Known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene, Raleigh is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be explored. And the best part? You don't need to spend a fortune to enjoy all that this captivating city has to offer! Let's dive into the free activities and attractions that will allow you to immerse yourself in the beauty of Raleigh, all while keeping your wallet happy.
LAKES AND PARKS
Lake Johnson
Lake Johnson is a beautiful area with a 5.4 mile trail around a lake. Plus there are boat rentals, picnic areas, and fishing!
Address: 4601 Avent Ferry Rd, Raleigh
Lake Lynn
Lake Lynn is a beautiful man-made lake with a 2.8 greenway trail around the lake. Host a party, take your kids to the playgrounds, or use the tennis, basketball, or bocce ball courts at your leisure!
Address: 7921 Ray Road, Raleigh
Lake Shelley
Lake Shelley has 2 miles of paved greenway that loops around the lake. Enjoy fishing, basketball, and two playgrounds for different age groups.
Address: 1400 West Millbrook Rd, Raleigh
Lake Crabtree
This 520-acre park in Wake County features an abundance of activities to enjoy. It is also a perfect spot for relaxing or walking.
- Gardens
- Playgrounds
- Picnic shelters
- Fishing
- Biking
- Boating
- Hiking
- Paddling
Address: 1400 Aviation Pkwy, Morrisville
Pullen Park
Located west of downtown Raleigh and right beside NC State University, Pullen Park is a 66-acre public park, and the 5th oldest operating amusement park in the U.S. Rides include a carousel, train, pedal boats, and kiddies boats. You can also find numerous programs and events at the community center.
Address: 520 Ashe Ave, Raleigh
Dorothea Dix
Dorothea Dix is a spacious park with a fantastic view of the Raleigh skyline. This park features dog parks, large fields for activities or relaxing, and seasonal florals like sunflower fields and magnolias.
Address: 1030 Richardson Dr, Raleigh
Umstead State Park
Camping, hiking, biking, fishing, paddling, events – Umstead Park offers the best of nature, while still being close to the city. Visit the website to view the park and campground map to plan your trip!
Address: 8801 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh
Lake Wheeler
With 650 acres of lake and 150 acres of park and land, Lake Wheeler features fishing, boat shows, kayaking, playgrounds, picnic areas, and rocking chairs overlooking the lake. Whether you come solo or with loved ones, you are sure to have a good time.
Address: 6404 Lake Wheeler Rd, Raleigh
THE NEIGHBORHOODS
Downtown Raleigh
Looking for a place to dine, sip, shop, and experience the historic beauty of Raleigh? Downtown has it all!
Warehouse District
Characterized by six blocks of iconic, red-brick, former-industrial buildings, the Warehouse District in downtown Raleigh is a growing concentration of galleries, studios, restaurants, nightlife and innovative businesses.
Historic Oakwood
Historic Oakwood is North Carolina’s longest-standing and unique neighborhood. It is located at the edge of downtown Raleigh, and is full of amazing architecture. Stroll along the sidewalks while taking in the eclectic beauty of the neighborhood.
You can grab a FREE walking tour brochure here.
Address: Bounded by N. Boundary, Person, Jones, and Linden Sts., and Oakwood Cemetery, Raleigh, North Carolina
Downtown Cary
Downtown Cary has a small town, family friendly vibe, with plenty to do. This small downtown has bloomed over the past few years, with no signs of stopping. Enjoy bars and restaurants that are unique to only the Cary area!
Address: 319 Academy St
MUSEUMS
Museum of Natural Sciences
Explore exhibits and programs as you get up close and personal with science and nature. From mountains to sea, you’ll experience the beauty of North Carolina in a collection that dates back to 1879. And you have to make your way to the living conservatory with butterflies, turtles, fish, and even a two-toed sloth.
An experience so immersive, you’ll forget you’re in downtown Raleigh.
Address: 11 W Jones St, Raleigh
Website: Museum of Natural Sciences
City of Raleigh Museum
Located in the center of downtown Raleigh, the City of Raleigh museum is housed in a historic hardware store with 5,000 artifacts alluding to the city’s people, places, and resources. This unique museum is dedicated to preserving the history of Raleigh while still envisioning all to come.
Address: 220 Fayetteville St, Raleigh
Website: City of Raleigh Museum
Art Museum
The NC Art Museum boasts some beautiful art, and is completely free! Once you’ve observed the art indoors, take a stroll along the art filled greenway, or relax in the large open fields.
Address: 2110 Blue Ridge Rd, Raleigh
GARDENS
Raleigh Rose Garden
Featuring a variety of roses, the Raleigh Rose Garden is a city gem. It is in bloom for most of the year, making it fun to explore in all seasons. Apart from the beauty and serenity the garden offers, there are many events and shows offered throughout the year
Address: 301 Pogue St, Raleigh
JC Raulston Arboretum At NC State University
This 10 acre botanical garden has one of the largest and most diverse collections of landscape plants in the Southeast. The arboretum is open year round and hosts various events for the public to enjoy.
Address: Ruby McSwain Education Center, 4415 Beryl Rd, Raleigh
Website: JC Raulston Arboretum
MARKETS
City Market
This major tourist attraction is located in the heart of downtown Raleigh. Walk along the beautiful cobble-stoned streets and experience the unique dining and entertainment that City Market offers!
Address: 306 Parham St, Raleigh
Farmer's Market
The State Farmer’s Market is over 75 acres with indoor and outdoor specialty shops, restaurants, and a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, plants, cookies, gifts, and more.
Address: 1201 Agriculture St, Raleigh
