Hill House - Durham, North Carolina

Hill House: A Timeless Gem in Durham, North Carolina

Nestled in the heart of Durham, North Carolina, at 900 S Duke St, stands a historic landmark that has become an integral part of the city's cultural fabric. Hill House, originally built in 1916, is a testament to the region's rich history and architectural heritage. Today, it serves as a non-profit organization, offering a unique blend of services to the community while preserving its historical significance.

Main Services

• Event Venue: Hill House is a sought-after location for various events, including weddings, corporate functions, and social gatherings. Its elegant atmosphere and historic charm provide a distinctive backdrop for any occasion.
• Educational Programs: The organization offers educational programs and tours, focusing on the history of the house, its architecture, and the life of its former owner, John Sprunt Hill.
• Community Outreach: Hill House actively engages with the local community through various initiatives, promoting heritage conservation, cultural enrichment, and historic preservation.

Location and Access

Hill House is strategically located in the Trinity Park neighborhood, within walking distance of Duke University's West Campus and close to downtown Durham. The surrounding area is a mix of historic homes, academic institutions, and vibrant commercial districts.

For those traveling by car, the house is easily accessible via US-15 S and NC-147 S. Parking is available on-site, with designated accessible spaces. Public transportation is also convenient, with several bus stops nearby, served by the Durham Area Transit (DATA) system.

Featured Characteristics

• Architecture: Hill House is a prime example of the Georgian Revival style, featuring symmetrical facades, grand columns, and a spacious central hallway. The house was designed by architect Arthur C. Nash and constructed by John Sprunt Hill, a prominent North Carolina businessman and philanthropist.
• Historic Significance: Hill House was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973 and is also designated as a local historic landmark by the City of Durham. It provides valuable insights into the social and economic history of the region during the early 20th century.
• Accessibility: Hill House is committed to ensuring that its facilities are accessible to all. The historic home features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and an elevator, allowing guests with mobility impairments to enjoy its offerings.

Practical Information

• Address: 900 S Duke St, Durham, NC 27707, United States
• Phone: 9196820449
• Website: durhamandorangecounties.jl.org
• Operating Hours: Varies depending on events and tours; please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

Hill House has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from visitors, with an average rating of 4.6/5 on Google My Business, based on 20 reviews. Some of the most praised aspects include:

• Historic Charm: Many visitors appreciate the house's well-preserved historic features and the sense of history that pervades the property.
• Elegant Venue: Hill House is frequently praised for its elegant atmosphere, making it an ideal location for special events such as weddings.
• Excellent Communication: The organization is commended for its prompt and helpful communication, ensuring a smooth experience for those booking events or tours.
• Wheelchair Accessibility: Several reviewers highlight the house's efforts to accommodate guests with mobility impairments, allowing everyone to enjoy its offerings.

One reviewer, who used Hill House for a bridal shoot, raved about the "top-notch" experience, with excellent communication throughout the process. Another visitor described the house as a "great wedding venue" with a well-maintained historic atmosphere. These positive aspects contribute to Hill House's enduring appeal as a unique and valuable asset to the Durham community.

👍 Reviews of Hill House

Hallie P.

5/5

My friends and I did an editorial bridal shoot here November 2024 and our experience working with Hill House was top notch! Their communication was amazing throughout the process and they were so kind and accommodating to us! Not to mention the space is gorgeous and so well cared for! Highly recommend Hill House for your wedding day!

Maria R.

1/5

Beautiful setting for our daughter’s wedding….just perfect

Kenny T.

5/5

Great wedding venue! Very historic and we'll maintained. Reading the history wall in the hallway is very interesting.

Mae G.

5/5

Gorgeous property in great condition. Loved reading about the history. Lots of little details are still well preserved. They even have an architect drawing with details of the build down to the location of outlets and specs on wood and brick.

Karen B.

5/5

Lovely historic home with period decor and spacious grounds in an urban area offers an elegant event space for eligible groups in the area. I have attended library, university, and women's group functions for lectures, musical performances, catered & potluck luncheons, holiday gatherings, and receptions. This is a non-profit venue with special requirements. A small parking area plus street-side parking available.

Alan F.

5/5

Hill House is venue for various non-profit events. It is an elegant 1920's mansion with some description of its history in one hall. The parking is limited; most people have to park along the drive.

Camisa S.

5/5

Attended an organization function. The house is beautiful and full of lots of historical detail. It was a great place to celebrate a holiday with colleagues.

Penny M.

5/5

Great historical place for a meeting