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Top 24 Hotels Near Whittemire Center Arena
128 Main St. Durham, NH 3824
Holiday Inn Express Durham by IHG
For a trip to Durham, Holiday Inn Express Durham by IHG's location a short drive from Whittemire Center Arena is a fundamental part of its practical appeal.
Bright lighting and modern finishes across Holiday Inn Express lobbies create dependable arrival impressions and reinforce consistency. Each guest room offers plush mattresses, blackout drapes, and modern thermostats, promoting reliable rest across extended visits. Lobby areas with soft seating, charging hubs, and natural lighting create social spaces where travelers can regroup after check-in.
Free breakfast, reliable Wi-Fi, and self-parking join with laundry and pools, supporting clarity across all travel routines.
Garrison Hotel & Suites Dover-Portsmouth an Ascend Collection Hotel
This practical drive to Whittemire Center Arena from Garrison Hotel & Suites Dover-Portsmouth an Ascend Collection Hotel is a defining feature, since it makes the stay both simple and enjoyable.
Guests at Garrison Hotel & Suites Dover-Portsmouth an Ascend Collection Hotel may encounter a no-nonsense front desk, modest lobby chairs, and parking access for stress-reduced arrivals. Each guest room may include hardwood finishes, compact seating, and rainfall showers, creating a practical yet stylish stay setting. Facilities often include vending machines, laundry access, and compact breakfast spaces that sustain everyday convenience for travelers.
Accommodations often highlight Wi-Fi, vending machines, compact breakfast areas, and laundry support, sustaining clarity during visits.
Downtown Dover Inn
At Downtown Dover Inn, Whittemire Center Arena is a simple drive, a practical aspect that simplifies event-day travel.
Downtown Dover Inn typically offers quick desk service, self-serve beverages, and on-site parking so guests can settle in with minimal delay. Guest rooms typically offer plush bedding, blackout curtains, and climate control, helping ensure rest and privacy during each stay. Shared spaces typically highlight breakfast counters, vending stations, and modest seating that maintain balance across daily routines.
A visit may present Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, laundry facilities, and vending corners, creating functional balance for traveling guests.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Dover
Whittemire Center Arena is within easy reach of Homewood Suites by Hilton Dover, a convenience that allows the hotel to serve as an easy-to-navigate base.
Lobby seating clusters at Homewood Suites include flexible arrangements, creating a central hub for groups to gather before moving on. Suites are designed with refrigerators, stovetops, and cookware, enabling families to cook and dine together during longer stays. At the laundry facilities, washers, dryers, and folding areas provide convenience for guests managing long-term clothing needs.
Guests enjoy fitness centers, Suite Shop®, hot breakfast, and laundry services, creating balance that simplifies extended stays.
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Dover
The benefit of a direct drive to Whittemire Center Arena renders Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Dover into a starting point for a day of easy transitions.
At select properties, Microtel keeps ATM access near reception, solving quick cash needs without a detour before evening plans begin. All guest rooms supply an iron with board, a hair dryer, and towels, keeping routines familiar without extra errands after check-in. Breakfast areas arrange coffee urns, pastry cases, and hot items at labeled stations, giving mornings clarity before itineraries begin.
With Wi-Fi, breakfast, guest laundry, and free parking at many hotels, movement stays smooth while schedules keep momentum.
Comfort Inn & Suites Dover-Portsmouth
The inherent advantage of Comfort Inn & Suites Dover-Portsmouth in Durham is having Whittemire Center Arena within easy reach, allowing for a predictable travel plan.
Comfort Inn entry paths typically include floor transitions and focal art to signal the change from street to hospitality, marking arrival. Suites may include dining-height counters or tables that double as workspaces, giving small groups easy spots for planning or meals. Rooftop terraces or outdoor patios, where present, add open-air seating and shade that let guests refresh without leaving the hotel.
Offering laundry facilities, same-day dry cleaning at some sites, Wi-Fi, and business support, longer stays keep wardrobes and work ready.
Hampton Inn Dover
Whittemire Center Arena is a simple cross-town drive of Hampton Inn Dover, a fact that ensures the journey there is as simple as the stay itself.
Sofa groupings at Hampton Inn receptions create natural pause points, giving families and groups comfortable spots to regroup calmly. Each suite includes rainfall showers, premium toiletries, and soft towels, letting guests refresh comfortably after a day of activities. Breakfast rooms with hot selections, cereal stations, and coffee service keep mornings consistent, giving guests dependable starts daily.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, indoor pools, fitness studios, and laundry access give travelers dependable routines for extended stays.
Everhome Suites Portsmouth - Newington
The simple regional drive from Everhome Suites Portsmouth - Newington to Whittemire Center Arena in Durham guarantees guests have a pleasant option for their daily travel.
Arrivals at Everhome Suites Portsmouth - Newington may include a basic reception setup, vending machines, and accessible parking that support budget travel needs. Accommodations may include Wi-Fi, ergonomic chairs, and compact desks, supporting both productivity and comfort while traveling. Facilities may present guest laundries, vending areas, and compact lobbies that reinforce clear and practical routines during visits.
Guests may enjoy Wi-Fi, compact breakfast service, vending access, and laundry support, maintaining reliable daily routines away from home.
Residence Inn by Marriott Portsmouth
When travel in the Durham area is a factor, Residence Inn by Marriott Portsmouth's position as a convenient base is a major benefit.
Hydration stations placed near seating clusters at Residence Inn let travelers refresh comfortably, softening arrival stress with practical touches. Each suite offers dining tables, coffee makers, and microwaves, giving guests flexible setups that support meals or snacks anytime. Business corners with copy services, internet access, and communal tables ensure travelers remain productive in convenient shared settings.
Pet-friendly policies, self-parking, hot breakfast, fitness facilities, and Wi-Fi access create flexibility that suits varied travel needs.
Motel 6 Portsmouth NH
Guests at Motel 6 Portsmouth NH can appreciate it as a convenient base, with Whittemire Center Arena an easy regional drive away.
Motel 6 properties clarify check-in and checkout windows at the desk, aligning guest expectations with consistent daily operating standards. Guest rooms keep bathroom layouts consistent with showers or tubs, providing predictable hygiene conditions across different properties. Laundry rooms include folding counters beside machines, enabling travelers to complete clothing care efficiently in one organized stop.
Between pet-friendly policies, on-site laundry, Wi-Fi, and parking, amenities adapt to family, work, or road-trip needs without friction.
Hampton Inn Portsmouth Central
Whittemire Center Arena is an easy regional drive from Hampton Inn Portsmouth Central, a layout that ensures the trip there is always low-stress.
Community-style tables in Hampton Inn lobbies support group interaction, letting travelers connect casually after long journeys. Every guest room has blackout curtains, premium mattresses, and adjustable climate control, creating environments that restore nightly rest. Fitness studios with cardio machines, mats, and resistance equipment maintain health routines, helping travelers sustain energy easily.
Pet-friendly services, hot breakfast bags, Pavilion Pantry access, Wi-Fi, and self-parking simplify travel by covering daily guest needs.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Portsmouth
The hotel offers a strategic starting point, serving as a convenient base with Whittemire Center Arena within driving reach.
Homewood Suites reinforces hospitality with infused water dispensers, showing thoughtful attention to hydration for arriving guests. Each guest room delivers plush bedding, blackout curtains, and coffee makers, supporting restful sleep and refreshed mornings daily. Indoor pools offering loungers, towels, and calm lighting give families a familiar place to recharge after busy travel schedules.
Amenities like outdoor grills, pet-friendly policies, complimentary Wi-Fi, and evening socials give guests flexibility each day.
Courtyard by Marriott in Portsmouth
The simple regional drive from Courtyard by Marriott in Portsmouth to Whittemire Center Arena in Durham ensures guests have a pleasant option for their daily travel.
With visible Bistro service and seating nearby, Courtyard creates functional lobby hubs that balance orientation and casual social energy. Guest rooms supply blackout drapes, pillow menus, and plush mattresses, creating restful conditions for reliable nightly comfort. The 24/7 Market stocked with bottled drinks, snacks, and frozen meals ensures practical convenience and reliability at all times.
With valet parking, Starbucks® beverages, conference spaces, and complimentary Wi-Fi, Courtyard delivers consistent daily balance.
Anchorage Inns & Suites
Within the region, Anchorage Inns & Suites functions as a convenient base, a fact that highlights its strategic placement.
Anchorage Inns & Suites often provides quick front-desk support, nearby parking, and modest lobby seating that emphasize straightforward arrivals. Rooms may highlight tasteful interiors, rainfall showers, and hardwood accents, reinforcing a modern yet approachable environment. Public areas may include vending access, breakfast rooms, and coin-operated laundry that emphasize straightforward convenience daily.
A stay often features Wi-Fi, guest laundry, vending machines, and modest breakfast, sustaining clarity and convenience for travelers.
Howard Johnson by Wyndham Portsmouth
A defining quality of the Howard Johnson by Wyndham Portsmouth experience is its role as a sensible base with Whittemire Center Arena within driving reach.
Where airport or local shuttles stop at the hotel, Howard Johnson helps guests connect transit to keys quickly and predictably after flights. Each guest room places the coffee maker and cups within easy reach, helping mornings start cleanly before you head out for the day. Outdoor pool decks position shade cabanas, towel stations, and loungers, encouraging short cooldowns while energy rebounds gently between plans.
With airport shuttle options at select hotels, plus Wi-Fi and breakfast, transfers connect smoothly and mornings stay predictable.
Best Western Plus Portsmouth Hotel & Suites
In Durham, Best Western Plus Portsmouth Hotel & Suites provides a sensible base, keeping Whittemire Center Arena an easy regional drive away for guests.
Best Western maintains clear sightlines from desk to elevators, helping newcomers track progress while documents are checked and keys encoded. Guest rooms, with crisp linens and supportive pillows, help muscles recover so wake-ups feel steadier and first hours run more smoothly. Fitness rooms feature mirrors, mats, and space for stretches, supporting quick warm-ups or end-of-day resets that keep balance consistent.
Between pet-relief guidance, breakfast, Wi-Fi, and late-night pantry markets, essentials remain reachable as plans stretch into odd hours.
Holiday Inn Portsmouth by IHG
Whittemire Center Arena is within driving reach from Holiday Inn Portsmouth by IHG, a detail that allows for confident and easy journeys.
Lobby seating clusters at Holiday Inn & Suites include lounge chairs and long tables, supporting both social connection and regrouping. Suites add lounge areas, sofa beds, and additional televisions, making them adaptable accommodations for group or family travelers. Breakfast rooms presenting cereals, hot items, and coffee stations ensure clarity and routine for both family and business travelers.
Meeting facilities, breakfast service, and Wi-Fi connect with parking and pools, balancing recreation and professional requirements.
Fairfield Inn by Marriott Portsmouth-Seacoast
From Fairfield Inn by Marriott Portsmouth-Seacoast, the easy regional drive to Whittemire Center Arena is a welcome feature for travelers.
To aid quick meetups, Fairfield Inn supplies tall counters and benches near reception where groups can gather before heading to rooms. All guest rooms deliver blackout curtains, soft bedding, and climate control, ensuring restful environments that support restorative sleep. Indoor pools include lounge chairs, towel service, and bright décor, giving guests consistent leisure spaces where they can relax and refresh.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast with fruit and yogurt, parking, and fitness centers combine to simplify travel and reduce stress for all guests.
Port Inn and Suites Portsmouth an Ascend Collection Hotel
From Port Inn and Suites Portsmouth an Ascend Collection Hotel, Whittemire Center Arena is a simple commute, a feature that enhances the feeling of being well-situated.
At Port Inn and Suites Portsmouth an Ascend Collection Hotel, arrivals may highlight cozy seating, boutique design, and artisanal refreshments that reflect a personal touch. Accommodations may present eclectic décor, curated minibars, and plush bedding that highlight a refined boutique experience. Facilities may feature stylish dining rooms, curated cocktail bars, and co-working spaces that reflect boutique comfort and style.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, boutique breakfast, laundry facilities, and yoga mats, ensuring boutique routines remain consistent.
AC Hotel by Marriott Portsmouth
Because AC Hotel by Marriott Portsmouth is a practical base, guests can decide to start their day with a moment of quiet reflection.
Guests entering AC Hotels find open layouts, bright lighting, and modern seating clusters, providing orientation clarity and stress-free arrivals. Every suite integrates plush bedding, blackout curtains, and climate control, creating consistent environments for dependable rest and relaxation. Lobby spaces feature neutral palettes, modern furniture, and bright lighting, projecting calm orientation and dependable first impressions.
Travelers benefit from AC Kitchen pastries, AC Lounge wine service, Wi-Fi access, and business centers, helping routines feel dependable daily.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Portsmouth Downtown
The uncomplicated regional drive from Homewood Suites by Hilton Portsmouth Downtown to Whittemire Center Arena in Durham ensures the commute is genuinely efficient.
At Homewood Suites, lobby coffee and tea service create a dependable morning ritual that helps travelers begin their day comfortably. Every suite offers microwaves, dishwashers, and large refrigerators, letting guests prepare meals with convenience throughout trips. Business centers with computers, printers, and internet access keep travelers connected and productive during their hotel visits.
With business centers, laundry access, fitness facilities, and hot breakfast, guests manage tasks and routines without disruption.
Sheraton Portsmouth Harborside Hotel
From Sheraton Portsmouth Harborside Hotel, Whittemire Center Arena is an easy regional drive, a feature that enhances the feeling of being well-situated.
Sheraton greets travelers with floral arrangements, curated art, and statement lighting, cues that signal refined design and comfort. Every suite highlights soaking tubs, upgraded bath products, and bright lighting, refreshing guests with spa-inspired daily routines. In the meeting rooms, ergonomic chairs, projectors, and reliable Wi-Fi support productivity for professional gatherings of any size.
Guests enjoy outdoor pools, full-service dining, valet parking, and Wi-Fi, creating dependable balance for leisure and business needs.
Residence Inn by Marriott Portsmouth Downtown / Waterfront
This practical function as a base is a central feature of Residence Inn by Marriott Portsmouth Downtown / Waterfront, as it promotes a relaxed and manageable itinerary.
Seating clusters with sofas and side tables at Residence Inn lobbies create regrouping zones where families can pause and orient easily. Every guest room includes premium bath amenities, vanities, and bright mirrors, ensuring daily routines unfold with ease and comfort. Evening reception lounges with complimentary beverages, light fare, and lounge chairs offer guests dependable hospitality every evening.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, concierge support, rooftop pools, breakfast buffets, and business lounges deliver ease that reduces travel stress.
Hampton Inn & Suites Portsmouth Downtown
From Hampton Inn & Suites Portsmouth Downtown, Whittemire Center Arena is a simple commute, a feature that gives guests more command over their travel.
Curated décor and open layouts in Hampton Inn receptions reinforce brand reliability, producing polished first impressions for arrivals. Suites include microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers, giving guests practical setups for meals, snacks, and hot drinks anytime. Breakfast areas with hot buffets, pastries, and coffee stations give guests clarity at day’s start, ensuring mornings begin with dependable ease.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast buffets, business centers, outdoor pools, and laundry service create balance for both work and leisure stays.
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Whittemire Center Arena Local Area Guide
Welcome to the Whittemire Center Arena, a hub for collegiate sports and community events in Durham, New Hampshire. This guide is designed for fans, players, and families attending events at the arena, offering practical advice on navigating the venue, finding local amenities, and making the most of your visit. Discover key information about arrival, parking, dining options, nearby attractions, and seasonal considerations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. We aim to provide a comprehensive overview so you can focus on the excitement of the event and the charm of Durham.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Whittemire Center Arena (Durham, NH)
The Whittemire Center Arena is centrally located in Durham, New Hampshire, a vibrant college town known for its picturesque New England charm and strong community spirit. Situated directly on Main Street, the arena benefits from excellent accessibility via major roadways, including Route 101, which connects to Interstate 95. Parking is primarily available in designated lots surrounding the arena, with specific zones often allocated for staff, VIPs, and general attendees, especially during peak event times. For those flying in, Portsmouth International Airport (PSM) is the closest option, approximately a 30-minute drive away, while Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), a major hub, is about an hour's drive north. Public transportation is limited, but local bus services do connect Durham to surrounding towns. Rideshare services are also a viable option for navigating the area. To avoid traffic congestion, especially on game days or during major events, it is highly recommended to arrive at least 30-45 minutes prior to the scheduled start time, allowing ample time for parking and entry.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Whittemire Center Arena
The immediate vicinity of the Whittemire Center Arena features a cluster of hotels and inns catering to visitors of the University of New Hampshire and the broader Durham community. Many accommodations are within walking distance or a short drive, offering convenient access to the arena and the town's amenities. The downtown area, encompassing Main Street and surrounding streets, is where you'll find a good selection of hotels, as well as numerous restaurants and shops. For those seeking more budget-friendly options or specific amenities, consider looking slightly further afield in neighboring towns like Lee or Dover, which are a 10-15 minute drive away. Demand for lodging typically spikes around major UNH sporting events, commencement ceremonies, and popular community gatherings held at the arena. Booking your accommodation well in advance, particularly if your visit coincides with a known high-demand period, is a crucial booking tactic. Utilizing map filters to search for hotels within a specific radius of the arena can also help streamline your accommodation search.
Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Closest airport: Portsmouth International Airport (PSM) is about a 30-minute drive away.
- Parking/arrival tactic: Arrive 30-45 minutes early for prime parking and smooth entry to the arena.
- Walkable hangout: Explore Main Street's shops and cafes for pre or post-event relaxation.
- Rainy-day fallback: Visit the UNH Museum of Art or catch a movie at a nearby cinema.
- Regroup zone: The common area near the main entrance or a nearby cafe works well.
Event Day Flow
Arrival & Pre-Event
Plan your arrival for 45 minutes before the event's start to allow ample time for parking and finding your way to the entrance. The Whittemire Center Arena has several parking lots, but they can fill quickly, especially for popular games or performances. Consider carpooling or using rideshare services to simplify your arrival. Once parked, take a moment to orient yourself with the arena's layout. Familiarize yourself with the main entrance and any specific entry gates mentioned on your ticket. This is also a good time to grab a quick refreshment or use the restrooms before heading inside and finding your seats.
During the Event
Once inside, navigate to your seating area, paying attention to signage for different sections. Take note of restroom locations and concessions stands near your seats for convenient access during breaks or intermissions. If you're attending a sporting event, immerse yourself in the energy of the crowd and support your team. For other performances, relax and enjoy the show. Be mindful of arena policies regarding camera usage, food and drink, and prohibited items to ensure a smooth experience for yourself and other attendees. Stay aware of any announcements from the arena staff regarding event timing or important information.
Post-Event & Departure
As the event concludes, remain patient as crowds exit the arena. Follow the guidance of parking attendants and staff to ensure an orderly departure from the lots. If you drove, have your parking location in mind to prevent delays. If you used rideshare, confirm your pickup location with the driver to avoid confusion. Many attendees choose to linger for a few minutes after the main rush to allow traffic to dissipate, or they might head to a nearby establishment for a post-event drink or meal. Consider a designated meeting spot outside the arena if your group is splitting up, ensuring everyone knows where to reconvene safely.
Things to Do Near Whittemire Center Arena
Walkable
University of New Hampshire Campus
The Whittemire Center Arena is situated directly on the beautiful University of New Hampshire campus, making it easy to explore the surrounding academic buildings and green spaces. Stroll through the quad, admire the architecture, or visit the UNH Dairy Bar for some famously delicious ice cream, a local institution. The campus itself offers a peaceful retreat from the everyday hustle, with walking paths and scenic spots perfect for a pre- or post-event break. Depending on the season, you might catch students enjoying the outdoors or even find smaller campus events happening that are open to the public.
Durham, NH · On siteDowntown Durham
Just a stone's throw from the arena, downtown Durham offers a lively atmosphere with a variety of shops, bookstores, and cafes. Main Street is the heart of this area, perfect for a leisurely walk before or after your event. You can find unique gifts, grab a coffee, or simply soak in the local ambiance. The downtown area is particularly charming with its mix of historic buildings and modern establishments, reflecting the town's blend of tradition and progress. It’s a great place to experience the local culture and find a bite to eat.
Main Street, Durham · 0.1 mi5–15 Minutes Away
UNH Museum of Art
Located within the Paul Creative Arts Center on the UNH campus, the Museum of Art offers a cultural diversion. It houses a diverse collection, featuring American art, contemporary works, and pieces from around the world, with rotating exhibitions that keep the offerings fresh. It's a perfect spot for those interested in visual arts or seeking a quiet, contemplative activity away from the arena's crowds. The museum is a valuable resource for art enthusiasts and provides a different kind of engagement with the university’s intellectual and creative life.
Durham, NH · 0.5 miFox Creek Golf Club
For golf enthusiasts, Fox Creek Golf Club provides an enjoyable 18-hole public course experience. Nestled amidst the scenic New Hampshire landscape, the course offers a challenging yet accessible round for players of all skill levels. The club also features a pro shop and practice facilities. It’s an ideal destination for a foursome looking to combine a round of golf with attendance at an event in Durham, offering a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views that complement the game.
Durham, NH · 1.8 miBeyond the Event: Beyond the immediate vicinity, the historic towns of Portsmouth and Dover are a short drive away, offering more extensive dining, shopping, and historical attractions. Consider exploring the Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth or the charming downtown areas for a fuller New England experience. These larger neighboring communities provide a wider array of entertainment and cultural opportunities to complement your visit.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Whittemire Center Arena
Inside & Adjacent
Whittemire Center Concessions
For immediate convenience during events at the Whittemire Center Arena, the venue offers various concession stands. These stands provide typical arena fare, including hot dogs, pretzels, popcorn, and beverages, perfect for a quick bite or a snack while enjoying the game or performance. Seating at concession areas is generally limited, encouraging guests to consume their purchases at their seats or in common areas. These options are designed for quick service to minimize time away from the main event.
Arena Interior · On siteUNH Dairy Bar
A beloved campus institution, the UNH Dairy Bar is a short walk from the arena and a must-visit for its renowned ice cream, made right on campus. Beyond ice cream, they often serve sandwiches, soups, and other light fare, making it a casual spot for a snack or a light meal. It's a popular gathering place for students, faculty, and visitors, offering a taste of local flavor and a relaxed atmosphere to unwind before or after an event.
Campus · 0.3 miNearby Gathering Spots
The Press Room
The Press Room offers a classic pub atmosphere with a solid menu of American comfort food, burgers, and a good selection of beers on tap. It's a popular spot for students and locals alike, known for its lively environment, especially during game nights or on weekends. With its proximity to the arena, it serves as an excellent gathering point for pre- or post-event meals and drinks, fostering a sense of community and shared experience.
Main Street, Durham · 0.2 miLibrary Restaurant & Pub
Located conveniently on Main Street, the Library Restaurant & Pub provides a welcoming space with a diverse menu featuring seafood, steaks, pasta, and pub favorites. Its ambiance is often described as relaxed and sophisticated, making it suitable for both casual get-togethers and more refined dining. It’s a great option for groups looking to regroup before or after an event, offering a comfortable setting and a wide range of choices to satisfy different palates.
Main Street, Durham · 0.2 miLocal & Elevated Picks
Durham Market & Eatery
Durham Market & Eatery is a popular local spot that combines a gourmet market with a casual dining experience. They offer a range of delicious sandwiches, salads, soups, and baked goods, with many items prepared using locally sourced ingredients. It's an excellent choice for a quick, high-quality meal or to pick up picnic supplies if you're looking for something more relaxed. The market also stocks a curated selection of beverages and artisanal products.
Main Street, Durham · 0.3 miWildcat Cafe
The Wildcat Cafe is a quintessential Durham dining establishment, known for its friendly service and a menu that leans towards American cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. It’s a favorite among locals and university staff for its reliable quality and cozy atmosphere. Whether you're looking for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the Wildcat Cafe offers a comfortable and satisfying dining experience that captures the essence of the town's culinary scene.
Main Street, Durham · 0.2 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Main Street traffic can be heavy on event nights; allow extra time for parking and walking to the arena.
- Weekend evenings, especially during UNH sports seasons, are the busiest times for restaurants and bars in downtown Durham.
- The university's schedule significantly impacts local businesses, so check campus events for potential crowd overlaps.
- Many local shops offer unique gifts and souvenirs, perfect for finding a memento of your visit.
- Parking restrictions can change based on event types; always check posted signage for specific details.
Weather & Seasons at Whittemire Center Arena
- Winter: Winters in Durham are typically cold with average January temperatures hovering in the low 20s Fahrenheit. Snowfall is common, often blanketing the area and creating a picturesque, albeit chilly, environment. Visitors attending events during this season should pack heavy coats, hats, gloves, and waterproof footwear, as walking to and from parking can be cold and potentially slick. Indoor areas within the arena and nearby venues offer welcome respite from the elements.
- Spring & early summer: Spring and early summer bring gradually warming temperatures, with highs often reaching the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit. While pleasant for walking and exploring, this period can also see variable weather, including rain showers. Layers are recommended, as mornings can be cool, and afternoons might be warmer. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for navigating the campus and downtown area, especially as outdoor dining and activities become more prevalent.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer, from July into August, is generally warm to hot, with average daytime temperatures in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit, occasionally peaking higher. Humidity can be a factor, making light, breathable clothing ideal. Sun protection, such as sunscreen and hats, is advisable for any time spent outdoors before or after an event. Indoor venues like the arena remain comfortably air-conditioned.
- Fall season: The fall season, particularly September and October, is characterized by crisp, cool air and stunning foliage. Daytime temperatures are often in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit, making it perfect for outdoor activities. However, evenings can become quite chilly, so packing a light jacket or sweater is highly recommended for those attending events that run into the evening. This is a popular time for visitors, enjoying both the events and the beautiful autumnal scenery.
- Rain & snow: Durham experiences a moderate amount of both rain and snow throughout the year. Spring and fall are the wettest seasons, often bringing rain that can impact outdoor plans. Winter months bring snow, which can accumulate and affect travel conditions, sometimes leading to event schedule adjustments. Visitors should always check weather forecasts and local road conditions leading up to their event, particularly during winter months, and pack accordingly with waterproof outerwear and footwear.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: University of New Hampshire Wildcats
- Neighborhood: University District
- Nearest airport: Portsmouth International Airport (PSM)
- Parking: On-site lots, metered street parking downtown
- Walkable district: Downtown Durham and UNH campus
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Durham Market & Eatery
- Pharmacy: CVS Pharmacy
- Urgent care: ConvenientMD Urgent Care (Dover, NH)
- Downtime: Explore UNH campus trails or local cafes
- Pro tip: Check UNH event schedules for potential crowd overlaps with arena events.

