Experience North Carolina’s captivating contrasts, a harmonious fusion of Southern allure, and breathtaking landscapes. Positioned in the southeastern region along the Atlantic coast, this state lies between Virginia and Georgia, South Carolina, and Tennessee, inviting travelers to savor a plethora of experiences. Immerse yourself in our guide to the “Top Places to Visit in North Carolina” and unveil the exceptional destinations that define this charming state.
North Carolina boasts stunning beaches, mountains, woods, farmland, and vibrant cities, including Charlotte, Raleigh, and Wilmington. The Piedmont area, with its gently undulating hills and lush farmland, is the most populous region, while the Blue Ridge Mountains are home to the highest elevations east of the Mississippi.
The state’s natural settings are truly breathtaking and attract visitors from all over the world. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the United States, is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking through the forests, rafting down the rivers, or driving the Blue Ridge Parkway’s scenic routes are all unforgettable experiences.
North Carolina’s urban areas are just as varied as its natural landscapes. Wilmington is a coastal city that boasts a sizable historic district, beaches, and seafood restaurants. In contrast, the picturesque mountain city of Asheville is known for its artsy vibe and outdoor activities. Charlotte, the state’s largest city, offers family-friendly activities and professional sports teams, while Raleigh is home to several museums and a major performing arts center.
North Carolina’s Outer Banks, a string of picturesque barrier islands off the state’s coast, is a popular vacation spot. Visitors can relax on the sand, take in the area’s rich history at one of the many lighthouses, or watch the wild horses that roam the area’s dunes.
For NASCAR fans, North Carolina is the ultimate destination, as it is the most popular spectator sport in the United States and is headquartered in the state.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking to soak up some Southern charm, North Carolina has something for everyone. With its rich cultural heritage, lovely beaches, and breathtaking mountain landscapes, this state is a must-visit for any traveler.
Top Places to Visit in North Carolina: Chimney Rock State Park
a beautiful view of Chimney Rock Mountain in North Carolina. Image source: Alexey Rotanov/Shutterstock.com
Approximately 40 kilometres (25 miles) from Asheville lies Chimney Rock State Park, home to several hiking routes and the breathtaking 400-foot-tall (120-meter-high) Hickory Nut Falls. The 300+ foot (90+ m) monolith known as Chimney Rock is the most visited attraction in this state park, and for good reason.
Guests have the option of taking an elevator up 26 stories or walking the 500 steps (about equal to 31 flights of stairs) to the observation deck at the summit of the Chimney. The North Carolina General Assembly just gave its approval for this park in 2005, making it one of the newest in the state.
9. Bald Head Island
the beach and residential neighborhood in Bald Head Island, North Carolina. Image source: iofoto/Shutterstock.com
Bald Head Island is the perfect getaway for those who want to calm down and escape the noise and congestion of the mainland. This is an island, accessible only by ferry from the town of Southport or by private boat, with beaches stretching for 14 miles (23 km) and a relaxed vibe. On foot, via bike, or in a golf cart are the only ways to get about this island.
Bald Head Island is home to a variety of ecosystems, including a marsh, maritime woods, and the Bald Head Island Golf Course. Bald Head Island Conservancy offers Turtle Walks in the summer for anyone interested in seeing turtle nests or helping keep an eye out for hatchlings on the island’s beaches.
Top Places to Visit in North Carolina: Hanging Rock State Park
: Hanging Rock State Park in North Carolina. Image source: Emily Tucker/Shutterstock.com
Near the Winston-Salem region in the Sauratown Mountains, this beautiful park has a lake ideal for boating, fishing, and swimming, as well as over 18 miles (29 km) of trails ranging in difficulty from simple to severe. Several beautiful waterfalls may also be seen in the park.
Ten cabins and a tent and trailer campsite are provided for overnight guests at Hanging Rock State Park. The Devil’s Chimney and Hanging Rock are only a few of the spectacular quartzite structures and ridges that have made Hanging Rock State Park renowned.
7. Old Salem
: the historic Old Salem and downtown Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Image source: Jon Bilous/Shutterstock.com
Located in the heart of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Old Salem is a living museum that brings the 18th and 19th centuries back to life. Visitors to Old Salem may learn about the history of the area’s Moravian pioneers via conversations with reenactors and exploration of the town’s historic district.
For instance, visitors to Old Salem may see artisans like shoemakers, gunsmiths, and tailors as they go about their trades. In addition, tourists may get their hands dirty at several of Old Salem’s attractions.
Top Places to Visit in North Carolina: Asheville
The Belmont Estate in Asheville, North Carolina. Image source: ZakZeinert/Shutterstock.com
Asheville, North Carolina, is well-known for its thriving cultural scene and scenic location in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The downtown area is filled with shops selling handmade wares, pubs, and restaurants.
The creative atmosphere of Ashville is enhanced by the many street musicians and entertainers. Among the many accolades bestowed upon this picturesque and unique community throughout the years are “America’s Quirkiest Town” by “Travel & Leisure” in September 2014 and a spot on “Good Morning America’s” list of “The Most Beautiful Places in America.”
The Biltmore Estate, a tourist hotspot, is not far from Ashville. Almost 1 million people visit this home every year since it was built between 1889 and 1895 and because it is the biggest privately owned residence in the United States.
5. Blue Ridge Parkway
Aerial view of the Lynn Cove Viaduct on the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina. Image source: anthony heflin/Shutterstock.com
Many people think the Blue Ridge Parkway is the nicest spot to visit in North Carolina and one of the most beautiful drives in the whole country. With the surrounding hills turning brilliant shades of orange, yellow, and red in the autumn, this meandering section of asphalt, which has been designated as both a National Parkway and an All-American Road, is at its most beautiful.
In addition to its winter beauty, the parkway is at its most stunning when the Carolina rhododendrons and dogwoods are in full bloom in the spring. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee is only one end of the Blue Ridge Parkway, which stretches for 469 miles (755 km) to the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia.
4. Charlotte
Nighttime view of the uptown skyline in Charlotte, North Carolina. Image source: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock.com
Visitors interested in racing can find a lot to do in North Carolina’s biggest city, Charlotte. Charlotte, often known as the Queen City, is home to several exciting tourist destinations, such as the amusement park Carowinds; the United States National Whitewater Center, the biggest man-made whitewater park in the world; and the family-friendly science museum and aquarium Discovery Place.
The NASCAR Hall of Fame and the Charlotte Motor Speedway are both located here in the city. In addition, Mooresville, a neighboring town, is home to almost every NASCAR race shop, the vast majority of which are available to the general public.
Top Places to Visit in North Carolina: Wilmington
Aerial view of downtown Wilmington, North Carolina. Image source: Bennekom/Shutterstock.com
Some of the best-known beaches in all of North Carolina may be found in the Wilmington region. These include Carolina, Kure, and Wrightsville Beaches. This ancient harbour town is perfect for a family vacation. The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher has been recognised as a top aquarium in the US by the Travel Channel.
As an added attraction, the Cape Fear River flows right through the heart of Wilmington, making it the perfect setting for a stroll along the city’s famous Riverwalk. The antebellum Bellamy Mansion and the Poplar Grove Plantation, the oldest peanut plantation in the United States, are just two of the many notable houses and plantations in the region.
2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Scenic view of the Cades Cove region in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Image source: Bob Pool/Shutterstock.com
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is America’s most popular park since it’s easily accessible from a number of major East Coast towns. However, the park’s accessibility isn’t the only factor contributing to its popularity.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is famous for its plentiful animals and breathtaking landscape and is a must-see for every nature lover. This natural paradise is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including over 1,500 black bears; deer; fox; turkeys; and the newly reintroduced elk. Approximately 850 miles of trails can be found in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and there are many beautiful waterfalls to admire along the way.
1. Outer Banks
: Sunrise at Bodie Island Lighthouse, Outer Banks, North Carolina. Image source: anthony heflin/Shutterstock.com
A group of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina. The Outer Banks (or OBX, as the locals call them) are a popular tourist destination. Once upon a time, pirates like Blackbeard frequented these little islands. Vacationers looking to escape the summer heat now flock to the Outer Banks.
Wild horses are a well-known landmark of the Outer Banks’ northern end, where they may still be seen roaming the dunes. Nags Head and Kitty Hawk, located on Bodie Island, are popular tourist destinations because of the abundance of mini golf courses, souvenir stores, and restaurants that can be found there.
Located west of Bodie Island, Manteo on Roanoke Island is the site of the legendary “Lost Colony,” whose British settlers vanished in the 1580s. Cape Hatteras National Seashore and Cape Lookout National Seashore, both farther south, have stunning and relatively undeveloped beaches.
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