Free Things to do in Raleigh

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Who doesn't like memorable moments that don't cost a cent?

Raleigh has an incredible number of free attractions and things to do to enjoy. In fact, Raleigh has been known as the Smithsonian of the South due to its large number of free museums.

From vibrant festivals to serene nature escapes, and world-class museums and galleries, join us as we explore the best of Raleigh on a budget and share through our curated collection of free things to do in Raleigh.

 

 

All Articles on Free Things to do

mystic waterfall in Mt Michelle Garden

A Visit to Juniper Level Botanic Gardens, Raleigh: Exploring Botanical Wonders

Alright Raleigh, I’m sure many of you have never heard of the Juniper Level Botanic […]

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Illuminate Art Walk 2023 – A Downtown Raleigh Holiday Tradition

The Illuminate Art Walk in downtown Raleigh began during a tough period, the isolation year […]

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Learn about the History + Future of Dorothea Dix Park (on a FREE guided walking tour)

Did you know that Dorothea Dix Park runs free guided walking tours every second Saturday […]

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Mother and daughter taking pictures at the sunflower field.

Don’t Miss These Sunflower Fields in Raleigh

The dial has been turned up on the summer heat and the sunflower fields in […]

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a man paddle boarding on a lake

Why Lake Johnson Is Our Favorite Lake In Raleigh (Walk, Kayak, Relax)

When we first moved to Raleigh back in 2004, we lived right on Lake Johnson […]

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A person standing next to a body of water

Don’t Miss The Bond Lake Park Loop Trail

I’ve said it many times, one of our favorite things about living in the Raleigh […]

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A large body of water surrounded by trees

Don’t Miss Bond Lake Walk at Fred G Bond Metro Park, Cary

I’ve said it many times, one of our favorite things about living in the Raleigh […]

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A Guide to Sarah P. Duke Gardens in Durham (30 minutes from Raleigh) 

We recently spent a few hours on a beautiful spring day walking through the gorgeous […]

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Pullen Park, Raleigh

17 Wonderful Parks in Raleigh, NC, to get to know Raleigh

We are lucky to have many excellent parks in Raleigh, and a great way to […]

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Lake Lynn Trail, Raleigh, North Carolina

12 Kid-Friendly Trails in Raleigh (walk or bike)

One of our favorite things about living in Raleigh with kids is having access to […]

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people standing on a board walk next to a body of water

Lake Raleigh: A Hidden Gem

Talk about a hidden gem. It took us 6 years of living in Raleigh before […]

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Lake Lynn Trail, Raleigh, North Carolina

A Must Do For Nature Lovers: Lake Lynn Trail in North Raleigh

If you’re looking for some solitude and to stretch your legs on one of the […]

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Free Events in Raleigh

Nature & Outdoor Events
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Morning Bird Walk - February 24, 2024

Join us for an informal walk through the Museum Park in search of migratory and native birds in honor of
February 24, 2024, 10:00 am
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6:00 pm
Link Posts: Attraction: North Carolina Museum of Art

Morning Bird Walk - February 24, 2024

February 24, 2024, 10:00 am
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6:00 pm
Link Posts: Attraction: North Carolina Museum of Art

Art Events, Exhibitions & Galleries
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Spring Daze Arts And Crafts Festival, Cary - March 19, 2024

The Spring Daze Arts and Craft Festival in Bond Park, Cary is a Wake County festival not to miss for
March 19, 2024, 9:00 am
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5:00 pm

Spring Daze Arts And Crafts Festival, Cary - March 19, 2024

March 19, 2024, 9:00 am
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5:00 pm

New Art Events, Exhibitions & Galleries
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First Friday, Downtown Raleigh - April 5, 2024

First Friday is a popular monthly event in downtown Raleigh celebrating local art and culture. Local businesses and galleries open
April 5, 2024, 6:00 pm
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9:00 pm

First Friday, Downtown Raleigh - April 5, 2024

April 5, 2024, 6:00 pm
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9:00 pm

Food and Drink Events
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The Pit’s ‘Cuegrass Festival, Downtown Raleigh - April 20, 2024

Are there two better words to describe North Carolina than barbecue festival? The annual ‘Cuegrass festival hosted by The Pit Authentic BBQ
April 20, 2024, 10:00 am
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6:00 pm

The Pit’s ‘Cuegrass Festival, Downtown Raleigh - April 20, 2024

April 20, 2024, 10:00 am
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6:00 pm

FEATURED New Special Interest Events
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Longleaf Film Festival (10th Anniversary) - May 10, 2024

This two-day festival celebrates North Carolina through film in Downtown Raleigh It’s an opportunity to watch movies, meet filmmakers and
May 10, 2024, 3:00 pm
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May 11, 2024, 11:00 pm
Price: Free

Longleaf Film Festival (10th Anniversary) - May 10, 2024

May 10, 2024, 3:00 pm
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May 11, 2024, 11:00 pm
Price: Free

 Listings for Free Attractions

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The Free NC Museum of Art

Without a doubt, the best free attraction in Raleigh is this world class art museum and sculpture park! 

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