From art to outdoors, concerts to spraygrounds, here are the best free, family activities in the Triangle
The Triangle is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and a wide range of activities suitable for all ages. And thankfully, many of those things to do are actually free.
Here’s a list of free attractions and family activities in the Triangle.
North Carolina Museum of Art
Experience the beauty of art and nature at the North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh. This exceptional museum boasts an extensive collection spanning thousands of years, including European masterpieces, African and American art, and contemporary works. Entry to the museum is free, and visitors can also explore the stunning Museum Park, which features impressive outdoor sculptures and walking trails.
Address: 2110 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh
North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
Located in downtown Raleigh, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is the largest natural sciences museum in the Southeast. This fascinating museum offers free general admission and features numerous interactive exhibits showcasing dinosaurs, wildlife, ecosystems, and more. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the Nature Research Center, where kids can engage in hands-on experiments and demonstrations.
Address: 11 West Jones St., Raleigh
Pullen Park
Nestled in the heart of Raleigh, Pullen Park is a beloved destination for families. This historic park, opened in 1887, offers free admission and provides endless fun for children. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the picturesque lake, hop on the restored carousel (small fee applies), or embark on a mini-train ride through the park. With playgrounds, picnic areas, and paddle boats available, Pullen Park is an ideal spot for a family outing.
Address: 520 Ashe Ave., Raleigh
American Tobacco Trail
If your family enjoys outdoor activities, the American Tobacco Trail offers a picturesque setting for walking, biking, and exploring nature. This 22-mile trail winds through Durham, Chatham, and Wake counties, offering scenic views, wildlife sightings, and resting areas along the way. With multiple access points, you can choose a section of the trail that suits your family's preferences and enjoy a day immersed in the great outdoors.
Address: Varies by county. See the trail map at triangletrails.org
Duke Lemur Center
For animal lovers, a visit to the Duke Lemur Center in Durham is a must. While guided tours require a fee, the center offers free self-guided tours on weekdays. Explore the world's largest lemur sanctuary outside of Madagascar and observe these adorable primates in their natural habitat. Learn about conservation efforts and the center's important research, making it an educational and enjoyable experience for the whole family.
Address: 3705 Erwin Road, Durham
Free, seasonal outdoor concerts
For families in the Chapel Hill, and Durham areas, a free outdoor concert is just the ticket. Pack some bug/sun spray, drinks and a lawn chair, while enjoying music, movies and fun together.
Durham: PLAYlist
This free concert series is presented by Durham Central Park and WNCU 90.7FM. The concerts take place on the first Friday of the month from May to October at Durham Central Park.
Dates: May 5 - Oct, 6, 2023, 7 p.m.
Address: Durham Central Park, 501 Foster Street in Downtown Durham
Durham: Rock the Park Movie Series
Durham Parks and Recreation presents Rock The Park, a free summer concert and movie series that takes place at a number of Durham's most beautiful parks throughout the Bull City.
Dates: June 10 - Aug. 29, 2023, concerts run from 6 to 8 p.m.
Address: Various Durham locations
Durham: Music on Main
The Streets at Southpoint hosts a Saturday evening music series.
Dates: June 3 - Sept. 30, 2023, 6 to 9 p.m.
Address: The Streets at Southpoint, 6910 Fayetteville Road, Durham
Raleigh: 2023 Summer Concert Series
The Raleigh Parks Department hosts free outdoor concerts at Pullen Park and Fred Fletcher Park this summer. See a full lineup on the park’s website.
Dates: June 11 - Sept. 24, 2023, 6 to 8 p.m.
Address: Pullen Park and Fred Fletcher Park, Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill: Fridays on the Front Porch
Get your weekend off to an awesome start with one of Chapel Hill’s favorite gatherings, Fridays on the Front Porch. Sip on crafted cocktails and North Carolina beers, enjoy live music and nibble on cuisine from a weekly food truck lineup.
Dates: April 7-July 7, 2023
Address: The Carolina Inn, 211 Pittsboro Street, Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill: Wine Down Wednesday
Wine Down Wednesday is kid-friendly and dog-friendly, so bring the whole crew. Small plates, gelato, and sorbetto are available for order in addition to wine and beer.
Dates: April 5 to Oct. 11, 2023, from 6 to 8 p.m.
Address: La Vita Dolce, 610 Market Street Suite 101-C, Chapel Hill
Get wet at one of these spraygrounds
What better way to beat the heat and save money? The Raleigh area is home to multiple free and low-cost spraygrounds. Pack some snacks and head out early, here are the four free locations:
Jack Smith Park
Address: 9725 Penny Road, Cary
John Chavis Memorial Park
Address: 505 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Raleigh
Moore Square Splash Pad
Address: 201 S. Blount St., Raleigh
Taylor Street Park Sprayground
Address: 416 N. Taylor Street, Wake Forest
The Triangle is a treasure trove of free family activities, so enjoy nature and fun together as a family. And do it for free.
