7 Fun Free Things To Do in Raleigh, NC

Are you considering a trip to Raleigh, NC, and are looking for a fun way to spend the day? Here are seven fun, free things to do in Raleigh, NC.

Raleigh is known for many things as the capital of North Carolina. As a growing technological and business center, it has that great big city feel with plenty of southern charm. According to the year-end 2023 Wake County Tourism report, Wake County saw a record year for tourism in 2023 and is only continuing to rise throughout 2024. 

There are many great activities to enjoy without spending a dime. You can have a lot of fun in Raleigh, no matter your budget. From visiting the public library to checking out museums and parks, there is something for everyone in Raleigh. 

Raleigh is the second biggest city in North Carolina, behind Charlotte. It is home to many families, young professionals, and retirees. After your trip, it will be hard not to move to Raleigh. If you are interested in relocating, there are many affordable and beautiful neighborhoods for homeowners of all ages. 

Whether you are planning a day with your family or just trying to save a couple of bucks, Raleigh is one of the best places to be. In this guide, we have collected the seven best fun and free things to do in Raleigh. 

Keep reading to learn all about the most fun and free things to do in Raleigh, NC.

1. North Carolina Museum of Art

Address: 2110 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh, NC 27607

The North Carolina Museum of Art is one of the most popular attractions in Raleigh and for a good reason. Not only is admission and parking free but there is also a lot to explore. 

Inside, there are more than a dozen stunning gallery spaces showcasing unique art from across the world. You can explore on your own or take a guided tour. Outside, there are numerous beautiful sculptures and lush greenery to stroll through or have a picnic in. 

As you plan your trip, check out the events calendar as the museum hosts many fun events like plays, outdoor movie nights, and more throughout the year. If you want something more interactive, there are studio workshops, lectures, films, and performances. 

No matter what you do when you get here, you can ensure that it'll be a day you won't forget. Visit the galleries between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. or the park from dawn to dusk. 

Volunteering opportunities are available at the NC Museum of Art and play a vital role in preserving art in the community. 

2. Dorothea Dix Park

Address: 1030 Richardson Dr., Raleigh, NC 27603

Located just 5 minutes from downtown Raleigh, Dorothea Dix Park is the largest park in Raleigh at over 300 acres. This park shows gorgeous skyline views of the city and enough space for you and the whole family. There is even an off-leash dog area so you don't have to leave your furry friends at home. 

The wide open fields, rolling meadows, tree-lined streets, and beautiful North Carolina weather make it one of the best places for events and festivals in Raleigh. Dorothea Dix is home to the field of sunflowers, Tribal Pow Wow, and Dreamville. 

The city of Raleigh is adding Gibson Play Park, which will make this park better. In the mean time, you can visit the park for a picnic, games, or one of the events held here throughout the year.

If you want to learn more about the deep history of the park, you can join a free guided walking tour. The park dates back to four centuries ago when it was the hunting grounds for many Native American tribes.

In the 1850s, the Dorothea Dix Hospital was opened, a public hospital for inpatient and outpatient mental health care. The park and hospital were both named after Dorothea Dix, a nurse who believed in helping and caring for those with mental illness through connection with nature and community service. The hospital closed in 2012 when the City of Raleigh bought the land to create this amazing park. 

Raleigh's Fourth of July Celebration is a free event hosted here. It is fun for the whole family and will feature spectacular fireworks, food trucks, and live music. 

3. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

Address: 11 West Jones St., Raleigh, NC 27601

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is located in downtown Raleigh and is the Southeast's largest natural history museum and the most visited museum in NC. Raleigh has been referred to as the "Smithsonian of the South" due to the quality and number of free museums in the city.

This museum is made up of 4 floors of exhibits related to natural science. Additionally, there is a live animal exhibit and an education and research center where scientists work. 

Most people visit the museum for the life-size dinosaur and whale skeletons. There are also many interactive experiences for the whole family to learn. The museum also hosts many events, including live animal feeding, nature play day, and 3D movies.

4. Videri Chocolate Factory

Address: 327 W Davie St., Raleigh, NC 27601

Located in the heart of the warehouse district, the Videri Chocolate Factory is a cozy and fully operational chocolate factory and retail space. Here, you can see all of the chocolate production equipment through a self-guided tour. You can see the entire chocolate-making magic from start to finish to enjoy eating the chocolate on the outdoor patio. 

The self-guided tour only takes about 15 minutes in total, while you can sample free chocolate bars. This is a great place to visit for a fun date in Raleigh. 

This chocolate factory is very different than any other factory. They don't use any filters like soy lecithin, emulsifiers, or artificial flavorings, only the best cocoa beans, cocoa butter, and organic cane sugar. You won't have to worry about any common allergies as the factory is nut-free, peanut-free, gluten-free, soy-free, and egg free. 

5. JC Raulston Arboretum

Address: 4415 Beryl Rd., Raleigh, NC 27606

The JC Raulston Arboretum is home to several events throughout the year, all of which can be visited for free. Some are educational events about horticulture, classes to learn about plants, and some are just fun guided events to explore the botanical garden.

All events at the arboretum are family-friendly, making it the perfect place to spend the day. The arboretum and botanic garden is one of the largest and most diverse collections of landscape plants adapted for landscape use in the Southeast United States. 

Events include Landscape Color and Professional Field Day, which is full of information for green industry professionals. Join the community on the first Tuesday of each month for a Plant-Lover tour led by one of the JCRA horticulturists. If you are looking for a fun group activity, schedule a guided group tour that is available year-round when arranged one month in advance. 

Kids are welcome any day or time. There are even I Spy tours for children and families. This is a great interactive way to enjoy the garden and learn about all the plants along the way. Whether you pick a guided tour or explore on your own, this is a must-visit in Raleigh. 

6. State Farmers Market

Address: 1201 Agriculture St., Raleigh, NC 27603

The State Farmers Market takes place all year round, full of local vendors with goodies, fruit, gifts, and much more. You can visit for free and stroll through all the local vendors. 

There are indoor and outdoor shopping areas, one of which is the "Farmers Building," with fresh produce, specialty items, and plants. This farmers market is considered to be one of the country's best and most modern markets. 

Open seven days a week, this is the best place to learn about and support all the best local companies in Raleigh. While admission is free, you will have to pay for any yummy treats or fun gadgets you find from local vendors. However, it is extremely worth it to have a chance to experience all that Raleigh has to offer. 

7. First Friday Event

Address: 409 W. Martin St., Raleigh, NC 27603

The First Friday event is held every first Friday of the month in downtown Raleigh. The event consists of free art exhibitions from local galleries, free movies, markets, live music, wine, and finger food.

This popular event is one of the best free ways to explore Raleigh's stunning art scene. You can even sample local food and mouthwatering drinks. You can leave your wallet at home and simple enjoy everything Raleigh has to offer. 

This wonderful tradition started back in 1990, and many other cities across the country hold their own art walks. You can show your support for local businesses and galleries while retail stores, bars, and restaurants offer their own unique experiences. 

First Friday will celebrate different seasons and celebrations in Raleigh, like Restaurant Week, the Holiday Season, and Halloween. Visit from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and participate in this amazing community event. 

Methodology

We used information and data from several different sources, as well as our own data, to determine everything you need to know about fun, free things to do in Raleigh, NC. Most of the data was sourced from the following sources:

• City of Raleigh
• WRAL
• Best Places

FAQ: Fun Free Things To Do in Raleigh, NC

Here are some commonly asked questions about fun, free things to do in Raleigh, NC.

What museums in Raleigh are free?

Raleigh is full of interesting and free museums, including the North Carolina Museum of Art, the North Carolina Museum of History, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, the JC Raulston Arboretum, and many more. 

Can you park for free in downtown Raleigh?

According to the city of Raleigh, all downtown districts, including Glenwood South, parking is free every weekend and Monday through Friday, 6 p.m. to 8 a.m. Parking in the Hillsborough District is free from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m.

What brings people to Raleigh?

Many travel to Raleigh for the favorable weather, year-round activities, fun things to do, and friendly community. As the capital of North Carolina, Raleigh is in the center of the state, making it an easy drive to the beach or mountains if you ever want a quick vacation. 

What is the famous street in Raleigh, NC?

Fayetteville Street is the most famous street in Raleigh as it is the central historical and cultural heart of downtown Raleigh. Although it is just under a half-mile long, this street's history dates back to the city's first plan of 1792.

What part of Raleigh is best to stay in?

Raleigh is full of many great communities; depending on what you are looking for, some areas may be better than others. However, North Hills is known as one of the best places in Raleigh to stay, as it gives easy access to attractions, restaurants, and more. 

Fun Free Things To Do in Raleigh, NC - The Bottom Line

Whether you are in Raleigh for a quick trip or are looking for something fun for the whole family, Raleigh has more than enough activities to choose from. In addition to the fun, free things to do, Raleigh hosts many unique events throughout the year. 

As you decide where to move next, consider the Triangle, which has many homes with amenities and local favorites surrounding your family. Whether you are searching for a single-family home, townhome, short sale, or apartment complex, you are bound to find the best home in Raleigh for you and your family for the best price. 

Before you buy your next home in the Triangle, feel free to contact one of our helpful real estate specialists, as they are eager to help you find the perfect home. We know that buying a home can be overwhelming, but a real estate agent can walk you through the entire process.