37 Ways to Have Fun in Raleigh, NC for Free (or Almost Free)

Looking for tips on free things to do in Raleigh? Or things to do on the cheap? We’ve got you covered!

Compared to other cities, Raleigh is generally an affordable place to visit or even if plan on living in Raleigh, with lots of attractions in Raleigh to keep you occupied without damaging your bank account too much!

Located on a 215-acre site adjacent to a 520-acre lake, the park has more than 16 miles of trails.This area is great for hikers, kayakers and mountain bikers.

Lake Crabtree County Park

An easy 2-mile paved scenic greenway trail loops around Shelley Lake and is popular with locals in North Raleigh, so it’s better for walkers and runners than cyclists at peak times.

Shelley Lake Park

Lake Lynn Trail is a 2.6 mile heavily trafficked paved loop trail with scenic views and a couple of hills but nothing too challenging. There’s a nice boardwalk over parts of the lake.

Lake Lynn

This is North Carolina’s most visited state park and a natural oasis surrounding three man made lakes and located just 15 minutes from downtown Raleigh with access from I-40 and I-70. 

William B. Umstead State Park

Hiking trails, a 24-acre pond, and the Historic Yates Mill make up this 174-acre wildlife refuge and environmental resource center. 

Historic Yates Mill County Park

You can spend at least a few hours in downtown Cary. It’s like small town America, cute and charming, with just a few streets to navigate.

Downtown Cary

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