These 3 North Carolina Museums Are So Fascinating It’s Hard To Believe Admission Is Free

You might be surprised to learn that many of North Carolina's museums offer free general admission, either year-round or on special days. These three museums in North Carolina offer year-round free admission and make for wonderful, educational day trips the entire family will enjoy. Put your thinking cap on and get ready for a world of adventure that won't put a dent in your wallet.

1. North Carolina Museum of Art

First up on our list is the North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh.

Here, you can stroll through more than 5,000 years of historic artwork. The museum has both permanent and temporary exhibits, so you can always expect something new with traveling exhibits always coming through.

Once you've toured the museum, be sure to check out the Museum Park where nature and art seamlessly blend together in a collection of interactive sculptures, colorful gardens, and a beautiful landscape. All for free!

2. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

Just a short five-mile trip down the road from the N.C. Museum of Art lies the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, the third most visited museum in the state.

Fun fact: the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is the largest institution of its kind in the Southeastern United States and you can see all 300,000 square feet for free!

Kids of all ages will love coming face to face with these larger-than-life dinosaurs. You'll want to make sure you give yourself plenty of time here, since the campus is so large and chock-full of artifacts, interactive exhibits, and live demonstrations.

3. North Carolina Museum of History

Last but certainly not least, we have the North Carolina Museum of History.

Here, you can learn all about the history of the Tar Heel State through a multitude of exhibits that showcase 14,000 years of North Carolina history.

From indigenous artifacts found in riverbeds to recreations of 1920s soda shops, you'll walk away with a new appreciation for North Carolina's rich history.

The free fun doesn't stop at these museums. Check out some other epic adventures in North Carolina you can have without breaking the bank.