north carolina tourist attractions food

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in North Carolina

Written by Lana Law and Michael Law Updated Jun 24, 2024

Authors Michael and Lana Law visit North Carolina for skiing in winter, the beaches and hiking in summer, and fun towns throughout the year to visit friends.

With mountains, forests, beaches, islands, theme parks, and cultural attractions all on offer, you'll find plenty of things to do in North Carolina no matter the season.

Mountains in the High Country provide opportunities for hiking, biking, and swimming in waterfalls during the warm months. Fall brings about an amazing display of fall colors and apples ripening in orchards. In the winter, the mountains come alive with the hoots and hollers of downhill skiers and boarders having a good time at North Carolina's ski resorts.

The Beaches and coastal attractions tempt for relaxing weekends throughout the year but especially in the summer. Swimming, fishing, surfing, kiteboarding, and other watersports attract visitors from across the country.

And the history of this state, from the famous flying Wright Brothers to the expansive Biltmore Estate and the WWII-era Battleship North Carolina , is fascinating.

Discover the best places to visit in this diverse state with our list of the top attractions in North Carolina.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Beaches of the outer banks, the biltmore estate in asheville, waterfalls in north carolina, hatteras island & cape hatteras national seashore, ocracoke island, downhill skiing, uss battleship north carolina, north carolina museum of natural sciences, north carolina aquarium, north carolina zoo, chimney rock state park, grandfather mountain, morehead planetarium and science center.

Nicknamed "America's favorite drive," the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway is a beautiful stretch of road running through the mountains and offering fantastic outdoor opportunities, from hiking along ridges to swimming in waterfalls.

It was designed by landscape architect Stanley Abbott whose vision was to create a road that was far more than just a way to get from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia.

Popular with motorcyclists and bicyclists for its endless scenery, the drive itself has incredible views of the Blue Ridge mountains and the surrounding landscapes. Along the way are hundreds of miles of hiking trails that branch off from the numerous pull-offs, some leading to spectacular waterfalls. Pack a picnic lunch and stop at one of the many beautiful areas with tables ideally positioned to soak up the view. Love camping? Numerous campgrounds in spectacular settings are available along the way.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is more than just great scenery - it is also home to several visitor centers and museums. In the summer and autumn, Mabry Mill (Milepost 176) has demonstrations that include grinding corn in the original mill, cutting boards in the sawmill, and the art of blacksmithing. Mabry Mill is closed in the winter. The Folk Art Center (Milepost 382) is open year-round and includes a gallery of folk art as well as demonstrations by local craftspeople, and the Museum of North Carolina Minerals (Milepost 331) has detailed exhibits that look at the region's mineral resources and mining industry.

Wonderful small mountain towns are located near or on the Blue Ridge Parkway and are attractions themselves. They are excellent places to visit for a bite to eat or to stay a night. Many people base themselves in the city of Asheville when visiting the Parkway, where there is more going on, particularly in the evening, and plenty of things to do.

Plan your trip carefully. You'll find the parkway most crowded in October during fall colors, while summer visitors enjoy a more peaceful time as they enjoy the colors of flaming azaleas and rhododendrons. Between the months of November and March, be sure to check for weather-related road closures prior to setting out.

Location: Western North Carolina from Low Gap to Cherokee, North Carolina

This 200-mile stretch of barrier islands is known for its fantastic beaches . Long stretches of soft sand line the coast for miles, attracting large numbers of visitors in the summer months. Families in particular flock to the Outer Banks .

Beach towns like Nags Head , Kitty Hawk , and Avon are just a few of the favorite destinations. Some towns, like Nags Head, offer a better selection of hotels and resorts than others, but many people choose to rent a cottage or beach house for their beach vacation.

South of Avon is Hatteras Island, where the main towns are Buxton, Frisco, and Hatteras. This is a popular stop with tourists. It's also where you can catch a ferry out to Ocracoke Island ; a fantastic getaway with its own outstanding beaches and a quaint village with great restaurants and accommodation.

The area also is full of things to do off the beach. You can tour lighthouses, enjoy camping , or even see a museum or two. Learn about the region at the Outer Banks History Center and the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum . Take a day and enjoy a drive on the Outer Banks Scenic Byway .

At Roanoke Island , not far from Nags Head, you can learn about the lost colony, visit a living history museum about farm life, and learn about the island's importance in the Underground Railroad Network. Other sightseeing attractions in the area include Elizabethan gardens at the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site and the Frisco Native American Museum .

It's also worth noting that the Outer Banks is known for being one of the best kiteboarding destinations in the United States. You can find some great beaches and areas in the Outer Banks for kiting, particularly on the inside of the islands, facing Pamlico Sound. For more details read our article on Kiteboarding in the Outer Banks: What to Know and Where to Go .

One of North Carolina's must-see attractions is the Biltmore Estate , one of the top attractions in Asheville . At the center of an 8,000-acre compound, the Vanderbilt Mansion is the largest private home in the United States. The mansion has 250 rooms with impressive artwork, antiques, and architecture, as well as collections of vintage clothing and accessories.

The estate's gardens are expansive, including the Italian Garden, with its ornate pools and sculptures, and the Rose Garden, which features more than 250 varieties. The grounds also include the first managed forest in the country, a deer park, and miles of level paths and walking trails throughout. There are many dining options throughout the estate and shopping and entertainment in Antler Hill Village.

After you've toured the Biltmore Estate head to downtown Asheville. Over the past number of years, this small city has completely revitalized its downtown core and brought its historical buildings back to life. Take a wander around, and you'll find funky restaurants, eclectic shops, and a large number of restaurants, some with sunny patios.

Address: 1 Lodge Street, Asheville, North Carolina

North Carolina's mountains are full of amazing waterfalls , and many of them are easily accessible by a short walk or hike. Some of these can be combined with a visit to small mountain towns and other sights. If you want to spend some time exploring waterfalls and hiking, a couple of good options for basing yourself for a few nights are Asheville or Hendersonville .

Known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," Linville Gorge is the deepest and one of the most scenic gorges in the eastern United States. Located in the Pisgah National Forest, the Linville River enters the gorge at Linville Falls and drops 90 feet , continuing for 12 miles within the steep rock walls.

Trails to the falls are accessed at Milepost 316 on the Blue Ridge Parkway . A total of four overlooks can be reached on an easily-traversed 1.6-mile round-trip hike. While visiting the Linville Falls Visitor Center, it is worth the short hike (.3 of a mile) to the small but beautiful Duggers Creek Falls . Other nearby spots include Crabtree Falls and incredible views from Table Rock Mountain and Hawksbill Mountain .

Among other must-see waterfalls in North Carolina are the massive 811-foot-high Whitewater Falls near Cashiers; High Falls in Dupont State Park near Hendersonville; and a waterfall you can actually walk behind called Dry Falls , located near the quaint mountain town of Highlands. All of these are close enough to each other to be visited in a single day if you are up for the adventure.

The delightful city of Wilmington is one of North Carolina's best coastal cities . Its restored brick streets are home to buildings dating from the 19th century, making the area an excellent place to wander around with no particular destination in mind. If you work up an appetite or thirst, pop into any one of the trendy restaurants for a rest and recharge.

Wilmington is located on the Cape Fear River and has made the most of its wonderful location. Be sure to take a stroll along the Wilmington Riverwalk and enjoy this lively area chock-full of all kinds of things to do .

One of the main tourist highlights of Wilmington is the Battleship North Carolina , docked just across the river from downtown. You can see it as you walk along the Riverwalk, but it's better to get a close-up look.

If museums and cultural events are your thing, you are in luck. Stop by the Cameron Art Museum for the latest show, or brush up on your local history at the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science . The Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts has a regular roster of musicians, comedians, and other performers; check their website to see what's playing when you are in town.

Wilmington isn't all about urban adventure, it's also a fantastic place to hit the beach. Some of North Carolina's best beaches are nearby, including Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach. Here you'll find soft sand, warm waters in the summer, and all kinds of water sports opportunities including surfing.

If you head south from Bodie Island, Hatteras Island is the last place you can drive to without hopping on a ferry. It's famous for the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, one of the area's key landmarks, but it's also home to fantastic stretches of beach. The main towns are Buxton, Frisco, and Hatteras.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore was the country's first coastal preservation area and includes sections of Bodie Island, Hatteras Island, and Ocracoke Island in North Carolina's Outer Banks. Visitors to the area come mainly for the beaches, but also for the unique wildlife and rich history. Bird watchers can get a peek at the threatened piping plovers that nest on the beach, as well as the American Oystercatcher, gull-billed tern, and black skimmer.

The beaches here are also the nesting ground of several types of sea turtles, including the endangered loggerhead sea turtle, and in the winter months, you may see seals resting on the beach. Another favorite activity is climbing historic lighthouses, like the 1872 Bodie Island Light Station , which is on its third incarnation after the first became unstable and the second was destroyed in the Civil War.

The Cape Hatteras Light Station was first built in 1803 and rebuilt in 1870, serving as a crucial beacon on one of the most dangerous stretches of the Atlantic coast where the Gulf Stream meets the Virginia Drift, the site of hundreds of shipwrecks.

If you decide to hop on a ferry at Hatteras, you can reach Ocracoke Island in about 1.25 hours on a free ferry. Although it's a popular tourist destination, it maintains a very remote feel and is worth the trip. On this island are beaches, the charming village of Ocracoke, and the Ocracoke Lighthouse . The island is also known for its unique breed of ponies, although they are contained and do not run free.

Location: Manteo, North Carolina

For anyone who wants to get away from the beach towns lined with chain retail stores and fast-food restaurants, but still wants good accommodation and excellent dining, Ocracoke Island is the place for you. Ocracoke Village is the only settlement on this otherwise natural island, graced with beaches and forests. This is surely one of the most romantic destinations in North Carolina .

Although Ocracoke has a population of less than 800 residents, you'll find no shortage of things to do. The beach is always a popular way to spend a day, but you can also walk on a natural trail, see the Ocracoke Lighthouse, or stop by the Pony Pen to catch a glimpse of the Ocracoke Banker Ponies. Head into town to sit out on a patio, wander through interesting shops, grab some fudge or ice cream, and maybe even park your car and rent a golf cart to get around. And while you're here, be sure to make a reservation for dinner, restaurants fill up.

For a little adventure, rent a kayak at the Surf Shop and take a guided tour, or, if you have a 4-wheel drive vehicle, buy a permit and drive out onto the beach.

North Carolina's five ski resorts draw alpine enthusiasts from far and wide to their impressive slopes. Spread out over the mountain regions, each resort has its own vibe. The biggest ski resorts are Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain , both located near the funky town of Banner Elk. These resorts top out at over 5,000 feet and catch any storms headed toward North Carolina.

Close to the delightful mountain town of Blowing Rock is Appalachian Ski Mountain , known locally as just App. The resort is known for its three terrain parks, which are second to none in the state.

Over in the Smoky Mountain near Maggie Valley is Cataloochee Ski Area . Perhaps the most old-school of all the resorts in North Carolina, this unpretentious place has a good assortment of runs and a very laid-back atmosphere.

Forty minutes from Asheville is Wolf Ridge Ski Resort . This small resort has one of the most impressive day lodges complete with three huge fireplaces. Wolf Ridge's gentle slopes are ideal for families and for those just starting out on skis.

Located in Wilmington, the USS North Carolina was the first of 10 battleships to join the American fleet in WWII having been commissioned on April 9, 1941. The vessel is well armed: there are nine 16-inch, 45-caliber guns in three turrets, and 20 five-inch, 38-caliber guns in ten twin mounts.

She was once the world's greatest sea weapon, and today her guns are quiet. To get an appreciation of the sheer power of this ship, wander the expansive deck to see the intimidating guns up close. Other areas of the ship are also open - be sure to visit the mess hall and tour the sailors' and officers' quarters.

A new boardwalk, the SECU Memorial Walkway, allows you to walk around all sides of the ship from the water level. This is free to the public. If you only want a look at the ship but are not up for the tour, this is a great alternative.

Address: 1 Battleship Road NE, Wilmington, North Carolina

Dedicated to the natural history of North Carolina, this is the oldest museum in the state. The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences has two buildings: the Nature Exploration Center and the Nature Research Center, both of which are filled with exhibits, interactive learning opportunities, and educational presentations.

Permanent exhibits at the Nature Exploration Center include topics from the coastal regions of North Carolina to an exhibit that explores the history of gemstones in the state. You can also find sections that explore the habitats of the tropics and rainforest, where you can hang out with the resident two-toed sloth. This is also where you will find the "Terror of the South," nicknamed Acro, the only genuine Acrocanthosaurus skeleton on display in the world, which is the centerpiece of the Prehistoric North Carolina exhibit.

Next door, the Nature Research Center focuses on the science and exploration that are crucial to learning about the natural world. Exhibits here cover everything from the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean to the exploration of deep space and include the study of things as small as DNA to the massive science of weather patterns.

Address: 11 West Jones Street, Raleigh, North Carolina

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Raleigh

The North Carolina Aquarium has four coastal locations at Roanoke Island, Pine Knoll Shores, Fort Fisher, and Jennette's Pier. While Jennette's Pier is not an actual aquarium, it does offer views of marine animals like humpback whales in their natural habitat. (Check with the aquarium to find out what marine life might be passing through during your trip.)

The Roanoke Island location, situated close to Jennette's Pier, features the largest collection of sharks in the state. At Pine Knoll Shores , visitors learn about the state's varied marine life, while Fort Fisher introduces the freshwater streams, swamps, and open ocean of Cape Fear.

Home to 1,600 animals and 52,000 plants, the North Carolina Zoo is a must-see family attraction in Asheboro. The animals represent species from Africa (elephants, rhinos, ostriches, lions, chimps, zebras, and giraffes) and North America (cougars, alligators, bobcats, red wolves, bison, elk, roadrunners, and grizzly and black bears). Exhibits are designed to resemble the natural habitat.

Feeding times are some of the most exciting moments in the zoo. Each day, the times are posted online, so plan your visit to make sure you see at least a few. In addition to the wildlife, the zoo also features an array of hiking trails through the surrounding forests. Dogs on leash are allowed.

If the kids are running out of energy and need a fun boost, take them for a ride on the Endangered Species Carousel. Or, if they have too much energy, swing by the 5,625-square-foot Garden Friends Playground or take to the skies on the Air Hike Ropes Course.

Address: 4401 Zoo Pkwy, Asheboro, North Carolina

Twenty-five miles southeast of Asheville, a 315-foot granite spire rises to an elevation of more than 2,280 feet in Chimney Rock State Park . Don't worry about the stress and strain of getting to the top — there is a 26-story elevator built inside the mountain, making the trip to the top an easy excursion for tourists.

Also within the park, the Hickory Nut Falls Trail is a moderate, mostly-level trail to the base of the 404-foot Hickory Nut Falls . This impressive waterfall tumbles off a flat ledge down a sheer red-rock face vanishing into the trees below.

Address: 431 Main Street, Chimney Rock, North Carolina

Hiking at Grandfather Mountain in Linville ranges from leisurely trails with picturesque views to challenging treks that could include ladders and reward with expansive, mountainous panoramas. Visitors can also learn about local flora, or catch a glimpse of wildlife. Plan a walk across the park's well-known Mile High Swinging Bridge , a highlight that has been in place since 1952 and offers 360-degree views.

Grandfather Mountain is also within easy driving distance of the small towns of Banner Elk and Blowing Rock. Stop in at either one and grab a bite to eat for lunch or dinner on a sunny patio.

Address: 2050 Blowing Rock Hwy, Linville North Carolina

The Morehead Planetarium and Science Center , located at the University of North Carolina in the heart of Chapel Hill, has been a stop for more than 10 million guests since first opening in 1949. In 2020 the historic institution completed a $9 million renovation that transformed its public spaces into an interactive museum experience for all ages. Morehead presents a variety of planetarium shows covering fun and educational topics like black holes, the human brain, astronauts, and more.

Permanent exhibits in the science center explore the planetarium's proud history as a training center for astronauts-from 1959 through 1975, more than 60 astronauts learned about celestial navigation here, including the majority of those who walked on the moon.

Other exhibits present cutting-edge research by UNC scientists including Wearable Robotics, an exhibit that explores biomedical engineering through prosthetics, and Natural Navigators, which illustrates how sea turtles use their unique magnetic ability to find their way back home.

Address: 250 East Franklin Street, Chapel Hill, North Carolina

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Restaurants in North Carolina

North Carolina is one of the top barbecue states, but from the ocean to the mountains, exactly how the barbecue is cooked and served varies dramatically. Connoisseurs in the east and central parts of the state want whole hog ‘cue (although some prefer just the shoulders) hacked to smithereens and just barely moistened with vinegar pepper sauce. Side dishes include boiled potatoes in the east and Brunswick Stew and hushpuppies in the center of the state. To the west, sauce begins to contain tomatoes and is a more significant presence on the plate. Beyond smoke-cooked pig, North Carolina’s prime attractions are Mid-Atlantic seafood, some of the nation’s best fried chicken, country ham, and superior biscuits.

North Carolina’s Most Famous Dishes

BBQ Platters

Hushpuppies

Macaroni and Cheese

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North Carolina’s Best Restaurants

Shaw’s Barbecue House

WILLIAMSTON, NC

Bertie County Peanuts

WINDSOR, NC

Bunn’s Bar-B-Q

Cypress Grill

Dip’s Country Kitchen

CHAPEL HILL, NC

Sunrise Biscuit Kitchen

Short Sugar’s Pit Bar-B-Q

REIDSVILLE, NC

Lupie’s

CHARLOTTE, NC

John’s Country Kitchen

Bill Spoon’s Barbecue

Roast Grill

RALEIGH, NC

Wink’s King of Barbecue

SALISBURY, NC

South 21 Drive-In

Zada Jane’s Corner Cafe

Zack’s Hot Dogs

BURLINGTON, NC

Big Ed’s City Market

Nana’s Soul Food

Jay Bee’s

STATESVILLE, NC

ASHEVILLE, NC

Long Creek Fish Fry

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25 Best Places to Visit in North Carolina — Including a Scenic Parkway, Buzzy Cities, and the Most-visited National Park

Here are the top places to visit on your next trip to the Tar Heel State.

John Hudson Photography/Getty Images

From energetic cities and beautiful beaches to mist-covered hills and museums that mark important moments in history, the Tar Heel State has something to lure every type of traveler. Here are some of the best places to visit in North Carolina so you can start planning your next trip to this East Coast destination packed with must-see spots.

• Best tourist destination: The Biltmore Estate in Asheville
• Underrated hidden gem: Wild Horses on Shackleford Banks
• Best for families: Outer Banks
• Best for couples: Pisgah National Forest
• Best for solo travelers: Asheville

Read on for even more inspiration for picking the best destinations for your North Carolina vacation.

The Biltmore Estate in Asheville

Courtesy of Visit NC

One of the most beautiful and iconic homes in the country, the Biltmore Estate was built in 1895 by the Vanderbilt family.  Today the castle-like estate is open to visitors who can stroll 8,000 acres of grounds, tour the luxurious architecture of the home, or visit nearby Antler Hill Village for dining, shopping, additional exhibits, and even a winery. The estate receives millions of visitors each year, but it's worth the crowds to marvel and fantasize about the lifestyle and history of one of America's most influential families.

Wild Horses on Shackleford Banks

Frank Staub/Getty Images

Located in the Cape Lookout National Seashore , Shackleford Banks is one of the only places on the East Coast where wild horses still roam. How the horses got to this remote island — accessible only by boat — centuries ago is still a mystery. You can visit these majestic islanders on a guided shelling and safari tour or get to the car-free island on your own by catching the ferry from Harkers Island or Beaufort. Camping is allowed on the beach.

Outer Banks

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Families can find room to let their own wild things roam in this spacious archipelago off the North Carolina coast. Visit the Outer Banks to spend some time on the beach, explore a host of water sports, or take a tour around the area’s lighthouses and other historic sites. It's a great camping destination but for something swankier, try the Edgecamp Pamlico on Hatteras Island, a brand new boutique design hotel.

Pisgah National Forest

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The Pisgah National Forest is a 500,000-acre forest outside Asheville that can claim America's first forestry school, founded here in 1896. The Cradle of Forestry in America historic site is open to visitors interested in learning more about the history of forest conservation in the U.S. but if you need a break from the heat, you can head to Sliding Rock, a natural waterslide and one of the country's best swimming holes . Couples can book a romantic cabin getaway at the Pisgah Highlands complex, which has many chic and remote cabins.

S. Greg Panosian/Getty Images

Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the city of Asheville is known for its quirky, artistic vibe with mountain views. In recent years, it's also become a food hotspot where chefs embrace Appalachian traditions in their menus and the city naturally has a thriving craft beer scene . Asheville has several art districts filled with historic architecture, galleries, and even working artists’ studios to peruse. Asheville is also popular for many of its New Age shops and attractions — don't miss the weekly Friday night drum circle — and some even call it the Sedona of the South . Solo travelers here can count on a lively scene at any time of year.

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In Transylvania County, also known as the " Land of Waterfalls ," Brevard is a little town with access to over 250 miles within the surrounding Appalachian landscape. A trip here is also a chance to try out some of the luxurious glamping tents and cabins available at alternative accommodation resorts like Pilot Cove and DuPont Yurts. In the area, there are tons of fun river activities like kayaking, paddling, snorkeling, and of course, plenty of scenic waterfall hikes to top sites like Looking Glass Falls, Cove Creek Falls, and Moore Cove Falls.

Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk

In the coastal town of Kitty Hawk, the Wright Brothers National Memorial marks the spot where Wilbur and Orville Wright achieved the first powered flight in 1903. Today visitors can view the monument to this accomplishment and explore the reconstructed camp buildings and interactive exhibitions at the visitor’s center. After your visit, you can spend your time sunning on the beach , exploring the sand dunes, or taking a kayak out for a paddle on the Currituck Sound.

Sean Pavone/Getty Images

North Carolina’s fast-growing capital city is home to some of the state’s biggest cultural institutions like the Museum of Natural Sciences and downtown is the place to go if you want nightlife. Check out some live music at one of the city’s major venues, like the Red Hat Amphitheater , or catch a local band in a much smaller venue like Lorraine's Coffee House and Music in the neighboring town of Garner.

North Carolina Museum of History in Raleigh

Courtesy of North Carolina Museum of History

Home to more than 350,000 artifacts, this museum in downtown Raleigh is the place to go to learn more about the history and heritage of the state. In addition to rotating exhibits that cover everything from North Carolina’s pirate history to 1920s soda shop décor, the museum also hosts a wide variety of hands-on events for visitors.

Chapel Hill

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This charming college town, located in the Research Triangle (alongside Durham and Raleigh), is considered one of the best college towns in the country due to its vibrant food and nightlife scenes. In addition to the University of North Carolina (UNC) Chapel Hill campus, the town is also home to various other fun attractions like the North Carolina Botanical Garden , and the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center . For families, Spring Haven Farm is a sure hit with opportunities to learn about farm life and pet baby goats.

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The largest city in the state, Charlotte truly has something for everyone. A big destination for business travelers, Charlotte has a great selection of hotels like the luxurious Ballantyne or the historic and very cozy Duke Mansion . It’s both a major destination for sports as the home of the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte Hornets and a great launching place for outdoor adventures, with Lake Norman and Lake Wylie located a short drive from the heart of the city. You don't even really have to leave the city for a little adrenaline if you don't want to because Charlotte is home to the world's largest manmade whitewater river .

Levine Museum of the New South in Charlotte

T. Ortega Gaines/Charlotte Observer/Tribune News Service via Getty Images

For more than 30 years, this Charlotte museum has been telling the whole story of the history of the South. Dedicated to creating a space that “deepens understanding, fosters empathy, and inspires action toward a better future,” the Levine Museum is promoting a more diverse vision for both the state and the world, according to its website .  

Blue Ridge Parkway

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Winding its way through the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a favorite of photographers and nature lovers alike. Visitors can take a quick day’s drive to explore the unique flora and fauna of the area or make it a multi-day road trip. The whole road runs for 600 miles between Georgia and Pennsylvania, but the North Carolina stretch is the most popular segment. Make sure to check the schedule for Blue Ridge Music Center , a venue that celebrates the region's folk music traditions with seasonal performances.

Linville Falls in the Blue Ridge Mountains

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A moderate hike will bring you to one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the state. Linville Falls is a multi-tiered cascade located right off the Blue Ridge Parkway that offers five different vantage points to view each tier of the falls depending on how adventurous a hiker you are. The easiest hike is only a 20-minute walk from the parking lot and the area also offers a campground if you want to take more time to explore all the trails in the falls area.

Grandfather Mountain in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Though it takes a little prior planning ( reservations must be made in advance ), there’s quite a bit to do at this park — in addition to enjoying the stunning scenery. Grandfather Mountain is home to the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery, a Hugh Morton photo gallery, and even a special wildlife habitat enclosure where visitors can get up close to some of the animals that live in the area.

Winston-Salem

Visit Winston-Salem

Located west of Greensborough, Winston-Salem is perhaps best known for its role in the tobacco industry but this historic city has a lot more to offer visitors passing by. The first worthy stop is the lovely Salem Lake, which you can explore by kayak or taking a bike along the seven-mile loop path. The Old Salem Museum and Gardens is a living history museum in the city of Winston-Salem that educates visitors on what the area was like in the 18th and 19th centuries. The site includes several museums, reenactments, and extensive historical gardens.

Winkler Bakery in Winston-Salem

In 1807, a Swiss-born baker named Christian Winkler bought a bakery from the local Moravian Church, which had built the bakery in 1799. The Winkler Bakery remained in the family until 1926 and remains the oldest continually operating bakery in the U.S. to this day. Try the decadent sugar cake and the super-thin Moravian sugar cookies.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

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Officially the most popular destination in North Carolina — and the most-visited national park in the United States — this gorgeous park features miles of hiking trails through forests, over hills, and past stunning waterfalls. Visitors can also hike a section of the East Coast-spanning Appalachian Trail like the popular 7.5-mile hike from Newfound Gap to Clingman's Dome. One of the best areas to visit in the North Carolina section of the park is Deep Creek which is a beautiful area made more enchanting by a bevy of streams and waterfalls.

A visit to Cherokee located at the base of the Great Smoky Mountains provides a chance for a deeper connection and understanding of the state's indigenous heritage . There are lots of ways to play in nature with mountain bike trails, waterfall hikes, fishing, and river tubing. Buy a ticket for " Unto These Hills ," an outdoor theater show put on by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Performed in the 2,100-seat Mountainside Theatre, the show is a great kick-off to visit the rest of Cherokee and learn more about the Indigenous people who call this state home.

Home to Duke University, one of the country’s premier research institutions, the city of Durham is a center for technology and innovation in the state. There’s also an up-and-coming foodie scene here where you can find everything from classic Carolina barbecue and seafood like Saltbox Seafood Joint to authentic Ethiopian food like Goorsha . Wander around Main Street for some window shopping or head to campus to explore the botanical landscapes and visit the teahouse at Sarah P. Duke Gardens .

Sarah P. Duke Gardens in Durham

Hidden on the Duke University campus is a stunning 55-acre garden with more than five miles of trails that’s open to visitors from around the world. Founded in 1935 thanks to the support of Sarah P. Duke, widow of one of the university’s founders, the gardens feature four distinct sections with flora from around the world.

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In coastal Wilmington , you can enjoy a laid-back beach vacation with a dash of history. In this nearly 300-year-old city, the downtown area is worth exploring for the Revolutionary-era architecture — even better if you do so by horse-drawn carriage. For travelers interested in learning more about Wilmington's Black history, WilmingtonNColor shares the story of some of this city's most influential residents — including the basketball player Michael Jordan who grew up in Wilmington. Set aside some time in the evening for a walk along the wooden walkway that offers beautiful views of the Cape Fear river

International Civil Rights Center & Museum in Greensboro

Located inside the F.W. Woolworth in Greensboro, where four Black students staged a sit-in to protest segregated lunch counter laws, the International Civil Rights Center & Museum explores the history of the Civil Rights Movement through interactive exhibits.  

Chimney Rock State Park

Twenty-six miles southeast of Asheville, Chimney Rock State Park is home to some of the most beautiful views in western North Carolina, and it’s been recognized for its unique geological features and biodiversity. It’s been the filming location for several famous movies as well, including “Last of the Mohicans.” Its namesake rock is a 315-foot perch that is surprisingly accessible by elevator , but another rock worth seeing is the precariously balanced Devil's Head.

Merchants Millpond State Park

Showcasing the sheer diversity of ecosystems in the state of North Carolina, a visit to Merchants Millpond State Park will make you feel like you’re in the bayous found further south. This unique ecosystem combines hardwood forests with swampland, allowing visitors to both hike and paddle around the enchanting landscape. Located near Gatesville, the park is only 15 minutes south of the Virginia state line, and it offers 15 miles of hiking and biking trails as well as opportunities to take a boat out on the pond and do some fishing.

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The 25 Best Places to Visit in North Carolina for 2023

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial & privacy policies .

[Updated September 12, 2023] My wife Emma and I have lived on our homestead near Elkin NC  for years, and we traveled the state frequently for years before that. Yet still we’re constantly amazed by the sheer volume of exciting things to do in NC.

There’s such an abundance of great places to visit in North Carolina, visitors may find themselves wanting to stop every few miles down the road.

In my opinion, the best cities to visit in North Carolina– Asheville, Charlotte, and the Research Triangle (Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill)– rival those found anywhere on the East Coast.

And of course the  North Carolina mountains  are home to an exceptional array of charming mountain towns, many of which are connected via the world-renowned Blue Ridge Parkway .

Some of our other favorite North Carolina vacation spots include national parks , national forests, state parks , and campgrounds that offer access to great hiking trails. 

Read on for our in-depth guide to the best places to visit in North Carolina to visit, from big cities and small towns  to postcard-worthy mountaintop panoramas, stunning coastlines, and wondrous waterfalls .

READ MORE: The 15 Best North Carolina Mountain Towns to Visit

Best Places to Visit in North Carolina Guide

• Blowing Rock
• Bryson City
• Chapel Hill
• Elizabeth City
• Outer Banks NC
• Appalachian National Scenic Trail
• Blue Ridge Parkway
• Cape Hatteras National Seashore
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Nantahala National Forest
• Pisgah National Forest
• Carolina Beach State Park
• Dupont Recreational State Forest
• Grandfather Mountain State Park
• Hanging Rock State Park
• Jockeys Ridge State Park
• Stone Mountain State Park

READ MORE: The 20 Best Places to Celebrate Christmas in North Carolina

Best North Carolina Cities & Towns

1. Asheville NC

36 Montford Ave, Asheville NC • (828)258-6129 •  Official Website

Over the last 15 years, Asheville has become nationally recognized as a desirable North Carolina vacation  spot. But in reality, it’s been one of the coolest places to visit in NC for more than a century.

This rapidly growing city has first-class historical attractions like the Biltmore Estate and The Grove Park Inn , as well as the nearby Cradle of Forestry.

The diverse array of excellent  Asheville Breweries has earned it the nickname “Beer City,” and the town is also a great destination for finding unique restaurants and locally produced NC wines .

For cultural funk, visit neighborhoods like the River Arts District , quirky West Asheville, and the historically grand Montford Area Historic District. 

Nature lovers will enjoy the fantastic  hiking in Asheville , with mountains all around and the French Broad River running right through town. There’s also nearby opportunities for horseback riding and chasing  waterfalls .

Christmas in Asheville NC is a magical time to visit the city, and there’s lots of fun things to do in winter .

Using Asheville as a hub, it’s easy to explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park , Pisgah National Forest, and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

READ MORE: The 35 Best Things to Do in Asheville NC

2. Blowing Rock

132 Park Ave, Blowing Rock NC • (828)295-4636 •  Official Website

If you’re looking for fun places in North Carolina for families to visit, check out the tourist town of Blowing Rock, which is located near Boone in the NC High Country. 

Downtown Blowing Rock has charming, walkable streets dotted with art galleries, chic boutiques,  foodie-friendly restaurants , and gift shops.

The scenic geological attraction for which the town was named is one of the most famous places in North Carolina , and has been attracting visitors for centuries. There’s also a waterfall—Glen Burney Falls—right in town.

Popular Blowing Rock attractions include the Appalachian Fossil Museum, Tweetsie Railroad , Doc’s Rocks Gem Mine, and Mystery Hill.  Grandfather Mountain and some of our favorite BRP overlooks are nearby.

Blowing Rock is 10 miles from Boone, less than 20 miles from Banner Elk, and 5 minutes from Blue Ridge Parkway hotspots like  Julian Price Memorial Park and  Moses H. Cone Memorial Park .

In addition to the highly rated Chetola Resort & Spa , there are lots of Blowing Rock Cabin Rentals if you’re looking for a place to stay in town.

READ MORE: The 20 Best Things to Do in Blowing Rock NC

175 E Main St., Brevard NC • (800)648-4523 •  Official Website

The seat of Transylvania County (a.k.a. “Land of Waterfalls”), Brevard NC is beloved as a comfortable Blue Ridge mountain town  with a primo location.

Transylvania County has approximately 250 named waterfalls within its boundaries, many of which are located within 15 minutes of Downtown Brevard.

Brevard has a tiny downtown area with a few blocks of boutiques, galleries, gift shops, and excellent restaurants  in any direction.

You’ll also find an ageless toy store, a throwback theater, a gem mining attraction, a general store with a 1950s diner attached, and much more.

Arguably Brevard’s biggest draw is exploring Pisgah National Forest (which is just a few minutes north of it) and Dupont State Recreational Forest (which is just a few minutes south of it).

Brevard is also home to several great  craft breweries and tasting rooms, with Oskar Blues being my personal favorite Brevard Brewery and a nationally recognized brand.

READ MORE: The 15 Best Things to Do in Brevard NC & Transylvania County

4. Bryson City

2 Everett St, Bryson City NC • (828)488-7857 •  Official Website

Bryson City is located right outside of the Deep Creek section of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Nantahala National Forest.

Despite the town’s small size, there are lots of great  Bryson City restaurants and tourist attractions, including the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad and Nantahala Outdoor Center, plus tons of cool shops.

The Tuckasegee River runs right through the heart of town. It’s a popular waterway for kayaking and  white water rafting in North Carolina . Fontana Lake is just a short drive away.

You’ll find great B&Bs and Bryson City cabin rentals all around the area, and there are plenty of campgrounds available as well.

The town of Cherokee in the Qualla Boundary is just 10 miles away, offering additional restaurant and cabin rental options. The Oconaluftee Visitor Center in GSMNP is just a few minutes further.

READ MORE: The 15 Best Things to Do in Bryson City NC & Swain County

5. Chapel Hill

308 West Franklin St, Chapel Hill NC • (888)968-2060 •  Official Website

Home of the famous UNC Tarheels, Chapel Hill is an awesome stop for those visiting the eastern side of the state. It’s one of the many great places to visit near Raleigh NC.

It has the feeling of a college town, with all the hip cultural offerings you’d expect. The town was actually created in the late 1700s to serve the university.

Chapel Hill has been named “America’s Foodiest Small Town ” by Bon Apetit . There are several nice walking tours in town, including at UNC, Historic Hillsborough, the North Carolina Botanical Garden, etc.

Downtown Chapel Hill has Franklin Street at its heart, which is the spot for finding good restaurants , shopping, and nightlife.

Other fun things to do in Chapel Hill include checking out the street art murals, cycling on miles of bike trails, visiting  museums, tasting craft beers , and exploring the surrounding outdoor spaces.

READ MORE:  The 15 Best Christmas Towns in North Carolina

6. Elizabeth City

501 South Water St, Elizabeth City NC • (252)335-5330 •  Official Website

In the northeastern reaches of North Carolina , Elizabeth City (est. 1793) is one of the most fun places in NC we’ve visited. It’s just out of reach of big cities, and just off the Atlantic Coast.

Elizabeth City is located between the Albermarle Sound and the Great Dismal Swamp, and it’s a beautiful 50-mile drive from Kitty Hawk (on the Outer Banks).

The most interesting things to do in Elizabeth City NC include visiting Underground Railroad locations and other  historic sites  (the Wright Brothers came through on their way to Kitty Hawk).

There’s also the Dismal Swamp Canal, the oldest continually operating constructed canal in the US, which is considered one of the most haunted places in North Carolina.

Elizabeth City is close to beaches as well as vast bodies of fresh water, so it’s great for water-based recreation activities such as boating, fishing, and kayaking .

The town also has some nice locally run restaurants , great microbreweries, and plenty of art, nature, and history to fill in the gaps.

READ MORE: The 20 Best Treehouse Rentals in the North Carolina Mountains

7. Outer Banks

1 Visitors Center Circle, Manteo NC • (877)629-4386 •  Official Website

A couple of hotspots in the Outer Banks of  North Carolina – Jockeys Ridge State Park and Cape Hatteras National Seashore– will appear further down on this list.

But it would be a disservice to the rest of the Outer Banks to let the praise stop there.

The Outer Banks of NC are filled with interesting towns and villages, not to mention an eclectic collection of resorts, B&Bs, hotels , and  campgrounds .

While visitors should definitely visit the area’s state parks and national parks, there are also museums and historic sites like Kitty Hawk and more.

The food scene on the Outer Banks is also stellar, especially the local breweries and seafood shacks serving up fresh catches from the Atlantic.

READ MORE: The 15 Best Blue Ridge Parkway Hotels & Cabin Rentals in NC & VA

8. Wilmington

1 Estell Lee Place Suite 201, Wilmington NC • (877)406-2356 •  Official Website

Located in the southeastern corner of the state, Wilmington has been a hotbed of North Carolina history  for decades.

The city of 118,000 resident is bounded by the Cape Fear River , and the Riverwalk (which was voted America’s Best Riverfront) provides access to great restaurants , bars, and shops.

Wilmington NC is just a short drive away from several beaches, and 18 miles from the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher and the Fort Fisher State Historic Site .

Downtown Wilmington’s Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors will find moss-laden live oaks, horse-drawn carriages, brick-lined streets, and Victorian architecture there.

Families can find also more entertainment at the Port City Marina, Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park, and the Battleship North Carolina.

READ MORE: The 10 Best Things to Do in Winston Salem NC

North Carolina Forests & National Parks

9. Appalachian National Scenic Trail

No NC Address • (304)535-6278 • Official Website

There are nearly 100 miles of the Appalachian Trail in North Carolina, which also shares an additional 220 miles of it with the bordering state of Tennessee .

So there’s a host of wonderful things to see on the AT in NC, whether you’re on a day hike or trying to complete the 2,194-mile trek from North Georgia to Maine.

Among the major points of interest in North Carolina is Clingmans Dome, the highest mountain in the Smoky Mountains , as well as several mountains over 6,000 feet (the tallest summits on the AT).

For day hikes on the Appalachian Trail , the Lemon Gap to Max Patch section is 10.5 miles, and I highly recommend the two 5-mile treks from Carvers Gap to Grassy Ridge Bald or Roaring High Knob.

READ MORE: The 7 Best Hikes on the Appalachian Trail in North Carolina

10. Blue Ridge Parkway

199 Hemphill Knob Rd, Asheville NC • (828)348-3400 •  Official Website

Technically, the Blue Ridge Parkway is the most visited National Park System unit in the United States, with nearly 16 million visitors in 2021.

The world-renowned scenic route stretches 469 miles in North Carolina and Virginia , stretching from Shenandoah National Park in VA to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in NC.

There are also great opportunities for Blue Ridge Parkway hikes and exploring nearby waterfalls .

Northeast of Asheville, BRP cruisers can visit highlights like Doughton Park (my stomping grounds), Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, Julian Price Memorial Park, Linn Cove Viaduct, Linville Falls , and Craggy Gardens.

Southwest of Asheville, adventures include Mount Pisgah, Devil’s Courthouse, Richland Balsam (the BRP’s highest point), Waterrock Knob Visitor Center, the Mountains-to-Sea Trail , and the  Oconaluftee Visitor Center .

READ MORE: The 20 Best Blue Ridge Parkway Overlooks in NC & VA

11. Cape Hatteras National Seashore

1401 National Park Dr, Manteo NC • (252)473-2111 •  Official Website

One of our favorite fun places to go in North Carolina is Cape Hatteras National Seashore in the Outer Banks, a slip of coastal islands that follow the NC mainland.

Cape Hatteras NS protects three islands– Bodie, Hatteras, and Ocracoke. Due to its currents, shoals, and unpredictable weather, the area is known as the “Graveyard of the Atlantic.”

Each island has its own visitor center and lighthouse to visit, and there are numerous campgrounds, beaches, hiking trails , and boat ramps for visitors to enjoy.

It’s also a great place for watching migrating birds in North Carolina and wildlife , including sea turtles (especially loggerhead and green), which nest on the area beaches.

READ MORE: The 15 Best Romantic Getaways in NC (Cabins, Inns & Resorts)

12. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

1194 Newfound Gap Rd, Cherokee NC • (865)436-1200 •  Official Website

You could argue that Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the best place to visit in North Carolina , if not the entire country.

It is the most visited of all U.S. National Parks , with over 14 million visitors in 2021. 

Near Bryson City, visitors can check out the Deep Creek section of the park. It has stunning waterfalls, easy hiking trails, campgrounds and river tubing in the summer.

Located just outside of Cherokee NC, the Oconaluftee Visitor Center provides trip-planning info as well as quick access to the Mountain Farm Museum, the Oconaluftee River Trail, and Mingus Mill.

Other stellar spots to visit in NC include Clingmans Dome, Fontana Dam, and seeing the  Cataloochee Valley Elk . In short, there are quite a lot of things to do here.

READ MORE: The 15 Best Things to Do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

13. Nantahala National Forest

90 Sloan Rd, Franklin NC • (828) 524-6441 •  Official Website

Sometimes overshadowed by Pisgah National Forest, the  Nantahala National Forest is actually the larger of the two. At 830 square miles, it’s slightly larger than Great Smoky Mountains National Park!

The forest was established in 1920, and it offers visitors a wonderful collection of waterfalls, lakes , wildlands and campgrounds .

Within its boundaries, the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest has one of the last sections of old-growth forest on the East Coast. I find its Upper Loop to be the most impressive stand of trees outside of the redwoods and sequoias. 

Other highlights include the Fontana Dam, Cherohala Skyway, Cullasaja Gorge, and Nantahala River.

There are also over 600 miles of hiking trails in the forest, lots of exciting  white water rafting runs, and plenty of routes for horseback riding enthusiasts.

READ MORE: Fall in North Carolina: 25 Great Places to See Fall Colors in NC

14. Pisgah National Forest

1600 Pisgah Hwy, Pisgah Forest NC • (828) 877-3265 •  Official Website

Covering over 500,000 acres, Pisgah National Forest is split into three distinct districts, with one below Asheville, one east of it, and one north of it.

Parts of the designated forest have been around since 1916, and much of the southern district was once part of the Biltmore Estate. It also absorbed the  Boone National Forest in 1921, and much of Unaka National Forest in 1936.

The Pisgah Ranger District has a huge collection of incredible  waterfalls , and it’s also home to the Cradle of Forestry , the nation’s first school of forestry.

Grandfather Ranger District has the tallest mountains, and also has popular waterfalls such as Linville Falls and Crabtree Falls .

Undoubtedly, Pisgah National Forest is one of the best places to visit   for NC wilderness at its most pristine. I suggest camping and exploring smaller side roads to discover the lesser-known hidden gems.

READ MORE: The 20 Best Pisgah National Forest Hiking Trails in North Carolina

North Carolina State Parks & Forests to Visit

15. Carolina Beach State Park

1010 State Park Rd, Carolina Beach NC • (910)458-8206 •  Official Website

Moving towards the most southern section of the North Carolina coastline, Carolina Beach State Park is located due south of Wilmington on the protected Cape Fear side of the shoreline.

This small NC State Park has 9 miles of hiking trails, a fitness trail that allows cyclists, several ponds, and three campsites as well as a rustic  rental cabin .

Other fun things to do  at Carolina Beach State Park include boating, fishing, and paddling, plus a visitor center with educational exhibits.

It’s home to lots of cool stuff, including Venus flytraps, Sugarloaf Dune, and Orton Point (for testing tidal currents).

READ MORE: The 20 Best North Carolina Music Festivals

16. Dupont State Recreational Forest

89 Buck Forest Rd, Cedar Mountain NC • (828) 877-6527

Official Website

Located in Transylvania County, the “Land of Waterfalls”, Dupont State Recreational Forest has what many believe to be some of the most beautiful cascades in the country.

It’s possible to take a long day hike that encompasses 5 marquee waterfalls in the forest, including  Hooker Falls , Triple Falls (my personal favorite), High Falls, Grassy Creek Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Besides these impressive  Western North Carolina waterfalls , the forest also has an amazing collection of NC mountain lakes , most of which can also be explored on a nice day hike.

The western edge of the forest offers renowned mountain biking routes, with stunning scenic views from the balds at the summits.

READ MORE: The 50 Best North Carolina Waterfalls to Visit

17. Grandfather Mountain State Park

9872 N.C. 105 S Suite 6, Banner Elk NC • (828) 963-9522 •  Official Website

Though it isn’t the highest mountain in North Carolina ( Mt Mitchell in Burnsville is the tallest), Grandfather Mountain gets its due respect as an iconic behemoth.

This is the highest point in Caldwell and Watauga Counties, and the tallest peak on the eastern edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains .

Grandfather Mountain State Park has rugged, no-nonsense hiking trails that are absolutely splattered with beauty and unwaveringly challenging.

The hike up the Profile Trail and over to Calloway Peak was one of the most rewarding NC hikes my wife Emma and I have ever done.

The mountain also has a non-profit tourist attraction run by the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation , with the Mile High Swinging  Bridge , wildlife exhibits, and hiking trails.

READ MORE: The 15 Best Things to Do in Banner Elk NC

18. Hanging Rock State Park

1790 Hanging Rock Park Rd, Danbury NC • (336)593-8480 •  Official Website

Located in a lonely mountain range in the NC Piedmont, Hanging Rock State Park is a treasure trove of outdoor recreational activities .

It has miles and miles of hiking, biking, and bridle trails, including a great trek up to the actual Hanging Rock, another of North Carolina’s iconic geological formations.

The park also has great camping and vacation cabins , a lake with a beach, as well as paddling on the Dan River.

Other must-sees include the park’s wonderful collection of waterfalls , rock-climbing walls, and a mountain cave .

READ MORE:  The 15 Best Campgrounds in the North Carolina Mountains

19. Jockeys Ridge State Park

300 W. Carolista Dr, Nags Head NC • (252)441-7132 •  Official Website

Located in the Outer Banks and home to the tallest living sand dunes on the East Coast, Jockeys Ridge State Park is one of the more unique places to visit in North Carolina .

This is the same area where the Wright Brothers took their famous “first flight” in 1903, and the Wright Brothers National Memorial is just up the road in Kill Devil Hills.

Popular activities at this state park  on the NC coast include hang gliding, kiteboarding, windsurfing, and “sandboarding” down the massive dunes.

It’s also a great place for swimming, paddling, and catching brilliant sunsets. And while there are no camping facilities here, it is a great place for a picnic.

Jockeys Ridge State Park also has beach access on the Roanoke Sound side of the park.

READ MORE: 3 Great Places for Ziplining in Boone NC (and Other Aerial Adventures)

20. Stone Mountain State Park

3042 Frank Parkway, Roaring Gap NC • (336)957-8185 •  Official Website

Stone Mountain State Park is one of the truly cool places to visit in NC because it encompasses so much of the natural beauty North Carolina is famous for.

As its centerpiece, Stone Mountain  itself doesn’t disappoint. It’s a stunning rockface to see from below, and offers jaw-dropping panoramic views from the top.

Stone Mountain Falls teeters on 200 feet, and has a comfortable wading pool at the bottom. There are several other waterfalls in the park, including Widow’s Creek, which has a natural rock slide to play on.

The other cool feature at Stone Mountain State Park is the Hutchinson Homestead, a refurbished mid-1800s farm with all the historic buildings.

I hike here regularly and visit the homestead a couple of times a month, since it’s just right down the road from our property near Elkin NC.

READ MORE:  10 Wonderful Yadkin Valley Wineries Worth Visiting

North Carolina Historic Sites

21. Old Salem Museums & Gardens

900 Old Salem Rd, Winston-Salem NC • 336-721-7350 • Official Website

Long before the town of Winston-Salem was founded, there was Salem, a Moravian settlement established in the mid-1700s.

Many of the original structures remain, despite the fact that they’re older than the United States of America. The neighborhood is still inhabited and has a thriving community, including a university.

Some of the important buildings function as living history museums , complete with guides and demonstrations. They include the Blum House Joinery, Timothy Volger Gun Shop, Single Brothers’ House, and Winkler Bakery.

There’s also the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts, the Old Salem Visitor Center, and a beautiful North Carolina bridge connecting the two. God’s Acre is also something to behold.

In our experience this is a highly unique area with an exciting collection of architecture, a peculiar history, and a lesser-known culture to learn about.

READ MORE:  The 10 Best Things to Do in Winston Salem NC

22. Fort Raleigh National Historic Site

1401 National Park Dr, Manteo NC • 252-473-2111 •  Official Website

This National Historic Site preserves the location of the first English settlement in what is now the United States of America. The Roanoke Colony was established way back in 1587.

Initially supported by Sir Walter Raleigh, the colony mysteriously failed sometime before 1590. By the time it was visited again, the settlement was empty, without a single person to be found.

The site is on the north end of Roanoke Island, about 3 miles from the town of Manteo. There’s a visitor center/ museum to explain the area’s colonial history, as well as its involvement in the Civil War .

Fort Raleigh National Historic Site was taken over by the National Park Service in 1941 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1966.

A later addition to the outer Banks attraction is a 10-5-acre memorial Elizabethan garden , which is managed by the Garden Club of North Carolina. It’s right on the waterfront acres, with over 500 species of plants!

READ MORE:  The 10 Best National Parks in North Carolina to Visit

23. International Civil Rights Center & Museum

134 S. Elm St, Greensboro NC • 336-274-9199 •  Official Website

North Carolina has some major sites for the Civil Rights Movement, including the Woolworth’s lunch counter where the famous sit-in took place.

Amazingly, the exact counter can still be seen when you visit Greensboro NC.

So the International Civil Rights Center & Museum being located in Greensboro makes perfect sense, and visiting this important  museum is an emotional experience.

There are guided tours   led by very knowledgeable guides, or you can take a self-guided tour with recorded information. It’s even possible to visit the permanent exhibits virtually!

Note that it’s important to book your tickets here before you visit. We barely made the cut because a large group had taken most of the limited spots on the tour the morning we visited.

READ MORE:  10 Great Train Rides in North Carolina

24. The Wright Brothers National Memorial

1000 N. Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills NC • 252-473-2111 • Official Website

After 4 years of trial-and-error experimentation, Orville and Wilbur Wright finally achieved their dream with the first airplane flight in December, 1903.

Did you know that they were completely self-taught engineers?!

This Outer Banks memorial includes the First Flight Boulder & Flight Line, reconstructed camp buildings, a Wright Brothers Monument, and a representative sculpture commemorating the first flight.

There’s also a massive Wright Brothers Visitor Center (a National Historic Landmark) with information about the park, stories about the Wright Brothers, and interactive exhibits.

The Wright Brothers National Memorial is open every day from 9AM to 5PM, except for Christmas Day. Entrance is $10 for adults and free for children 15 and under.

READ MORE:  30 Fun Facts About Appalachian Scots-Irish History & Culture

25. Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site

81 Carl Sandburg Ln, Flat Rock NC • 828-693-4178 • Official Website

Carl Sandburg was one of America’s great 20th century writers. He was remarkably unique, with a style all his own, and was an electric voice for social activism.

His amazing home is located in Flat Rock NC, which is close to the town of Hendersonville . It encompasses 270 acres and includes beautiful grounds, hiking trails , a working farm , and a small lake .

Entrance into the park, the first floor of the house, park store, hiking trails, and farm area is free.

There are guided tours of the Sandburg home available for $10 or less, and reservations are strongly encouraged.

Visiting this site is great for learning more about a great US artist, as well as enjoying a stunning setting in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina .  –by Jonathon Engels; featured image by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett

We encourage anyone who loves the Blue Ridge region to learn about the  Leave No Trace   principles of responsible environmental stewardship. 

Stay on marked trails, take only pictures, pack out your trash, and be considerate of others who share the trails and parks you explore. 

Remember that waterfalls and rocky summits can be dangerous. Never try to climb waterfalls or get close to a ledge to get a selfie.

When you're exploring the wilderness, it's better to be safe than to be a statistic!

Jonathon Engels

After visiting North Carolina for the first time, Senior Writer Jonathon Engels and wife Emma spent 2 years exploring Western NC in search of a homestead property. They first lived in Brevard, where Jonathon taught writing at Blue Ridge Community College and extensively explored the Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest. For the last several years they have lived just off the BRP near Elkin, Southwest Virginia, and the NC High Country. The couple also volunteers with the Surry Old Time Fiddlers Convention, the Elkin Valley Trail Association, and Reeves Downtown School of Music.

10 Must-Visit Destinations In The Piedmont Region Of Nc

• Last updated Jul 18, 2023
• Difficulty Intemediate

• Category United States

Welcome to the Piedmont region of North Carolina, a hidden gem boasting breathtaking landscapes, vibrant urban centers, and a rich cultural heritage. From the charming city of Asheville nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains to the historical attractions of Raleigh, the Piedmont offers a multitude of must-visit destinations. Whether you're a nature enthusiast seeking outdoor adventures or a history buff longing to explore the roots of the region, you'll find something to satisfy every traveler's wanderlust. Join us as we uncover the top 10 must-see destinations in the Piedmont region of NC, where unforgettable experiences await at every turn.

What You'll Learn

Asheville - explore the vibrant arts scene and enjoy breathtaking mountain views in this eclectic city, blue ridge parkway - drive along this scenic highway and admire the stunning mountain landscapes, winston-salem - visit the historic old salem district and indulge in world-class barbecue, greensboro - discover the city's rich civil rights history and browse local boutiques in downtown, charlotte - experience the energetic city life, with cultural attractions and a buzzing food scene, durham - immerse yourself in the vibrant arts and music scene of this dynamic city, carrboro - enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and live music venues in this charming town, chapel hill - explore the picturesque campus of the university of north carolina and visit the more than 700 acres of the north carolina botanical garden, high point - check out the world's largest home furnishing trade show at the high point market, mount airy - step into the world of mayberry, the fictional hometown of beloved tv character andy griffith, in this charming town.

Asheville is a city located in the heart of the Piedmont region of North Carolina. Known for its vibrant arts scene and breathtaking mountain views, Asheville is a popular destination for artists, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a unique and vibrant city experience.

One of the biggest draws of Asheville is its thriving arts scene. The city is home to numerous art galleries, studios, and theaters, showcasing a wide range of artistic styles and mediums. Visitors can explore the River Arts District, an area filled with artist studios and galleries, or visit the Asheville Art Museum, which features a diverse collection of contemporary and classic art. The city also hosts various art festivals and events throughout the year, including the popular Moogfest, an electronic music and technology festival, and the Riverbend Music Festival, which celebrates local music and arts.

Aside from its artistic offerings, Asheville is also known for its stunning natural beauty. The city is located at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering breathtaking views and numerous outdoor activities. Visitors can hike along the Appalachian Trail, which passes through the area, or take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, a 469-mile road that winds through the mountains. For those looking for a more adrenaline-filled adventure, Asheville also offers opportunities for rock climbing, mountain biking, and white-water rafting.

In addition to its arts scene and natural beauty, Asheville also boasts a diverse culinary scene. The city is home to numerous farm-to-table restaurants, craft breweries, and specialty food shops. Visitors can sample delicious local cuisine at the Asheville Food & Wine Festival, which showcases the region's best chefs and farmers, or take a food tour to explore the city's culinary offerings.

When it comes to accommodations, Asheville offers a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference. From luxurious resorts and boutique hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts and campgrounds, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Many visitors choose to stay in the downtown area, where they can easily walk to the city's main attractions, including the historic Biltmore Estate and the Asheville Art Museum.

Whether you're an art lover, nature enthusiast, or foodie, Asheville offers something for everyone. With its thriving arts scene, stunning natural beauty, and diverse culinary offerings, this eclectic city is a must-visit destination in the Piedmont region of North Carolina.

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The Piedmont region of North Carolina is known for its diverse landscape and natural beauty. One of the highlights of this area is the Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic highway that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Stretching for 469 miles, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a popular destination for nature lovers and road trip enthusiasts. The parkway winds its way through several states, but some of the most stunning sections can be found in the Piedmont region of North Carolina.

Driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway in this area allows visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding mountains. The parkway is lined with overlooks where motorists can pull off and take in the panoramic views. From these vantage points, it's easy to see why the Blue Ridge Mountains are known as some of the oldest ranges in the world.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is also a great place to explore on foot. There are numerous hiking trails along the route that lead to scenic vistas and picturesque waterfalls. One popular trail is the Linville Falls Trail, which takes visitors to several viewpoints overlooking the stunning Linville Falls.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Blue Ridge Parkway is also home to a rich cultural heritage. Along the route, visitors will find several historic sites and attractions that showcase the region's history. One example is the Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, a former estate that is now a public park. Here, visitors can explore the beautifully preserved mansion and enjoy the surrounding grounds, which are filled with walking trails and scenic overlooks.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a true gem of the Piedmont region of North Carolina. Whether you're driving along its scenic route or exploring its hiking trails, this highway offers an unforgettable experience. So, pack your bags and hit the road to discover the stunning landscapes of the Blue Ridge Parkway in the Piedmont region of North Carolina.

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The Piedmont region of North Carolina is known for its charming towns, scenic landscapes, and rich history. One of the must-visit places in this region is Winston-Salem, a city that encapsulates the essence of the Piedmont. While there are many attractions to explore in this city, one of the highlights of any visit to Winston-Salem is the historic Old Salem district and its delectable world-class barbecue.

Old Salem is a living history museum that preserves the Moravian culture and showcases the way of life in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. As you wander through the cobblestone streets, you'll encounter meticulously restored buildings, costumed interpreters, and traditional craftspeople who bring the history of the area to life. Explore the various shops and museums to learn about the Moravian settlements, their customs, and their contribution to the development of Winston-Salem.

Once you've immersed yourself in the history of Old Salem, it's time to indulge in some mouthwatering barbecue. The Piedmont region is famous for its barbecue tradition, and Winston-Salem is no exception. The city offers a vast array of barbecue restaurants, each with its unique flavors and cooking techniques. From pulled pork to ribs, you'll find a variety of tempting options that will satisfy your cravings.

One of the top barbecue spots in Winston-Salem is Little Richard's Barbecue. This family-owned establishment has been serving up finger-licking barbecue since 1991. Their slow-cooked pork is seasoned with a secret blend of spices and served with their signature vinegar-based sauce, which perfectly complements the smoky flavor of the meat. Pair your barbecue with traditional Southern sides like hush puppies, cornbread, and collard greens for a truly authentic experience.

For those who prefer a more upscale dining experience, the Bib's Downtown in downtown Winston-Salem is a great choice. Known for its award-winning barbecue, Bib's offers a modern twist on traditional flavors. Their ribs are tender and succulent, and their pulled pork is perfectly seasoned. Choose from a variety of mouthwatering sauces, including their tangy Eastern Carolina sauce and their sweet and smoky Western Carolina sauce. With its sleek atmosphere and impeccable service, Bib's Downtown provides a dining experience that is both sophisticated and satisfying.

When visiting Winston-Salem, exploring the historic Old Salem district should be at the top of your itinerary. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the region and witness the crafts and traditions of the Moravian settlers. And while you're there, don't miss the opportunity to savor the world-class barbecue that this region is renowned for. Whether you choose a casual spot like Little Richard's Barbecue or an upscale establishment like Bib's Downtown, your taste buds will thank you for indulging in the mouthwatering flavors of Piedmont's finest barbecue.

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Greensboro, located in the Piedmont region of North Carolina, is a city rich in history, particularly when it comes to the civil rights movement. The city played a significant role in this historic period and remains a hub for education, art, and culture today.

One of the main attractions in Greensboro for history enthusiasts is the International Civil Rights Center and Museum, which is housed in the historic Woolworth building. This museum tells the story of the Greensboro sit-ins, a series of nonviolent protests against racial segregation that were carried out by four African American college students in 1960. Visitors can explore the original lunch counter where these protests took place and learn about the impact they had on the national civil rights movement.

In addition to its rich civil rights history, Greensboro's downtown area is also a great place to explore local boutiques and shops. Elm Street is the heart of downtown and offers a diverse range of shopping options. From unique clothing stores to antique shops and art galleries, there is something for everyone. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll and discover one-of-a-kind items and support local businesses along the way.

If you're in the mood for some live entertainment, Greensboro's downtown has you covered. The Carolina Theatre, a beautifully restored theater, hosts a variety of performances, including concerts, Broadway shows, and film screenings throughout the year. The Greensboro Coliseum Complex is another popular venue that hosts a wide range of events, from sporting events to concerts and trade shows.

For those who appreciate the outdoors, Greensboro offers a number of parks and gardens to explore. The Greensboro Arboretum is a beautiful garden featuring a variety of plant collections and walking trails. Bicentennial Garden is another popular spot with its stunning floral displays and peaceful atmosphere. Both of these locations provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Last but not least, food lovers will find plenty to indulge in during their visit to Greensboro. The city offers a vibrant culinary scene with diverse dining options. From farm-to-table restaurants to international cuisine, there is something for every palate. Don't forget to try the city's signature dish, North Carolina-style barbecue, which is a must-try when visiting the Piedmont region.

In conclusion, Greensboro is a city in the Piedmont region of North Carolina that offers a rich civil rights history, a vibrant downtown area with local boutiques and shops, a variety of live entertainment options, beautiful parks and gardens, and a diverse culinary scene. Whether you're interested in history, shopping, or simply exploring the city's cultural offerings, Greensboro has something to offer for every visitor.

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The Piedmont region of North Carolina is a diverse and vibrant area, known for its charming towns, rolling hills, and thriving urban centers. One of the most notable cities in the region is Charlotte, a metropolis that offers a unique blend of Southern hospitality and cosmopolitan flair. In this bustling city, visitors can experience the best of both worlds - the energetic city life, with cultural attractions and a buzzing food scene.

Charlotte is a city that never sleeps, with a wide range of activities to suit every interest. For those interested in art and culture, the city is home to several museums and galleries. The Mint Museum is a must-visit, with its extensive collection of American and European art. The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art is another popular destination, featuring works by renowned artists such as Picasso and Warhol. For a taste of history, visitors can explore the Levine Museum of the New South, which tells the story of the region's transformation after the Civil War.

Food lovers will be delighted by the culinary scene in Charlotte. The city is known for its diverse and vibrant food culture, with a wide range of cuisines to choose from. From traditional Southern fare to international delicacies, there is something to satisfy every palate. Restaurants like Kindred and Bardo offer innovative and delicious dishes, while soul food joints like Mert's Heart & Soul serve up hearty comfort food. For a taste of local flavors, visitors can also check out the King's Drive-In, a popular spot for burgers and milkshakes that has been serving the community for over 50 years.

In addition to its cultural and culinary offerings, Charlotte also boasts a vibrant nightlife scene. The city is home to numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues, where visitors can dance the night away or enjoy live performances by local and national artists. With its lively atmosphere and friendly locals, Charlotte is a great place to experience the vibrant energy of the city after dark.

Beyond the urban attractions, Charlotte also offers plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors. The city is surrounded by beautiful parks and green spaces, where visitors can go hiking, biking, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery. The U.S. National Whitewater Center is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as whitewater rafting, kayaking, and ziplining.

No matter what your interests may be, Charlotte is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you're a culture vulture, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, you will find plenty to do and see in this energetic city. So, if you're planning a trip to the Piedmont region of North Carolina, be sure to add Charlotte to your itinerary - you won't be disappointed!

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Located in the Piedmont region of North Carolina, Durham is a vibrant city with a rich history and a thriving arts and music scene. Known for its renowned universities, Duke and North Carolina Central, as well as its diverse population, Durham is a cultural hub that offers something for everyone.

One of the main attractions of Durham is its vibrant arts scene. The city is home to numerous galleries and theaters, showcasing a wide range of artistic styles and mediums. The Durham Arts Council, located in downtown Durham, is a hub for the arts community, offering exhibitions, workshops, and performances. The Carolina Theatre is another popular venue, hosting both local and national acts, including live music, theater, and film screenings.

For music lovers, Durham has a vibrant and diverse music scene. The city is home to a variety of music venues, ranging from intimate coffee shops to large concert halls. Motorco Music Hall is a popular spot for live music, offering a diverse lineup of local and national acts. The Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) is also a must-visit venue, hosting a wide range of musical performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, and dance performances.

In addition to its arts and music scene, Durham is also known for its historic landmarks and cultural attractions. The American Tobacco Historic District is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into Durham's past as a major tobacco hub. The Duke Lemur Center, located on the Duke University campus, is the largest sanctuary for rare and endangered prosimian primates, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about and observe these fascinating animals.

Food lovers will also find plenty to enjoy in Durham, as the city is known for its thriving culinary scene. From trendy farm-to-table restaurants to eclectic food trucks, Durham has it all. The city is particularly famous for its barbecue, with several renowned barbecue joints serving up mouth-watering slow-cooked meats.

Overall, Durham is a lively and dynamic city in the Piedmont region of North Carolina. With its vibrant arts and music scene, historic landmarks, and thriving food culture, Durham offers a unique experience for visitors. Whether you're interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage, catching a live performance, or simply indulging in delicious food, Durham has something for everyone.

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Located in the heart of the Piedmont region of North Carolina, Carrboro is a small town with a big personality. Known for its vibrant arts scene and laid-back atmosphere, Carrboro is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the unique energy and charm of the Piedmont.

One of the highlights of Carrboro is its live music scene. The town is home to several popular music venues, including the renowned Cat's Cradle. This iconic club has hosted countless memorable performances from a wide range of artists, from up-and-coming local bands to internationally recognized acts. Whether you're a fan of rock, country, jazz, or anything in between, Cat's Cradle is sure to have a show that will get your toes tapping.

In addition to Cat's Cradle, Carrboro also offers a variety of other live music venues, such as the Carrboro ArtsCenter and Local 506. These intimate spaces provide the perfect setting to enjoy a live performance and discover new talent. No matter where you go in Carrboro, you're bound to find music filling the air and adding to the town's lively atmosphere.

Aside from its thriving music scene, Carrboro is also known for its welcoming and inclusive community. The town prides itself on its progressive values, and you'll find a diverse array of people and perspectives here. Whether you're strolling down the tree-lined streets, browsing the local farmers' market, or grabbing a bite to eat at one of the many excellent restaurants, you'll feel a sense of warmth and acceptance that is truly special.

In addition to its cultural offerings, Carrboro is also blessed with natural beauty. The town is surrounded by picturesque countryside, with rolling hills, lush greenery, and meandering rivers. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in the area, whether it's hiking in nearby parks, kayaking in the Haw River, or simply enjoying a leisurely bike ride along the scenic country roads.

Carrboro is also a great place to indulge in some retail therapy. The town is home to a variety of locally owned shops and boutiques, offering everything from vintage clothing and handmade jewelry to artisanal foods and craft beer. Whether you're looking for a unique gift or just want to treat yourself to something special, Carrboro has got you covered.

When it comes to dining, Carrboro offers a diverse culinary scene that reflects the town's eclectic nature. From farm-to-table establishments serving up innovative dishes made with locally sourced ingredients to cozy cafes and family-owned restaurants serving up comfort food classics, there's something to please every palate. Don't forget to try some of the region's famous barbecue, which is sure to leave you craving more.

In conclusion, Carrboro is a charming town that captures the essence of the Piedmont region. With its vibrant music scene, friendly community, natural beauty, and diverse range of shops and restaurants, it's a place that truly has something for everyone. So, whether you're a music lover seeking out the next big thing, a foodie looking to tantalize your taste buds, or simply someone who appreciates the laid-back beauty of the Piedmont, Carrboro is a destination you won't want to miss.

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Located in the Piedmont region of North Carolina, Chapel Hill is a charming town known for its stunning natural beauty and prestigious university. One of the main highlights of Chapel Hill is the picturesque campus of the University of North Carolina (UNC). With its historic buildings and grand oak trees, the UNC campus is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Piedmont region.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is one of the oldest public universities in the United States. Founded in 1789, the university is steeped in history and has a rich academic tradition. As you walk through the campus, you'll be surrounded by beautiful architecture, including the iconic Old Well and the Morehead-Patterson Bell Tower. The campus is also home to numerous museums and galleries, where you can explore the university's extensive art and archaeological collections.

In addition to its academic and cultural significance, the UNC campus is known for its natural beauty. The university has more than 700 acres of lush green spaces, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. One of the highlights of the campus is the North Carolina Botanical Garden, which covers 847 acres and features a diverse collection of plants native to the Piedmont region.

The North Carolina Botanical Garden is a tranquil oasis with miles of scenic trails that wind through forests, meadows, and wetlands. As you explore the garden, you'll encounter a variety of habitats, each with its own unique collection of plants. From wildflowers and ferns to towering trees and carnivorous plants, the garden is a paradise for botany enthusiasts.

Aside from its natural beauty, the North Carolina Botanical Garden offers a range of educational and recreational activities. The garden hosts guided tours, workshops, and lectures on topics such as gardening, conservation, and environmental education. It also has several children's programs, including nature camps and hands-on gardening activities.

Whether you're a student, a nature lover, or simply someone looking to explore the beauty of the Piedmont region, a visit to Chapel Hill and the University of North Carolina campus is a must. Take a stroll through the historic campus, visit the North Carolina Botanical Garden, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rich heritage of this charming town.

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The Piedmont region of North Carolina is known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant communities. One of the standout cities in this region is High Point, which is famous for its furniture industry. Every year, High Point hosts the world's largest home furnishing trade show, known as the High Point Market.

The High Point Market is a must-visit event for anyone in the furniture industry. It draws thousands of buyers, exhibitors, and designers from around the world who come to see the latest trends and innovations in home furnishing. With over 11.5 million square feet of showroom space, this trade show is unparalleled in its size and scope.

What sets High Point Market apart from other furniture expos is its emphasis on showcasing a wide range of styles and designs. From traditional to contemporary, from classic to cutting-edge, you can find everything at this trade show. The exhibitors at High Point Market include both well-established furniture brands and up-and-coming designers, ensuring a diverse and dynamic collection of products.

Attending the High Point Market is not just reserved for industry professionals. The trade show is open to the public on the last day, allowing individuals to explore the vast showrooms and get inspired by the latest trends in home furnishing. It's a unique opportunity to see some of the most exquisite furniture pieces and accessories up close.

In addition to the trade show, High Point itself is worth a visit. Known as the "Furniture Capital of the World," the city is home to numerous furniture factories, outlets, and showrooms. You can go on a factory tour to see how furniture is made or visit the famous Furnitureland South, the largest furniture store in the world.

While in High Point, take some time to explore the city's charming downtown area. Stroll along Main Street and discover local boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. High Point is also home to several beautiful parks and gardens, where you can relax and enjoy the region's natural beauty.

Whether you're in the furniture industry or simply interested in home decor, the High Point Market in the Piedmont region of North Carolina is an event not to be missed. It offers an unparalleled opportunity to see the latest trends in home furnishing, as well as explore the vibrant city of High Point. So mark your calendar and get ready to be inspired by the world's largest home furnishing trade show.

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Mount Airy, a picturesque town located in the Piedmont region of North Carolina, offers visitors the chance to step back in time and experience the nostalgic charm of Mayberry, the fictional hometown of beloved TV character Andy Griffith.

As visitors stroll through the streets of this quaint town, they'll be transported to a simpler time, where friendly faces greet them at every turn. Mount Airy serves as the inspiration for Mayberry, the idyllic town that was the setting for "The Andy Griffith Show," which aired from 1960 to 1968. The show remains a beloved part of American television history.

One of the main attractions in Mount Airy is the Andy Griffith Museum, which pays homage to the life and career of Andy Griffith, as well as the legacy of "The Andy Griffith Show." The museum showcases an impressive collection of memorabilia, including original costumes, props, and personal artifacts from the show. Visitors can also explore the replica of Sheriff Andy Taylor's office, complete with his iconic desk and phone.

Another must-see attraction is the Mayberry R.F.D. Squad Car Tours. These guided tours take visitors on a nostalgic journey through the streets of Mount Airy, just like Andy and Barney used to patrol in their trusty squad car. The tour highlights various filming locations from "The Andy Griffith Show," allowing visitors to relive their favorite moments from the show right where they were originally filmed.

For those looking to immerse themselves even further into the world of Mayberry, a visit to Wally's Service Station is a must. This iconic landmark served as the inspiration for Wally's Filling Station, where Gomer Pyle worked in the show. The station still functions as a real operating service station, but it also doubles as a museum filled with Mayberry-themed memorabilia.

Mount Airy also hosts various events throughout the year that celebrate the spirit of Mayberry. One such event is the Mayberry Days Festival, held annually in September. This festival features live music, food vendors, and even a parade, all in honor of the beloved TV show. Visitors can mingle with other fans of "The Andy Griffith Show" and participate in Mayberry-themed activities.

Aside from its connection to Mayberry, Mount Airy is also known for its picturesque downtown. Main Street is lined with locally owned shops, where visitors can find unique gifts, antiques, and homemade treats. The town also offers a variety of dining options, serving up everything from classic Southern comfort food to international cuisine.

In conclusion, a visit to Mount Airy in the Piedmont region of North Carolina is a journey back in time to the charming world of Mayberry. Whether you're a fan of "The Andy Griffith Show" or just looking to experience the quaint small-town atmosphere, Mount Airy offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. So, pack your bags and prepare to step into the fictional town that captured the hearts of millions.

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Frequently asked questions.

Answer: The Piedmont region of NC offers a variety of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts. Some popular options include hiking and exploring the beautiful trails in the Uwharrie National Forest, kayaking or canoeing on the Yadkin River, and biking along the numerous scenic routes in the area.

Question: What are some historical sites to visit in the Piedmont region?

Answer: The Piedmont region of NC is rich in history and offers several historical sites to visit. Some popular ones include the Old Salem Museums and Gardens in Winston-Salem, where visitors can step back in time and experience life in the 18th century, and the Latta Plantation in Huntersville, which is a restored 19th-century cotton plantation.

Question: Are there any wineries or breweries to visit in the Piedmont region?

Answer: Yes, the Piedmont region of NC is known for its wineries and breweries. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting and tours at vineyards such as Childress Vineyards in Lexington and Shelton Vineyards in Dobson. For beer enthusiasts, breweries like Natty Greene's Brewing Company in Greensboro and Foothills Brewing in Winston-Salem are popular destinations.

Question: What are some family-friendly attractions in the Piedmont region?

Answer: The Piedmont region of NC offers plenty of family-friendly attractions. The North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro is a popular choice, with its wide variety of animals and educational programs. The Greensboro Science Center is another great option, featuring an aquarium, a zoo, and a museum. Additionally, the Kaleideum North and Kaleideum Downtown in Winston-Salem provide interactive exhibits and hands-on learning experiences for children of all ages.

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Best places to visit in north carolina.

Adventure-filled mountain getaways , relaxing beach vacations and history-rich weekend trips – all this and more awaits you in the Tar Heel State. Between the state's stunning national parks and spirited cities, North Carolina has something to satisfy even the pickiest of travelers. To help you decide which locales are worth your while, U.S. News considered factors like scenic beauty, top-rated attractions and reader opinion to determine the best places to visit in North Carolina. Read on to start planning your trip, then vote for your favorite destinations below to help us determine next year's ranking.

Emerald Isle

Great smoky mountains national park, asheville, nc, outer banks, pisgah national forest, bald head island, carolina beach, hanging rock state park, wilmington, nc.

Emerald Isle features a small-town atmosphere fitting for a leisurely family beach vacation. Its 12 miles of pristine coastline offers travelers a variety of options for sinking their toes in the sand, including uncrowded beaches with superb conditions for surfing and kiteboarding. Plus, Emerald Isle is home to Bogue Inlet Pier (a prime spot for fishing), multiple championship golf courses and the Salty Pirate Water Park (seasonal), giving travelers plenty of ways to pass the time on and off the sand.

If you're looking for an outdoor escape, head to North Carolina's section of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park, which straddles the North Carolina-Tennessee border, is the most visited national park in the country – and for good reason. Here, you'll find stunning waterfalls like 120-foot-tall Mingo Falls and multiple hiking trails, including the Mingus Creek Trail, which takes you past a slave cemetery and other historical sites. What's more, the park features winding roads ideal for scenic drives and photo ops, such as Lakeview Drive and Newfound Gap.

This dynamic North Carolina city has gained acclaim for its vibrant arts scene and microbrew culture, but there's plenty for every type of traveler to explore. Its proximity to the Appalachian Trail and the Blue Ridge Parkway makes it a top pick for hikers and nature enthusiasts. History buffs are sure to appreciate taking a self-guided walking tour of downtown's Asheville Urban Trail, which includes stops at 30 sculptures of noteworthy Asheville figures. And the massive, 250-room Biltmore Estate, built by George Vanderbilt in the late 19th century, is a must-see for architecture aficionados and romance lovers .

The barrier islands that form the Outer Banks retain their laid-back feel with locally owned shops and a family-friendly atmosphere. Here, visitors will find inexpensive vacation rentals and sprawling public beaches that are rarely crowded. Those trying to get away from it all can spend their days lounging on the shore or exploring the numerous lighthouses that dot the islands. Meanwhile, travelers looking for more activity can venture to Jockey's Ridge State Park to try sandboarding or hang gliding. Save time for a visit to the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills, where the world's first successful airplane flight took place.

Pisgah National Forest features more than 500,000 acres of Blue Ridge Mountains terrain that is perfect for outdoor activities. In its three ranger districts, visitors will find waterfalls, whitewater rivers, lakes and hundreds of miles of hiking, bike and equestrian trails. The Pisgah Ranger District is the section to visit to see the park's waterfalls, while the Appalachian Ranger District offers some of the forest's best mountain vistas and horseback riding. Experienced hikers and rock climbers will want to head to the Grandfather Ranger District to explore the Linville Gorge Wilderness.

For a relaxing getaway, take a ferry from Southport to Bald Head Island. On this slow-paced island, you'll discover 12,000 acres of unspoiled land, including nature preserves and 14 miles of beaches. Popular pastimes here include surfing and boogie boarding at East Beach, climbing up Old Baldy (North Carolina's oldest standing lighthouse) and looking for sea turtles, alligators and birds at Bald Head Island Conservancy. You can also hike, bike and kayak your way around this car-free island.

Visit Carolina Beach to enjoy some old-fashioned fun with every member of the family. One of this easygoing town's highlights is its vintage boardwalk, which features an arcade, an amusement park and ample places to purchase sweets. Plus, the boardwalk hosts seasonal events every summer, such as a music festival on the beach and weekly fireworks shows. For some fun in the sun in a quieter setting, head to Carolina Beach State Park. The park offers top-notch fishing, as well as opportunities to hike past unique flora like Venus' flytrap, a must-do activity.

Sitting just 30 miles north of Winson-Salem, Hanging Rock State Park is one of North Carolina's must-visit travel destinations. Jaw-dropping mountain panoramas, rushing waterfalls and abundant wildlife are just a few of the reasons to schedule a visit. The park also offers a variety of hiking and biking trails ranging from easy to strenuous, along with dedicated pathways for horseback riding. Other top activities in Hanging Rock State Park include fishing, rock climbing, camping, swimming (available seasonally for a fee) and boating.

Hundreds of TV shows and movies have been filmed in Wilmington (think: One Tree Hill and Dawson's Creek), earning this riverfront city its nicknames of "Hollywood East" and "Wilmywood." However, Wilmington is equally well known for its historical attractions and proximity to beautiful beaches. Explore Wilmington's historic district to see historical homes and museums like the Bellamy Mansion Museum, or take a tour of the Battleship North Carolina to get an up-close look at one of the city's most popular tourist attractions. Also save time for a stroll along Wilmington's Riverwalk, a 2-mile-long scenic walkway lined with open-air cafes, art galleries and boutiques.

Sports fans will feel right at home in Charlotte. This buzzing city features the NASCAR Hall of Fame and is where professional sports teams like the NFL's Carolina Panthers and the NBA's Charlotte Hornets play. But Charlotte appeals to travelers with other interests, too. Art and history enthusiasts can spend hours perusing the exhibits at Mint Museum Uptown and the Levine Museum of the New South. Meanwhile, outdoorsy types can take advantage of Freedom Park's trails and sports courts or try more adventurous pursuits like whitewater rafting and zip lining at the U.S. National Whitewater Center.

North Carolina's capital city may be known as a center for research and higher education, but it's also an excellent option for an affordable vacation. The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences and the North Carolina Museum of Art offer a variety of complimentary exhibits worth checking out. Additionally, Raleigh features several can't-miss outdoor attractions, including William B. Umstead State Park (with multiple lakes for fishing and canoeing, plus trails for hiking, biking and riding horses) and Pullen Park (a green space that houses one of America's oldest amusement parks). After working up an appetite, refuel at one of the city's top restaurants .

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visitRaleigh insider

30 can't-miss things to do in raleigh, n.c..

Wednesday, March 20, 2024, 9am by visitRaleigh

Raleigh, N.C., is a booming metropolis that offers a big city feel with Southern charm. It's a smart, modern-meets-historic destination that has a lot to offer and no matter what path you choose on your visit, we know you'll be energized by the fired-up cultural heartbeat fostered by passionate minds of Raleigh. Here are 30 things (in no particular order) you shouldn't miss, the results of people who had a passion for creating something special, something brilliant to be experienced.  

Tour the library of the future

Said by some to be one of the most advanced libraries in the world, the James B. Hunt Library —opened in 2013—was built to reflect North Carolina State University’s status as a preeminent technological research university. Bold and iconic, the library’s architectural design strikes a unique presence with its intriguing design of glass and zigzagging, solar fins. Inside, be dazzled by technological wonders like curved digital display screens, touchscreen kiosks and bookBot—a subterranean robot programmed to fetch books from the 1.5 million housed in an underground storage facility.

Visit one of the world's oldest amusement parks

Established in 1887 and designated as the first public park in N.C., Pullen Park sits nestled between downtown Raleigh and the campus of North Carolina State University . Among the world's oldest amusement parks, Pullen is known for terrific recreational opportunities, especially for kids and families. The park includes an operating carousel built in 1911, a miniature train you can ride through the park, pedal boats to move around Lake Howell, plus tennis courts, baseball and softball fields, an arts center and an innovative performing arts venue, Theatre In The Park (Ira David Wood III Pullen Park Theatre) .

Spend a morning, or a day, at the North Carolina Museum of Art

One of the premier visual arts museums of the South features an outdoor park with works of art, trails and a live music venue/theater. It also hosts two buildings filled with galleries, education studios and special exhibitions. Permanent collections include ancient Egyptian artifacts, renowned European Old Master paintings, African and Judaic works of art and innovative contemporary art. You'll also find the Southeast's largest collection of sculptures by Auguste Rodin, the museum store and a café for a bite to eat and drink.

Note : The museum's newest special exhibition, To Take Shape and Meaning: Form and Design in Contemporary American Indian Art , is now open through July 28, 2024.

Find towering trees on trails at Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve

Filled with shade during the summer months and rich with color in the fall, Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve provides an easy, family-friendly way to escape to the outdoors in Cary. The 140-acre park—established 40 years ago and named for the atypical group of nearly 200 Eastern Hemlock trees that can be found here—is highlighted by approximately three miles of mulch-covered walking and hiking trails that lead to a series of small overlooks.

The 3,700-square-foot Stevens Nature Center provides interactive, educational nature exhibits and historical exhibits from the Piedmont of N.C., plus provides nature interpretation and environmental education programs for all ages throughout the year.

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Traverse the state's longest hiking trail.

Up for an adventure? The Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST)—known as "N.C.'s hiking trail"—stretches more than 1,000 miles from the Great Smoky Mountains to the Outer Banks, cutting through North Raleigh near Falls Lake and the Neuse River Greenway Trail along the way. Two recommended ways to get a short taste of the trail—where the terrain is easy to tackle and provides plenty of unique plants and wildlife—are to start at either Blue Jay Point County Park or Wilkerson Nature Preserve , where you'll connect to the MST by spotting and following the white dots on tree trunks. Headed east from Wilkerson Nature Preserve to the Falls Lake Dam Visitor's Center is three miles, making the out-and-back route one of the area's best short hikes.

Spark imaginations at Marbles Kids Museum

Make a trip with your little ones (kids ages 10 and under) to Raleigh to experience Marbles. Delivering purposeful play in a big way, the museum offers themed exhibits designed to build imagination through self-led exploration of new ideas and experiences. From the world's first and only kid-driven smart power grid to hands-on STEM learning stations, Marbles educates and inspires children. Take in a movie at the Marbles IMAX , boasting N.C.'s only 3D-capable giant screen-teens and adults can also take in blockbuster hits there!

Learn about one of Raleigh's most prominent African-American citizens

Note : Currently closed until August 2024 for renovations.

As the only African-American house museum in the state, the Pope House Museum offers a look into the life of one of Raleigh’s prominent African-American citizens, Dr. Manassa Thomas Pope. Dr. Pope was a graduate of the Leonard School of Medicine, an officer during the Spanish-American War and the only African-American man to run for mayor of a Southern capital in the Jim Crow Era. Built in 1901, the Pope House was built in the once thriving African-American enclave known as the Third Ward, which included the 500 block of S. Wilmington St. Today, visitors can tour the home complete with original furnishings, artifacts and documents dating back to 1851. Admission is free.

Dine at some of downtown Raleigh's best restaurants

It's no secret that Raleigh has developed a reputation as one of the tastiest towns in the South.

The recent accolades: One of America’s hottest food cities (Zagat); one of the most underrated food cities on the East Coast ( USA TODAY ); one of five surprising Southern food towns ( Garden & Gun ); one of the world's top 10 beer destinations (VinePair); and one of 12 global destinations to travel to thanks to our culinary prowess ( Forbes ).

It helps, of course, to have America's best chef ( Ashley Christensen --of Poole's Diner , Death & Taxes and other hot spots--was given that honor by the James Beard Foundation in 2019 ). 

With so little time and so much flavor, here are a few of our top recommendations: 

• Best for date nights: Jolie ; Centro
• Best for brunch: St. Roch Fine Oysters + Bar ; Irregardless Cafe
• Best for casual lunch: (ish) ; Clyde Cooper's BBQ
• Best for celebrating a special occasion: ORO Restaurant & Lounge ; Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern
• Best for coffee and pastries: Morning Times ; Layered Croissanterie
• Best all-around: Ajja ;  Stanbury ; Plates Neighborhood Kitchen

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Wander through one of america's most spectacular gardens.

One of America's most spectacular gardens—a secret among some locals but a sanctuary to plant lovers around the world—is open to the public just eight weekends per year in Raleigh, N.C. Located 12 miles south of downtown Raleigh, Juniper Level Botanic Garden is a 28-acre campus showcasing more than 27,000 different kinds of native perennials, exotic plants, rare delights and unusual specimens of trees and shrubs not found many (or any) other places on earth. This "Eden of rare plants" draws gardeners, researchers and fans of beautiful plants from across the globe each year for select open house dates.

Note : The summer open house dates will be July 12-14 and 19-21.

Meet Tar Heel icons at the North Carolina Museum of History

The North Carolina Museum of History showcases more than 14,000 years and 150,000 artifacts of state history, from native inhabitants to the 20th century. Dozens of exhibits on display focus on a variety of eras in state history, and there are always new exhibits to explore (don't forget to take a special trip to the third floor, home of the  North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame ).

The museum’s permanent exhibit,  The Story of North Carolina , holds amazing artifacts, multimedia presentations, dioramas and interactive features, along with two, full-size historic houses and many recreated environments. Notable artifacts include recovered items from the Queen Anne’s Revenge, Civil War flags and weapons, a replica of the 1903 Wright Flyer and a lunch counter from a 1960 Salisbury, N.C., sit-in during the American civil rights movement.

See what's blooming at Raleigh Municipal Rose Garden

Speaking of blooms, there’s the Raleigh Municipal Rose Garden—a landmark at the center of the Raleigh Little Theatre  campus. Tucked away behind Hillsborough St., the garden sports thousands of flowers which boom each spring, including more than 60 varieties of roses. It’s a serene, relaxing atmosphere accessed freely from sunrise to sunset. In the summer months, a free outdoor movie series is always a family-favorite activity.

Tackle hikes or ride bikes at William B. Umstead State Park

Outdoor lovers can use 22 miles of hiking trails, 13 miles of bridle or mountain bike trails, camp, fish and paddle all within the nearly 6,000-acre urban recreational area. The park is located only 15 minutes outside of downtown Raleigh and is also a habitat for beavers, raccoons, deer and unique bird species, such as the great blue heron.

Reach new heights at Triangle Rock Club

The state-of-the-art indoor climbing and fitness center, led by passionate mind Joel Graybeal and his Raleigh-smart team, features both lead and top-rope climbing, expansive bouldering terrain and a comprehensive fitness area. The Morrisville facility has the largest and tallest climbing structures in the nearest five states and includes 100 climbing lanes and walls spanning to 55 feet.

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Hit golf balls from a third-floor overlook (outdoors, with heating and air conditioning).

Looking for big entertainment? Drive Shack —the interactive golf complex that caters to big groups—opened in 2019 in Raleigh. The three-story complex includes 96 climate-controlled golf bays, a full-service restaurant, a rooftop bar, more than 300 televisions, an arcade area, meeting rooms and more. 

The 260-yard-long driving range combines physical targets to aim for with augmented reality and virtual games. The range utilizes TrackMan technology, pinpointing the flight of your golf ball and allowing you to virtually play real-world championship golf courses or go head-to-head against friends to collect points for hitting physical targets (games are tracked and scored on television screens inside your bay).

Discover new history at the North Carolina State Capitol

Located in what was originally the exact middle of Raleigh, this National Historic Landmark was first built in 1796. A catastrophic fire destroyed the building in 1831, and the building that stands today was completed in 1840. Today, the governor, lieutenant governor and their staffs occupy offices on-site, and the building continues to be used for official state business, including bill signings, press conferences and historic commemorations.

Each year, more than 100,000 visitors take part in free tours, educational programs and events at the Capitol in downtown Raleigh.

Note:  The Capitol is currently closed to the public for construction and repair work and will remain closed until further notice. However, you can still explore some of the grounds and monuments.

Race souped-up, electric go-karts at Rush Hour Karting

At Rush Hour Karting, your entire crew can enjoy the fast track to a seriously good time. Located in  Garner , Rush Hour offers indoor, high-speed karting on a 1/3-mile track. Visitors can hop behind the wheel of European-designed karts which boast max speeds up to 40 mph. Race around hairpin curves, high-speed straights and winding turns to claim your place in the winner’s circle. Finally, karting isn’t the only thing to enjoy at Rush Hour. You can also go rock wall climbing, play video games, shoot pool, throw parties and for the adults (sorry, kids)—axe throwing. For post-competition indulgences, a restaurant with 20 beers on tap awaits!

New : Rush Hour Karting has opened a second facility (complete with the state's first two-story race track) in Morrisville !

Step back in time at Historic Yates Mill County Park

At 174 acres, this wildlife refuge and environmental research center has it all—hiking trails, a 24-acre pond and Historic Yates Mill, Wake County’s last remaining gristmill (fully restored and operable!). Tour the mill to learn about the “farm-to-fork” process, witness the corn grinding process and purchase bags of ground yellow and white cornmeal. Admission is free, but the mill tour (available to the public March through November) will cost $3-5.

Take in the views on one of America's most scenic bike trails

The Neuse River Greenway Trail —a 27.5-mile paved, uninterrupted greenway that stretches from Falls Lake  in North Raleigh to the Wake County line in southeast Raleigh—is a year-round haven for outdoor recreation. With views of historic sites as well as winding boardwalk areas and suspension bridges crossing over wetlands, the trail is open to joggers, walkers, runners, cyclists, roller- bladers and others. Many consider the Neuse River Greenway Trail to be the gem of the 100-plus-mile Capital Area Greenway System .

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Book a weekend of luxury at one of the world's top-rated hotels.

Tucked into 12 acres of woodlands overlooking a private lake in  Cary , a world-class getaway awaits—literally! The Umstead Hotel and Spa —previously recognized by AAA as a Five-Diamond property and by Condé Nast Traveler as the third-best hotel in the U.S.—has earned another major accolade. Forbes Travel Guide has named The Umstead Hotel, its fine-dining restaurant Herons and The Umstead Spa as Five-Star award winners, the highest-achievable ranking.

How big of a deal is that? No other hotel, restaurant or spa in the state of N.C. earned a Five-Star rating, and The Umstead is one of only 12 properties in the world to earn triple Five-Star status. 

Explore 300,000 square feet of science and nature at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences delights, entertains and educates nearly a million visitors per year with fascinating exhibits, both featured and permanent, about the natural world. The museum’s four floors are divided into two parts—the Nature Exploration Center (where you’ll find the  Terror of the South ) and the  Nature Research Center , an unmistakable architectural icon that opened to much fanfare a decade ago. Exhibits range from detailed dioramas to actual ecosystems with living animals—all of which can be explored through various self-guided tours.

In spring of 2024, the museum opened Dueling Dinosaurs, a groundbreaking permanent exhibit that puts one of the greatest dinosaur fossils ever discovered on full display .

Visit breweries, earn rewards

More than 40 local breweries have popped up between Wake Forest, Raleigh, Holly Springs, Fuquay-Varina and beyond—we'll cheer to that! Take your own brewery tour with the Raleigh Beer Trail . Many of the breweries will provide free tours to visitors so you can learn the difference between beers like porters and dopplelbocks and sound like the beer connoisseur you plan to be for the future.

See what's new at two giant food halls

Raleigh's food scene ? It's booming. What else is booming? Food halls. The trend to build massive venues that hold a large number of smaller restaurants—anchoring neighborhoods and shopping centers in urban areas across the U.S.—has officially landed in Raleigh, N.C., with Morgan Street Food Hall and Transfer Co. Food Hall having quickly become go-to destinations for visitors to downtown Raleigh. Here, you'll find bagels, burgers, barbecue and more all under one roof (plus drinks and patio space for an evening well spent!

Cheers to good beer choices at Raleigh Beer Garden

With more than 350 beers on tap, the Raleigh Beer Garden has one of the world's largest beer selections available in one venue! Located in downtown Raleigh's Glenwood South entertainment district, the venue has plenty of outdoor space, including a rooftop "garden" with seating that makes it the perfect warm-weather hangout. And this beer garden does more than just beer—a full dining menu includes everything from handcrafted pizzas to cheese and charcuterie plates.

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Shop 'till you drop at the raleigh market.

Visitors have been attending the Raleigh Flea Market every weekend since 1971. More than 600 vendors go out Sat. and Sun. to showcase everything from antiques and collectibles to handcrafts, furniture, homemade goodies, clothing, jewelry and more.

Pack a picnic and head to Lake Crabtree County Park

Perfect for hikers, kayakers and mountain bikers, this county park (which was the first county park established in the Raleigh area) welcomes all to the shores of the 520-acre Lake Crabtree in Morrisville . With nature trails, seasonal boat rentals, playgrounds, picnic facilities, a fishing pier and more, there are tons of recreational activities to take part in at little to no cost.

Zip, swing and climb through trees at a treetop adventure course

Fun for the whole family, two treetop adventure courses have big fun in mind. At Go Ape , ages 10 and up can take on a canopy course that includes a 500-foot-long zipline, platforms as high as 50 feet in the air and more than 40 obstacles to make their way through (total course time between two and three hours). A smaller course is available for younger children as well. At TreeRunner Adventure Park , seven courses and three difficulty levels are made up from more than 70 total obstacles that reach as high as 40 feet. On Fri. nights through summer, the park puts on Glow Nights, featuring color arches, LED sequence lighting, lasers and glow attire given to all paid climbers.

Pick out fresh goodies at the State Farmers' Market

Open from 9am-5 pm daily, the State Farmers' Market, Raleigh is made up of 30,000 square feet of fresh vegetables, produce, flowers and specialty goods. And you can't miss the state-wide favorite  State Farmers' Market Restaurant , especially loved for its Southern, country-style breakfast menu.

Contemporary Art Museum (CAM Raleigh)

Smart, modern and a little unexpected, CAM Raleigh (Contemporary Art Museum) is hands down a favorite among locals, and for a good reason. This striking, non-collecting contemporary art museum, located in downtown Raleigh's rapidly-growing Warehouse District , displays new and emerging work by local and national living artists. Every exhibition is unique, bold, highly memorable and designed to be thought-provoking and transformative. Opened in 2011, this expansive, light-filled gallery space is now free admission! Open Friday and Saturday, 10am-5pm, and 11am-5pm on Sunday.

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Pay respects at historic oakwood cemetery.

Historic Oakwood Cemetery , with its winding roads, glistening stream and towering oaks, provides a tranquil final resting place for more than 28,000 residents. For 150 years now, the cemetery has told the stories of generations: families who formed Raleigh, soldiers who honored our country and the people of today who chose to rest among its historic oaks. It’s also an excellent example of Victorian landscaping and mortuary art.

North Carolina State Fair (October)

Visitors flock to Raleigh during the month of Oct. to be one of the million attendees of the 11-day N.C. State Fair. The state's largest event features livestock, agricultural, arts and cultural exhibits, amusement midway and nightly musical performances. The fair signals the end of each night with a spectacular fireworks show, a tradition that goes back to the 1950s.

The 2024 event is scheduled for Oct. 17-27.

Launch a kayak and do some easy paddling

Up for a paddling adventure? One great spot to launch a 'yak is  Robertson Millpond Preserve , a hidden, 85-acre refuge in the town of Wendell  for nature lovers, canoeists and kayakers. Opened to the public in 2015, the blackwater swamp property is the only bald cypress habitat in the Raleigh area, creating a unique experience of paddling through a forest-like setting. Kayak rentals for the preserve are available through Tar River Life, here .

Shop, sip, stay at North Hills

Discover an eclectic mix of 130-plus local shops, restaurants, bars and hotels in this outdoor shopping haven. Known for its upscale finds, and also friendly for the entire family, North Hills may make it too easy to spend the whole day browsing the racks of designer clothes at Gena Chandler or Vermillion , shopping for china and crystal at Quintessentials and picking out monogrammed stationery at Paper Source . After (or in between) shopping stops, grab some food and a handcrafted brew at local favorites like The Cowfish at North Hills , Vivace or Yard House .

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Marbles Kids Museum photo by Ted Richardson; Pope House Museum and Go Ape by Keenan Hairston; William B. Umstead State Park and Transfer Co. Food Hall by Brian Strickland; Historic Yates Mill by David Short

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42 Best Things To Do & Places To Visit In North Carolina

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Last updated: October 16, 2023

North Carolina is a beautiful state and a common site for holidays and recreation.

Plenty of people choose to relocate here permanently, so it’s little surprise that the state is so popular among tourists, too.

North Carolina is known as the Tar Heel State, though the origins of this nickname are blurry.

A few legends suggest that this is due to the Civil War, where soldiers may have felt “stuck” in their ranks as if glued with tar.

Despite the somewhat somber name, there is a lot of stuff to do in the state, and it is home to many sites to see related to history, nature, coast, and higher education and is the location of the world’s first flight.

So, if you’re visiting here, how do you decide where to go?

Without further ado, here are the 42 best things to do and places to visit in North Carolina!

Table of Contents

1. Morehead Planetarium and Science Center

KAD Photo / Shutterstock

The Morehead Planetarium and Science Center has been open since 1949, welcoming over seven million visitors over the year and cementing itself as one of the most popular North Carolina attractions.

Situated on Chapel Hill at the University of North Carolina, the structure’s initial purpose was NASA astronaut training, providing celestial navigation lessons to over 60 of these officers between 1959 and 1975.

Today, the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center is more than that.

It’s a fun public attraction packed with educational exhibits.

These exhibits discuss many different topics, with highlights like Firsts in Flight, which pays homage to and discusses in detail the contributions of African Americans to space exploration and the development of aviation.

There is also Water in Our World, which talks about how crucial accessible, clean water is on the planet.

Touring the showcases costs no money, making this one of the coolest free things to do in the state.

However, planetarium shows do have an admission fee.

There are 15 of these shows in total, playing on a schedule that rotates throughout the year.

You’ll learn about astronauts, black holes, Galileo, heavenly bodies, and more.

Address: 250 E Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, United States

2. The Biltmore Estate

ZakZeinert / Shutterstock

The Biltmore Estate is an absolute must-see in North Carolina.

Not only is it magnificent and historic, but it’s also one of the state’s most beautiful places to go.

Spanning 8,000 acres, the estate rests in Asheville and dates back to the 1890s.

The gardens of the Biltmore Estate stretch out expansively with lush greens and verdant flora of all kinds.

The Rose Garden is packed with over 250 types of roses and the Italian Garden has sculptures and pools scattered about in ornate glory.

Plus, the estate’s grounds boast the country’s first “managed forest”, multiple walking trails and paths, a winery with free tastings with admission, an entire little village, and even a deer park!

What is likely most loved about the Biltmore Estate, though, is its chateau: a large manor with 250 rooms, filled with unique architecture, genuine antiques, vintage accessories and clothing, gorgeous art, and an array of other priceless finds.

43 bathrooms, 35 bedrooms, and a whopping 65 fireplaces are just some of the parts of this 180,000 square feet mansion.

It was built for George Washington Vanderbilt II and is, most fascinatingly, filled with secret rooms, hidden passages, and disguised doors.

These little secrets were meant to conceal servants’ movements and provide guests and the family with more privacy.

Ask about special tours for these passageways!

Address: 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803, United States

3. Battleship North Carolina

David Byron Keener / Shutterstock

Battleship North Carolina , also known as the USS North Carolina, is moored peacefully in Wilmington , retired after a long and historic career.

The ship was commissioned on the 9th of April in 1941 and was the first of the American fleet’s 10 World War II battleships.

It boasts 15 battle stars, making it the era’s most decorated American ship of its kind, and is a National Historic Landmark now following authentic restoration.

A remnant of its years in the war, the battleship is well-armed to this day and is fondly remembered as one of the planet’s best weapons of the sea.

Three turrets hold a total of nine 45-caliber, 16-inch guns and ten twin mounts hold 20 38-caliber, five-inch guns.

Given all that firepower, it’s rather amazing to wander the ship’s interior now that it has been converted into a museum.

As one of the most interesting places to visit in North Carolina, the ship allows you to tour its mess hall, the quarters for officers and sailors, and the large deck where the guns rest for perusal.

Self-guided tours take about two hours to finish.

Address: 1 Battleship Rd NE, Wilmington, NC 28401, United States

4. Chimney Rock State Park

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

Chimney Rock State Park sits in the southeast region of Asheville, which is one of North Carolina’s chief vacation spots.

Its central attraction is what gave it its name: the huge spire of natural granite walk, totaling 315 feet in height for a total 2,280-foot elevation, that provides incredible views of the surrounding area.

There are 500 or so steps leading up to the peak of the chimney, but for better accessibility, there is also an elevator that will bring you up the 26 stories to its height if you aren’t in the mood for an excursion.

But it’s not just all about this rightfully famous rock at the state park, as many other activities are available for people of all ages and all desired levels of intensity.

The most commonly embarked trail other than that to Chimney Rock is the Hickory Nut Falls Trail.

It is primarily level and is moderate in challenge, eventually leading to the titular Hickory Nut Falls that rise 404 feet into the sky.

Rumbling Bald Climbing Access is also a great place to go for some fun climbing opportunities.

Finally, check out The Devil’s Head, a cool balancing rock, which you may recognize from the Last of the Mohicans’ 1992 film iteration.

Address: Chimney Rock, NC 28720, United States

5. Blue Ridge Parkway

Anton Ermachkov / Shutterstock

Blue Ridge Parkway is often referred to as “America’s favorite drive”, and that’s for good reason.

It was designed by Stanley Abbott, a renowned landscape architect, in order to create a drive that was about the journey even more than the destination.

Stretching 469 miles from North Carolina’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park to Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park, it’s one of the most beautiful places in the country.

Along the road, you’ll see some of the best views that the state has to offer.

The landscape of the Blue Ridge mountains kicks you off on your journey through the endless expanse of panoramic scenery on every turn.

Along the way, you’ll find many more things to do in NC, with numerous hiking trails, pill-offs, campgrounds, picnic spots, and more.

There are also many museums, visitor centers, and more seen along the road, giving you lots of choices for mileposts to stop at and plenty of sightseeing to do.

6. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

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The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is the state’s oldest museum and is made up of two buildings, namely the Nature Research Center and the Nature Exploration Center.

It is the southeast’s biggest natural science museum and additionally boasts the North Carolina Museum of Forestry and the Prairie Ridge Ecostation alongside its previous components.

There is no entry fee, making this one of the most valuable free things to do in the state.

In the Nature Exploration Center, you’ll find information on coastal portions of the state, the state’s gemstone history, and habitats of the rainforest and tropics.

You can even spend time with a two-toed sloth that lives onsite!

It’s also here that you’ll find a true gem, the world’s only displayed authentic Acrocanthosaurus skeleton, known also as the Terror of the South.

Just seeing it is one of the fun things to do in North Carolina.

On the other hand, in the Nature Research Center, you’ll get to learn all about the methods used to explore the natural world scientifically.

You’ll find out about deep space exploration, weather pattern science, the depths of the Atlantic Ocean, and DNA studies.

Address: 11 W Jones St, Raleigh, NC 27601, United States

7. Linville Gorge

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If you’re looking for top vacation spots , you can’t go wrong with Linville Gorge that is often dubbed the Grand Canyon of the East.

It is one of America’s most scenic and deepest of its kind on the eastern side of the country and can be found in the Pisgah National Forest.

The gorge is filled by the Linville River’s flow into the 90-foot Linville Falls, carrying on in its flow for the next 12 miles.

Access to the trails for Linville Gorge is actually done via the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 316.

It’s one of the top things to see in the state of North Carolina and provides gorgeous photo opportunities for photographers while offering many options for adventurers, tourists, and nature enthusiasts.

top by the Visitor’s Center for information!

Address: Gingercake Road, Linville Falls, NC 28647, United States

8. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

One simply cannot discuss a trip to North Carolina without adding the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to their list of what to do!

It’s the National Park system’s most biodiverse park and is a crucial historical preservation of the culture of the southern Appalachian people.

Spanning 800 square miles, its temperate climate is a surprising host to over 19,000 confirmed species of flora and fauna, with an additional 80,000 to 100,000 potential undocumented species, too.

Multiple historic structures are scattered throughout the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, providing fun and intriguing sites to visit.

Each one of the 90 tells the story of the long years that people have had with the region, ranging back to the Paleo-Indians of prehistoric times.

Europeans would eventually settle here in the 1800s and loggers and enrollees of the Civilian Conservation Corps would make it their grounds in the 1900s.

Buildings, all rehabilitated or preserved, include schools, barns, houses, mills, and churches.

There are tons of activities to enjoy at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Exploration is easy with the 384 miles of roads throughout the park, and you can hike, auto tour, cycle, or camp in many places on the grounds.

There are also numerous waterfalls to explore and over 1,500 flower plant species to peruse.

9. Grandfather Mountain

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Grandfather Mountain is a part of the Linville scape and has grown into a must-do point of interest for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Whether you desire low-intensity, easy trails, stunning views, or hard-hitting difficult treks, there will be something for you as you explore Grandfather Mountain.

The famous Mile High Swinging Bridge, which is the highest suspension footbridge in America, is probably the most famous site at Grandfather Mountain.

It offers 360-degree views and has been serving visitors since 1952.

As you enjoy your sightseeing at Grandfather Mountain, you may spot wildflowers of varying degrees of rarity and even catch glimpses of wildlife like owls.

Naturalists offer tours of the area to tell you more about the flora and fauna.

Don’t forget to check out the Grandfather Mountain Nature Museum to learn about the area, the birds and minerals of North Carolina, and many prominent explorers who have trekked through here.

Address: 2050 Blowing Rock Highway, Linville, NC 28646, United States

10. Sliding Rock

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Sliding Rock sits in Pisgah National Forest and is one of the most unique and best things to do in North Carolina.

As its name suggests, it is an all-natural waterslide made from years of gentle grading and erosion.

It’s a waterfall that you can take a ride on and was created by Looking Glass Creek.

Measuring 60 feet, the mild slope of Sliding Rock has made it ideal for the adventurous to take a trip down it on their backs.

11,000 gallons of water make their way over the natural slide, bringing with it many guests and visitors from North Carolina and beyond.

Though it gets crowded quickly, many find it worth the trip!

At the base of Sliding Rock, you’ll land in a natural pool measuring 6 or 7 feet with a lovely 50 to 60-degree temperature.

The gorgeous view can be seen with a number of different built-in viewpoints, and lifeguards make the experience much safer for you and your family of all ages.

Address: Pisgah Forest, NC, United States

11. North Carolina Zoo

The North Carolina Zoo sits on 2,200 acres of land and is the planet’s biggest walk-through zoo.

While most zoos make use of cages, this zoo uses enclosures in order to provide as natural a habitat as possible to the animals therein.

Over 52,000 plants and 1,600 animals call the zoo, which is situated in Asheboro, their home.

The North Carolina Zoo’s habitats are separated into three categories.

The first is the North American section, which houses bobcats, cougars, bison, red wolves, roadrunners, black bears, grizzly bears, elk, and more.

The second is the African section, which boasts lions, rhinos, giraffes, elephants, zebras, chimps, ostriches, and beyond.

Finally, there is the tropical forest section.

Among the activities to partake in at this fun spot are the ropes course, a carousel ride, a train, and even a viewing deck for giraffes that lets you see these majestic mammals eye-to-eye.

Picnic tables, snack bars, and restaurants provide plenty of options for snacks.

It’s no wonder this is one of the chief North Carolina attractions!

Address: 4401 Zoo Pkwy, Asheboro, NC 27205, United States

12. Wright Brothers National Memorial

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Everyone knows who the Wright Brothers are: the first people who successfully flew an aircraft, specifically an airplane.

Their name is synonymous with the advancement of flight technology, and you can pay your respects to their achievements in North Carolina through the Wright Brothers National Memorial .

The Wright Brothers National Memorial is designed to showcase the exact spots where the airplanes first took flight and landed.

It is built on Big Kill Devil Hill, a 90-foot dune.

Buildings have been reconstructed to recreate the experience and the working conditions of the time.

This is undoubtedly one of the best places to see for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike!

For more information, check out the Wright Brothers National Memorial’s Visitors Center.

It features a number of displays that teach you about the Wright brothers, their accomplishments, and even a couple of exact replicas of flying machines from 1902 and 1903.

Address: 1000 N Croatan Hwy, Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948, United States

13. Clingmans Dome

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Clingmans Dome is a fascinating location, foggy and high with a winding walkway that leads you to its top.

375 in height, it sits on the Smoky Mountains National Park’s highest peak, making it 6,643 feet above sea level.

The trail to the dome lasts about a mile from Clingmans Dome Road, and expect the climb to be steep.

Once you get to the highest part of Clingman’s Dome, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful panoramic views of the world surrounding you that will make you understand why this is cited as one of the greatest places to visit in North Carolina.

There’s also a bit of melancholy to it, though, as from here you can also see the remnants of once-proud fir trees.

Fraser fir snags, colored in whitebark and stark of verdancy, were poisoned in the 1900s after the balsam woolly adelgid, an invasive species of insect, was introduced to the country.

95% of the firs in the park’s region have been killed by it, and you can witness the sad but oddly, tragically beautiful destruction from Clingman’s Dome.

It’s a little macabre, but it’s one of the sights you should see once in your life.

Address: 7 miles off US-441 on the Clingmans Dome Road, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, NC, United States

14. Lake Lure

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North Carolina is, no doubt, one of the most beautiful states in the US!

If you’re visiting, don’t forget to check out the stunning Lake Lure, one of the must-see tourist places in North Carolina.

It is a manmade lake spanning 720 acres in the middle of the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains.

The town surrounding Lake Lure has risen to some fame thanks to its popularity as a Hollywood filming spot.

Movies such as Dirty Dancing, Firestarter, Last of the Mohicans, and Thunder Road have been filmed here.

The town that settled here began building its settlement up in 1902, and in 1925, the Broad River needed a dam to be set up.

The dammed river led to the forming of Lake Lure by 1927, and the rest is history!

The beautiful town of Lake Lure has enjoyed tourist attention and the creation of the stunning Lake Lure Flowering Bridge.

In 2010, a Dirty Dancing Festival began its life in Lake Lure, an annual event that would go on to donate part of its proceeds from 2013 to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network as a way of honoring Patrick Swayze.

You can also take tours of the town that will show you all the places used in the filming of Dirty Dancing.

15. The NASCAR Hall of Fame

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Love cars, racing, or both?

The NASCAR Hall of Fame is one of the tourist attractions for you!

Located in Charlotte, North Carolina, which is one of the state’s more popular places to travel, the attraction provides entertainment and interactivity in one engaging and enticing package.

The NASCAR Hall of Fame is highly modernized and offers all sorts of high-tech exhibits designed to teach you about the heritage, history, and successes of NASCAR, whether you love racing or not!

The Glory Road exhibit is the most loved, featuring a range of historic cars and information about their drivers, teams, crews, and more.

A popular feature of the NASCAR Hall of Fame is the High Octane Theater, a 278-seater, highly modern, large-screen cinema that specializes in educational and engaging programs related to the history of NASCAR and its prominent figures.

Address: 400 E M.L.K. Jr Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States

16. North Carolina Aquarium

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The North Carolina Aquarium is actually made up of four different aquariums spread throughout the state.

Each one is state-of-the-art and designed to provide an enjoyable, entertaining, and informational visit to its guests.

Trying to visit each one is among the many fun things to do in North Carolina!

One branch is at Roanoke Island, which boasts the state’s biggest shark collection.

It also provides the kid-friendly Aqua Tots program, geared at toddlers and younger children.

Another location is Jennette’s Pier of Nags Head, which isn’t technically an actual aquarium but still provides you with lots of sights of humpback whales and other aquatic creatures in their natural environment.

Contact the pier location in advance to know exactly what animals will be around when you’re there and ask about fishing if you’re interested.

The third branch is in Fort Fisher, which is located on Cape Fear and showcases the prime behind-the-scenes educational, interactive experience many go to aquariums for.

It boasts touch tanks and focuses on swamp and stream habitats.

Finally, there’s the Pine Knoll Shores branch, which is highly informational and has information about the state’s marine animals and their diversity.

You can also go surf fishing or look at turtles while you’re there!

17. Blue Ghost Fireflies

One of the best things to see in North Carolina isn’t actually a specific attraction or structure, but a phenomenon of blue ghost fireflies.

Lightning bugs are part and parcel of America’s southeast, but this particular kind, with the scientific name phausis reticulata, is especially delightful and unique.

Only male blue ghost lightning bugs fly, while females remain flightless and are, interestingly, colored either white or yellow.

Unlike most fireflies, blue ghost fireflies glow instead of flash, meaning that they remain brightly lit for up to a minute and send streaks of light shooting through the night.

The color they emit is also out of the ordinary.

Instead of being white-ish, the glow is a blue-green hue that is cited as being very difficult to catch on camera.

Blue ghost fireflies are hard for scientists to track and study, doubly so since they only show up in summer for about a month at a time.

Since 1825, their habitat has slowly shrunken, remaining now within a few forests in the Appalachian that retain spongy floors of leaves and stream beds.

These bugs have an interesting legend attached, reported that they are the ghosts of fallen Confederate soldiers.

Naturally, this is a mere myth, especially since they glow blue, not red!

Dupont State Forest is the most opportune place to spot blue ghost fireflies thanks to its pristine stretches of verdancy.

From the middle of May to the middle of June, you’ll be able to see them fly about after sunset.

You’ll have to be patient in the dark as you await their arrival and you’ll be rewarded with their rare sight just above the ground.

Address: Staton Rd, Cedar Mountain, NC 28718, United States

18. Museum of Life and Science

Museum of Life and Science

The Museum of Life and Science is a gorgeous natural science museum geared towards kids and youth.

The property spans 84 acres and the main building boasts two lovely stories packed with fun exhibits and displays, so there’s no shortage of what to do.

Over 60 live animal species live at the Museum of Life and Science, including a wide array of butterflies, which live in what is one of the East Coast’s biggest conservatories for the insect.

Birds, insects, and flowers also wander the conservatory.

There’s also an outdoor farmyard with farm animals, and the remaining fauna live in the Explore the Wild exhibits.

You can also view animals long dead; dinosaur exhibits in the Dinosaur Trail are a favorite.

There’s also a famous Aerospace Exhibit and a Weather Exhibit, in addition, providing new sources of hands-on information for children visiting North Carolina!

Address: 433 W Murray Ave, Durham, NC 27704, United States

Looking for more thrill? Why not check out Asheville and Boone? If you do plan the trip, here are some of the best things to do in Asheville, NC , and here’s what to do in Boone, NC !

19. Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site

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The Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site , referred to commonly as the Connemara, was the home of prolific journalist and poet Carl Sandburg, who won three Pulitzer Prizes in his lifetime.

He was also known for his activism during the Civil Rights Movement, which earned him the honor of being the first white male recipient of the Silver Plaque Award by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.

Originally from Illinois , Sandburg moved a few times in his life, and in 1945 he moved to Flat Rock, North Carolina from Michigan .

His home of choice was this “Connemara” estate, spanning 265 acres, for a multitude of reasons.

To begin with, it gave his wife the room and land necessary to raise and tend to her loved goats.

The solitude and preferably weather are also cited as reasons for his move.

Back then, the house had been owned by Confederate veterans and politicians before coming into Sandburg’s possession.

While living here, Sandburg wrote close to one-third of his works.

Today, his legacy is honored in this “museum” of sorts, which is one of the best things to do in North Carolina.

The house has been restored and redesigned to closely resemble how it looked while Sandburg lived in it, and lots of tours are available of the home, the goat farm (which houses three goat breeds), and the rest of the landscape.

The grounds of the land are tended by the National Parks Services and contain hiking trails totaling five miles, an apple orchard, and even a pair of small lakes.

Address: 1800 Little River Rd, Flat Rock, NC 28731, United States

20. Marbles Kids Museum

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The Marbles Kids Museum first opened its doors in 2007 and has since grown into one of the key North Carolina attractions for children, especially those aged between 0 to 10.

Located in Raleigh, North Carolina, it features many hands-on and interactive exhibits and programs to facilitate fun learning and enrichment.

There are five different galleries at the Marbles Kids Museum, which include exhibits on electricity, water, music, and other aspects of science.

IdeaWorks provides children with the chance to create and imagine, the Art Loft lets them flex their artistic tendencies, and Power2Play provides indoor physical exercise!

There are also two outdoor locations at the Marbles Kids Museum.

One is a gardening space that houses an impressive flower measuring 22 feet.

There is also an IMAX theater for all sorts of educational shows.

Activities, events, and workshops are held daily, such as storytimes and games, and holiday celebrations also occur seasonally.

Address: 201 E Hargett St, Raleigh, NC 27601, United States

21. Sarah P. Duke Gardens

The Sarah P. Duke Gardens are nothing short of stunning.

They sit in Duke University in Durham , North Carolina, and are named after the wife of one of the institutions’ benefactors.

It was set up in 1934 and was actually the best result of a “failure” of sorts, having been created after funding for a lake wasn’t met, leading to the gardens being made as a substitute.

By 1935, over 100 different beds of flowers had been planted, with annuals as well as daffodils, bulbs, and irises of all kinds.

In 1936, they were destroyed in a flood, and then the daughter of Sarah P. Duke herself made a new replacement garden on higher ground.

The new gardens were designed by a landscape designer pioneer in the style of Italianate architecture.

There are four places to go, or areas, in the Sarah P. Duke Gardens.

The first is the H.L Blomquist Garden of Native Plants, which comprises woodland terrain spanning 6.5 acres.

It is packed with native plants of the region, totaling 900 varieties and species in total.

There are even more spots within it, such as the Blomquist Wildlife Garden, the Steve Church Endangered Species Garden, the Bird Viewing Shelter, and the Carnivorous plant collection.

The second is the Asiatic Arboretum, which houses Southeast Asian flora of all kinds over 18 acres of land.

Japanese-inspired architecture adds to the atmosphere, and there are places to check out within like the Kathleen Smith Moss Garden, Durham-Toyama Sister Cities Pavilion and Garden, a Garden Pond and Pond-viewing Shelter, and the Pine Clouds Mountain Stream.

The third area is the Doris Duke Center Garden, which features multiple gardens designed for more promotional and commercial purposes.

There is the Virtue Peace Pond, the Angle Amphitheater, the Woodland Garden, and the sustainable, organic Charlotte Brody Discovery garden.

The final area is simply called the Historic Gardens, which is where the replacement Sarah P. Duke Gardens first began life once more.

They are home to the Terrace Gardens created in her honor, as well as the Frances P. Rollins Overlook, Walker Dillard Kirby Perennial Allée, Memorial Garden, Fish Pond, Camellia Garden, Azalea Court, Rose Garden, Roney Fountain, and Butterfly Garden.

Address: 420 Anderson St, Durham, NC 27708, United States

22. Cryptozoology & Paranormal Museum

Cryptozoology & Paranormal Museum

If you’re looking for more unique and bizarre places to visit in North Carolina, look no further than the Cryptozoology & Paranormal Museum .

It’s no surprise to any resident of North Carolina that spooky, paranormal sightings often happen in rural areas, making this museum in Littleton an obvious addition to the mystique surrounding Bigfoot and other cryptids of the woods.

The Cryptozoology & Paranormal Museum is run by Stephen Barcelo, a local cryptozoologist.

He keeps it well-stocked and collects all sorts of artifacts from his personal research and investigations.

This includes the haunted doll Mrs. Beasley, casts of prints that are allegedly of Bigfoot, testimonials, and photographs of UFO sightings, and even a dedicated fakes section that covers confirmed hoaxes like the Feejee mermaid.

Barcelo also gives ghost tours of the sleepy town of Littleton and shows guests how to use the museum’s special ghost-hunting equipment.

The museum also teaches you about the history of Littleton.

Most interestingly, since it was founded in the year 2015, more sightings have been reported.

This may be due to the ease of reporting to a dedicated institution like the Cryptozoology & Paranormal Museum, but it’s also rumored that this is due to the logging activities of the forest that may be causing the anger of some cryptids.

Address: 328 Mosby Ave, Littleton, NC 27850, United States

Will you be visiting Charlotte or Cherokee? If you’re planning a trip, don’t forget to check out some cool things to do in Charlotte, NC , and some top things to do in Cherokee, NC ! 

23. North Carolina Maritime Museum

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Like the state’s aquarium, the North Carolina Maritime Museum has three separate locations in opportune vacation spots.

All of them share the mission of the preservation and protection of the state’s coral reefs and history while providing education and information to guests.

Each location is unique and, with no admission fee, are great options for free things to do.

One museum is located in Hatteras and covers the history of the area’s shipwrecks and finds.

Another is in Southport and primarily focuses on the history of Lower Cape Fear’s maritime lifespan.

However, if you only can take one option of where to visit, you should definitely opt for the Beaufort branch of the museum!

The Maritime Museum’s Beaufort portion has an interesting collection of genuine structures and artifacts.

Among them are those found of the infamous Queen Anne’s Revenge, the ship of Blackbeard himself.

It ran aground in 1718 and was recovered in 1996, almost three centuries later.

Among them are weapons, everyday objects, and navigational tools.

The Beaufort location also discusses subjects such as marine life, lighthouses, and even boat-building.

It boasts curiosities and items such as fish models, small watercraft, a collection of shells, a sperm whale skeleton, and a preserved sperm whale heart.

Address: 315 Front St, Beaufort, NC 28516, United States

24. Southern Highland Craft Guild Folk Art Center

Southern Highland Craft Guild Folk Art Center

The Southern Highland Craft Guild Folk Art Center is the home for – you guessed it – the Southern Highland Craft Guild, which has 900 carefully chosen members who have displayed impeccable artistic skill.

At the center, their work is showcased, with a focus on contemporary and traditional Southern Appalachian art.

The Southern Highland Craft Guild was created during the Great Depression in 1930 in order to build a market for craftspeople in North Carolina and the rest of the Appalachian area.

Its actual roots, though, can be traced back to the late 1800s, when the Arts and Crafts aesthetic movement sprung into being in contrast to England’s Industrial Revolution.

The Southern Highland Craft Guild Folk Art Center sits on Blue Ridge Parkway, at milepost 382.

It has three galleries, a bookshop, and a library and is one of the free things to do in NC.

You’ll get to see quilts, pottery, woodwork, sculptures, glass crafts, paintings, jewelry, and more, and if you’re lucky, fun craft demonstrations rooted in culture and showcasing almost-forgotten methods may be put on.

Address: 382 Blue Ridge Pkwy, Asheville, NC 28805, United States

25. Discovery Place Science

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Looking for more fun things to do in North Carolina?

Check out one of the best: Discovery Place Science , located in Charlotte , North Carolina.

It is a non-profit organization that plays a crucial role in the region’s Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math education.

Discovery Center was first set up in 1981, but its story can be traced back much further than that.

In 1946, Laura Owens, a schoolteacher, was receiving specimens, objects, and even live animals from parents, colleagues, members of the community, and friends.

She wanted to provide her students with a hands-on, interactive experience where they could learn about these items.

She decided to set up a little museum as an experiment for this concept, and it was so immediately loved that the community and county pooled together to create the Children’s Nature Center in 1951.

The community loved the brand new museum, and by 1965, it had grown to develop its own planetarium.

Five years later, it has become the town’s most loved attraction, causing even further development as the world’s interest in STEM fields grew following the Sputnik era of the Soviet Union.

The museum was expanded and relocated, and it is that museum that you see now as Discovery Place Science.

Within the 72,000 square feet of the delightful museum, you’ll find many experiments, interactive exhibits, live animal displays, a butterfly pavilion, and even an IMAX Dome Theater.

There are also three other branches of the museum around the country, which are just as worth a visit when you’re near them!

Address: 301 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States

26. JC Raulston Arboretum

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The JC Raulston Arboretum covers 10 acres of space and is home to a huge range of plants not limited to those local to North Carolina.

Diverse flora from climates and regions of all kinds are held here, with the goal of evaluating and researching all 5,000-plus of them while providing a chance for visitors to see them, too.

It’s one of the top things to see for any nature-lover.

The JC Raulston Arboretum is situated in Raleigh as part of NC State University and is one of the state’s free things to do.

Its history is interesting, beginning with the arrival of JC Raulston as a teacher at the university’s Department of Horticultural Science in 1975.

He began an arboretum as a means of providing the school with a living laboratory, the public with green space, and green industry professionals with resources.

The JC Raulston Arboretum has continued to grow and improve over the years.

Trees, berries, and all manner of plants are studied here, especially those that can adapt well to the state’s condition.

The Rose Garden, Butterfly Garden, and Japanese Garden are favorites of visitors, though the entire landscape is glorious to explore and go sightseeing in regardless!

Address: 4415 Beryl Rd, Raleigh, NC 27606, United States

27. North Carolina Museum of History

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The North Carolina Museum of History is a fantastic option for what to see if you’re looking to learn more about the state and its history in a fun and engaging way.

Situated in downtown Raleigh, the museum contains over a whopping 150,000 different displayed artifacts, collected across six centuries of time with many different functions and purposes.

The state’s Museum of History is packed with different individual historical collections that are just waiting to be viewed.

Given the 14,000 years of people living in this state, it’s no surprise that this museum is so expansive!

Address: 5 E Edenton St, Raleigh, NC 27601, United States

28. Pullen Park

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Pullen Park was North Carolina’s first-ever public park, which makes it one of the best places of interest if you need a relaxing, laidback break this weekend but want to keep soaking in the state’s history.

It’s also America’s fifth oldest amusement park that remains in operation, and when you set foot in it, you’ll feel transported back in time!

Numerous different activities are available for you to partake in.

A traditional carousel, restored to good working order while preserving its initial charm, can take you on a lovely ride.

A mini train and boats are perfect for a family excursion.

Sports-lovers can use the baseball fields or tennis courts, or they can simply swim in the water.

A famous Holiday Express event transforms the park into a winter wonderland each festive season, too, so mark it down if you’ll be traveling in December!

Address: 520 Ashe Ave, Raleigh, NC 27606, United States

29. International Civil Rights Center and Museum

The International Civil Rights Center and Museum is one of the top things to do in North Carolina.

Its mission lies in raising awareness for and promoting understanding regarding civil rights and the fight for social justice, freedom, and equality across the planet.

Located in Greensboro , it offers a wide range of information about the fight for the rights of African Americans and aims to reach out to people of all cultural backgrounds and races.

One of the key features of the International Civil Rights Center and Museum is a counter that was part of the building’s original purpose.

Back in the day, this was a Woolworth building, and it was the site of the famous 1960 sit-in stages by four Black students of the state’s Agricultural and Technical College.

The sit-in was a response to the existence of segregated lunch counters, and while it wasn’t the first of its kind, it became the catalyst for a five-month protest and an ongoing, forward-moving push for racial justice across the nation.

Address: 134 S Elm St, Greensboro, NC 27401, United States

30. Land of Oz Theme Park

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Few haven’t heard of the famous classic tale of the Wizard of Oz, and in one of the most fun North Carolina attractions, you can live in it!

The Land of Oz Theme Park is located in Beech Mountain, North Carolina, and was first opened as part of the Beech Mountain Ski Resort in 1970, which wanted to continue attracting visitors even in the summer.

Many Wizard of Oz attractions pay homage to the film of 1939, but the Land of Oz Theme Park is different, aiming instead to emulate the original classic book and its illustrations.

Over time, the park evolved to replicate more of the movie, and it would survive a fire, a shutdown, and repairs and refurbishments before it flourished and reopened in the last 1990s with even more of its initial joy and wonder.

Address: 1007 Beech Mountain Pkwy, Beech Mountain, NC 28604, United States

31. Mordecai Historic Park

Mordecai Historic Park is the oldest home you can find in Raleigh, North Carolina, and it’s one of the key places to see if you’re a fan of immersing yourself in history.

The park’s draw is that it is where President Andrew Johnson, the 17th American president, was born, and it’s also a great example of the plantations of its time.

As you explore Mordecai Historic Park, which spans 3.2 acres, and the Mordecai House, you’ll get to get a close-to-authentic experience of the life and times of the late 1700s.

Once upon a time, this was Wake County’s biggest plantation, after all!

Don’t forget to check out the kitchen garden, recreated from its 19th-century description provided by the letters and memories of Ellen Mordecai.

Address: 1 Mimosa St, Raleigh, NC 27604, United States

Looking for more excitement and fun? Why not visit Fayetteville and Greensboro? If you do plan the trip, here’s what to do in Fayetteville, NC , and some of the best things to do in Greensboro, NC ! 

32. Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden

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The Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden is one of the most unique nature-themed places to visit in North Carolina, created by the titular Stanley Rehder, who was a passionate horticulturist.

He was known as the Flytrap Man due to his specific love of carnivorous flora.

In 2012, when he passed away, the city of Wilmington, North Carolina dedicated a small garden to him, naming it the Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden.

The fun garden rose to fame under unfortunate circumstances after $20,000 worth of venus flytraps were stolen from it in 2013.

The thefts, while a horrible blow for the garden, also sent it into the public spotlight.

Guests have since found enjoyment in exploring the little ¾-acre location.

It boasts a unique microclimate that allows the plants to grow all year long, so no matter when you come, you’ll get to check it out.

Address: 3800 Canterbury Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403, United States

33. Wheels Through Time Museum

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The Wheels Through Time Museum is one of North Carolina’s key tourist spots for automobile enthusiasts.

The museum takes up 40,000 square feet of space and is home to what may be the greatest unique and rare vehicle collection on the planet.

Over 350 different cars and motorbikes call the Wheels Through Time Museum their home, arranged neatly in vague chronological order for easy perusal.

Memorabilia, artwork, and artifacts related to these automobiles are also on display.

Rare and renowned cars include the 1915 Locomobile, the 1949 Veritas, and the 1932 Packard and Lincoln.

Address: 62 Vintage Ln, Maggie Valley, NC 28751, United States

34. Carolinas Aviation Museum

Sonder Quest / Shutterstock

The Carolinas Aviation Museum is one of the country’s coolest tourist attractions for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

It is home to many different aircraft and artifacts and aims to preserve the history of aviation in an informational and interesting way.

Among the attractions of the Carolinas Aviation Museum are the many tales of heroism, innovation, and positivity throughout the long history of flight, an onsite library with decades upon decades of information, and the famous Miracle on the Hudson showcase that won an award for its depiction of the famous safely landed passenger jet of 2009.

Currently, the Carolinas Aviation Museum is under renovation, pending a grand re-opening in the year 2022 after 26 years of operation.

So if your trip to North Carolina will come after that re-opening, make sure to check it out!

With 50,000 annual visitors, you can’t go wrong!

Address: 4672 1st Flight Dr, Charlotte, NC 28208, United States

35. Shangri-La Stone Village

bobistraveling / flickr

The Shangri-La Stone Village of North Carolina was a hobbyist’s passion project.

Henry L. Warren began working on the structures of stone, concrete, and arrowheads in 1968 after his retirement.

The tiny village is sized just right for little fantasy gnomes and consisted of 27 finished buildings when Warren was laid to rest in 1977.

Since then, the buildings have remained standing proud, weather storm and snow thanks to the strength of their stone.

Thousands of arrowheads make up a winding path through them, and it’s easily one of the most fun things to do in North Carolina to make your way through them as you peer at the tiny houses!

Address: 11535 NC-86, Prospect Hill, NC 27314, United States

36. The Road To Nowhere

Kim McGrew / Shutterstock

The tallest dam in the east of America is the Fontana Dam, and it is here that the story of the Road To Nowhere begins.

It took a long time to build the dam above western North Carolina’s Little Tennessee River, which began construction in 1941.

The road in question was built as a “compromise” for the little towns and communities that were washed out by the construction of the dam, allowing them to travel out and continue to visit their ancestral homes if desired.

Thirty years after that compromise agreement was made, very little progress had been made on the road, and by that time most of the area was washed out.

After some environmental concerns were raised due to the acidity of the road, construction ceased, leaving this unfinished Road to Nowhere that lies in wait now.

The melancholy road that doesn’t lead anywhere is a strange entry among things to see in North Carolina, but one can’t deny its intrigue as a hidden gem of the state’s tourist attractions.

Address: Lakeview Drive East, Bryson City, NC 28713, United States

37. Moores Creek National Battlefield

Moores Creek National Battlefield holds the honor of being the location of one of the Revolutionary War’s first battles, simply called the Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge.

It’s also where the Patriots won their first significant victory right here in North Carolina.

The Moores Creek National Battlefield holds many remnants of that 1776 fight, allowing you to learn about the fearsome war that raged via audio-visual technology, exhibits, tours, and occasional special events.

A colonial forest walk, a free campsite, and a picnic area add more variety to the experience.

If you’re wondering what to do in North Carolina, this is a great choice.

Address: 40 Patriots Hall Dr, Currie, NC 28435, United States

38. Whirligig Park

PT Hamilton / Shutterstock

Whirligig Park is a point of interest due to a mix of urban legend and fun, bizarre appearance.

Legend has it that the daughter of Vollis Simpson died in a car crash near here, leading to Simpson’s desire to create windmills covered in reflectors to prevent a similar accident.

In reality, though, this is entirely false – Simpson’s creations are entirely meant to be enjoyable art and his daughter is healthy and alive!

As a matter of fact, Whirligig Park is as silly as it sounds and as amazingly artistic as that, too.

The creations of massive windmills coasted in bright reflectors were merely for the heck of it, and Simpson calls them “whirligigs” – hence the park’s name.

They measure a minimum of fifty feet off the ground of their home field and, despite Simpson’s insistence that he’s far from an artist, the park has struck a chord with visitors to North Carolina!

Address: 301 Goldsboro St S, Wilson, NC 27893, United States

39. Elijah Mountain Gem Mine

Elijah Mountain Gem Mine

Elijah Mountain Gem Mine is the premier point of interest for mining in North Carolina, allowing you to mine for your own gold and gemstones – just like many of the settlers that gathered in the Blue Ridge Mountains over the years!

Sapphires, quartz, fossils, rubies, amethyst, emeralds, citrine, moonstone, and many more are waiting to be unearthed.

Flumes are present indoors and outdoors and a range of choices of mining packages are available.

But there’s more to do at Elijah Mountain Gem Mine than just mine, believe it or not.

There’s also the biggest gem mine bucket in the world, a shop that sells rocks and geodes, picnic tables, and, of all things, a petting zoo for baby goats!

The entire experience is one of the best things to do in North Carolina, especially if you’re visiting with children.

Address: 2120 Brevard Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28791, United States

Planning to visit Raleigh or Wilmington? If you do plan the trip, here’s what to do in Raleigh, NC , and some of the top things to do in Wilmington, NC !

40. Lexington Glassworks

Anthony / flickr

If you’re looking for more unorthodox North Carolina attractions, consider going for an experience instead of a specific attraction.

Lexington Glassworks , owned by a pair of friends and operated in North Carolina, is a well-known studio for glassblowing.

This interesting space allows you to watch glassblowers at work.

Demonstrations, each one lasting around half an hour, provide an open-door, insider’s glimpse into the world of this skill.

After you’ve satisfied your curiosity, you can view a gallery of glassworks and purchase handcrafted and self-designed pieces.

Address: 81 S Lexington Ave, Asheville, NC 28801, United States

41. Cloud Chamber for the Trees and Sky

Jeff Myers / flickr

The Cloud Chamber for the Trees and Sky is one of the coolest places to go in all of North Carolina.

Somewhat resembling a fantasy home straight out of Tolkien’s works, it’s a little short and stout hut designed by Chris Drury.

The hut is situated in the North Carolina Museum of Art and is designed to house a camera obscura.

A camera obscura is an optical illusion dating back to medieval times, where a small hole provides illumination on the indoor walls that projects a mirror image of the world outside.

The result is an indoor space that bears the image of the outside sky, clouds, and trees, which is why it is named the Cloud Chamber for the Trees and Sky.

This fun and fascinating effect is a unique feature in the 21st century and well worth a visit.

Address: 2110 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh, NC 27607, United States

42. William B. Umstead State Park

Zhong Chen / Shutterstock

William B. Umstead State Park stretches across 5,579 acres of land right between multiple cities in North Carolina, namely Durham, Cary, and Raleigh.

Nature lovers will certainly consider it one of the must-do places to visit in North Carolina thanks to its many wooded paths and trails and beautiful lakes.

There are lots of ways you can spend time at William B. Umstead State Park.

Hiking, cycling, walking, running, and even canoeing or paddle boating can be done.

Once a hidden gem of sorts, it has progressively become more and more popular over the years and lost some of that silent charm.

Still, it’s a fantastic spot for some relaxation this weekend!

Address: 8801 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27617, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To North Carolina

North Carolina’s rich history, heritage, and culture provide it with diverse vacation spots, many of which are relatively near to each other for a compact trip this weekend.

Regardless of the length of your stay, hopefully, this list has helped you narrow down the places to visit in North Carolina!

Happy travels.

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Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

20 Best Things To Do In North Carolina: The Ultimate NC Bucket List

August 6, 2022 //  by  Southern Trippers

If you are looking for the best things to do in North Carolina, you will not be disappointed! This gorgeous Southern state has something for every type of traveler.

Whether it’s hiking the pretty trails through the Blue Ridge Mountains or visiting impressive museums in the heart of the city, there is an activity for everyone. North Carolina attractions offer an abundance of breathtaking sites and action-packed adventures that will have vacationers making multiple trips to visit the South ! 

North Carolina’s expansive topography, including mountains and beaches, as well as its long history, makes it a perfect location for any personality type and desired vacation experience. Still not sure exactly what places to go in North Carolina are for you? 

This list will provide some fun things to do in cities all across North Carolina. There are so many fun activities to do in North Carolina and experiencing it all will require a second trip in the future!

20 Best Things To Do In North Carolina: The Ultimate NC Bucket List

Go white water rafting.

One of the best things to do in North Carolina is to visit the U.S. National Whitewater Center in Charlotte . The White Water Center was created in 2001 and is considered the world’s largest man-made white water river. Get ready for an adrenaline rush!

The community-orientated and environmentally conscious center’s mission is to “ build stronger communities by promoting a healthy and active lifestyle, developing environmental stewardship, and encouraging family and civic interaction.”

The facility sits on an extensive 1,300 acres of land. There is kayaking (both flatwater and whitewater), paddle boarding, and whitewater rafting available.

In addition to the daily activities, the center also hosts international festivals such as the famous Green River Festival. Enjoy some Irish breakfast, yoga, the greening of the river, and live music at this iconic festival.

Tour the Biltmore Estate

The Biltmore Estate was the immaculate home of George and Edith Vanderbilt. The estate was built over a six-year period and finally opened to the family in 1995. Visiting the Biltmore is truly one of the best things to do in Asheville, North Carolina .

This 250-room French Renaissance chateau contains 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, and 65 fireplaces. The estate was officially opened to the public in 1930 and continues to be a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike. There are many things you can do at the Biltmore Estate . The bass pond and garden trails are also a must-visit.

Another fun activity to do at Biltmore is to explore the Biltmore Winery , known as one of the nation’s most-visited wineries. If you visit during the holiday season, you must attend the Christmas at the Biltmore event.

Learn at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

When it comes to free things to do in North Carolina, visiting the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is definitely a must-visit. Raleigh, NC , is best known for its spectacular museums.

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, is the largest institution of its kind in the Southeastern United States. It’s also one of Raleigh’s most popular attractions.

The impressive 300,000 square-foot site hosts over a million visitors a year. There are an expansive four floors of exhibits, live animals, gift shops, and cafés.

The museum has curriculum-focused classes onsite, offsite, outdoors, and online for pre-kindergarten through graduate students across the state. In addition to classes, the museum also contains laboratories, exhibitions, and wildlife and geology from the Appalachian Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean.

Fall in Love With Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is divided almost in half between North Carolina and Tennessee . Come see why this is the most visited national park in the U.S. and one of the best places to visit in North Carolina!

With 800 square miles to explore, there is so much to see in this gorgeous forested landscape. Hiking trails will lead you to beautiful waterfalls and allow you to enjoy the diverse plants and animals found in the park. Keep an eye out for black bears!

The Smoky Mountains are also one of the best locations to view fall foliage in North Carolina . You can take a scenic drive and be amazed by the colors.

Other things to do in this park include fishing, camping, horseback riding, and seeing historic buildings.

Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway

You can’t visit North Carolina and not drive the Blue Ridge Parkway . This is one of the most scenic driving routes in the South , connecting Northern Virginia to Southwestern North Carolina for 469 miles.

While this North Carolina road trip is especially popular in the fall , it is amazing any time of the year. You will enjoy the sweeping views from the overlooks and traversing the iconic Linn Cove Viaduct.

There are many stops to make along the Parkway including waterfall hikes , museums, and historic sites . The road also goes by many cute, mountain towns with their own unique attractions in North Carolina. Some of those towns include Little Switzerland , Blowing Rock, Boone , and Bryson City.

You could easily spend a day or a week exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway .

Swim at Wrightsville Beach

Known for its crystal blue waters, spacious beach, and active island lifestyle,  Wrightsville Beach  is a full town. But it perhaps is the most famous for having one of the bes t beaches in the state . As one of the best things to do in North Carolina, this historic town is worth a visit.

Don’t forget to check out the best restaurants in Wilmington while you are nearby!

Wrightsville Beach in Wilmington, NC , is 10 miles east of the Historic District. The water of this beach is considerably warm and the water’s almost transparent color is especially admired. Visiting the beaches is one of the best North Carolina activities for the whole family.

There are plenty of options for the family including plenty of world-class watersports like surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking. The area has amazing taverns and oceanfront grills as well as full-service resort hotels, perfect for a weekend getaway in North Carolina .

Hike in Grandfather Mountain State Park

Grandfather Mountain State Park has incredible peaks topping out at 1,946 feet. It is part of the United Nations Southern Appalachian Man and the Biosphere Reserve. Interestingly, it may be over 300 million years old.

You will be charged a small fee to enter, but sales from tickets and souvenirs go towards preserving Grandfather Mountain. You can drive your own vehicles through the park and stop along the way to enjoy native wildlife exhibits and the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge that connects two peaks one mile above sea level!

There are two trailheads you can take. The Profile Trail takes you on the western slope of the mountain while the Daniel Boone Scout Trail takes you down the eastern slope of the Blue Ridge Parkway. The trails are free, but you’re required to register at the trailhead so park rangers know how many people are out there.

Hiking Grandfather Mountain is one of the best things to do in North Carolina for nature lovers. It is also found close to the cute, small town of Blowing Rock .

Stroll the Cape Fear Botanical Garden

The Cape Fear Botanical Garden in Fayetteville was created by gardeners and community members that leased 80 acres together to create a garden in 1989. You won’t find a more beautiful place to stroll through nature.

The garden is famous for its therapeutic horticulture program. Participants learn how to make raised garden beds and garden art, grow plants, and prepare food. The food produced from this program goes to a local food bank. Not only does this help the environment, but it also helps the community!

The lovely surrounding forestry is a mix of pine and hardwood forests. The Cape Fear Botanical Garden also boasts a 1.2-mile loop trail that is ideal for those who want to visit the garden but don’t want to go on a strenuous hike.

This garden is one of the best things to do in North Carolina for adults looking for a place to relax away from their kids.

While you are in town, make sure to check out some of the best restaurants in Fayetteville!

Visit the International Civil Rights Center & Museum

The Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s was an integral part of the push for racial equality in the United States. Visiting the International Civil Rights Center & Museum in Greensboro, NC , provides an immersive and educational experience of this important time period.

The museum’s biggest focus is on its permanent installation of the F.W. Woolworth’s lunch counter. On February 1, 1950, four North Carolina A&T State University Black students, Ezell A. Blair, Jr. (now Jibreel Khazan), Franklin E. McCain, Joseph A. McNeil, and David L. Richmond, sat down at the F.W. Woolworth’s “whites only” lunch counter. The challenging of segregation laws on that day launched the large youth-led sit-in movements of the 1960s.

The museum has a large array of activities to offer including “The Battlegrounds” educational exhibits, a photography collection, video reenactments, galleries, auditoriums, classrooms, an archival center, a collecting museum, and teaching facilities devoted to the international struggle for civil and human rights.

Relax at Kitty Hawk Beach

Kitty Hawk Beach was originally named “Chickahawk” by its original Native American residents, meaning a “place to hunt geese.” One of the best things to do in North Carolina, Kitty Hawk offers a beautiful beach coastline AND a large charming forest!

Kitty Hawk Beach is known to have some of the largest waves of the northern beaches in the United States, making it a surfer’s paradise. It’s also a fantastic location to go skimboarding. Better yet, dogs are permitted year-round at Kitty Hawk so you don’t have to leave your best friend at home!

Take the time to traverse through the over 1,800 acres of jaw-dropping forests and marshes. The maritime forest features nature trails where you can see all the geese to which the Native Americans referred. Vacationing at Kitty Hawk Beach is an especially fun thing to do in North Carolina if you love ocean waves and forest groves.

Relaxing at this beach is one of the best things to do in the Outer Banks !

Honor the Fallen at Lejeune Memorial Gardens

While vacations are full of fun and adventure, you should always make some time for solemnity. To thank those that served in our military to ensure the protection of the country we hold so dear, a visit to the Lejeune Memorial Gardens in Jacksonville is in order.

The Lejeune Memorial Gardens honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Here you’ll find a large collection of military memorials that are especially important to the locals of the area. As part of the Lejeune Memorial Gardens Master Plan, the site includes space for future memorials including the Corpsmen Memorial. 

These beautiful memorial gardens house the Beirut Memorial, the Onslow Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Montford Point Marine Memorial, and the 9/11 Memorial Beam from the World Trade Center.

You can also walk the Lejeune Memorial Gardens Greenway and Trail. It connects former railroad tracks into trails to military bases. Installed with reverence to all the memorials on the grounds, the path now connects the community of Jacksonville to the Military community of Camp Lejeune.

See a Show at the Durham Performing Arts Center

Opened in 2008, the Durham Performing Arts Center is considered the hotspot for live entertainment in the Durham area. It boasts 2,700 seats and more than 200 performances a year. This venue offers touring Broadway productions, high-profile concerts, and comedy events.

The Durham Performing Arts Center has hosted the biggest Broadway shows like Cats , Hello Dolly!, Miss Saigon , Fiddler on the Roof , Dear Evan Hansen , Anastasia , Frozen , and of course, the big one: Hamilto n. Other previous and upcoming acts include Styx, Jeff Foxworthy, Tom Segura, and the Indigo Girls.

The building has a large lobby space and great acoustics. What especially stands out to visitors is the energy of the staff that is often in good spirits and really want you to enjoy your show. For music lovers looking for fun things to do in North Carolina at night, check out the upcoming shows at the Durham Performing Arts Center.

Step Back in Time at Historic Old Salem

Named “One of the Top Rising Cities in the South,” Historic Old Salem is one of the best things to do in Winston Salem, NC . What makes this historic site special is its famous long and detailed historical stories archive of people of the area during the colonial period, including Moravian, Black, and Indigenous peoples of the American South.

For the history buff in the family, spending the day in Historic Old Salem will be a treasure trove of excitement. The town itself holds national landmark status and functions as a museum combating food insecurity.

Tour the Old Historic Gardens for 18th and 19th-century Moravian traditions. The Historic Bethabara Garden allows you to dig up more than two centuries of gardening traditions with a stroll through the reconstructed Hortus Medicus, the country’s oldest known medicinal garden!

The historic downtown also contains the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA),  which features metalwork, needlework, paintings, and other decorative arts made & used by the early settlers of the American South.

Don’t forget to check out our list of the best restaurants in Winston-Salem too!

Have Fun at Pullen Park

Raleigh’s Pullen Park was the first public park in North Carolina. It is the 5th oldest operating amusement park in the U.S. and the 16th oldest in the world. Pullen Park has been captivating and entertaining guests since 1887. It is one of the best things to do in North Carolina with kids.

You’ll enjoy Pullen Park for its terrific recreational opportunities for the entire family. You’ll love the operating carousel built in 1911, a miniature train that runs through the park, and pedal boats to cruise Lake Howell. Don’t forget tennis courts, baseball, and softball fields!

You can also enjoy the Aquatic Center which functions as Raleigh’s premier competitive aquatic venue. In an indoor 50-meter by 25-yard Olympic pool, you can participate in water exercise and aquatic therapy programs as well as lap and recreation swimming. There’s also a warm water therapy pool.

If you’re in need of a snack, then don’t worry. In the amusement area near the Welcome Center, the Pullen Place Cafe offers fresh, local, seasonal foods that will crush your cravings flat!

Go Camping at Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

If you love the great outdoors, then one of the best things to do in North Carolina is to head to the Jordan Lake State Recreation Area near Apex. Filled with recreation activities and surrounded by lush nature, this is the best way to get the blood pumping.

The gorgeous Jordan Lake State Recreation Area has nine access areas scattered around the shoreline. Truly massive, its focal point is an undeveloped 14,000-acre reservoir. With so many waters to explore, there are a number of swim beaches and boating ramps, perfect on a hot day.

RV and primitive campers rejoice! In the lush wilderness, you’ll find over 1,000 campsites. Hookups are available as well as group camps so you can get to know your neighbors. There are also over 14 miles of hiking trails to explore ranging from easy to moderate difficulty.

The lake’s ecology is a sight to behold and you can prepare yourself by taking in the visitor center’s exhibit hall. That way you’ll be able to find and identify bald eagles and wild osprey as you walk along the trails.

Soak in Culture at the Ackland Art Museum

Every vacation should include at least one museum, so why not go to one where you can see a breadth of art? At the Ackland Art Museum in Chapel Hill, you’ll see a collection that showcases the depth of human expression.

Over 19,000 works span through styles, cultures, and periods of art with the museum hosting 10-12 changing exhibitions a year. You’ll always see something new here. More than half of the gallery space is dedicated to special and traveling exhibitions.

Each of these shows features a wide stylistic range of art, ranging from contemporary American photography to European master paintings to video installations to modern portraits. A single trip can be an introduction to ancient Greek vases, Delacroix, and Warhol all in one day!

On the premises is also a conservation facility that contributes to the restoration of art. Treatments include the repair of tears, reduction of stains and discolorations, and paper analysis which helps to date works of art.

Get Out on the Water at Lake Lure

Lake Lure is one of the prettiest lakes in North Carolina , and you will quickly agree when you see it nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains . The 720-acre manmade lake is perfect for a romantic getaway or a family vacation.

There is a sandy beach for swimming, playing beach volleyball, and sunbathing. Fishing, boating, picnicking, hiking, and kayaking are popular activities too.

Lake Lure is the name of the small town here as well. This is where you can enjoy local shops and restaurants. Take a lovely stroll on the gorgeous Lake Lure Flowering Bridge.

Lake Lure has been the filming location for a few movies, the most iconic of which is the 1987 classic Dirty Dancing . Each September, the town hosts the Dirty Dancing Festival which includes live music, performances, dance lessons, and more! This is definitely one of the cool things to do in North Carolina for movie buffs!

This is truly one of the best Mountain Towns In North Carolina!

Enjoy Outdoor Recreation at Crowders Mountain State Park

Crowders Mountain is truly a sight to behold. The mountain sits at a staggering elevation of 1,625 feet above sea level. But that’s not all this state park has to offer.

If you’re a fan of hiking, there are plenty of trails here ranging from short to long. You can start on the 2.5-mile Carolina Threat Trail or the 10.5-mile Ridgeline Trail.

Need more extreme? No problem. Take on the challenge of Crowders Mountain itself if you’re an experienced climber. Pitons, bolts, or devices that may damage cliff faces are not permitted. You can also go bouldering and free-climbing. Keep in mind that these activities are only allowed in specific areas with permits given at the park office.

If you just want to relax and enjoy nature, then head to the Linwood Access Area or the Boulders Access Area. Pack a picnic lunch and sit at one of the nine large tables to just enjoy your surroundings. Drinking water and restrooms are located nearby.

If you visit North Carolina in winter, you’ll find that the mountains are good for more than hiking. Skiing is a popular winter pastime and there are many great ski resorts for beginners and experts.

Appalachian Ski Mountain near Boone is one of the most popular places for skiing in the state. Beginners can ease in with classes and the bunny slope. Anyone looking for a challenge can attempt the black diamond slopes.

Along with skiing, snowboarding and ice skating are options. You can rent any of the equipment you need. If you are looking for a cool experience, try the Midnight Blast night skiing.

After hitting the slopes, retire to the lodge where you can relax in front of the fireplace, dine at the restaurant, or view the slopes from a big observation deck.

Discover Linville Falls

There are so many waterfalls in North Carolina and Linville Falls is one of the best. Located off the Blue Ridge Parkway and at the bottom of Linville Gorge, this 90-foot waterfall is a sight to behold.

The trail system here is great, providing many viewpoints of the falls. If you want an easier hike, set out on the 1.6-mile roundtrip Erwins View Trail. If you are okay with a more strenuous hike, take the Linville Gorge Trail down to the river’s edge. This trail is 1.4 miles round trip.

Swimming is not allowed, but you will have fun admiring the power of nature and taking pictures. Linville Falls is one of the best free things to do in North Carolina since there is no fee to enjoy this natural wonder.

The Linville Gorge is known as the Grand Canyon of the East and has many other attractions including overlooks and waterfalls. It is also one of the best places for camping in North Carolina. It is a great day trip from Asheville too.

North Carolina has an abundance of fun and exciting things to do in almost every city in the state. When considering what to do in North Carolina, it’s difficult to choose. Make sure you allow enough time for your trip to see everything.

Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a passionate history lover, you’ll find the best activities in North Carolina for everyone. We wish you happy trails, wherever your adventure may take you!

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50 Things to Do in Asheville, NC

By del holston.

If you’re looking for things to do in Asheville, then consider this list your primer to the many activities available in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, or perhaps well acquainted with the flair of this Southern Appalachian getaway, here are 50 ideas to help you see, do, and explore the best Asheville has to offer.

Ver la versión en español aquí >>

Visit downtown asheville.

1. You feel it the moment you stroll through Asheville’s vibrant city center – it’s an unmistakable mountain vibe that has beckoned visitors to this region time and again. Lining the streets of this walkable neighborhood you'll find a wide array of independent shops, craft breweries, and some of the best dining options in the southeast.

2 . Take in Asheville's freshest talent with the many lively street performances from talented  buskers .

3 . Go shopping for cool indie wares, wearable art, local designs, and vintage styles at one of many chic boutiques.

5 . Peruse Asheville's legendary  independent bookstores like Malaprops , or sip champagne with your pooch outside at the Battery Park Book Exchange .

6 . Find that perfect piece of art or handmade craft available for sale at downtown art galleries , craft fairs, or the open-air market at  Grove Arcade .

7 . Climb to the top of Asheville's tallest buildings and enjoy the view from above at one of the many rooftop hangouts. See our guide to 13 of Asheville's best rooftop bars ! 

8 . Is that drumming you hear? Follow the rhythm to the downtown drum circle , a long-standing Friday night tradition.

9 . Explore Asheville's darker side with a nighttime  Haunted Ashevill e tour, or solve the clues the break out of an escape room at  Breakout Asheville , Fox-n-Otter , or A-Escape .

Visit the Biltmore Estate

10. An enduring legacy of America’s gilded age, take a tour of George W. Vanderbilt’s winter chateaux , or better yet, upgrade to a special behind-the-scenes or rooftop tour . Head outside to explore the century-old gardens, go horseback riding , or biking across the many trails. The Biltmore Winery  offers free tastings; however if you’re a fan of bubbly, then upgrade to a paid tasting (it’s worth it). There’s also great dining, shopping, and family activities available at Antler Hill Village .

11 . Visit Biltmore Village , located outside the entrance of Biltmore Estate. This former neighborhood for estate workers is now filled with great shopping, amazing arts and craft galleries, and delicious restaurants.

Experience the Great Outdoors

12. The breathtaking beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains has lured travelers to this region for over a century, and no trip to Asheville would be complete without exploring some of America’s most cherished national forests, like Pisgah and Nantahala .

13 . Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway . Dubbed “America’s favorite drive,” this 469-mile scenic road passes right through Asheville and serves as your gateway to outdoor adventure.

15 . Bike the Blue Ridge ! Road or trails, there are plenty of way to challenge yourself with a bike ride in the mountains.

16 . Asheville is home to hundreds of native and migratory species of birds. Grab your binoculars and practice your birding skills . Bonus points if you see a peregrine falcon!

17 . Venturing outdoors is like taking a mountain safari. Native wildlife includes everything from foraging bears to herds of elk. Be sure to appreciate from a distance.

18 . Go waterfall hunting . There are hundreds of beautiful waterfalls scattered throughout the region, and many are easy to access within a short walk from the car. Dip your toes into the cool waters at the base or on a really hot day go for a swim. Just mind the slippery rocks, and never wade into the water from the top.

19 . Stand atop the highest peaks east of the Mississippi. Mt. Mitchell is king of the Blue Ridge, standing at over 6,000 feet in elevation.

20 . Take a pit stop at the Folk Art Center , located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, it’s filled with the crème de la crème of regional handmade crafts.

21 . Visit a state park. Go deep into the heart of Western North Carolina, where you’ll find numerous state parks to explore such as Chimney Rock Park , DuPont , and Gorges .

22 . Catch a mountain trout or small mouth bass by taking part in a guided fly-fishing expedition. Already a pro?  Local outfitters are a great resource to find the secret spots teeming with fish.

23 . Go golfing at some of the most beautiful and challenging courses in the country.

24 . Splash around on an exhilarating ride down the area’s best whitewater rapids, or slide down an all-natural 60-foot waterslide .

25 . If you want to keep your outdoor adventures closer to Asheville, then try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding (SUP),   tubing , or boating down the French Broad River.

26 . Practice your Tarzan yell as you zip line hundreds of feet above the forest canopy.

27 . Explore the nature trails at the North Carolina Arboretum and the A sheville Botanical Garden , both of which are home to numerous indigenous species of mountain flora.

Welcome to Foodtopia!

28. Asheville’s buzz-worthy food scene is packed with amazing places to eat. Our culinary mecca serves as a magnet for innovative chefs and food artisans, most of whom source their ingredients from the hundreds of farms surrounding the city. With so many delectable options, the hardest decision you’ll have to make is where to dine.

29 . Get a little taste of everything by signing up for a food tour . You’ll be able to sample cuisine from numerous restaurants in an afternoon.

30 . Learn how to find your own food with a guided foraging expedition through the mountains.

31 .  Visit local farms to buy the freshest meats, veggies, and cheese available in the mountains. This is a perfect way to take a little Foodtopia back home.

32 . Nosh on award-winning cheeses by visiting the multiple creameries along the WNC Cheese Trail .

33 . Stock up on fresh local ingredients by shopping at one of the multiple farmers markets around town, or simply stop in for a bite to eat from one of the many vendors.

34 . Sip the mountain’s finest nectar while visiting urban and rural wineries , go for a free tasting at Biltmore, the most visited winery in America, or embark on a walking or driving wine tour with Blue Ridge Wine Tours .

Experience Mountain Culture

35.  Asheville has been home to some of the world’s greatest artists , writers, musicians, and architects. They left an enduring mark on this town and many of their legacies are still present as you walk through town. Get a closer look into Asheville's rich heritage, and tap into the bohemian spirit, which still influences Asheville today.

36 . See amazing performances at Asheville's numerous theater companies, including the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts , which hosts some of the best in local and national productions, NC Stage , Asheville Community Theatre , Magnetic Theatre , and in the warmer months, take in a free outdoor Shakespeare production performed by the Montford Park Players .

37 . Take a guided history tour with Asheville by Foot  to learn more about Asheville’s incredible array of Art Deco buildings including the Basilica of St. Lawrence , which boasts the largest free-standing dome in North America.

38 . Visit the childhood home of literary legend Thomas Wolfe , which he immortalized in his autobiographical novel, Look Homeward Angel .

Visit the River Arts District

39.  Along the riverbank of the French Broad, spend an afternoon strolling through former industrial warehouses now filled with hundreds of working artist studios . Watch a live demo, peruse numerous galleries to find that perfectly handcrafted piece of art for your collection, or get hands-on with one of the many immersive programs available. You'll also find this neighborhood is home to some of Asheville's most popular restaurants and breweries, perfect for a pit stop in between galleries.

40 . Asheville is home to some classic, and in some cases, quirky museums . Check out the fine art exhibits at the Asheville Art Museum , find vintage games at the Pinball Museum  (yes, you can play!), or for a real throwback Thursday, visit the Estes-Winn Antique Car Museum . 

Listen to Live Music

41.  Hailed as one of America’s “Greatest Music Cities,” Asheville’s live music scene is beginning to garner national attention. Intimate music halls, unassuming neighborhood bars, and even the streets of downtown play host to some of the best in local and national touring musicians. You’ll find the sound is steeped in old-time mountain music, but it’s the full spectrum of innovative musicians who truly define Asheville’s sound.

42 . Immerse yourself in one of Asheville's many music festivals taking place throughout the year. Downtown After 5 , AVLFest , the LEAF festival , and Asheville Beer Week  are among the most popular. You can also tap your toe at a free Shindig on the Green concert, or make plans to attend the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival , the nation’s longest-running festival of its kind.

43 . Catch the classics as performed by the  Asheville Symphony Orchestra . Each season they perform a blend of timeless compositions along with more contemporary arrangements.

45 . Tour the  Moog Music Factory   and visit the new Moogseum ! Bob Moog was a pioneer of electronic music and a resident of Asheville. He gave the world its first synthesizer, an innovation that is still hand-crafted in downtown Asheville to this day. Watch these incredible instruments being made and take one home for yourself.

Visit the Omni Grove Park Inn

47. Let the stress of the day-to-day melt away in the hot tubs of Shoji spa , feel the healing properties of a  salt cave , or get pampered at one of the many day spas located throughout town.

Experience the Asheville Beer Scene

48.  Asheville is a special place for craft-brew enthusiasts . The secret ingredient is the mountain-filtered water, making for some of the most sought-after ales, stouts, and sour beers in the southeast. With more breweries per capita than any other city, you’ll have plenty of options to consider.

49.  Explore the beer scene by foot or on wheels. Many breweries are within walking distance from each other around downtown, but the Brews Cruise will deliver you to the more remote breweries. Plus they can get you a behind-the-scenes peek at the operations. You can also pedal for beer on a people-fueled pub-cycle   or explore the bustling craft beer scene with City Brew Tours . Take a behind the scenes look at local craft breweries while sipping your way through Asheville's extensive beer scene. Join the original tour and enjoy a perfectly curated beer and meal pairing. Before you head home, stock up on local flavors at our specialty beers shops. 

50. Want more ideas? Stop by the Asheville Visitor Center when you get to town, and the knowledgeable staff can provide further recommendations.

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Hidden Gems: 10 Stunning Towns In North Carolina You Must See

Published: August 28, 2024

by Marysa Schiff

North Carolina boasts some of the most charming small towns in the United States. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, there's something for everyone. From the picturesque streets of Beaufort to the artsy vibe of Asheville , each town offers unique experiences. Imagine strolling through Blowing Rock , with its stunning mountain views, or exploring the rich history of New Bern . Don't miss the coastal beauty of Southport or the quaint charm of Hillsborough . These hidden gems provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Ready to discover the best of North Carolina? Let's dive in!

Hidden Gems: 10 Stunning Towns in North Carolina You Must See

North Carolina is a state full of surprises. From the mountains to the coast, it offers a variety of charming towns that often go unnoticed. These hidden gems provide unique experiences, rich history, and breathtaking scenery. Let's uncover some of the most stunning towns in North Carolina you must visit.

Mountain Towns with Majestic Views

The Blue Ridge Mountains and the Great Smoky Mountains are home to some of the most picturesque towns in North Carolina. These places offer stunning vistas, outdoor adventures, and a peaceful retreat from city life.

Blowing Rock

• Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Blowing Rock is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. The town offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and the famous Blowing Rock formation, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Bryson City

• Located near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Bryson City is a haven for nature lovers. The town features the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, whitewater rafting on the Nantahala River, and numerous hiking trails.
• A small town with big charm, Banner Elk is perfect for a mountain getaway. It boasts ski resorts, wineries, and the beautiful Grandfather Mountain, where you can walk across the Mile High Swinging Bridge.

Coastal Towns with Seaside Charm

North Carolina's coastline is dotted with quaint towns that offer sandy beaches, historic sites, and a laid-back atmosphere. These coastal gems are perfect for a relaxing escape.

• As one of the oldest towns in North Carolina, Beaufort is rich in history and maritime culture. Visitors can explore the North Carolina Maritime Museum, take a boat tour to see wild horses on the nearby islands, and stroll along the waterfront.
• Known for its charming streets and historic homes, Southport is a picturesque coastal town. The town's waterfront park offers stunning views of the Cape Fear River, and the nearby Oak Island Lighthouse is a must-see.
• Often called the "South's Prettiest Small Town," Edenton is full of Southern charm. The town features historic homes, a beautiful waterfront, and the 1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse.

Quaint Towns with Rich History

North Carolina's history is deeply rooted in its small towns. These places offer a glimpse into the past with their well-preserved architecture, museums, and historic landmarks.

• Founded in 1710, New Bern is North Carolina's second-oldest town. It is home to Tryon Palace, the state's first permanent capitol, and the birthplace of Pepsi-Cola. The town's historic district is perfect for a leisurely walk.

Hillsborough

• A town with a rich Revolutionary War history, Hillsborough is a must-visit for history buffs. The town features historic sites like the Alexander Dickson House and the Ayr Mount historic site, as well as charming shops and restaurants.
• As North Carolina's oldest town, Bath is steeped in history. Visitors can explore historic homes, the St. Thomas Episcopal Church, and the Bonner House. The town's location on the Pamlico River adds to its scenic beauty.

Hidden Gems with Unique Attractions

Some towns in North Carolina offer unique attractions that set them apart. These hidden gems provide one-of-a-kind experiences that you won't find anywhere else.

• A tiny town with a big name, Little Switzerland offers a unique blend of Swiss charm and Appalachian beauty. The town is located along the Blue Ridge Parkway and features the Switzerland Inn, gemstone mining, and stunning mountain views.

Discover North Carolina's Hidden Gems

North Carolina offers more than just its famous cities. Small towns like Beaufort , Blowing Rock , and Hendersonville provide unique experiences. Each town has its own charm, from the historic streets of New Bern to the scenic beauty of Bryson City . These places offer a mix of history, nature, and culture that you won't find in larger cities. Whether you're exploring the artsy vibe of Carrboro or the coastal beauty of Southport , there's something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to visit these hidden gems. They offer a peaceful escape and a chance to see a different side of North Carolina. Plan your trip and discover what makes these towns special. You'll find that the best experiences often come from the places you least expect.

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• 10 Prettiest Towns to Visit in North Carolina

North Carolina’s prettiest small towns are a delightful blend of historic communities, forested retreats, and tranquil fishing villages. The state’s beauty is rooted in its diverse cultural heritage and well-preserved architecture that invites you to step back in time. From the historic allure of Bath, where tales of settlers and pirates linger, to the rugged, mountainous charm of Banner Elk, these picturesque towns showcase North Carolina's rich history and natural beauty, making them ideal destinations for scenic trips or peaceful overnight escapes.

The small town of Beaufort consistently ranks on almost every list of the best small towns to visit in North Carolina and is best recognized among locals as a historic fishing village. It was one of the locations famous early pirates of the area used as a base, thanks to its strategic location along the Atlantic waters. The beauty of Beaufort extends from its sailboat docks to its boardwalk and verdant streets lined with 18th-century architecture. Visitors to Beaufort can experience the best of both worlds, with a lively community scene and easy access to nearby natural preserves for those seeking adventure. Popular attractions include the Rachel Carson Reserve, Fort Macon State Park, and the beautiful coastal landscapes along Beaufort's sandy shores. The town also offers family-friendly activities and unique opportunities such as diving, parasailing, horseback riding, and more, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and excitement. Top-rated tours for a memorable trip to Beaufort include Shackleford Banks Shelling & Wild Horse Expedition, Beaufort Pirate’s Revenge, and Beaufort Parasail on Front Street.

Blowing Rock

Blowing Rock is one of the most scenic escapes for those looking for a balanced natural and community-centric escape. Named after the unique rock and adventure hiking paths like the Grandfather Mountain Bridge, they attract hikers from all over. The variety of small family-owned businesses that are often disguised as old residential buildings is also a significant part of the community experience in Blowing Rock. Iconic businesses like Take Heart gift shop on Main St and The Village Cafe. A visit to the scenic town of Blowing Rock can be spent staying in the town’s many cabin options or more historic stays like Chetola Resort or the Victorian Inn. Panoramic natural vistas are also a must-see when exploring the town’s beauty, with one of the most notable scenic spots being the Yadkin Valley Overlook.

Bath, renowned for its rich history and museums, is a must-visit small town that exemplifies the beauty of historical significance. As one of the most popular towns in North Carolina, Bath holds the distinction of being the oldest European settlement in the state, founded in 1705. History enthusiasts and those eager to delve into America's early days will find a wealth of experiences in Bath. The town is home to the Palmer-Marsh House, a well-preserved residence filled with artifacts and memorials from the colonial period, and the Bonner House, which dates back to 1830 and offers a glimpse into 19th-century life. Visitors can further immerse themselves in Bath's history by taking a self-guided tour through its historic downtown, which features notable stops like North Carolina’s first port, the state’s first library, and St. Thomas Episcopal Church, one of the earliest-built structures in the area, dating back to 1734. Whether exploring the town’s roots or enjoying its charming ambiance, Bath provides a deeply enriching historical experience enhanced by its serene waterfront setting.

New Bern stands out as one of North Carolina's culturally diverse small towns, celebrated for its preservation of the values, architectural designs, and culture of its early settlers. First discovered by Swiss and German explorers, New Bern also boasts a rich history serving as the state capital from 1770 to 1792. The town is home to well-preserved homes and government buildings, including Tryon Palace, which served as North Carolina’s first Capitol, and the castle-like Blades House, each reflecting the beauty and diverse European influence that shapes this historic town. Adding to New Bern's beauty is a collection of over 50 bear statues that dot the town, making for an exciting self-guided exploration of the town. A visit to New Bern is particularly heartwarming due to its blend of natural beauty and community charm, enhanced by small businesses, statues, and floral decor that dot the town's central streets during warmer seasons.

The beauty of Southport is in its experiential element, adorned with Victorian homes, historic attractions, and a peaceful waterfront setting. Nicknamed "The Happiest Seaside Town," Southport’s charm is known worldwide, having been the filming location for several Hollywood movies, including scenes from the romantic film Safe Haven and the 1986 drama Crimes of the Heart. Southport is a charming coastal town known for its historic waterfront and picturesque streets. The town’s idyllic setting at the mouth of the Cape Fear River provides stunning views of the water, making it the perfect overnight, scenic, romantic escape enhanced with a vibrant culinary scene. Some of the most popular dining spots in town include Oliver's on the Cape Fear, Edgewater 122, and Eric's Grille near Smithville District Park. For a well-rounded experience in Southport, visitors can stay in some of the town’s oldest iconic stays like Captain Newton's Inn and LaPolena Bed & Breakfast.

Edenton is one of the prettiest towns, offering a peaceful, natural escape from bustling cities and crowds. This charming small town draws adventurers with its abundance of water recreation and outdoor activities, including camping, picnicking, and more. Visitors can explore picturesque spots like the 18th-century Barker House, take a leisurely stroll along the Edenton Bay waterfront, or enjoy a peaceful picnic at Colonial Park. For history buffs, the Edenton Historic District showcases beautifully preserved colonial homes and structures that offer a fascinating glimpse into the past. Edenton’s quaint charm and historical significance make it a must-visit destination. Some of the town’s most scenic camping spots include Rocky Hock Campground and Pembroke Creek Park, a local favorite for fishing and family-friendly outdoor fun. Visitors can also enjoy a historically immersive stay in town, with top-rated lodging options such as Captain’s Quarters Inn and the 1904-built Inner Banks Inn. The best time to visit Edenton is during its annual events, including the lively Edenton Music and Water Festival, the Chowan County Regional Fair, and the festive Christmas Extravaganza and Flotilla.

Banner Elk adds an upscale twist to the typical North Carolina getaway with world-class dining and cozy cabin rentals, making it one of the state's most romantic destinations. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains , the town comes alive during the winter ski season, offering a lively atmosphere with unique art displays and charming small businesses. While its small-town charm and eclectic dining are part of the allure, Banner Elk also boasts a peaceful countryside vibe, with highlights such as self-guided wine tours and family-friendly farm visits. Top-rated art spots like the Art Cellar Gallery and It's All About the Art add to the town’s beauty, while popular tasting rooms and vineyards, including Grandfather Vineyard and Eagles Nest Winery, offer delightful experiences. No visit to Banner Elk is complete without indulging in its extensive variety of dining options. From the elevated Southern cuisine at Artisanal Restaurant to fine American BBQ at The Pedalin' Pig, the town’s culinary scene offers something for every palate. Visiting during annual events enhances any trip to Banner Elk, with notable community gatherings like the Art on the Greene festival, which showcases local talent, or enjoying live music surrounded by nature at the Eagles Nest Amphitheater.

Tryon is a charming town celebrated for its scenic beauty, equestrian heritage, and agricultural roots, offering a peaceful escape into North Carolina’s countryside life. Known for its slow-paced lifestyle, Tryon combines a thriving business community with distinctive attractions like the Tryon International Equestrian Center, which attracts horse enthusiasts from all over the state. Situated near the South Carolina border, Tryon's natural appeal is complimented by a walkable central shopping district, with family-owned shops like The Nest Artisan Market lining Trade Street, providing a tranquil experience far from the hustle and bustle of city life. For adventure seekers, Mountain Brook Vineyards offers breathtaking panoramic views, while a hike to Pearson’s Falls, a stunning 90-foot waterfall, rewards explorers and nature lovers with a jaw-dropping sight. Tryon also hosts vibrant events that bring the community together, such as the Block House Steeplechase in April and the Summer Tracks concert series from June to August at Roger Park’s Amphitheater.

Hillsborough

Hillsborough is a beautiful town known for its historic charm, with over 100 homes listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It's also a small community perfect for a quick countryside escape, offering U-pick farms like Eno River Farm with its strawberry patches. Visitors can also discover quirky local attractions such as Ayr Mount, once considered one of North Carolina’s finest residential structures. Unique experiences in Hillsborough are highlighted by natural attractions like The Great Indian Trading Path and the site of the Occaneechi farming village, excavated by UNC in the 1980s and now featured along the scenic Riverwalk. Whether wandering through the town’s historic streets and admiring its architecture or enjoying the agricultural offerings, visitors are recommended to complete their experience by stopping at some of the town’s top dining spots. Notable options include the Wooden Nickel and Saratoga Grill, both offering a traditional taste of the local dining scene.

Hot Springs

Finally, Hot Springs ranks as one of the prettiest small towns in North Carolina for being a natural wellness retreat and relaxing small-town getaway. Home to some of the state's best natural attractions, this hidden gem offers breathtaking views, including the famous Lover’s Leap, renowned for its panoramic vistas of downtown and the surrounding landscape. During the warmer months, visitors can enjoy water activities such as whitewater rafting, fishing, and more, while the warm mineral water springs remain a year-round draw. The relaxing Hot Springs Resort & Spa attracts thousands of visitors from across the state annually. Beyond the spas and wellness centers, the town’s natural beauty extends into lush forests and parks, such as Pisgah National Forest and the nearby Rich Laurel Wildlife Area, offering outdoor enthusiasts both scenic beauty and challenging adventures.

Ultimately, the prettiest small towns in North Carolina are a blend of historic communities, wellness retreats, and secluded natural escapes. Whether you're looking to lose yourself in the untouched beauty of the mountains, soak in the rich history of the state’s oldest settlements, or enjoy the vibrant charm of quaint waterfront villages, plan your visit to the lesser-known but culturally rich, pretty small towns in North Carolina for an unforgettable small town trip.

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The Mountains Are Calling

Asheville boasts big-city attractions while remaining true to its wild roots

by Kevin Johnson

August 30, 2024

Photo by Andre Daugherty courtesy Visit North Carolina

Mountain towns in the United States have attracted attention and new residents in recent years — as remote work proliferated and careers changed in 2020 and beyond, forested retreats became hot destinations for young professionals and retirees alike. Asheville, a small city in the foothills of western North Carolina just over five hours from Richmond by car, is delivering on the promises of those hybrid work-play hubs amid growth and change that aim to accommodate their increasing number of residents.

It only takes one visit to understand why the city is so popular. Its restaurants attract James Beard Awards and renowned chefs, the music scene produces top-selling singer-songwriters, and its position as a gateway to the Blue Ridge and Smoky mountains is as awe-inspiring as it is convenient. The community’s longstanding commitment to laid-back enjoyment embraces travelers like a bear hug .

Fly-fishing in the French Broad River (Photo by Blackhorse Studio courtesy Visit North Carolina)

Where to Stay

Asheville packs a lot in a narrow valley. Thanks to its reputation as a vacation town, finding a place to stay is no big feat. Downtown is home to industry newcomers including The Flat Iron Hotel , a 99-year-old skyscraper reimagined as a boutique hotel, which opened earlier this year. The city’s outer neighborhoods are not to be ignored; quaint bed-and-breakfasts fill West Asheville, and the Biltmore Village area is packed with hotels styled like the famous estate nearby.

More rural stays, including The Horse Shoe Farm , offer a closer look at the surrounding countryside. A collection of cottages, standalone homes and suites on a ranch bordering the Pisgah National Forest , the farm’s amenities include spa treatments in a converted stable and a restaurant whose seasonal menus focus on local produce.

North Carolina Arboretum (Photo by Jared Kay courtesy Visit North Carolina)

Going Green

The city’s reputation as an outdoors town is hard to miss; walk around the main drags and you’ll see swarms of people prepped for the nearby trailheads and vehicles hauling some combination of kayaks and mountain bikes. To get a sense of what draws so many to move here, get out of the city and into the woods.

An abundance of hiking destinations surrounds Asheville, including nearby Mount Mitchell State Park and the aforementioned Pisgah National Forest, along with the Cherokee National Forest and Great Smoky Mountains National Park a few hours away. But one of the best ways to combine outdoors time with the city is getting on the French Broad River. The river runs west of downtown and flows toward Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Guided trips for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, tubing and fly-fishing are available from groups like French Broad Outfitters and Asheville Fly Fishing Co.

The Blue Ridge Parkway might be the best low-intensity way to climb some of the area’s many peaks while seeing incredible sights. Follow the road northwest from town for overlooks galore, where valleys stretch for miles and cascades including Glassmine Falls spill from rocky cliffs. Head south to reach the North Carolina Arboretum , complete with manicured gardens and walking and biking trails. Entry is free, but parking costs $20.

Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. (Photo by Jared Kay courtesy Visit North Carolina)

Fine Food and Best Brews

Asheville’s culinary scene is a major contributor to its national prominence, but considering the city’s relative size, many of the best spots still feel undiscovered. As in many Southern cities, breakfast begins with a biscuit; specifically, Biscuit Head , which has outposts in the Biltmore area, south of downtown and in West Asheville that serve sizeable biscuits in sandwich and platter form for breakfast and lunch.

In the walkable South Slope neighborhood, Chai Pani ’s new 10,000-square-foot location allows the James Beard Award-winning Indian street food spot to better handle the long lines of hungry tourists and locals. Downtown’s Cúrate — from acclaimed chef Katie Button — brings Spanish tapas to the Appalachian Mountains in a bustling former bus depot.

Like most mountain towns, Asheville loves its beer. Unlike most mountain towns, Asheville boasts the largest operation centers on the East Coast for two of the nation’s largest craft breweries: Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. and New Belgium Brewing . Sierra Nevada is a sizeable destination for beer nerds and novices, with a lush backyard and amphitheater south of the city. New Belgium, in the industrial River Arts District, connects its production plant to a modern tasting room overlooking the French Broad River. Eschew the nationally known brews for local brands such as Wicked Weed Brewing , Burial Beer Co. and White Labs Brewing Co. (among many others) in South Slope.

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