Airport Information

Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) serves the entire Triangle region and is located approximately:

15–20 minutes from Durham

20–30 minutes from Chapel Hill

20–25 minutes from downtown Raleigh

Transportation

Rideshare & Taxi

Uber, Lyft, and taxi services are readily available at RDU and throughout the Triangle. Designated pickup areas are located at both airport terminals.

Rental Cars

All major rental car companies operate at RDU, making rental vehicles a convenient option for visitors planning to explore multiple Triangle communities.

Public Transit

The regional GoTriangle transit system connects RDU with Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Research Triangle Park. Route 100 provides airport service via the Regional Transit Center.

Guidance for IUS Attendees

  • Plan for travel throughout the Triangle rather than a single city; Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill function as one interconnected region.

  • Allow extra travel time during weekday rush hours (approximately 7–9 a.m. and 4–6:30 p.m.).

  • Rideshare services are generally reliable for conference-related transportation.

  • If staying several days or planning regional exploration, a rental car can be beneficial.

  • Conference attendees interested in higher education, research, information science, libraries, archives, and technology will find numerous institutions of interest, including the campuses of University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Duke University, and North Carolina State University.

Things to do in Raleigh

For current events and visitor information, see the Raleigh Events Calendar.

  • North Carolina Museum of Art

  • North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

  • North Carolina Museum of History

  • Marbles Kids Museum

  • North Carolina State Capitol

  • City Market

  • Warehouse District

  • William B. Umstead State Park

  • Pullen Park

  • Dorothea Dix Park

  • Visit the exhibits and IMAX theater at Marbles Kids Museum.

  • Ride the historic carousel at Pullen Park.

  • Explore interactive science exhibits at North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences.

  • Enjoy outdoor recreation and picnic areas at Dorothea Dix Park.

  • Village District

  • Crabtree Valley Mall

Safety & Accessibility

The Triangle is generally considered a safe destination for conference attendees and visitors. As with any metropolitan area:

  • Remain aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

  • Use well-lit parking areas and sidewalks.

  • Secure valuables in vehicles.

  • Utilize rideshare or hotel transportation when appropriate.

Accessibility

The region offers extensive accessibility accommodations:

  • Accessible airport facilities and transportation options

  • ADA-compliant hotels and conference venues

  • Accessible public transit vehicles

  • Wheelchair-accessible museums, attractions, and university facilities

RDU participates in accessibility programs including TSA Cares assistance and services for travelers with hidden disabilities.