Located in the heart of North Carolina lies the Triangle, a literal geographic area made up of the cities of Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. Housed within this three-sided destination paradise are three of the main universities in the state: Duke University, University of North Carolina, and North Carolina State University. While these three universities may have a sporting rivalry, there is a wide variety of fun things to do within the Triangle's perimeter that will cost you less than the price of a college basketball admission.
In fact, here are ten totally free Triangle activities!
Ten Free Fun Things to do in the Triangle
Walk the University Campuses - Relive the nostalgia of your own college days or simply take in the environment and architecture by walking the campuses of the local universities. While many events and activities are hosted at Duke, UNC, NC Central, William Peace and NCSU, it doesn’t cost a cent to go for a stroll and observe the cultural and historical buildings, grounds and museums.
Visit the State Capitol Building - This well-preserved building is one of the greatest examples of Greek Revival architecture. The Capitol building still contains all of the original furniture. It is also within walking distance of the North Carolina State Legislative Building and the Executive Mansion – both free to visit.
Visit the City of Raleigh Museum (COR) - This historic museum details the lineage of
North Carolina’s capital and how it has changed and hopes to change in the future. There are more than 5,000 artifacts as well as educational programs inside the former hardware store that now houses the City of Raleigh Museum. Just down the street are the Museum of History and the Museum of Natural Sciences - With more than 25 permanent exhibits, the Natural Sciences Museum teaches visitors about the natural world, including the mountains, coastal plains, and wildlife habitats of North Carolina. The History Museum also details the local, state, and regional history of North Carolina. One of the museum’s most popular exhibits is “The Story of North Carolina,” which recounts the lives of the state’s earliest settlers to current times.
North Carolina Museum of Art – Located just outside of downtown Raleigh, the North Carolina Museum of Art is the premier art destination the state. Among its many exhibits, the museum has one of the largest collections of Renoir Sculptures in the country. While the museums’ permanent collection and Museum Park are free, some of the national touring exhibits and other features such as concerts, films, and performances do have an additional cost. Check out the grounds walking trails and sculptures.
Jordan Lake - Jordan Lake is just west of Raleigh and serves as a large recreational area that is also known to be the home for many bald eagles during the summer months. The lake also contains many hiking trails throughout the forested areas, as well as swimming and camping areas where fishing and boat rentals are offered.
The vault at 21c Museum Hotel - While the entirety of the Durham 21c Museum Hotel is a work of modern architecture, it’s the vault that serves as a significant space open to the public. Within the hotel, there is an art gallery in the former bank vault that has been completely renovated and serves as the host to revolving pieces of art (not always kid-friendly).
Downtown Cary- There are many free things to do and see in downtown Cary including the Cary Arts Center and downtown park where there are food trucks and free music in the summer. Let’s not forget about the Cotton House Craft Brewers and Fortnight Brewing.
Ackland Art Museum – houses over 19,000 works of art. Located on the UNC campus just off Franklin Street, the Ackland is free to the public and has been a key part of the Chapel Hill cultural scene since 1958.
Historic Durham Athletic Park - this former minor league baseball stadium was once home to the Durham Bulls. This historic sports site became a Durham must-see after the Film “Bull Durham” highlighted both the Bulls and the park. Walk about 2 miles towards the American Tobacco Campus and you can walk up the stairs and see (for free) the new Durham Bulls Athletic Park.
American Tobacco Campus - Adjacent to the Durham Bulls Baseball Park and the Durham Performing Arts Center, the American Tobacco Campus is a registered historical site revitalized from the original tobacco factory built in the 1800s. The development is home to both retail and office space, as well as future residential units and a popular summer music series.
These fun activities are perfect for a day trip or a long weekend in the Triangle. They also prove that having fun doesn’t always need to break the bank.
Which of these activities will you include in your next visit to the area? If you are looking for a tour guide for part of all of your Triangle experience, contact us. We have 21+ years of experience planning a unique experience for you, your family and friends, company or group.
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