As a major city and thriving commercial center in North Carolina, Charlotte offers an abundance of activities for everyone to enjoy. And despite its urban setting, the city surprises you with a variety of cost-free experiences that appeal to diverse interests.
If you’re considering moving to Charlotte, here are some of the best free things you should know about:
- Explore the Beauty of UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens
- Visit the Mint Museum Uptown For Free
- Pay a Visit to the Billy Graham Library
- Tour NoDa Brewing Company to Learn the Art of Craft Beer
- Enjoy Live Music at the Charlotte Symphony Summer Pops
- Discover the Story of the New South at the Levine Museum
- Encounter the Beauty of Metalmorphosis in Charlotte
- Enjoy Free Events and Activities at the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library
- Get Lost in the Maze of Collectibles at The Sleepy Poet
- Hike the Scenic Routes of Crowders Mountain in Charlotte
Discover 10 Free Activities in Charlotte, NC
In Charlotte, you wouldn’t have to worry about running out of things to do or needing to spend a lot of money to have fun. The only challenge is deciding which enjoyable activity to do next.
Whether you’re an avid explorer seeking outdoor adventures, a culture enthusiast craving artistic experiences, or someone simply looking for a relaxing day out, Charlotte has you covered.
Let’s delve into 10 exciting activities that perfectly capture the spirit of Charlotte. So get ready to immerse yourself in the allure of this city with its endless possibilities for affordable fun.
Explore the Beauty of UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens
The UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens is one of the top places to visit if you’re looking for free things to do in Charlotte where you can enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors. It offers you a unique opportunity to dive into the fascinating world of plants and horticulture.
The Gardens are a member of the American Public Gardens Association (APGA) and is committed to sharing its carefully curated collections of plants for inventory, education, conservation, and research.
You can explore the beauty of its green spaces and vibrant greenhouse in the Van Landingham Glen woodland section and the Susie Harwood Garden without spending a dime because the admission is always free.
So if you’re seeking a place in Charlotte where you can find inspiration, relaxation, or a deeper understanding of botany, you will definitely enjoy the wonders of the indoor and outdoor gardens at no expense.
Visit the Mint Museum For Free
The Mint Museum Uptown and Mint Museum Randolph are cultural hotspots in the city of Charlotte.
These museums offer free admission for Mint members and children aged 4 and under, so you can explore its diverse collection of Craft + Design, American, and contemporary art without burning a hole in your pocket.
No need to fret if you haven’t become a Mint member yet because becoming one is as simple as making a donation.
You can take advantage of this opportunity to delve into inspiring architecture, cutting-edge exhibitions, and engaging visitor amenities, all while enjoying the convenience of accessible parking, elevators, and wheelchair-accessible facilities from Tuesday to Sunday.
Pay a Visit to the Billy Graham Library
The Billy Graham Library is a 40,000-square-foot testament to the faith and devotion of a young farm boy from rural North Carolina who became what many know as “America’s pastor” and a global evangelist. Located near his childhood home in the Queen City, it symbolizes the incredible journey of Billy Graham.
The library is open Monday through Saturday, welcoming all visitors with free admission.
You can explore the captivating exhibits of the Journey of Faith self-guided tour to step back in time and trace Billy Graham’s life through multimedia presentations and cherished memorabilia. Also, you can take a walking tour into his upbringing at the meticulously restored Graham Family Homeplace.
There is also Ruth’s Attic Bookstore, where you can peruse a curated selection of books, gifts, and Christian classics, including works penned by the Graham family. Then, you can satisfy your appetite at the Graham Brothers Dairy Bar.
After that, you can conclude your visit with a moment of reflection in the serene Memorial Prayer Garden, where the legacies of Billy and Ruth Bell Graham, along with other esteemed members of the Billy Graham Crusade Team, are honored.
Tour NoDa Brewing Company to Learn the Art of Craft Beer
The NoDa Brewing Company was founded in 2011 by Suzie Ford, Todd Ford, and Chad Henderson. And it has become the center of Charlotte’s beer scene over the years.
You can dive into the world of craft beer by joining a brewery tour, which takes place every Friday at 6pm and Saturday at 4pm at the North End’s Taproom.
Visitors are guided through the brewing process from start to finish, so you’ll be able to get up close and personal with hops, grains, and malts as you learn about their role in creating NoDa’s exceptional beers.
The tour takes approximately 45 minutes and offers an insightful look into the craftsmanship behind each brew. Best of all, it’s completely free with no reservations required.
Enjoy Live Music at the Charlotte Symphony Community Events
As one of the premier music organizations in the Southeastern United States, the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra (CSO) is deeply committed to engaging with its community through music.
So if you’re looking for ways to attend free concerts throughout the Charlotte area, you can count on the Charlotte Symphony to help you experience the joy of live music with its vibrant community events.
These outdoor concerts provide music lovers of all ages and backgrounds with the opportunity to experience live music in their own neighborhoods. That way, the Charlotte Symphony upholds its mission of uplifting, entertaining, and educating diverse audiences.
Discover the Story of the New South at the Levine Museum
Founded thirty years ago with a radical vision to tell everyone’s story, the Levine Museum of the New South is one of the prominent museums in Charlotte. It offers visitors an insight into the rich history and culture of the city, including pivotal moments like the American Revolution.
Through rotating exhibitions and public programs, the museum invites visitors to explore the complexities of Charlotte’s history and its relevance to contemporary issues. From thought-provoking displays to engaging events, the museum promotes empathy, sparks dialogue, and inspires action towards a better tomorrow.
The museum is open from Tuesday through Sunday with free admission to welcome everyone in celebrating a shared heritage and envision a brighter future for Charlotte.
Encounter the Beauty of Metalmorphosis in Charlotte
The Metalmorphosis is one of the Seven Wonders of Charlotte, N.C. It’s a stunning steel sculpture crafted by David Cerny, an internationally renowned Czech Sculptor.
You can view the Metalmorphosis when you visit Whitehall Corporate Center’s grand plaza, and it won’t cost a thing.
The sculpture consists of 40 steel pieces arranged into 7 segments, each independently rotating 360 degrees. This transformative artwork forms a giant metal head when aligned, showcasing Cerny’s visionary design and engineering ingenuity.
The complex art installation and choreographed movement offer viewers a fascinating experience that transcends traditional art forms. It invites everyone to witness the beauty of innovation in the heart of Charlotte.
Enjoy Free Events and Activities at the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library
The Charlotte Mecklenburg Library offers a diverse range of free events and activities suitable for various age groups and interests.
From career mentorship for teens to health education sessions for seniors, the library provides opportunities for lifelong learning and community engagement. You can expect to participate in book donation events, tutoring sessions, and special themed events like Earth Day Family Storytime.
With multiple locations throughout Charlotte, NC, the library welcomes adults, parents/caregivers, preteens, teens, and new adults to explore and enjoy its enriching programs and resources for free.
Get Lost in the Maze of Collectibles at The Sleepy Poet
The Sleepy Poet is a dreamy antique mall in Charlotte, NC, that offers endless possibilities of vintage finds, from old records and retro furniture to unique trinkets and jewels. It’s one of the cheap things to do in Charlotte that lets you have an affordable yet enriching experience.
The mall welcomes visitors every day of the week, so you can freely get lost in the fascinating world of collectibles.
With its diverse range of price points and eclectic selection, browsing through the mall’s merchandise becomes a very fun and interesting activity. Finding hidden treasures and one-of-a-kind items adds excitement to each visit, which is why you would want to come back frequently.
Hike the Scenic Routes of Crowders Mountain in Charlotte
Last but not the least on the list of free things you can do in Charlotte is hike Crowders Mountain. Situated in Gaston County, the state park offers the people of Charlotte an opportunity to explore the great outdoors through breathtaking vistas and over 30 miles of hiking trails.
The park caters to varying skill levels and preferences, so you can go on a leisurely walking tour or strenuous treks. Plus, nature enthusiasts can also enjoy spotting resident bird species during the guided tours, from songbirds to birds of prey. It’s one of the most exciting free outdoor things to do in Charlotte.
Embrace Charlotte’s Free Things to Do and Begin Your Adventure
In a place as vibrant as the Queen City, there’s no shortage of free activities to explore, so you’ll never run out of things to do in Charlotte. Whether you’re planning on moving to uptown or downtown Charlotte, you can enjoy free experiences depending on your interests and preferences.
So regardless if you’re a nature enthusiast, art museum lover, or music aficionado, the city welcomes you to discover its perfect blend of urban excitement and natural beauty.
Ready to make the move and plan your next adventure? Get a free quote from movers in Charlotte today.
