Terminals +info
Raleigh–Durham International Airport (RDU) operates with two modern passenger terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, designed to handle both domestic and limited international flights efficiently.
Terminal 1 mainly serves low-cost carriers, while Terminal 2 accommodates most major airlines and the majority of the airport’s traffic.
Both terminals offer a wide range of passenger services, dining options, and retail stores. Located about 4 miles (6 km) from each other by roadway loop, they are connected by shuttle services and airport roads.
Reviews +info
On this website, you will find valuable tips and reviews about Raleigh–Durham International Airport, designed to help you navigate your travel experience smoothly. These reviews can help you understand what to expect in terms of service quality, cleanliness, and overall passenger experience.
-Our Review of Raleigh–Durham Airport
-Pros and Cons of RDU Airport
-Mini-Guide of the Airport (2’ Guide)
-Other reviews
-Some Stats
Transport +info
Find the following ground transportation options from RDU Airport:
Bus: Public transportation is available at RDU Airport.
Taxi: Get within 25 minutes to downtown Raleigh by taxi.
Rail: There is no rail transportation from RDU but there are other options to get to the closest station.
Car Rental: Renting a car in Raleigh–Durham Airport is a good idea to move around. Check our search engine for further details!
See more information
Contact
Address:
Raleigh–Durham International Airport
P.O. Box 80001
RDU Airport, NC 27623
United States
Main phone numbers
- Guest Experience / Information desks: +1 (919) 840-2123
- Airport Authority Office: +1 (919) 840-7700
- Parking Services: +1 (919) 840-2140
- Police (non-emergency): +1 (919) 840-7550
Lost and Found Service
Lost items at RDU Airport are handled by the RDU Airport Police Department.
Lost and Found contact details
- Phone: +1 (919) 840-7553
- Email: lostitems@rdu.com
About Raleigh and Durham
The Raleigh–Durham area, often referred to as the Research Triangle, is one of the most dynamic regions in North Carolina. Anchored by the cities of Raleigh, Durham, and nearby Chapel Hill, the region combines historic charm, vibrant cultural life, and a strong academic and technological presence. Whether you are visiting for business, university events, or tourism, the area offers a wide variety of attractions, museums, parks, and culinary experiences within a short distance of Raleigh–Durham International Airport (RDU).
What to See in Raleigh and Durham
In Raleigh, the capital of North Carolina, visitors can explore several cultural landmarks. The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences and the North Carolina Museum of Art are among the most popular attractions and offer free admission. Downtown Raleigh also features historic buildings, lively restaurants, and the attractive Pullen Park, one of the oldest amusement parks in the United States.
In nearby Durham, the restored American Tobacco Historic District is a vibrant entertainment area with restaurants, shops, and offices set in former tobacco warehouses. Another must-see is the impressive Duke University campus, particularly the Duke Chapel and the Sarah P. Duke Gardens, which are considered among the most beautiful gardens in the southeastern United States.
Just a short drive away, travelers can also visit Chapel Hill, home to the University of North Carolina. The town offers charming streets, bookstores, cafés, and a lively college atmosphere.
Public Transportation
Public transportation in the Raleigh–Durham region is provided by several bus systems including GoRaleigh, GoDurham, and GoTriangle. GoTriangle operates regional routes connecting Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Raleigh–Durham International Airport.
While buses are affordable and convenient for travel between major areas, many visitors prefer using ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft or renting a car for greater flexibility when exploring the region.
Tourist Tips and Recommended Routes
A great way to discover the area is by following a route through the three cities of the Research Triangle. Start in downtown Raleigh to visit its museums and historic districts, continue to Chapel Hill for a relaxed university-town atmosphere, and finish the day in Durham enjoying dinner or a baseball game at Durham Bulls Athletic Park.
Nature lovers should consider visiting Umstead State Park, located between Raleigh and Durham near the airport. The park offers hiking trails, cycling paths, and peaceful picnic areas surrounded by forests and lakes.
Another popular excursion is a short drive to the North Carolina countryside, where travelers can discover vineyards, local farms, and scenic rural landscapes.
Events and Local Activities
The region hosts numerous cultural and sporting events throughout the year. In Raleigh, the North Carolina State Fair, held every October, is one of the largest events in the state. Durham is famous for its minor league baseball team, the Durham Bulls, whose games attract thousands of fans during the baseball season.
Music festivals, food markets, university sporting events, and art exhibitions take place regularly across the Triangle. Thanks to the presence of several major universities, the area also enjoys a vibrant calendar of lectures, performances, and cultural festivals year-round.
Whether you are staying for a short visit or planning a longer trip, Raleigh–Durham offers a combination of history, innovation, and southern hospitality that makes it one of the most interesting destinations in the southeastern United States.