Free Things to do in Raleigh

Lady looking at a city skyline from a park

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

Visit Historic Yates Mill County Park for Tranquility & History

I have no idea why it took us 8+ years of living in Raleigh for […]

Pullen Park Raleigh: Classic Fun For Kids!

Pullen Park has special memories for us. We would take our eldest daughter, Kalyra, there […]

3 Cool Trails at Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve in Cary, NC

We did a quick search on our phone on Saturday afternoon for family-friendly nature trails […]

Take a Tour of the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame Museum

Ok sports fans, who knew that Raleigh was home to the North Carolina Sports Hall […]

Biking the Art to Heart Trail (NC Museum of Art – Downtown Raleigh)

If you love exploring different areas of Raleigh on bike rides and greenway trails, we […]

A person walking down a street in front of a building

North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences – Raleigh’s Best Museum

Let me start by saying we’re not big museum people and typically avoid them when […]

Best Spots For Fly Fishing In North Carolina (+what flies to bring)

Today our blogging friend Nick from Canada is sharing his tips on where to find […]

Mother and two daughters walking on the street.

37 Free Things To Do In Raleigh, NC (or on the cheap)

Looking for tips on free things to do in Raleigh? Or things to do on […]

Free Events in Raleigh

Nature & Outdoor Events

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

6:00 pm

Link Posts: Attraction: North Carolina Museum of Art

Morning Bird Walk - February 24, 2024

Art Events, Exhibitions & Galleries

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

5:00 pm

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

New Art Events, Exhibitions & Galleries

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

9:00 pm

First Friday, Downtown Raleigh - April 5, 2024

Food and Drink Events

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

6:00 pm

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

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

May 11, 2024, 11:00 pm

Price: Free

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

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!

Members of our free email community get insider tips, updates, free checklists, and other perks. Each week, we email the best events for the week, and our top finds and ideas for enjoying the Raleigh lifestyle more.