Raleigh Durham International Airport: where to stay, areas and…

The airport sits in Brier Creek, a commercial area halfway between Raleigh and Durham, with several practical hotels just minutes from the terminals. Downtown Raleigh, on the other hand, is a 20-25 minute drive away, with no direct train: it's only worth heading there if you're staying more than one night or want to see the city. Anyone looking for upscale shopping and dining without downtown traffic can aim for North Hills, a modern district halfway between the airport and downtown, with shops and restaurants within walking distance of the hotel.

Airport area (Brier Creek)

Airport area · 7-9 minutes by car from the terminal, with a free shuttle for both hotels; Brier Creek Commons, with shops and restaurants, is a few minutes on foot.

Best for: Anyone with a dawn flight, a late-night arrival or a short stopover who doesn't want to rely on traffic into the city.

Pros

Free shuttle at any hour, no need to rely on buses or taxis
Brier Creek Commons just minutes away on foot for dinner, even late in the evening

Cons

A commercial area, not the historic center many expect to visit
Downtown Raleigh still needs a 20-25 minute drive

Recommended hotels in this area

The Westin Raleigh-Durham Airport: In the heart of Brier Creek Commons, two minutes on foot from the shops; a spacious gym and free airport shuttle praised in reviews.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Raleigh Durham Airport Brier Creek: Two-room suites 7 minutes from the terminal, with hot breakfast and an evening reception included every day.

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Downtown Raleigh

City centre · 20-25 minutes by car or rideshare from the airport, up to over 30 at rush hour; no direct train or bus.

Best for: Anyone who wants the Convention Center, theaters and the restaurants of Fayetteville Street within walking distance of the hotel.

Pros

Fayetteville Street, the Convention Center and the Red Hat Amphitheater within walking distance
A good choice of recent hotels, well rated for cleanliness and service

Cons

No fast link to the airport, only a car or rideshare
On weekends with concerts or events, traffic nearby gets complicated

Recommended hotels in this area

Raleigh Marriott City Center: A few steps from the Convention Center on Fayetteville Street, with an indoor pool; reviews praise the location and the Rye Bar & Southern Kitchen restaurant.
AC Hotel by Marriott Raleigh Downtown: Near the Red Hat Amphitheater and the Convention Center, with a 24 hour front desk; praised in reviews for its service.

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North Hills

Neighbourhood · 15-20 minutes by car from the airport, a bit less than reaching Downtown Raleigh.

Best for: Anyone who wants upscale shopping and dining without downtown traffic and prices.

Pros

North Hills Shopping Center with shops and restaurants a minute on foot away
A modern district, designed for those arriving by car who want easy parking

Cons

None of the historic charm of downtown Raleigh
A car is still needed to get to Downtown or the airport

Recommended hotels in this area

Renaissance Raleigh North Hills Hotel: Connected to the North Hills shopping center, with the in-house restaurant 41Hundred; reviews praise the staff and the convenience of included parking.

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