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8.6

575 reviews

University Inn Duke

University Inn Duke

502 Elf Street, Durham, 27705, North Carolina, United States

Choose dates to view prices

Free wifi

Air conditioning

24-hour front desk

Non-smoking rooms

Kitchenette

Elevator

Upper floors accessible by elevator

Free toiletries

University Inn Duke

University Inn Duke is a 3-star hotel in Durham, North Carolina, United States. Located 2.4mi from the city center, this property sits at 502 Elf Street.

Key amenities include free WiFi, air conditioning, a 24-hour front desk, non-smoking rooms, a kitchenette, and an elevator with upper floors accessible by elevator, plus free toiletries and a bathtub. Pet Friendly (extra charges), Private Parking (extra charges), and Parking On Site (extra charges) are also available.

It has 575 reviews, and price starts from $134.

A mix of studios and suites means options for every kind of traveler. The Studio with Kitchenette is designed to flex for groups, accommodating up to 5 adults and 3 children, perfect for families on the go. For more living space, Studio Suites with a King bed and a Sofa Bed plus Kitchenette, as well as the larger Suite with two Queen beds, offer extra room to relax after a day of exploring. Non-smoking rooms keep the ambience tidy and comfortable for a restful stay.

Pet-friendly policy welcomes four-legged companions, with charges that may apply. Parking options include Private Parking and On-Site Parking, both available for an extra fee, making it convenient to come and go. When it’s time to settle the bill, note that cash isn’t accepted; major credit cards—American Express, Mastercard, Visa, and Discover—are the accepted payment methods.

Located about 2.4mi from the Durham city center, this base makes it easy to reach downtown sights and neighborhoods. The property also supports convenient essentials like free WiFi and a 24-hour front desk, ensuring help is available whenever needed. With a variety of layouts and practical amenities, guests can tailor a stay that fits both the itinerary and the group.

Closest airports

Raleigh-Durham International Airport

12.3mi

Piedmont Triad International Airport

56.4mi

Most popular amenities

Free wifi

Air conditioning

24-hour front desk

Non-smoking rooms

Kitchenette

Elevator

Upper floors accessible by elevator

Free toiletries

Bathtub

Rooms

Queen Room with Two Queen Beds in University Inn Duke

Show 5 photos

Room - 2 Queen

2 Queen Size Beds

3985 sqft

Private Bathroom

Bathtub

Microwave

Flat-screen TV

x4

+

x3

More details

Two Queen Beds

King Room in University Inn Duke

Show 5 photos

King Room

1 King Size Bed

3985 sqft

Private Bathroom

Bathtub

Microwave

Flat-screen TV

x4

+

x3

More details

King Size Bed

Queen Suite in University Inn Duke

Show 6 photos

Suite

2 Queen Size Beds

5080 sqft

Private Bathroom

Kitchenette

Bathtub

Microwave

+

More details

Show 5 photos

Studio, King Size, Sofa

1 King Size Bed

1 Sofa Bed

Kitchenette

Microwave

Flat-screen TV

Refrigerator

+

More details

Show 17 photos

Studio Suite, Multiple Beds, Kitchenette

Kitchenette

More details

Studio

x5

+

x3

More details

Studio Standard

Standard Room

x4

+

x3

More details

Standard

Studio Suite, Sofa, Kitchen

1 King Size Bed

1 Sofa Bed

Kitchen

More details

Studio Suite, King Size, Sofa, Kitchenette

1 King Size Bed

1 Sofa Bed

Kitchenette

More details

Studio, Kitchenette

Kitchenette

x5

+

x3

More details

Studio With Kitchenette

Room - 2 Double

2 Double Beds

x4

+

x3

More details

Dormitory Standard

More details

Bed In Dormitory Standard

Guest reviews

8.6

575 reviews

Categories of assessments

Cleanliness

Comfort

Location

Facilities

Staff

Value for money

WiFi quality

Featured reviews:

🇺🇸

Phillip

10

May 2025

We absolutely loved our stay at the University Inn near Duke University! From the moment we arrived, the experience was nothing short of exceptional. The staff went above and beyond—every interaction with guest services was warm, professional, and genuinely helpful. It’s clear they take pride in making sure every guest feels welcomed and well cared for. The cleanliness of the entire property stood out immediately. Our room was spotless, fresh, and incredibly comfortable. You can tell the housekeeping team takes their work seriously, and it made our stay feel even more relaxing. We also really appreciated all the amenities the hotel offers. From the well-equipped fitness center to the cozy lobby lounge and complimentary coffee, everything is designed with the guest’s comfort in mind. The location is perfect too—just a short walk from Duke University and conveniently close to restaurants, shops, and the hospital. Whether you’re visiting Duke, exploring Durham, or just looking for a peaceful, welcoming place to stay, University Inn is a true gem. We’ll definitely be back!

🇺🇸

Paul

10

May 2025

I can not say enough good things about our experience at University Inn. Our room was exceptional, roomy, clean and very comfortable. The staff were very accommodating and they have a shuttle to provide transportation to the local medical facilities which was wonderful. There was a sign posted in the hallway requesting that guests observe quiet time between 10:00 PM - 8:00 AM to provide rest to people who are staying for medical reasons. We have stayed in many hotels associated with big chains and this facility was the cleanest and nicest we have ever experienced. If you are planning to visit Duke for medical services, I highly recommend University Inn. Note: The hotel offers a discounted rate for patients receiving medical care but you must book the reservation directly with the hotel and not through Booking.com.

After we arrived I noticed a sign in the elevator that the facility offers a discounted rate for guests who are staying at the facility for medical procedures. When I inquired about this at the desk I was informed that we did not qualify since we booked the reservation through Booking.com. Plus we had to pay an additional $10/day parking fee that is waived if your book directly with the hotel.

🇺🇸

Stephanie

10

March 2025

The room was very spacious, clean and had a "homey" feel. It had a small sleep sofa, recliner, table and chairs, wet bar and the beds were comfortable. I like how the sink is outside of the toilet and shower space, so multiple people can be getting ready. The housekeeping staff came in daily, were extremely courteous and took care with our personal stuff in the room. The location was extremely convenient to the main Duke Campus, stores, shops and great restaurants. The parking was directly on property and accommodated our small rental car. A large SUV can fit in some of the spaces closer to the street. The lobby is welcoming and the front desk staff were ALL very nice and helpful. They provide a mini store that is stocked with microwave meals, snacks, drinks and other items that a midnight visit would accommodate.

There was nothing I didn't like.

🇺🇸

Doug

8.2

May 2024

The location being so close to Duke because Barry nice. The staff was extremely nice as well.

The hallways were a little loud, but it was graduation weekend so that is to be expected.

🇺🇸

Alfred

10

April 2025

Don't be deceived by the modest look of the hotel's exterior. The rooms are fantastic. Clean. Spacious. Best of all, they have tiled (non-carpeted) floors, which not only look nice, but don't make you feel as if you're stepping on carpeting where a thousand shoes, feet, and paws have been before. Also, the gentleman at the front desk was pleasant and helpful. If you're going to the Duke University campus, you couldn't ask for a better location--a five-minute walk to West Campus.

I suppose the hotel's exterior could look a little more modern, but that's me nit-picking; my hotel stay was a super value.

🇨🇱

Jmartinezv

9.1

October 2024

The room was big, clean, with appliances like a fridge, microwave, iron, iron table, which was quite convenient. The hotel is located very close to Duke University, what is a plus if you are planning to go there (my case). The staff was very nice and helpful with directions and recommendations (for someone coming from abroad)

About the room, the bathroom was separated in two parts: washbin/mirror space and shower/WC space. The shower/WC space was small compared with the rest of the room, which made it a little uncomfortable for moving safely after taking a shower. The room didn't have a safe where to put documents and values (I was traveling from abroad)

🇫🇷

Jingxing

8.2

November 2024

I liked the fact that the hotel offered a free shuttle service to where I needed to be (Duke University campus), on a on-call basis. This was very helpful as the hotel was located in a residential area.

I waited for the shuttle for over 30 minutes; it turned out that the shuttle had waited at the hotel backdoor, but the receptionist did not tell me that (I was sitting in the lobby the whole time). When I asked the receptionist about why the shuttle has not arrived, she said she was not responsible for the shuttles. It would have been nice if the shuttle ran during the weekend as well.

🇺🇸

Camille

9.1

February 2025

My stay at the University Inn Duke was great. It offered a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and great service. The room was spacious and clean with a comfortable bed. The hotel is within walking distance to Duke University which is great and they offer shuttle service to venues within a 2 - 3 mile distance from the hotel, which was wonderful. The staff were accommodating and very helpful.

The walls are thin, while I was able to sleep fine, I could hear other guest in the hallway and in adjacent rooms.

🇺🇸

Sailanie

8.2

June 2025

The room was very clean. Beds and pillows were comfortable. My children enjoyed the mini living room where they could sit and watch.

The only thing I didn't really like was that I had to pay to park my car (and I didn't see it anywhere in their website or I may not look for it since I am used to free parking at the hotels I have stayed at) and the spots were tight. Not a big deal. But if we would have to stay for longer than a day, the parking fee would be a little much.

🇺🇸

Scott

10

May 2025

Close to Duke clinic and hospital. Super friendly staff. Amazing shuttle service got us to all of our appointments for Liver Transplant evaluation plenty early. Nice parking lot very affordable. Nice and clean rooms. The extra couch and chair was a nice touch made us feel very welcomed we never had to ask for anything always had ckean room with clean towels so we could rest when we got there.

Nothing to dislike!

Points of Interest Around University Inn Duke

Airports

Raleigh-Durham International Airport

12.3mi

Piedmont Triad International Airport

56.4mi

Amenities of University Inn Duke

Free wifi

Air conditioning

24-hour front desk

Non-smoking rooms

Kitchenette

Elevator

Upper floors accessible by elevator

Free toiletries

Bathtub

Stay rules - University Inn Duke

  • Check-in / Check-out

  • Pets

  • Internet

  • Age restrictions

  • Parking

  • Children and beds

  • Cards accepted at this property

Frequently Asked Questions - University Inn Duke

Does University Inn Duke have accommodations for guests with pets?

Yes, you can stay with your pet at University Inn Duke, though additional charges may apply.

At what times are check-in and check-out at University Inn Duke?

For those planning to reside at University Inn Duke, the doors open for check-in at 03:00 PM and it's time to say goodbye by 11:00 AM.

Is there parking available at University Inn Duke?

Yes, there is parking available at University Inn Duke. The hotel offers private and on-site parking for $10 per day. You do not need to make a reservation for parking.

How much does a stay at University Inn Duke cost?

At University Inn Duke, prices have a starting point of $134. It's essential to note that rates might adjust based on room choice and your stay dates. Input dates for accurate rate checks.

Which room categories can I book at University Inn Duke?

The hotel offers a variety of room types including suites and double rooms. The occupancy ranges from 2 adults and 1 child to 4 adults and 2 children, depending on the room type. The rooms range in size from 366 sqft to 474 sqft. Smoking is not allowed in any of the rooms. The beds available include king size beds, queen size beds, and sofa beds.

How can guests spend their time at University Inn Duke?

Based on the data provided, guests at University Inn Duke can enjoy several leisure amenities during their stay. The hotel offers a fitness center where guests can engage in workouts and exercise routines. Additionally, there is an outdoor pool where guests can relax and swim.

In terms of other amenities, it is not specified in the data what other facilities or services are available at the hotel, so it is unclear what else guests can do during their time at University Inn Duke.

However, as leisure activities and amenities are mentioned, it can be assumed that the hotel also offers recreational facilities such as a common area or lounge where guests can socialize and relax. Also, the hotel is located in close proximity to Duke University, so guests can explore the campus and enjoy any events or activities happening there.

Please note that the provided information is limited, and these are the only leisure amenities that can be discussed based on the data provided.

Can I use my credit card at University Inn Duke?

Yes, you can use your credit card at University Inn Duke. However, cash is not accepted as a form of payment. The hotel accepts American Express, Mastercard, Discover, and Visa.

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