Looking for an affordable getaway that's packed with culture, history, art, and natural beauty? Chapel Hill, Carrboro and Hillsborough offer a variety of free attractions that make it easy to enjoy a day trip or weekend adventure without breaking the bank. While some locations may require paid parking nearby, the attractions themselves are free to explore, making them a budget-friendly option for travelers seeking memorable experiences close to home.
From fascinating museums and galleries to outdoor spaces and cultural landmarks, these attractions showcase the creativity, history, and character that make Orange County such a rewarding destination. So, gather your friends, bring the family, or set out on a solo adventure for experiences that prove some of the best discoveries don't require an admission ticket.
Let curiosity lead you to these free attractions throughout Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Hillsborough.
Attractions in Chapel Hill and Carrboro
Ackland Art Museum
The Ackland Art Museum at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers a wide stylistic range of art. The Ackland’s holdings, over 21,000 works of art, include significant collections of European masterworks, 20th-century and contemporary art, African art, and North Carolina pottery. In addition, the Ackland has North Carolina’s premier collections of Asian art and works on paper (drawings, prints, and photographs). Admission is free (pay to park lots and deck nearby).
Carolina Basketball Museum
The Carolina Basketball Museum opened in 2008, underwent an extensive refurbishment in 2017 and includes numerous new artifacts, including the ball Luke Maye shot to beat Kentucky in the 2017 NCAA Elite Eight en route to UNC's sixth NCAA title, and the shoes Roy Williams wore in the final coaching win of his Hall of Fame career plus much more. Free Admission (pay to park lot across the street).
North Carolina Collection Gallery
Eclectic collection of artifacts and exhibits related to North Carolina and University history, including the library and furnishings from Hayes Plantation in Edenton and the Sir Walter Raleigh Rooms featuring English paneling and furnishings from the late 1500s and 1600s. Located in the Wilson Library. Free admission (pay to park on campus lots nearby).
North Carolina Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden, one of the largest natural botanical gardens in the southeast, features nature trails, carnivorous plant collections, perennial borders, aquatics and herb gardens. Also an education center, gallery, gift shop with outdoor patio space and native plant landscaping. Guided Tours available. Free admission and parking.
University of North Carolina (UNC) - A Sense of Place Tour
Welcome to Carolina! The UNC Visitors Center offers its popular in-person Sense of Place tour that introduces campus history, traditions and the student experience as well as some of the University’s current endeavors in research and innovation. Th 90-minute tour begins at the UNC Visitors Center, 134 E. Franklin Street, and ends at Kenan Stadium. There is also a quick 45-minute tour available. Free admission (pay to park on street and deck nearby).
Self-Guided Mural Tour of Chapel Hill & Carrboro
Drop by the Chapel Hill-Orange County Welcome Center at 308 W. Franklin Street for a free self-guided map of murals located in downtown Chapel Hill and downtown Carrboro. Over 45 murals, all within walking distance. Free parking at the Welcome Center while taking this tour.
Soundwalk of Northside
Histories of Home: A Walk with Northside Neighbors is an invitation to listen to everyday history-makers. Featuring the voices of over a dozen community members and narrated by Northside longtime residents, this audio tour is an introduction to some of the stories, struggles, and aspirations of our community. This feature-length documentary, produced by Alexander Stephens, is designed to be listened to while walking through the Northside neighborhood. Stop by the Marian Cheek Jackson Center to check out a CD and portable player. They’ll also provide you with a map of the neighborhood. Free parking on-site at the Jackson Center and pay to park lot next door).
Attractions in Hillsborough
Burwell School Historic Site
The Burwell School Historic Site is a two-acre property, which contains the Burwell residence (ca. 1821, 1848), the original brick classroom building of Robert and Margaret Anna Burwell’s Academy for Young Ladies (ca.1837), and a rare brick Necessary House (ca. 1837). It thrives as a place of learning, offering self-guided tours Wednesday - Sunday, guided tours, Sat & Sun and children’s educational programs. The Burwell School Historic Site is free and open to the public. Free parking on-site.
Occaneechi Indian Village Replica
Located along the banks of the Eno River and inside River Park is a replica of a 17th century Occaneechi Village. The Occaneechi Tribe lived near this location 300 years ago. Free admission. Free parking at nearby lot.
Orange County Historical Museum
Located on the site of North Carolina’s 1788 Constitutional convention, the museum interprets the history of Orange County from pre-settlement period through the 1950s. Its collection includes the only complete set of colonial weights and measures in the U.S. and the desk of Governor Thomas Burke. A second-floor gallery features special exhibits on local history. Free admission. Free street parking and at nearby deck.
Plan your visit
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Call our Welcome Center with questions at phone 888-968-2060 or 919-245-4320. Or send an email to info@visitchapelhill.org
