Freedom
GETTING AROUNDAlternative Transportation
Students and employees can also ride in Duke-operated vans during dusk-to-dawn hours to and from campus and Medical Center areas when bus service is not available.
DUKE VANSGO PASSBICYCLING
Alows all students and eligible faculty and staff to take unlimited rides on GoDurham, GoTriangle, and GoRaleigh. GoPass is free for students but not staff/faculty (parking.duke. edu/buses/gopass)
Bicycling at Duke is an ideal way to get around, whether for exercise or transportation. We make it easy and convenient for you to park your bike safely and close to a building.
Close-Act Theatre: Birdmen Duke’s East Campus, 2023 photo by Bill Snead/Duke University
CAMERON INDOOR
STADIUM
BASKETBALL Highlights
Welcome to the beating heart of Duke University's basketball legacy—Cameron Indoor Stadium. Steeped in history and echoing with the roar of Blue Devil fervor, Cameron is more than just a venue; it's a sacred space where dreams are realized and champions are crowned. From its intimate confines to its famed "Cameron Crazies" student section, every corner of this iconic arena pulsates with the energy of a thousand victories. Whether you're cheering courtside or witnessing history from the rafters, stepping into Cameron is an unforgettable journey for any basketball aficionado.
DUKE BASKETBALL MUSEUM
Step into the hallowed halls of the Duke Basketball Museum, located adjacent to Cameron in the Schwartz/Butters Athletic Center. Amidst the gleaming trophies and cherished memorabilia, the rich tapestry of Blue Devil history unfolds before your eyes. Trace the footsteps of basketball legends, from Coach K's storied leadership to the iconic moments that have etched themselves into the annals of college basketball lore. See a multitude of trophy displays–including five title trophies–interactive videos, and memorabilia all under this one roof. Whether you're a lifelong fan or a newcomer to the game, the Duke Basketball Museum is a journey through time that will leave you awestruck.
K-VILLE
Nestled at the heart of Duke University's campus lies Krzyzewskiville (KVille), a vibrant hub of Blue Devil pride and tradition. Known as the tenting grounds, K-Ville is where dedicated students pitch their tents days in advance, braving the elements with unwavering spirit to secure prime seating for Duke basketball games at Cameron Indoor Stadium. It's more than just a place to camp out—it's a community, where bonds are forged, chants echo through the night, and anticipation builds for the electrifying moments on the court. Whether you're a die-hard fan or simply curious about the fervor surrounding Duke basketball, a visit to K-Ville is an essential part of the Blue Devil experience.
By Amy Guan
When Duke sports fans enter Wallace Wade and Cameron Indoor Stadium, they are greeted not only by the cheers of thousands of spectators, but also by the sound of “Fight, Fight,” played by students in blue and white uniforms.
One of Duke’s oldest student organizations, students in the Duke Athletics Band have performed music to charge up Duke fans since the early 1900s.
Today, the Duke Athletics Band is home to 93 student musicians. Members start the fall semester in Duke Marching Band, which plays at football games, and transition into Pep Band, which plays in the stands at basketball games.
The band has an extensive leadership team consisting of a band director, assistant band director, student leadership team and section leaders. Jeff Au, band director for Duke Athletics, works with Assistant Band Director Leigh-Ann Lethco to arrange music, organize logistics for football game days and manage the band’s budget and student recruitment efforts.
Senior Rachel Washart, a piccoloist and president of the band, describes it as a “student-forward” organization. While Duke Athletics provides the band with the resources and support they need, she notes that students can push for the direction they want to take the band in to create “the best band experience for themselves.”
Compared to other university bands, the Duke Athletics Band is significantly smaller and practices fewer times per week. Washart says that while most college marching bands practice two to three times a day, the band comes together about two to three times a week.
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF DUKE UNIVERSITY
PHOTOS COURTESY OF WEN CHEN
blue devil The Chronicle coins the
By Ryan Kilgallen
Duke is instantly identifiable by its iconic Blue Devil mascot and deep blue color. Yet, at its inception, such imagery was entirely absent from Duke’s predecessor Brown’s Schoolhouse — later renamed Trinity College.
It took over 50 years for Trinity College to claim its “deep dark blue,” and another 30 years for the first Blue Devil to appear on Duke’s campus.
After hiring then-President John Franklin Crowell, Trinity founded its first football team in 1888. Crowell assumed the role of coach and led the Trinity team to its first
game against the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill that same year. The game also marked the first athletic competition between the two teams, who would later be coined as the Tobacco Road rivals.
While the origins of Duke Blue are disputed, one account traces the color choice to the alma mater of a new president.
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Eat the Town
BREAKFAST
Build your own bagel sandwich Monuts, 1002 Ninth St.
Delicious with fried eggs and multiple types of cream cheese. Pairs great with a seasonal latte and a donut or sweet treat to go!
LUNCH
Ahi Poke Bowl
Happy and Hale, 703B Ninth St.
All of Happy and Hale’s bowls are super refreshing and easily customizable. The wide variety of sauces are my favorite part!
DINNER
Pho Ga Rau Cai
Bahn’s Cuisine, 750 Ninth St.
Delicious Vietnamese and Chinese food with great prices! Best noodles on Ninth St hands down!
DESSERT
Earl Grey Bubble Milk Tea
Moge Tea, 760 Ninth St.
Amazing selections of milk and fruit teas with lots of options for toppings and add-ins. My favorite bubble tea spot near campus!
PHOTO CREDITS:
TOP LEFT: SAMMY SOLOMON, COURTESY OF SPOON UNIVERSITY
TOP RIGHT: JIM LIU | THE CHRONICLE
VEGAN Eat the Town
BREAKFAST
Strawberry Power Bowl
Juicekeys, 110 N Corcoran St.
LUNCH
DINNER
Vegan Arepas
The smoothies are really creamy and almost taste like ice cream! Juicekeys has great toppings selections, from fresh fruit to granola to coconut chips and homemade maple cream.
NC BBQ & Slaw Sandwich
Pure Soul, 4125 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd Suite
Pure Soul is an all-vegan soul food restaurant serving plant-based versions of all your favorite southern classics, like shrimp po-boys, mac and cheese, coleslaw, chicken wings, and barbeque. There are so many great options to choose from and everything is delicious!
Guasaca, A-100, Erwin Square, 2200 W Main St
Amazing Venezuelan food at an affordable price! The vegan arepas come with beans, plantains, and lots of flavorful veggies.
DESSERT
Vegan Dipped Soft Serve
Simon Says Dip This, 117 W. Parrish St.
Simon Says Dip This is a build-your-own custom dipped ice cream stop with over 24 flavors of dips and a variety of toppings. I personally love the non-dairy soft-serve with brownie batter dip, peanut butter filling, and topped with crushed Oreos!
Department of Duke University Stores®
BRUNCH
Eggs & Pancakes
DINNER
Elmo’s Diner, 776 9th St
Classic brunch spot right off East Campus. Great for lazy weekends!
8pc Boneless Spicy BBQ Wings
Heavenly Buffaloes, 1807 W Markham Ave and 2816 Erwin Rd
My favorite place to get wings near Duke! Pairs great with their garlic parmesan waffle fries!
LATE NIGHT
Old School Chicken Burrito Cosmic Cantina, 1920 Perry St
The perfect comfort food after a night out!
DURHAM TOFFEE COMPANY
The Bull City’s Toffee Artisans
Every small batch of buttery-crunch toffee is stirred by hand, melts in your mouth, and is utterly unforgettable. Durham Toffee Company is a family enterprise creating sweet gifts that foster connection.
Enjoy our Toffee, Brittled Nut Clusters, and Signature Mash Up too! Use code DUKE 20 to receive 20% at durhamtoffee.com.
MAKING SENSE. MAKING CHANGE.
Duke Initiative for Science & Society
Undergraduate Certificate Programs
Our curriculum will train you to understand the ethical, legal, and social implications of your education and better prepare you for success in your field. Certificate graduates are eligible for a 50% merit scholarship toward the Duke Master’s in Applied Ethics & Policy.
Science and the Public Certificate
Into STEM but want more than data? Want to delve into how we actually price drugs, deal with climate change, publish research, talk to conspiracy theorists, and regulate gene editing? Check us out!
Digital Intelligence Certificate
Building the next big thing in tech or curious how tech affects society in unexpected ways? Want to explore where innovation aligns - or doesn’t - with humanity’s best interests? Develop your Digital Intelligence! scienceandsociety.duke.edu/dq scienceandsociety.duke.edu/satp
GOING OUT ON THE TOWN in Durham
Moon Dog Meadery
OPEN MICS FOR MUSICIANS, COMEDIANS, POETS & STORYTELLERS
1104 Broad St Suite C Sundays at 7pm
206 Broadway St #104
Durty Bull Brewing Company
Comedy Mic, Fridays at 8pm
Common Ground
1821 Green Street Thursdays at 7pm
Devine’s Sports Bar and Grill
904 W Main St, Durham Mondays at 8pm
Blue Note Grill
709 Washington Street
310 E Main St
Missy Lane’s Assembly Room
Eloquent Soul Open Mic with live band (Music), Tuesdays at 7pm
Brett Chambers Open Mic (Music), Wednesdays 7-10pm and Triangle Society Blues Jam first Tuesday of the month 6-8pm
NATURE
American Tobacco Trail (22+ miles) Entrance Morehead Ave.
Ellerbee Creek Trails (1.2-2.5 miles) Entrances at Club Boulevard, Trinity Boulevard, and Glendale Avenue
Al Buehler Trail (3 miles) 3001 Cameron Blvd
Eno River State Park (1-15+) Entrance 6101 Cole Mill Rd
Duke Forest Trails (1-4 miles) Entrance NC-751
Duke Gardens Trails (1 mile) 420 Anderson St
FITNESS
Ninth Street Dance 1920 Perry St
Yoga Off East American Tobacco Campus
Threehouse Studios (Yoga) 1505 Morehead Ave
Pure Barre 737 9th St #260
The Method Training (Personal Training) 719 Broad St
Base Moves | Pilates Reformer & Mat Studio
2524 University Drive
The Movement Studio 2007 Chapel Hill Rd
Blue Point Yoga 2816 Erwin Rd Suite 203
Durham Cycles 756 9th St
Durham School for Ballet and Performing Arts 608 N Duke St
DAYTIME
Durham Farmers Market (Saturdays 8am-12pm) 501 Foster St
The Durham Museum 500 W Main St
The Museum of Life and Science 433 W. Murray Ave
Durham Public Library 300 N Roxboro St
ENTERTAINMENT
Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) 123 Vivian Street
The Carolina Theatre of Durham 309 West Morgan St
The Fruit 305 S. Dillard St.
Pinhook 117 W Main St.
Motorco Music Hall 723 Rigsbee Ave
Boxcar Bar and Arcade 621 Foster St.
PHOTO COURTESY OF YOGA OFF EAST
2025 American Dance Festival
NIGHT-LIFE
Alley
320 E. Chapel Hill St.
Kingfisher 321 E. Chapel Hill St.
Arcana
331 W. Main St.
Dashi Izakaya
E. Chapel Hill St.
Pour
The
Rubies
Remedy
Devine’s
Bull
James
PHOTO COURTESY OF BULL MCCABES IRISH PUB
arts at duke
Theater
Perform—The Department of Theater Studies offers students multiple opportunities to both study and practice theater, with courses in dramatic literature and theater arts. The department faculty includes theater professionals in acting, administration, design, directing and playwriting.
Watch—Courses are accompanied by productions from all over the world, and the department invites numerous award-winning theater artists to campus each year. Hoof ‘n’ Horn, Duke’s musical theater student group, has presented sold-out shows in the Ruby’s von der Heyden Studio Theater.
Music Dance
Play—Explore new realms of musical creativity and refine performance skills in courses, one-on-one instrumental lessons, master classes and ensembles. Use your playing to further social change beyond campus through Duke’s partnerships with El Sistema USA and the Duke University String School.
Listen—Absorb the melodies of the Jazz Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, Duke Opera Workshop, Duke Chorale and Duke’s many a cappella groups. Students can purchase tickets to most Duke Performances’ concerts for $10. The university’s professional performing arts presenting organization invites acclaimed international and national artists into venues including the beautiful Baldwin Auditorium on East Campus. Find your music community on campus through the student-run record label (Small Town Records) or radio station (WXDU).
Eat the Town
tunities are also offered, which include working with artists and musicians. Duke also has 19 student dance groups, ranging from hip-hop to classical Indian dance.
Perform—The Dance Programs offers multi-level African, ballet, modern and jazz technique and repertoire classes, as well as a dance major and minor, and an MFA. A variety of solo and group performing opportunities are also offered, which include working with faculty and student choreographers and invited guest
Watch—See live dance from visiting artists and students on one of Duke’s many stages. Performances are held both on-campus in spaces such as Reynolds Theatre, and in off-campus locations such as the Durham Performing Arts Center.
Arts Career Development
Connect with alumni in creative careers through Duke’s Entertainment, Media, and Arts Network (DEMAN) through the annual DEMAN Weekend in the fall or year-round gatherings. Apply to StudioDuke with a creative project for the chance to develop it with a professional mentor. Work as a member of the Creative Arts Student Team (CASTs) or take “Introduction to Performing Arts Management” to gain insight into careers in arts management.
Artstigators
“Artstigating” is a way for students to build their own arts culture on campus and connect to community creativity in Durham and beyond.
Two ways to artstigate: 1. Follow @artstigators on Instagram and Twitter and spread the word! 2. Tag photos/videos #artstigators to share your artstigating in action.
• Duke & Duke Health Clothing
• Medical Instruments
• Scrubs & Lab Coats
• Gift Items
Room 0001, Lower Level, Duke Clinic
919.684.2717
Monday - Friday: 8:30am - 5:00pm
Stop by our location on the lower level of the Duke Clinic in Room 0001 near the food court. The store provides instruments for the Medical Center's students, faculty, and staff. The store also carries a wide selection of Duke and Duke Health clothing and gift items, office and school supplies, scrubs & lab coats, alumni chairs, and children's gifts.
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ARTS ACTIVITIES Free!
NASHER MUSEUM OF ART
The Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University is a major center for the arts in Durham, North Carolina, and the surrounding region. The 65,000-square-foot building was designed by architect Rafael Viñoly. Since opening in 2005, the museum has organized and presented leading-edge exhibitions that travel worldwide. From the beginning, the Nasher Museum has been dedicated to building a groundbreaking collection of contemporary art. In this effort, the museum’s collection strategy emphasizes works by diverse artists who have been historically underrepresented. Public programs include lectures, talks, educational tours and events featuring artists, scholars and community leaders. Parker & Otis at the Nasher Museum offers gifts inspired by art. More than 1 million people have visited the museum since 2005.
THE ARTS ANNEX
The Nasher Museum of Art is located at 2001 Campus Drive, right across from the Rubenstein Arts Center, and can be accessed by the C1 and CSW routes. The Nasher Art Museum Cafe, which accepts food points, is a great place to dine. Opening hours can be found on the Nasher Museum of Art website.
The Arts Annex is a gem for seasoned artists and beginners alike, serving as a hub for the campus arts scene and brimming with resources for you to express your creativity in various mediums. This includes everything from paints, crafting items and brushes to screen-printing, ceramics and visual arts studios. Whether you’re just stopping by to clear your head or ready to embark on an artistic adventure, student staff members are available every step of the way for assistance. Located between East Campus and the
Rubenstein Arts Center at 404 Gattis St., the Arts Annex is easily accessible via the C1 and CSW bus routes, with its own dedicated stop on both lines. Once getting off the bus, follow the path until you reach a gate that will open with your student ID, then proceed through the courtyard into the Annex.
THE RUBENSTEIN
Whether you’re a jack of all trades or a jack of no trades, the Rubenstein Arts Center, known by students as the Ruby, has something for you. A hub for artists of all crafts, the Ruby has dance studios, media production studios, a film theater and a studio theater. And when it comes to visual arts, the Ruby’s Badger-Mars Visual Arts Wing is the place to be. Its painting studio welcomes visiting artists and art project residents and features resources such as easels, north-facing windows, a mess sink and ventilation. The wing is also home to Duke’s largest Innovation Co-Lab and multipurpose studios, which can be used to host exhibits or dance practices. The Ruby is located at 2020 Campus Drive, between East and West Campus, and is right across from the Nasher Museum.
INNOVATION CO-LABS
There are a total of 3 Innovation Co-Labs on Duke's campus, which are free for all students to use. Located in Lilly Library on East Campus, the Rubenstein Arts Center and the Technology Engagement Center, the Co-Labs combined boast technologies such as 3D Printers, a shopbot CNC router, a laser cutter and engraver, a vinyl cutter, hand tools, soldering equipment, workbenches and PC workstations. While no experience is required to take advantage of these resources, some machines may require assistance from staff members to operate.
WORK IT OUT Get moving!
WILSON RECREATION CENTER
This 99,000-square-foot facility boasts classrooms, courts and fitness areas, as well as a pool, rock climbing wall and smoothie bar. The eight-lane, 25-yard Taishoff Aquatics Pavilion offers lap swimming and has its own deep-water diving well. The wall stands 35 feet tall 11 ropes and over 1400 square feet of climbing surface.
BRODIE RECREATION CENTER
INTRAMURAL SPORTS AND SPORT CLUBS
Students have the opportunity to participate in open, men’s, women’s, co-ed recreational and competitive sporting activities including flag football, soccer, volleyball, softball, basketball and ultimate frisbee. Plus, there are over 30 sports clubs to choose from including Badminton, Basketball, Equestrian, Quidditch, Krav Maga, Soccer and Triathlon.
The 50,000-square-foot facility houses more courts, weight rooms and fitness areas as well as its own pool and group fitness classes. The Brodie Aquatics Center is a four-lane, 25yard facility that hosts swim instruction, Physical Education classes, and special events.
Top to bottom: Wilson Recreation Center, Brodie Recreation Center, Quidditch intramural club
WORK IT OUT Get moving!
EAST CAMPUS LOOP
ENO RIVER STATE PARK
The 1.7 mile loop around East Campus is an extremely popular running and walking trail for Duke students, employees and the greater Triangle community.
DUKE FOREST
The Duke Forest is owned and managed by Duke University. It consists of over 7,000 acres of forested land and open fields in Durham, Orange, and Alamance counties. It has been managed for teaching and research purposes since 1931. There are six great trails for hiking and walking and more ranging from easy hiking trails to a little more strenuous with an elevation gain of 380 feet.
Located in Durham and Orange counties 10 miles northwest of downtown Durham, Eno River State Parks spans across five access areas along its namesake river. The swift, but often shallow stream of the river can make for difficult paddling but provides beautiful landmarks like the Cascades. The park offers plenty of recreational opportunities just minutes from city amenities, and it is one of the state parks along the Mountainsto-Sea State Trail.
ENO RIVER
librariesStudy!
For most Duke students, the library becomes a second home—a place to solve problem sets, discuss group projects, and, most notably, eat pizza at 2 am and see the puppies during �nals. The University’s library system is one of the top 10 private institution systems in the country—where students can �nd any needed book, information or movie, as well as ample study space. Visit library.duke.edu for more information.
PERKINS LIBRARY | 919-660-5870
Perkins library on West Campus is part of the main library complex. Several of Perkins’ main features include The Link—a stimulating study environment to inspire collaborative learning; the Office of Information Technology help desk which offers computer assistance, software installations and equipment loans; and the Writing Studio, which allows students to receive writing help from trained tutors. Von der Heyden Pavilion (“Vondy”) is a glass-enclosed café attached to Perkins that offers coffee, snacks and a relaxing social and study space.
DAVID M. RUBENSTEIN RARE BOOK AND MANUSCRIPT LIBRARY | 919-660-5822
LILLY LIBRARY | 919-660-5995
Located on the main quad on East Campus, Lilly Library provides reference materials and online resources for first-year students as well as extensive film and book collections and a variety of study spaces. Lilly is currently undergoing a $64 million renovation and will reopen in 2026.
The Rubenstein Library and Reading Room holds more than 350,000 rare books and 10,000 manuscript collections. The library also houses three specialized research centers: the Sallie Bingham Center for Women’s History and Culture, the John Hope Franklin Research Center for African and African American History and Culture and the John W. Hartman Center for Sales, Advertising & Marketing History.
BOSTOCK LIBRARY | 919-660-5870
Connected to Perkins as part of West Campus’s main library complex, Bostock offers a separate assortment of computer clusters, silent reading rooms and independent study spaces. On the first floor of Bostock is the The Edge—a dynamic study area containing both workshop and presentation spaces, project rooms, the Murthy Digital Studio and the Brandaleone Family Lab for Data and Visualization Services.
There are also libraries at the Divinity School, Fuqua School of Business, Law School, Medical Center, and a music library in the Mary Duke Biddle Building.
Top to bottom: Perkins Library, Gothic Reading Room at Rubenstein Library, Lilly Library
HIDDEN GEMS Sweet Spots
PERKINS OASIS
THE STUDENT WELLNESS CENTER
If you only go here when you’re sick, then I’m sending you my condolences in more ways than one. This place is a glass castle. Natural light floods the space. Everywhere you turn, there’s either a plant or a plant-adjacent object. The desks attach to big, soft benches that create your own personal cubicle. There’s always someone playing the grand piano, filling the air with music I feel like I should’ve paid to hear. And when you’re done studying, you can make your way to the meditation garden at the back. THEY HAVE SPINNY EGG CHAIRS.
This place has saved my life again and again. It has a dedicated napping corner, complete with a room divider, a thick mat, and multiple pillows. On days so desperate I can’t even make it back to my room, I just head on over to the third floor of Perkins and—SNORE!—fall right asleep in this quiet nook of peace and bliss.
COMMONS
STRAWBERRY MATCHA AT BELLA UNION
Matcha latte with oat milk and a couple pumps of strawberry syrup? YUUUUUUUM.
Yeah, most people know about Nasher brunch—but do you know about COMMONS BRUNCH? OR LUNCH? OR DINNER? Located on the third floor of WU (if you’re confused, go back to the Trilingo dictionary), Commons serves some real high-end fare. I almost expect the food to come out on those tiny plates. And no one is sponsoring me to say this. It really is just that impressive.
DUKE COFFEEHOUSE
Psychedelic alternative would be the way I describe the vibe. Like an underground gathering place for hipsters. And with the sheer number of concerts that happen there, it’s basically a small venue for indie artists. The place stays open super late, and people are always just hanging out. Or dancing. It’s a good time. Plus, they have free tea, coffee, and snacks…
HIDDEN GEMS
GRAINGER HALL'S ROOFTOP GARDEN
Need a cool and unique study spot? Need a break from studying all together? Visit the environmental sciences building, Grainger Hall, for its amazing rooftop garden. But this place is more than just a great photo op. It’s also a hotspot for locally grown produce, flowers, and important pollinators.
Dine in style at the Nasher Museum for their Thursday night dinner. Enjoy delicious food surrounded by art from around the world. The Nasher offers an unforgettable dining experience, blending culinary delight with artistic inspiration. Get the Panko Salmon. You won’t regret it.
DINNERS AT THE NASHER MUSEUM
LAVENDER LEMONADE FROM IT'S THYME
A refreshing floral spin on everyone’s favorite thirst quencher, the Lavender Lemonade from Duke’s new restaurant, It’s Thyme, is an immediate must-have for that warm NC weather. Give it a try and you’ll become addicted.
GOTHIC READING ROOM
There’s no other place on campus with as much of a dark academia vibe as the Gothic Reading Room. Located on the second floor of Perkins Library, this room is great for students who study best in silence surrounded by old books, portraits, chandeliers, and high arched windows.
Global Education Office
Duke Immerse
Explore 155+ programs around the world. Students can study away as early as summer after their first year: globaled.duke.edu
Take four semester-long courses exploring a global challenge with Duke faculty and participate in hands-on field experiences: immerse.duke.edu
Duke Summer Experiences
Browse the Duke Opportunities Database for 60+ summer programs run by Duke offices and departments: experiences.duke.edu
CONVENIENCE. IT’S WHAT WE’RE ALL ABOUT.
The Lobby Shop, located in The University Store, offers a variety of conveniences from crackers to candy bars, frozen foods and beverages to canned goods, natural snacks, and health and beauty aids.
The Lobby Shop is open evenings and weekends to satisfy after-hours shoppers.
Upper Level, Bryan Center | Phone: 919-684-2179
Academic Year Store Hours
Monday - Thursday: 8:30am - 10pm | Friday: 8:30am - 11pm Saturday: 9am - 11pm | Sunday: 11am - 10pm
DUKE DIALECT Talk the talk
"WU" — West Union dining hall. Yes, it is officially called Brodhead Center now, but old habits die hard.
"BC" — Bryan Center, home to the University Store, student mail center, office space, even a McDonalds.
BC Plaza refers to the outdoor seating area outside the building, conveniently featuring power outlets.
"C1" — The East-West bus. Most students quite literally can’t live without it. Make sure you allocate extra minutes for potential delays.
“LDOC” — Last day of classes, the very end of the school year. Unlike FDOC, LDOC is a huge celebration with student activities running all day long–the biggest of which is the LDOC Concert.
“STINF” — Short-Term Illness Form, otherwise known as a free ticket to skip class if you’ve just woken up feeling less than your usual self.
"K-Ville" — The general area surrounding Cameron Stadium.
"E-Quad" — Engineering quad.
"Vondy" — The glass-walled café inside Perkins library, officially called Saladelia.
“FDOC” — First day of classes, the very start of the school year.
“Perk” — The students’ nickname for Perkins Library, Duke’s largest and most centrally-located library.
“DUU” — Duke University Union, Duke’s largest student organization. DUU organizes over 200 events and media each year, including the LDOC Concert.
“FLUNCH” — Ah yes, the Faculty Lunch program. Through FLUNCH, undergraduates can invite their faculty or course instructors to a free lunch on campus.
GOOD NEIGHBORS Meet your
Each neighborhood surrounding Duke has its own �avor. If you're living o� campus, consider what each area has to o�er before making your decision.
DOWNTOWN
With entertainment, restaurants, breweries, and every sort of novelty right at your doorstep, residents are never bored in Downtown Durham. Durham’s freshest urban vibe intermingles with the city’s rich history. Sports fans will be thrilled by the proximity of the Durham Bulls stadium, housed within the reworked factory and entertainment hub, American Tobacco Campus. Downtown is a wonderland for foodies. “Major,” a 10-foot Bull statue, watches over establishments like The Parlour, M Sushi, and Pizzeria Toro, which serve up every permutation of sweet and savory, of adventure and familiarity. Eat, drink, play, and be merry at Boxcar Bar + Arcade. Or, explore Durham Food Hall for a market-like experience. Looking for something fresh? The Durham Farmers Market does not disappoint.
NINTH STREET
Within walking distance to Duke’s campus, Ninth Street is convenient, friendly, and fast-casual. It’s often lively with Duke undergrads living either in the area or on the nearby East Campus. Harris Teeter, Durham’s only Whole Foods, and exciting local activities are just a stone’s throw away. Choose Bull City Escape for a weekend outing, or indulge in boba at Moge Tee. Browse quirky shops stocked with gifts and knick-knacks or the Regulator, a well-shelved and beloved bookstore.
NORTH DURHAM
Families will settle right into North Durham, whether that’s with a home purchase or at more flexible spaces at a variety of apartment complexes. There are many neighborhoods and parks in this area with lots of room to roam. You’ll appreciate the change of pace compared to campus life, while still being close to Duke. Little ones will love adventuring on Ellerbe Creek Trail, at the Durham Museum of Life and Science, or at the farther destination of Falls Lake Reservoir.
PHOTO CREDIT: CHRISTY KUESEL | THE CHRONICLE
GOOD NEIGHBORS
UNIVERSITY DRIVE / 15-501
SCAN FOR MENU
Looking for a house rental? Look no further than University Drive / 15-501. Maybe the name is a mouthful, but commutes are breezy. This neighborhood provides easy access to Raleigh or Chapel Hill. The area is home to an easy suburban vibe, reflected in the surrounding activities: go for classic bowling at Bowlero, belt the night away at K-Mix Karaoke & Bar, or work out at Base Pilates. For a slice of nature, Cornwallis Road Park is worth exploring for disc golf, playgrounds for the family, or just a stroll. Dining options aren’t short either— all within one block, find something fresh at Saltbox Seafood Joint, German-inspired at Guglhupf Bakery & Biergarten, plant-based at The Refectory, or classically southern at The Original Q Shack.
Mimi’s Sassy Shrimp
What Da Cluck Sandwich
Orange Speckled Chabo
The Frizzled Fowl
The Gothic Bookshop
Duke’s Independent Bookshop Since 1956
For Everyone. All the Time.
The Gothic Bookshop has been Duke’s independent bookshop since 1956. The shop offers a selection of Duke gift books, books by Duke faculty, as well as current fiction, non-fiction, scholarly, reference, computer, and general titles to the Duke University community, worldwide. We are also your on-campus source for Moleskine, Quotables, and The Unemployed Philosopher’s Guild, Papyrus, Recycled, and Good Paper greeting cards, gift wrap and stationery. Stop by our store conveniently located on the top level of the Bryan Center, just inside the University Store.
Need to purchase books with department funds? We offer competitive pricing.
Keep your money in the university. Call the Gothic Bookshop first. We accept procurement cards and IR’s and also provide FREE DELIVERY ON CAMPUS! For details, call 684-3986 or email gothic@duke.edu.
Upper Level of the University Store, Bryan Center, West Campus 919-684-3986 • gothic@duke.edu
Academic Year Store Hours Monday - Friday: 8:30am - 6pm Saturday: 9am - 6pm • Sunday: 11am - 4pm
ERWIN
Literally walkable to the Duke Law School, Fuqua, the Duke Medicine Pavilion, and the Duke University Hospital—Erwin is synonymous with convenience and apartment communities. Fuel yourself after a day at work at local favorites Enzo’s Pizza, Heavenly Buffaloes chicken wings, or Sushi Love. On off days, the Duke Forest and Duke Gardens offer a world of leisure, while the Duke Hospital ensures quality care is just steps away.
PHOTO COURTESY OF DUKE UNIVERSITY
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BRIDGING FAITH & LEARNING
working at duke Get the most from
Join an Employee Resource Group: Employee Resources Groups (ERGs) can help you establish important connections with people who share similar interests and experiences. ERGs are voluntary, employee-led groups whose aim is to foster community and a sense of belonging. duke.is/erg
Get Discounts to Area Events and Services: Duke employees have access to a broad array of discounts for area events and services – from theme parks to new automobiles – through the PERQS Program. Check out a full list of savings at area businesses and vendors. duke.is/discounts
Engage in a Professional Development Program: Take classes or workshops to expand your technology skills, enhance your leadership and management skills, or learn new behavioral and cognitive skills that support your professional growth and development. duke.is/grow
Get Social with Working@Duke: Follow Working@Duke social media accounts to stay up-to-date on the latest news and information, or contribute to the conversation. Working@Duke has accounts on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and X/Twitter. duke.is/get-social
Enroll in Exceptional Benefit Plans: Duke’s overall benefit plan has long been recognized and valued because of its comprehensiveness and competitiveness. In addition to a robust array of traditional benefits such as medical care, dental care and retirement. Duke also offers a wide range of family-friendly and cultural benefits. duke.is/benefit-plans
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WORKING AT DUKE
Participate in Duke’s Health & Wellness Programs: LIVE FOR LIFE, Duke’s employee wellness program, offers a variety of programs and services, such as health assessments and education, tobacco cessation programs, fitness activities, and nutrition programs, to help eligible faculty, staff and family members reach their health and fitness goals. duke.is/fitness
Volunteer to Support the Community: Duke partners with nonprofits and community-based organizations to help match community needs with Duke volunteers. With support and coordination through the Duke Center for Community Engagement, opportunities are designed to utilize best practices and address community-identified needs. duke.is/volunteer
Part-timeemployment opportunitiesforDuke students!
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Actor Ken Jeong Duke to Hollywood
By Sarah Diaz
Among presidents, basketball stars and Nobel Prize winners, the ranks of Duke’s most notable alumni also include “the guy from ‘that thing,’” as actor and comedian Ken Jeong jokingly describes himself.
Jeong, whose decades-long career includes such iconic roles as Mr. Chow in The Hangover movie series and Ben Chang in the hit sitcom Community, graduated from Duke in 1990 as a zoology major and worked as a physician for years before he made his first appearance on the big screen.
Years after he “got famous at 40,” Jeong sat down with The Chronicle to look back on his lasting relationship with the University where it all began.
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WELCOME, DUKE CLASS OF 2029
by Brian Quinby
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