Top Free Things to Do in Charlotte

The birthplace of James K. Polk, the 11th President of the United States is on display in Pineville, just southwest of Charlotte. Visitors may go on a 30-minute tour of the restored 19th Century homestead. The historic site is available for viewing Tuesday-Saturday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

12031 Lancaster Hwy.
Pineville, NC 28134
704-889-7145

Gallery L at the Public Library of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County's Main Branch features rotating exhibits. Visitors may view the art collections during the library's main hours, Monday - Thursday, 9 a.m. - 9 p.m., Friday - Saturday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Sunday, 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.

310 N. Tryon Street
Charlotte, NC 28202
704-416-0100

The gardens and the McMillan Greenhouse at the University of North Carolina Charlotte are free to view and explore. The outdoor gardens are open seven days a week during daylight hours while the McMillan Greenhouse is open Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. and Sunday, 1 - 4 p.m.

9201 University City Blvd.
Charlotte, NC 28223
704-687-2364
704-687-2870

Part of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Parks and Recreation, the Reedy Creek Park and Nature Preserve is one of the cities treasures featuring fishing, 10 miles of trails and serves as a habitat for 109 species of birds, 15 species of mammals, 20 species of reptiles, and 12 species of amphibians.

2900 Rocky River Rd.
Charlotte, NC
704-336-8866

View the museum and take a 30-minute underground tunnel tour for free at this historic gold-mining location. And, if you're so inclined you can pan for gold for just $2.

9621 Reed Mine Rd
Midland, NC 28107
704-721-4653

Located in Albemarle, the Stanly County museum features Native American artifacts and information about this area of the North Carolina Piedmont region. The museum is open Tuesday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

245 East Main Street
Albemarle, NC 28001
704-986-3777

Located on the site of what was once Southern Railway Company's largest steam locomotive repair facility, the site features an authentic train depot, antique automobiles, and a 37-bay Roundhouse that includes 25 locomotives, dozens of rail cars and other exhibit areas. Visits to the museum are free, but admission may be charged for special events, and there is a small fee for the train and turntable rides.

411 S. Salisbury Ave
Spencer NC 28159
704-636-2889

Hike and explore this mountain for free or camp out for a small fee.

522 Park Office Lane
Kings Mountain, NC 28086
704-853-5375

The Fieldcrest Cannon Textile Museum & Exhibition celebrate the history of the mill village and textile industry in a self-guided tour. The museum is open Monday - Saturday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

200 West Ave
Kannapolis, NC 28081
704-938-3200