10 Free Attractions To Visit Around University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Whether you’re an incoming freshman, or a seasoned senior, we all have our moments of money shortages. It kinda comes with the territory of a college student. If you’re looking for somewhere to relax, see an amazing sight, something new, something different, and most importantly, something FREE, here’s a list of 10 free things to do around University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
1. Check out new art exhibits at Ackland Art Museum.
Ackland Art Museum has been around since 1958 and is definitely a hallmark of Chapel Hill. Located right next to TOPO, before arriving to E. Franklin Street, you can’t miss it; especially with new, big, colorful exhibits on the front lawn. With over 18,000 pieces in their collection and 10-12 exhibit changes a year, it’s definitely worth more than one visit.
2. Check out the National Championship trophies at Carolina Basketball Museum
If you know anything about University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, you know that we are all about basketball. From Michael Jordan, to our 49 first round picks, to our seven national championships, the most recent being last year, to the iconic Dean Dome, if you’re in Chapel Hill, you’ll see or hear basketball. Take a stroll to the Carolina Basketball Museum and bask in the glory of what is UNC basketball. With tons of trophies, a Jordan display, signed basketballs, jerseys, rings, and so much more, the photo-ops are endless.
It’s conveniently located near the Dean Dome, so don’t hesitate to head over and see the greatness of the Tarheels. Go to Hell Duke!
3. Take in the scenery at The North Carolina Botanical Garden
Native plants, guided tours, walking trails, a giant chess board, this garden is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, class, and life. Spring is the perfect time to see all of these plants and flowers in their vibrant colors, and everyone likes a good location to take some good pictures. Donations are appreciated, but it is free!
4. Then, head over to Coker Arboretum
Coker Arboretum is managed by Botanical Garden and has so many amazing plants and flowers to look at. Some are native, but over the years, it has come to include some exotic ones as well. No matter the season, Coker Arboretum is a sight to see. It hosts a free one-hour tour every third Saturday of the month, but you can visit year around. It’s nicely hidden, a good study spot in warmer weather, and a great place for some stunning pictures.
5. Visit the planetarium that trained men for the moon – Morehead Planetarium
Morehead Planetarium has been open since 1949, and hosted astronauts training for the Apollo, Gemini, and Mercury missions. The planetarium shows are $6.51 for University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill students, and $7.68 for adults, but the exhibits are free! Learn all about astronauts, astronomy, our water supply, and so much more in these walk through and interactive exhibits.
6. Visit the Secret Society Headquarters at Gimghoul Castle
Owned by the Order of the Gimghoul, a non-profit organization for men, this castle was built in 1924. It is said to consist of some pretty notable University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill alumni. Placed at the end of a road, tucked in a corner, this place can get pretty creepy at night. In the daytime, the architecture and stone is absolutely beautiful. Although you cannot go inside, the view is worth it. It is a bit tricky to find because the address given is a bit too early. It is located at the end of that street, down a gravel road. Grab some friends, and if you’re a bit more adventurous, venture out at night.
7. Check out the home of the beloved Professor Horace Williams
The Horace Williams House was built in 1854, and it is now the only historic house open to the public in Chapel Hill. Today, it houses art exhibits, events, programs, and more, free to the public. You can schedule a tour, or visit it year-around. Local artists work is for sale, and all profits go to the preservation of Chapel Hill. Even if you’re not looking to purchase, step into a piece of UNC-CH history, and support local artists.
8. Umstead Park
Basketball courts, volleyball courts, trails, picnic areas, picnic shelters, playgrounds, this park is enjoyment for all ages. Escape from the stress of life, and explore the vast park of Umstead, hike some trails, play some pickup, take in the scenery, and release some good energy. Boats are also available for rental, for $5.
9. Even more art at Frank Art Gallery!
Formally located on Franklin Street, Frank Art Gallery has moved to University Place, and will reopened its doors in February 2018. FRANK aims to support local artists and the community through art. It is an inclusive area that features unique exhibits, paintings, and statues. There are woodworking pieces, ceramics, photographs, jewelry and more. If this is your first stop in the many places to see art, or your last, you will not be disappointed.
10. Step into the arena of 7 time National Champions at the Dean E. Smith Center
If you’re visiting Chapel Hill, are a student at the University, a Tarheel fan, one of the above, or all of the above, the Dean E. Smith Center is a must see mecca in college basketball. With 7 National Championship banners, countless ACC banners, and the jerseys of MJ and Justin Jackson, in the rafters, it is a sight to see. Even if you can’t see a game, a visit to this iconic stadium is well worth it.
If you’re an incoming freshman, a Chapel Hill native, an out-of-towner, or a senior getting ready to graduate, these 10 places are a staple in the Chapel Hill community, and the best part: they won’t break the bank.
Share your free, fun things to do around the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in the comments below!
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