By Kayla Fisher
Raleigh offers a wide array of places for the public to visit and enjoy for free. These free places and events can be beneficial to students who do not have much extra spending money but still want to do something fun. Places with free admission include many museums, parks, and many other events.
Museums in Raleigh are both fun and educational options for students to enjoy. In downtown Raleigh, admission is free to the North Carolina Museum of Art, North Carolina Museum of History, North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, and the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame.
The museums each include a wide expanse of things to observe. The Natural Science museum hosts many interesting animals and rare skeletons such as the Acrocanthosaurus dinosaur.
The history museum features over 14,000 years of history of North Carolina, the art museum has a wide collection of art including pieces such as over 30 Rodin sculptures and the sports museum contains a collection of memorabilia from NC sports.
“I like to walk around downtown,” said Ashton Riggs. “Just seeing what all is available in Raleigh is amazing, and we are so lucky to have many opportunities here!”
Parks can also be an entertaining free options for students or just the general public. Parks such as Pullen Park, Lake Johnson Park, Bass Lake Park, and Knightdale Environmental Educational Park are available to visit for free. Activities and amenities available at the parks include hiking, fishing, boat rentals, tennis courts, picnic areas, playgrounds, and just a space to relax.
“My favorite thing to do is to go to Lake Wheeler and fish catfish,” said Kasey Delaney.
Another fun free option is at a place called Artspace. This center provides a studio in which people can come and view exhibitions, buy artwork, or take classes for some extra art education.
Raleigh doesn’t fall short of interesting things to do for people with all types of interests. There are affordable and free places and events available to all kinds of people.