10 Awesome Activities in Raleigh that are Totally FREE

By Travis | May 18, 2016

Even on a budget, Raleigh’s a great place to live! Explore a little to find lots of free activities, no matter what you like to do. Need some help getting started? Here are 10 of our favorite free activities in Raleigh.

1. Free Concerts in Raleigh

Listen to some tunes at lots of free venues in Raleigh! Try the Midtown Beach Music Series at North Hills from 6-9 p.m. on Thursdays, April 21-Aug. 11, 2016. On Fayetteville Street in City Plaza, the Oak City 7 and Pickin’ in the Plaza hosts concerts 5-10:30 p.m. on Thursdays, beginning the Thursday after Memorial Day.

2. Free Samples

Try the State Framers Market to taste the freshest of North Carolina produce in season. Triangle Vino offers a wine tasting calendar for Raleigh wine lovers looking to whet their palate. If suds is more your style, check out this breweries map to find craft breweries in Raleigh—they often offer samples for free.

3. Art for All

One of the premier visual arts museums in the South, the NC Museum of Art features a dramatic gallery building and a world-class collection. Or try First Fridays, a stroll through area galleries, with wine, music, and plenty of art.

4. Museums with Open Doors

The African American Cultural Center at NC State has an African American Library and a Cultural Art Gallery. The City of Raleigh Museum features changing exhibits about the history of the city. And the only Harley-Davidson drag racing museum in the world, the Legends of Harley Drag Racing Museum, can be found on the second floor of the Harley dealership.

5. See the City on a Bike

The Oak City Cycling Project suggests the Umstead Cyclocross Ripper, a 30-mile mixed terrain ride through Downtown Raleigh past NC State and Meredith College to the Rocky Branch Greenway. You must try the greenways: The Capital Area Greenway System is a network of public open spaces and recreational trails connecting many of Raleigh’s parks. And the Neuse River Greenway Trail offers scenic views of the Neuse River, winding boardwalk areas through wetlands, and historical sights.

6. Take a Walk in the Park

It’s huge: There are more than 20 miles of hiking trails in William B. Umstead State Park. Choose a short stroll along a nature trail or a more extensive hike into the woods. Pullen Park has a restored carousel, kiddie boats, a miniature train, tennis courts, and more. Find your own park; Raleigh is home to dozens.

See Related : Grady Approved Dog Parks – Raleigh NC

7. Get Governmental for Free

Tour the North Carolina State Capitol including the first floor Rotunda, the Legislative Chambers, and the State Library and Cabinet of Minerals Room. Don’t miss the Statues and Monuments on Union Square.