HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AT AMERICAN TOBACCO

‘Tis the season to be merry at American Tobacco. So much to do and see this holiday season!

Thanksgiving

Let one of ATC’s restaurants do the cooking for you! Take-and bake-dinners are available at NanaSteak and Boricua Soul.

20the Annual American Tobacco Tower Lighting

On Wednesday, December 4, 2024, American Tobacco continues this 20-year community tradition. Join us for pre-show activities at 6 pm to include street performers, selfie stations, light wand distribution, and plenty of hot cocoa! The show starts at 7 pm and features performances by youth from Durham and the Triangle. Don’t miss the tower light at the beginning of the show! Click HERE for more information.

Holiday Shopping

Holiday Treats & Eats

Holiday Beverages

New Beginnings for Fullsteam Brewery at American Tobacco Campus

9,000-square-foot taproom, set between iconic water tower and smokestack, promises a lively new social hub in downtown Durham

Durham, NC – September 4, 2024  Fullsteam Brewery, a pioneer in Durham’s craft beer scene, and CBC Real Estate are excited to announce the opening of Fullsteam’s new taproom at the American Tobacco Campus (ATC). Occupying approximately 9,000 square feet on the first floor of the historic Power Plant, located between ATC’s iconic water tower and smokestack, this move marks a significant new chapter for Fullsteam.

The new Fullsteam taproom at American Tobacco will feature a welcoming entrance, with a restaurant on one side and a casual bar on the other, creating both indoor and outdoor spaces perfect for gathering before a show at DPAC or after a Durham Bulls game. The thoughtfully designed space will include a pilot brewing system, a small stage for live performances, and a private party area. Guests can look forward to an upgraded experience complete with access to parking and a full HVAC system. Fullsteam will also introduce a new food concept, with more details to be announced soon.

“We’re so excited to get to work on our Durham forever home,” said Sean Lilly Wilson, Founder of Fullsteam Brewery. “The Goodmon family, CBC Real Estate, and the amazing array of local tenants have all been incredibly supportive of our move to the American Tobacco Campus. We can’t wait to contribute to the vibrancy and community that’s emerging here in historic downtown Durham.”

Fullsteam’s move to ATC highlights a shared commitment to Durham’s future. This partnership underscores a mutual dedication to innovation, creativity, and long-term growth. Fullsteam’s presence will bring fresh energy to ATC, enriching its diverse mix of businesses and attractions.

“We’re proud to welcome Fullsteam Brewery to the American Tobacco Campus,” said Pete McClure, General Manager of American Tobacco Campus. “Their dedication to community aligns perfectly with our mission. We anticipate their new taproom will quickly become the social hub of our campus, a lively watering hole for tenants and visitors alike.”

The new taproom is expected to take about a year to build out. During this period, Fullsteam will keep the community engaged through social media updates, pop-up events, and tours of the new space.

Fullsteam will wind down operations at its current Rigsbee Avenue location on October 31. In the meantime, Fullsteam will continue brewing beer and serving customers at its Boxyard RTP location. Production will eventually shift to Fortnight Brewing Company in Cary, NC, enabling Fullsteam to scale its operations and meet growing demand.

Stay updated on the latest developments by visiting Fullsteam’s website at fullsteam.ag/ATC.

Yoga Off East Finds New Home at American Tobacco Campus

Studio to Offer Infrared Heated Classes and Yoga for Kids in a Larger, Community-Focused Space.

Yoga Off East is thrilled to announce its expansion and relocation from 9th Street to the American Tobacco Campus this fall. The move marks a significant milestone as the studio grows and enriches its offerings for the Durham yoga community.

Located at 324 Blackwell Street, Suite 420, above Parker & Otis, the 2,300-square-foot space will accommodate 40 mats, nearly tripling its current class size capacity. The new location will be the yoga studio’s third home in Durham. Founder and Duke alum Kathryn Smith opened Yoga Off East in a 400-square-foot space in the back of 9th Street’s Happy & Hale in 2016 before moving to its current location across the street in 2019.

With this move, Smith is teaming up with friend and fellow teacher Kim Tupper (who completed her 200-hour teacher training at Yoga Off East!) to co-own the studio. The duo will both teach regularly. With thoughtfully designed spaces like a tea bar and space to read, Smith and Tupper hope to create an intentional and inviting space for its community to mingle and connect before and after class.

“Our community of students and teachers has grown and it’s clear that having more space in and around the studio will elevate the Yoga Off East experience for all,” says Smith. “We are so energized by this expansion and look forward to inviting new and existing students to practice with us.”

Beyond regular classes, Yoga Off East will continue to offer monthly workshops, events and an annual teacher training. The new studio will also feature ceiling-mounted infrared heat panels for use in some weekly classes.

“This relocation represents more than just a physical move,” says Tupper. “Kathryn has built such an intentional community with her studio, and I am so grateful to partner with her as we take Yoga Off East into its next chapter.”

Pete McClure, CBC Real Estate’s Senior General Manager of American Tobacco Campus, expressed his enthusiasm for the new addition: “We are thrilled to welcome Yoga Off East to the American Tobacco Campus. Their commitment to wellness and community aligns perfectly with our vision for ATC. This new studio will be a wonderful addition for everyone here.”

Design partners include interior designer Kate Haynes of Noble Interiors and creative director Cait Wharton of Studio Millie. Amanda Giacomini of Ten Thousand Buddhas will paint a Buddha wall in blue hues at the new studio, continuing the tradition from the 9th Street location.

On the design, Haynes says, “Our design team found inspiration from the concept of balancing the weight of the existing architecture and the rounding essence of the old building, infusing it with a sense of lightness and movement. From the outset, we envisioned incorporating lots of white and accentuating the serene palette with vibrant, airy blues to energize the space.

Further details on the grand opening will be announced at a later date. Classes will continue in Yoga Off East’s current space until the opening. Stay updated on the latest developments by visiting www.yogaoffeast.com or visiting Yoga Off East on Instagram.

20 Years of ATC! Join the celebration.

Twenty years—can you believe it? Two decades ago, the American Tobacco Campus began with the revival of the old tobacco warehouses that stood vacant in downtown Durham for many years.  From neglected buildings to bustling offices, restaurants, and public spaces, the transformation of ATC is a testament to the power of community. None of this would have been possible without the people who bring ATC to life every day–visitors, workers, and residents. 

Reflecting on the past 20 years, we think of the first Tower Lighting that started a Durham tradition, the six times the Durham Bulls clinched the national championship right here at DBAP, the birth of American Underground and many startups to follow, the concerts on the lawn that brought us together–and that time we turned The Cage into a skating rink. These moments are what makes ATC so special.

ATC’s story is one of shared vision and a love for Durham. We’re excited to celebrate this history and we want to hear from you! Share your favorite ATC memory with us, whether it’s a special connection, an exciting event, or a personal accomplishment. Click here to tell your story and let us feature your memories throughout our 20th-anniversary celebration.

We’ve accomplished so much together, and the best is yet to come! Join us in celebrating the American Tobacco Campus–cheers to 20 more years.

MilkShake Factory Shakes Things Up with First North Carolina Location

More Sweet News for Durham and the American Tobacco Campus.

MilkShake Factory is delighted to announce its newest store at the American Tobacco Campus in Durham, marking its first venture into North Carolina. Originating in Pittsburgh, MilkShake Factory has established itself as the go-to neighborhood dessert destination, renowned for its housemade ice cream, handspun milkshakes, and premium chocolates.

Founded by fourth-generation chocolatiers, MilkShake Factory boasts a rich history dating back to 1914. Their dedication to quality is highlighted in their signature milkshake menu featuring Chocolate Dipped Strawberry, Campfire S’mores, and Bananas Foster, alongside MilkShake Factory’s housemade chocolate barks including Cookie, S’mores, or Peanut Butter Toffee.

In 2023, MilkShake Factory announced its expansion through franchising, attracting enthusiastic entrepreneurs like Alex Chandler and Kindall Palmer, residents of Raleigh and now proud franchise owners. “We knew immediately that Downtown Durham would be the perfect
location for the first store in North Carolina,” say Chandler and Palmer. “Durham’s vibrant atmosphere and reputation for unique food concepts make it an ideal fit for MilkShake Factory. The American Tobacco Campus, with its bustling activity, is the perfect setting for our delicious
milkshakes to become a staple sweet treat for locals and visitors alike.”

MilkShake Factory promises to be the go-to spot for milkshake enthusiasts and dessert aficionados alike, offering a classic and cozy atmosphere complemented by friendly staff. Whether patrons are celebrating a special occasion, catching up with loved ones, or simply treating themselves to a sweet indulgence, MilkShake Factory ensures each visit is both memorable and delicious.

“We’re thrilled to welcome MilkShake Factory to the American Tobacco Campus–and Durham, North Carolina,” Mark Stanford, Vice President of Real Estate at CBC Real Estate remarked. ‘This community loves sweet treats and we look forward to seeing the joy and connections their
space will bring.’

Details regarding the Grand Opening of the store at 359 Blackwell St, Suite #120 will be announced soon, with plans to welcome customers this summer. Stay updated on the latest developments by visiting www.milkshakefactory.com, following MilkShake Factory on social media or emailing the team at downtowndurham@milkshakefactory.com.

Get ready, Durham, because life is about to get a lot sweeter.

A New Era of Entertainment at ATC–State of Golf

Downtown Durham’s First Multisport Simulator Bar to Open in May 2024

The American Tobacco Campus is thrilled to welcome State of Golf, an innovative multisport simulator bar, coming to downtown Durham in May 2024. This state-of-the-art venue integrates Full Swing Golf’s advanced technology, offering an immersive experience that allows guests to play virtual golf on the world’s most prestigious courses, as well as enjoy 30 other dynamic sports simulations, including baseball and soccer. State of Golf caters to a diverse audience, offering friends, families, teams, and companies a unique setting for bonding, informal meetings, and celebrations. Situated in close proximity to the Durham Bulls Athletic Park on Blackwell Street, State of Golf aims to be the go-to destination for game day gatherings.

Beyond sports, the venue will include a full-service bar with an extensive selection of beers, a carefully curated wine menu, and craft cocktails inspired by the iconic 19th hole. Though no food will be served on-site, guests are welcome to bring outside food, and plans are in place to partner with local food vendors, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their favorite meals and snacks while playing.

“We’re eager to bring this distinctive entertainment experience to the heart of Durham, offering a new venue for the community to gather, celebrate, and create unforgettable memories,” said Brandon Baker, owner of State of Golf. “Whether it’s sinking that winning putt, hitting a home run in baseball or scoring a goal in soccer, State of Golf is designed to appeal to sports enthusiasts of all ages and abilities.”

Mark Stanford, Vice President of Real Estate at CBC Real Estate, expressed enthusiasm for the latest addition to the American Tobacco Campus, noting, “State of Golf aligns perfectly with our commitment to combining our historic property with forward-thinking entertainment. This concept blends cutting-edge technology with the timeless appeal of sports and leisure and will be another great reason to visit the American Tobacco Campus.”


For further information and updates on the opening of State of Golf, visit www.stateofgolfnc.com.

American Tobacco Campus: In the Spirit of 2023

The American Tobacco Campus experienced a year of growth and reconnection in 2023, with a few unexpected surprises. We were visited by a beaver nicknamed ‘Barry.’ We made an appearance on Saturday Night Live with Burt’s Bees. And, we found ourselves in the New York Times’ latest feature on Durham.

You’ll find all the highlights here in our Annual Report.

On the culinary front, the additions of Five Star, Ekhaya, Seraphine, and The Waiting Room brought new flavors to campus and took dinner and drinks to another level. Meanwhile, PRESS, Parker & Otis, Boricua Soul, and Ekhaya made ATC a brunch hotspot. New businesses brought more workers to campus with BlueMatrix expanding in the Power Plant, and the Chamber Orchestra of Durham moving to the Washington Building. The campus vibrated with energy from Cristo Rey, DurhamTech students, and the opening of Kate’s Korner, ATC’s first childcare center.

The YMCA took the lead on campus wellness, offering free classes and organizing community events like the Volunteer Challenge and Wiffle Ball Tournament. Social and cultural events brought us together: Beats N Bars Festival, Duke Arts music series, Durham Night Market, and CoCo Drip Market, to name a few. Fans came out in droves from Durham Bulls games and DPAC performances, plus Bull City Race Fest and the inspiring BARRIER BREAKERS history exhibit. The Fourth of July Celebration at DBAP drew our biggest crowd yet and the 19th Annual Tower Lighting was a close second.

2023, what a year! And there are more good times ahead as the American Tobacco Campus celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2024. Stay tuned for all things #ATC20Years, and thank you for being a part of our story.

Read our annual report here.

Maker of Durham’s award-winning Honeygirl Mead, will open tasting room in Fall 2024

Ment Beverage Co., the celebrated creator of Honeygirl Mead, will expand its presence with a new location at the American Tobacco Campus in the Fall of 2024.

Ment Beverage Co. will unveil Honeygirl Meadery at 312 Blackwell St. Construction is almost complete for the new 3,000 square foot tasting room and production across from the Durham Performing Arts Center. Ment Beverage Co. will expand its product offerings to include mead, cider, locally brewed beer, distilled spirits and nonalcoholic sparkling beverages. Customers will be able to enjoy beverages on site and to stroll around the grounds as part of the Bullpen Social District. Ment will also have products available for takeaway.

The new space, designed by architect Dan Huffman of Huffman Architecture and David Sears and Mark Valand of IS Design, will feature two bars, comfortable indoor seating and outdoor patio space. Robert Hoyt, vice president at York Properties, represented Ment Beverage in the negotiation of the lease.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ment Beverage Co. and Honeygirl Meadery to ATC. They are an incredible, local company with a top-notch product.,” said Adam Klein, Director of the American Tobacco Campus. “We are committed to showcasing the best of Durham. There’s a spirit and energy to this brand that we really appreciate and that our campus community is going to love”

Ment Beverage Co. owner Robert Battle said moving the campus was an easy choice given the incredible support and community that already existed. “We can’t wait to be part of this space and introduce more people to our products, made right here and sourced from North Carolina ingredients. Our goal is to continue the high-quality Honeygirl mead and offer new, exciting beverage options for our current and future customers.”

More information HERE.

Louisiana-inspired kitchen and bar

Now Open!

Seraphine is a Louisiana-inspired kitchen and bar, offering an updated interpretation of traditional classic dishes and cocktails in a lively and elegant atmosphere. ATC’s second restaurant by Brad and Graham Weddington of NanaSteak, Seraphine is an instant hot spot for outdoor dining with patio seating and its own water fountain. Reserve a table or walk right in for cajun staples like gumbo, shrimp and grits, beignets and a top notch bar program. 

Seraphine is located at 324 Blackwell Street Suite 402 in the Washington Building, Bay 4. Directly adjacent to the South Parking Deck, next door to Parker & Otis. 

For menu and reservations, click HERE.

ATC and Crayons2Calculators Fill that Bus!

American Tobacco Campus (ATC) and Crayons2Calculators came together in support of Durham Public Schools with The Fill that Bus! Supply Drive. 

This drive is about more than school supplies–it’s about giving our teachers the materials they need to succeed in the 2023-2024 school year. Durham Public School teachers play a very important role in our growing city, shaping young minds and creating brighter futures. 

ATC rallied to Fill that Bus! collecting two full boxes of supplies and raising over $2500 online, with Pallet Alliance and Johnson Groninger leading the charge. Small acts can make a big difference. Thank you to everyone who contributed. 

We are proud of our community’s support for Durham Public Schools, and grateful to Crayons2Calculators for their leadership. Together, we’re making Durham into a better place to learn, work, and live – a place where every student has a chance to shine.