The 128-room Hilton Garden Inn Durham/University Medical Center is a three-pearl option that's close to Duke University and Duke Medical Center, as well as numerous restaurants and shops. Clean, modern rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, microwaves, and coffeemakers. The restaurant serves breakfast and dinner, and there's a bar as well. Free coffee, tea, and water are available in the lobby, as are afternoon cookies. Other pluses include an indoor pool, simple fitness center, and spacious meeting rooms. The outdoor patio with a fire pit is a popular hangout spot. Travelers who don't need to be so close to the university and medical center could check out the La Quinta Inn & Suites Durham Chapel Hill instead, which is a bit cheaper.