places visit in nc

Protect Your Trip »

23 Top Things to Do in North Carolina

Scenic mountains, historical sites and laid-back beaches await travelers in North Carolina.

Getty Images

Plan your next getaway to the beautiful state of North Carolina

A vacation in North Carolina promises a rare combination of exciting mountain adventures and lazy days spent at the beach. Whether you want to scale the tallest living sand dune on the Atlantic coast, visit the site of Orville and Wilbur Wright's first flight or meander along America's Favorite Scenic Drive, North Carolina has you covered. To enjoy both the mountains and the coast on your North Carolina visit, you'll have to be strategic in your planning. This guide of the top things to do in North Carolina will help you make the most of your trip. (Note: Some tours and excursions may be affected by the coronavirus outbreak. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions and parking reservation requirements. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.)

Biltmore Estate

Did you know that America's largest privately owned home is located in North Carolina? Biltmore Estate , a National Historic Landmark, is nestled among the Blue Ridge Mountains in Asheville . Spanning 8,000 acres, the French-Renaissance estate boasts 250 rooms, including 35 bedrooms and 43 bathrooms, and 65 fireplaces. Dreamed up by George Vanderbilt in the late 1800s, the home served as Vanderbilt's country retreat. Today, parts of the extravagant home are open to the public. When you're not marveling at the mansion's 10,000-volume library, its centuries-old tapestries or the indoor swimming pool, stroll the grounds, which were designed by Frederick Law Olmsted (who also designed Central Park in New York City ), or indulge in a tasting at the on-site winery. Many travelers call this a must-visit attraction when in Asheville but warn that it can get quite crowded. Visitors also advise booking your tickets well in advance to secure your preferred time. Additionally, many suggest upgrading your ticket to the "Exclusive Experience" to view areas of the home not featured in the basic tour (such as the guest and servant quarters), as well as have the opportunity to be led around the house by an expert guide. If you can't get enough of the spectacular setting, consider booking a stay at one of the on-site accommodations, including the Inn on Biltmore Estate .

[See more of Asheville: Things to Do | When to Visit | Hotels | Photos ]

Enjoy a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway

Part of America's Favorite Scenic Drive winds its way through North Carolina. The 469-mile-long Blue Ridge Parkway connects Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park . There are numerous entry points to the parkway (which is free to access) in southern Virginia and northern North Carolina, but if you want to admire some of the highest peaks east of the Mississippi River, you'll want to traverse the parkway near Asheville. Popular stops along the parkway include Craggy Gardens (known for its 360-degree views and abundance of rhododendrons), Mount Mitchell (the highest peak in the eastern United States) and Linville Falls (a three-tiered waterfall that cascades into the Linville Gorge). When you're ready to stretch your legs, there are multiple hiking trails easily accessed off of the parkway, including the family-friendly Graveyard Fields. This nearly 3-mile-long loop trail takes hikers to two waterfalls. If you're up for the challenge, there's also the more strenuous 2.6-mile out and back Mount Pisgah Trail, which features views of Cold Mountain from its 5,721-foot summit. After a day marveling at the parkway's scenery, retire to one of the top hotels in Asheville .

[See: The Most Scenic Drive in Every State .]

NASCAR Hall of Fame

If you're a fan of NASCAR, you'll want to stop by this interactive museum in Charlotte . Along with an impressive display of legendary cars, such as Jack Ingram's 1972 Chevrolet Monte Carlo and Wendell Scott's 1962 Chevrolet Impala, the hall of fame also boasts racing simulators and exhibits that allow visitors to see inside a race car engine through augmented reality. The attraction also offers the popular Pit Crew Challenge, in which visitors are tasked with completing the duties of a pit crew, including jacking up a car, changing a tire with a real air gun and filling up the fuel tank. What's more, the NASCAR Hall of Fame houses a nearly 300-person theater, a gear shop and a broadcast studio, among other amenities. Visitors assure that you don't have to be a NASCAR aficionado to enjoy a stop here thanks to the welcoming staff and fun exhibits. Plus, its location in Uptown means visitors will find themselves within walking distance of a variety of top hotels and attractions, including Discovery Place and Mint Museum Uptown .

[See more of Charlotte: Things to Do | When to Visit | Hotels | Photos ]

Grandfather Mountain State Park

Situated in northwestern North Carolina, about 70 miles northeast of Asheville, Grandfather Mountain State Park is a playground for adrenaline junkies. The park's namesake stands tall at nearly 6,000 feet, making it the highest peak in the Blue Ridge mountain range. Along with its towering mountain, the park is known for experiencing the South's most severe weather. So, if you plan on exploring the park's 13-plus miles of trails, keep an eye on the forecast. If you're up for the challenge, consider trekking the 2.5-mile out and back Grandfather Trail, which is one of the most arduous trails in the Southeast thanks to a series of 18 ladders positioned to aid hikers climb the many cliffs and crags. Less experienced hikers may want to try the 1.2-mile out and back Nuwati Trail, which follows the track of an old logging road and offers breathtaking views of the Boone Bowl and Calloway Peak from Storyteller's Rock. When it's time to bed down, set up a tent at one of the park's 13 primitive hike-in campsites, which must be reserved in advance (for a fee).

[See: The Most Scenic Mountain Resorts .]

Wright Brothers National Memorial

Visit the site where Orville and Wilbur Wright first took flight and the locations where they landed at Wright Brothers National Memorial in the Outer Banks . Among the attractions here are reconstructed buildings like a hangar and living quarters that offer visitors a glimpse of what life was like for the Wrights in 1903. The area also features the Wright Brothers Monument, which sits atop Big Kill Devil Hill, where the brothers first tested their gliding experiments. To learn more about the brothers and their mission to fly, you'll want to stop by the visitor center – a National Historic Landmark that's full of interactive exhibits. After you've explored the memorial, head about 5 miles south to Jockey's Ridge State Park. Visiting the state park, which is known for towering sand dunes and strong winds, will give you a better idea of why the Wright Brothers chose the Outer Banks when searching for optimal conditions for their flying experiments.

[Read: The Best Tourist Attraction in Every U.S. State .]

Ride the rapids at the U.S. National Whitewater Center

One of the top things to do in Charlotte , the U.S. National Whitewater Center offers more than 30 different recreational activities across its 1,300-plus acres. The star attraction is the center's human-made whitewater river – the world's largest – which offers Class II to Class IV rapids. When you're not riding the rapids, explore the center's variety of other activities, including its Deep Water Solo complex. This structure consists of five rock climbing walls ranging in height from 20 to 45 feet that are positioned over a deep pool of water. So, instead of wearing traditional climbing equipment, you'll climb without harnesses or ropes and fall into the pool. Seasonal yoga, zip lines, a ropes course and more than 50 miles of trails for hikers, mountain bikers and trail runners round out the activities available here. To make the most of your time, heed the advice of reviewers and pick just one or two activities to enjoy instead of trying your hand at all of the center's offerings. Time your visit during one of the center's annual festivals to see the venue come alive with music, competitions and exhibitions.

Scale the dunes at Jockey's Ridge State Park

You can visit the tallest living sand dune on the Atlantic coast with a trip to Jockey's Ridge State Park . Located in Nags Head in the Outer Banks, the park spans 426 acres and features dunes standing more than 60 feet tall. To explore the dunes, you can traverse a 360-foot-long boardwalk or hike the park's two trails. While hiking, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like ospreys, foxes, brown pelicans and coyotes. You'll also want to look for fulgurites, or glass tubes formed when lightning strikes the sand. Thanks to the park's year-round prevailing winds, this is an ideal location to try your hand at kite and model plane flying, as well as hang gliding. Hang gliding lessons are offered through Kitty Hawk Kites, which is located near the park's visitor center. Plus, the park sits less than 5 miles south of Wright Brothers National Monument, meaning you can visit both of these top attractions in the same day. Try to time your visit for sunset, when visitors say the park is particularly magical. When it's time to bed down, hang your hat at one of the many beachfront vacation rentals that dot the Outer Banks.

[Read: Vacation Rentals: The Best Vacation Rental Sites for Every Type of Traveler .]

North Carolina Museum of Art

Located in Raleigh , the North Carolina Museum of Art has a unique origin story. In 1947, North Carolina became the first state in the country to use public funds to buy art when the North Carolina General Assembly appropriated $1 million for the purchase of art. The collection started with the acquisition of nearly 150 European and American paintings and sculptures. Today, the museum's collection, which is housed in a nearly 130,000-square-foot space, spans more than 5,000 years. Among its highlights are Egyptian funerary art, the largest assemblage of Rodin sculptures in the American South and the 164-acre Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park, which includes gardens, fields and woodlands interspersed with sculptures. After you've toured the art museum, consider exploring the other state museums located in Raleigh, including the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences and the North Carolina Museum of History . And when you need a break from the city's indoor attractions, sites like Pullen Park and William B. Umstead State Park can offer a dose of fresh air.

[See more of Raleigh: Things to Do | When to Visit | Hotels | Restaurants | Photos ]

Cape Hatteras National Seashore

One of the top things to do in the Outer Banks , Cape Hatteras National Seashore stretches for more than 70 miles from the borders of the Oregon Inlet to the edge of the Ocracoke Inlet. Lounging on the soft golden sands is the main activity here, but this protected area is also home to three historic lighthouses, two of which visitors can climb. Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and the Bodie Island Lighthouse are both open seasonally for lighthouse climbs, a popular (though slightly strenuous) activity that yields spectacular views of Bodie Island, the Atlantic Ocean and Pamlico Sound. There are also plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing thanks to the 400-plus species of birds that call the area home. Though there are plenty of accommodation options within the Outer Banks, including beachfront resorts and vacation rentals, you may want to consider roughing it at one of the four campgrounds along the Cape Hatteras shoreline, as it will give you the chance to view some of the country's darkest night skies east of the Mississippi River.

[Read: The Best North Carolina Beaches .]

North Carolina Arboretum

The 434-acre North Carolina Arboretum has ties to nearby Biltmore Estate. Before his death, Frederick Law Olmsted ("the father of American landscape architecture") designed the landscape surrounding Biltmore. Olmsted's designs included plans for an arboretum that was never created. Nearly 100 years after Olmsted first envisioned the arboretum, it was finally established in 1986 within the Bent Creek Experimental Forest just south of Asheville and adjacent to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Today, the arboretum welcomes visitors with more than 65 acres of cultivated gardens, including a world-renowned collection of bonsai trees. Beyond its beautiful flora, the arboretum boasts 10-plus miles of hiking trails that connect to scenic areas like Lake Powhatan, the Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. What's more, the arboretum hosts a variety of indoor and outdoor exhibitions and events, such as sculpture displays by local and national artists. Many visitors describe the gardens as peaceful, though they suggest grabbing a map at the entrance to avoid getting lost.

Take in the view from Chimney Rock State Park

For a glimpse at some of North Carolina's most awe-inspiring mountain scenery, head about 25 miles southeast of Asheville to Chimney Rock State Park. From the top of the park's 315-foot-tall namesake, you can admire 75-mile views overlooking Lake Lure and the Hickory Nut Gorge (on a clear day). To reach the top of Chimney Rock, you can either climb 500 steps or ride the elevator up. More adventurous travelers will also want to explore the park's six marked hiking trails, which range from the kid-friendly Great Woodland Adventure, which features interactive displays and sculptures about the park's animal residents, to the more strenuous 1.9-mile out and back Four Seasons Trail, which includes a 400-foot elevation gain throughout the hardwood forest. After marveling at the mountain scenery atop Chimney Rock, you'll want to make a stop at Hickory Nut Falls, which also sits within the state park. At 404 feet, it's one of the highest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River.

[See: The Most Beautiful Waterfalls to See Around the World .]

Sliding Rock

Nestled in the Pisgah National Forest near Brevard and Asheville, Sliding Rock is a 60-foot mountain waterslide that ends in an 8-foot-deep pool of water. Approximately 11,000 gallons of water course down the rock each minute. The water temperature is brisk (between 50 and 60 degrees), which is why this natural attraction is particularly popular during the summer months. If you're not up for careening down the rock face, you can watch sliders from two observation decks. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the site is staffed with lifeguards; in the offseason, you can still visit, but know that lifeguards aren't on patrol. After you've cooled off, explore some of the other nearby trails and waterfalls that dot U.S. Route 276, known as the Forest Heritage National Scenic Byway. The family-friendly, 1.4-mile Moore Cove Falls Trail sits just a mile away, while the photogenic Looking Glass Falls is located 2 miles away along the highway and is easily accessed via an observation deck at the base of the falls.

Outer Banks

A popular retreat for families and traveling groups thanks to its abundance of beachfront vacation rentals, this string of barrier islands off the coast is perhaps best known for its 100-plus miles of beaches . Each stretch of sand offers a little something different for vacationers. Kitty Hawk and Kill Devil Hills are known for having some of the biggest waves on the area's northern beaches, making these spots particularly popular with surfers and skimboarders. Meanwhile, Frisco provides optimal conditions for four-wheel-drive beach excursions. But if you simply want to relax, head to Nags Head, which offers plenty of room to spread out. Or, grab a fishing rod and set up camp in Hatteras, which is a premier fishing destination. If you encounter a rare rainy day while visiting the islands, consider escaping the weather in one of the area's indoor attractions, such as the North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island or the Whalehead Club mansion on Corolla.

[See more of the Outer Banks: Things to Do | When to Visit | Hotels | Photos ]

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

One of the most-visited national parks, this protected area spans more than 520,000 acres along North Carolina's western border. Straddling North Carolina and Tennessee, Great Smoky Mountains National Park boasts more than 850 hiking trails and is considered the most biodiverse park in the national park system. What's more, it's home to some of the tallest peaks in the eastern United States. One of those peaks is 6,643-foot Clingmans Dome , which wows visitors with 360-degree views of the Smokies (on a clear day, visitors can see for 100 miles). For more spectacular mountain vistas, intrepid travelers should hike the 3.6-mile round-trip Forney Ridge Trail to Andrews Bald, which starts from the parking lot at Clingmans Dome. Boasting an elevation of nearly 6,000 feet, Andrews Bald is the highest grassy bald in the park. Along the trail, hikers may spot patches of blackberries and raspberries, Fraser firs and wildflowers, depending on the time of year. For travelers who don't want to rough it in one of the park's campsites, there are more traditional lodging options, such as hotels and bed-and-breakfast accommodations, in Bryson City and Cherokee. Entry to the national park is free.

[See more of Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Things to Do | When to Visit | Hotels | Photos ]

If you're looking for a charming weekend getaway that promises luxurious accommodations, delectable food and plenty of outdoor adventures, consider Highlands, a mountain town in southwestern North Carolina near the Georgia border. Surrounded by the Nantahala National Forest at an elevation of 4,118 feet, Highlands is one of the highest towns east of the Mississippi River. Make the most of the town's elevation with a hike up Whiteside Mountain – appropriately named for its sheer white cliffs. To reach the mountain's summit, you'll have to hike a 2-mile loop trail bordered by wildflowers. At the peak, you'll enjoy incredible views to the east, south and west. Highlands is also known for its variety of waterfalls. Many are easily accessed off of U.S. Route 64, including Dry Falls, which cascades 75 feet over a cliff and has a built-in walkway behind it (hence the "dry" part of its name). When you're ready to pamper yourself after a day of adventure, Highlands has you covered there, too, thanks to some luxurious digs like the Old Edwards Inn and Spa and its sister property, Half Mile Farm.

Cape Lookout National Seashore

Accessible only by boat from Beaufort and Harkers Island, Cape Lookout National Seashore is a must-visit stop for the intrepid traveler. Located along North Carolina's Crystal Coast in the southern Outer Banks, Cape Lookout offers 56 miles of undeveloped beachfront. Along with its distinct lighthouse, known as the "Diamond Lady" thanks to the diamond pattern painted on its exterior, Cape Lookout is also known for the herds of wild horses that roam the barrier island of Shackleford Banks. You can observe this herd of more than 100 horses grazing in the grasslands or on the dunes. Along with its collection of horses, Cape Lookout is considered a prime birding spot (more than 250 species have been spotted here). It's also one of the premier kayaking and canoeing destinations on the mid-Atlantic coast, boasting 112 miles of uninhabited shoreline. Water sports equipment rentals are available on the mainland with outfitters like Down East Kayaks. Though there are no established campgrounds at Cape Lookout, camping is permitted year-round. You can also rent rustic wooden cabins.

[See: Top Beach Camping Spots in the U.S. ]

Battleship North Carolina

History buffs will want to stop by the Battleship North Carolina while visiting Wilmington . At the time of its commissioning in 1941, the ship was considered "the world's greatest sea weapon." It proved a formidable foe during World War II when it was involved in every major naval offensive in the Pacific area of operations and earned 15 battle stars. Today, the ship is a National Historic Landmark and serves as the state's memorial to its WWII veterans and the 11,000 North Carolinians who died during the war. On the self-guided tour, visitors can explore nine levels of the ship, including the mess decks, berthing areas, engine room and bridge, among other must-sees. According to travelers, the self-guided tour is well marked but does require climbing up and down some narrow stairs, so keep that in mind if you have limited mobility. Visitors also advise bringing water and wearing sunscreen, as the ship can get warm, especially in summer. When at the ship's bow, keep your eyes peeled for Charlie, the alligator that's usually seen sunbathing in the waters of the Cape Fear River where the ship resides. After your ship visit, plan to stroll along Wilmington's Riverwalk , which is lined with popular restaurants and bars, and sits just across the river from the battleship.

[See more of Wilmington: Things to Do | When to Visit | Hotels | Photos ]

Sample a pint or two at Asheville's breweries

This city in western North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains is home to more breweries per capita than any other U.S. city. Whether you prefer a hoppy India pale ale or a fruit-forward sour, you'll find it in Asheville. Though some of the biggest names in craft brewing, such as Sierra Nevada and New Belgium, do have outposts here, Asheville is home to an impressive collection of local producers. There are more than 50 breweries in Asheville, so narrowing down your personal list can be tricky, but perennial favorites include Wicked Weed Brewing, Green Man Brewery, Highland Brewing Company and Burial Beer Co. If you'd rather let someone else guide you through the city's beer scene, consider signing up for the Asheville Brews Cruise bus tour, which takes visitors to up to four breweries during the approximately three-hour excursion. When you need a break from sampling the city's suds, make the most of Asheville's perch among the Blue Ridge Mountains by hiking the Appalachian Trail or floating down the French Broad River .

Bald Head Island

Located in the mouth of the Cape Fear River, this car-free coastal island is only accessible by ferry from Southport (about 35 miles south of Wilmington). A getaway in every sense of the word, Bald Head Island is a nature lover's paradise with 14 miles of wide white sand beaches and verdant nature preserves covering more than 80% of the island. To learn more about the island's beach, marsh and maritime forest habitats, as well as its ample wildlife, sign up for a tour with the Bald Head Island Conservancy, which offers tours via golf cart (the preferred method of transportation on the island). You can also explore the creeks around the island via kayak or canoe. The conservancy offers guided trips, as does local outfitter The Sail Shop. And for a spectacular 360-degree view of the state's southernmost barrier island, climb the 108 steps to the top of the Bald Head Lighthouse – the oldest standing lighthouse in North Carolina. When it's time to turn in for the night, you'll have your pick of beachfront vacation rentals, some with space for up to 18 people.

[See: Small Beach Towns That Should Be On Your Radar .]

Linville Gorge

Part of the Pisgah National Forest and about 60 miles northeast of Asheville, the Linville Gorge is considered one of eastern America's most rugged gorges. The gorge is formed by Jonas Ridge to the east and Linville Mountain to the west; the Linville River bisects the gorge and runs into the valleys below. Several hikes allow visitors to marvel at the spectacular mountain scenery. Perhaps the most popular is the hike to Linville Falls, believed to be the most photographed waterfall in North Carolina. You can hike to five viewpoints from two trails that depart from the Linville Falls Visitor Center, which is located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 316. More popular hikes include Table Rock Mountain and Hawksbill Mountain. The 2.2-mile climb up Table Rock Mountain promises even more photogenic views from its 3,930-foot peak. Many hikers combine a trek up Table Rock Mountain with a climb up Hawksbill Mountain since they're within a few miles of each other. The 1.5-mile round-trip Hawksbill Mountain hike requires an elevation gain of about 700 feet, but the views of the gorge, the river and, on a clear day, the Charlotte skyline are worth the effort.

North Carolina Zoo

Located in the heart of North Carolina in Asheboro, about 40 miles south of Greensboro, the North Carolina Zoo sprawls across 2,600 acres, 500 of which are developed. Its claim to fame is that it's the world's largest natural habitat zoo, with more than 1,800 animals. The animals are dispersed across two regions, North America and Africa, as well as a desert and a tropical, free-flight aviary. Among the zoo's standout animals are African lions, grizzly bears, ocelots and polar bears. Plus, the aviary houses more than 100 exotic birds and 3,000 tropical plants. Beyond the animals, the zoo boasts a variety of attractions, such as a carousel, a butterfly garden and a ropes course, among other diversions. Visitors warn that you'll do a lot of walking, so wear comfortable footwear. When you've had your fill of the animals, peruse downtown Asheboro, which is home to a collection of charming shops and restaurants.

[See: The Best Zoos in the U.S. ]

Go whitewater rafting

After you've gotten your feet wet at the U.S. National Whitewater Center in Charlotte, why not test your rafting skills on some of the state's rivers? Many outfitters are located near Asheville, making it easy to tack on a day of rafting to your trip. The Nantahala River is considered the state's busiest and most well-known whitewater rafting river. A dam-controlled river, it boasts 20 Class II and III rapids, as well as scenic sections of calm water. Meanwhile, the intensity of the French Broad River is determined by recent rainfall. Half-day trips featuring Class II or III rapids are available, as are full-day trips that promise Class IV rapids. Whichever type of trip you book on the French Broad River, you'll enjoy the surrounding scenery of the Pisgah National Forest. For a unique experience, consider rafting down the Nolichucky River, which allows you to start your adventure in North Carolina and end in Tennessee. And if peaceful waters are what you're after, consider the Tuckasegee River, which offers ideal conditions for scenic rafting and tubing. Depending on which company you choose, there are single-day or multiday rafting trip options available. Check out U.S. News' roundup of the best whitewater rafting tours in North Carolina to plan your trip.

Wrightsville Beach

A quintessential beach vacation, this town just east of Wilmington is a magnet for families and active travelers thanks to its variety of water sports, parks, gardens, kid-friendly playgrounds and surf schools. Popular water activities include surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and wakeboarding. A variety of water sports equipment rentals are conveniently located near the beach, including traveler favorite Wrightsville SUP. If you'd rather admire the water from aboard a boat, sailing cruises are equally popular, especially at sunset. Back on land, the popular 2.5-mile Loop trail offers visitors a paved walking, running and cycling path that meanders past the Intracoastal Waterway, Banks Channel and photogenic salt marshes. Meanwhile, 67-acre Airlie Gardens boasts 10 acres of lakes, a 500-year-old oak tree and a variety of local flora and fauna. Though there are numerous resorts in Wrightsville Beach , there is a larger supply of vacation rentals. Many of the rental home properties are located just steps from the beach and offer plenty of room for traveling groups of all sizes.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Places to Visit in the Carolinas
• The Top Romantic Getaways in North Carolina
• The Top Hikes in Asheville
• The Best Mountain Towns to Visit in the U.S.
• The Top Places to Visit in the North Carolina Mountains
• The Top Things to Do in Greensboro, North Carolina
• The Top Things to Do in South Carolina
• The Top Things to Do in Columbia, South Carolina
• The Top Things to Do in Lexington, Kentucky
• The Top Lakes in Virginia

Tags: Travel , Vacations , North Carolina , North Carolina Vacations , US Vacations , Southeast Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The 17 best costa rica tours.

Lyn Mettler April 12, 2024

Hard vs. Soft Luggage

Rachael Hood April 12, 2024

The Best Kauai Boat Tours

Lyn Mettler April 11, 2024

The Top-Rated NYC Food Tours

Ann Henson April 11, 2024

The Best Things to Do in Maine

Mariya Greeley and Nicola Wood April 10, 2024

The Best Pearl Harbor Tours

John Rodwan and Amanda Norcross April 9, 2024

The Best Pigeon Forge Dinner Shows

Korrin Bishop April 9, 2024

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Amanda Norcross April 8, 2024

Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline

The Best Charleston Tours

John Rodwan April 4, 2024

14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in North Carolina

Written by Lana Law and Michael Law Updated May 11, 2023

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

With museums, outdoor activities, and theme parks 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.

Beaches and coastal attractions tempt for relaxing weekends throughout the year but especially in the summer. And the entire state has a history all its own, from the famous flying Wright Brothers to the expansive Biltmore Estate and the WWII-era Battleship North Carolina .

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

1. Blue Ridge Parkway

2. beaches of the outer banks, 3. the biltmore estate in asheville, 4. waterfalls in north carolina, 5. downhill skiing, 6. wilmington, 7. battleship north carolina, 8. north carolina museum of natural sciences, 9. north carolina aquarium, 10. north carolina zoo, 11. cape hatteras, 12. chimney rock state park, 13. grandfather mountain, 14. morehead planetarium and science center.

Nicknamed "America's favorite drive," the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway 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, with its scenic hiking trails .

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 make excellent places to visit for a bite to eat or to stay a night.

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.

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 .

Visitors to Roanoke Island 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 .

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 sculpture, 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.

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.

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 , including an IMAX theater, unique restaurants, and museums.

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 and kiteboarding.

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.

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

Cape Hatteras National Seashore was the country's first coastal preservation area and includes the important barrier islands along North Carolina's coast in the Outer Banks region. Visitors to the area come 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. Although it is not open to the public, the Ocracoke Light has been in operation since 1823 on the island that is also known for its unique breed of Ocracoke Ponies.

Location: Manteo, 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

More on North Carolina

• Destinations

25 Best Places to Visit in North Carolina

Last Updated By VacationIdea on March 18, 2024 in North Carolina

Asheville, North Carolina

Good to know: Best Time to Visit Asheville

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Chapel Hill was originally created to serve the University, for when the UNC Board of Trustees selected the area in 1793 around New Hope Chapel for its first State University, they gave a committee the goal of creating a town adjacent to the site.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

More ideas: Campgrounds in the Smoky Mountains and Smoky Mountain hotels

Raleigh, North Carolina

Other must-see attractions include the North Carolina Museum of History, the Joel Lane Museum House and the JC Raulston Arboretum at NC State University. Raleigh hotels

Steeped in the Blue Ridge Mountains area, Boone is the ideal destination for weekend getaways and lengthier vacations.

More ideas: Best Beaches Near Charlotte, North Carolina

Elizabeth City, North Carolina

More ideas: Best Lakes in North Carolina

Blue Ridge Parkway

There are also concerts and music to be enjoyed along the journey.

Greenville, NC

On Day Two, let your appetite lead the way by following the North Carolina Barbecue Trail.

More ideas: Best Waterfalls Near Charlotte, NC

Cape Hatteras National Seashore

There are four campgrounds located across Cape Hatteras National Seashore which offer a unique experience of the barrier islands .

Cape Lookout National Seashore for Couples

Visitors may want to join a Park Ranger to see into the world of the wild horses of Shackleford Banks. There are even beach cabins to rent.

Winston-Salem, North Carolina

One key attraction is the Reynolda House Museum of American Art, and don’t forget that some of the most well-preserved colonial heritage sites in the nation are found here. More things to do in Winston-Salem

Places to Visit in North Carolina: New Bern

Just south, visitors will enjoy the 157,000-acre Croatan National Forest, known for its trails and numerous outdoor opportunities. Among the best reasons to visit New Bern are The North Carolina History Center and the downtown area, which is the birthplace of Pepsi. More things to do in New Bern

High Point, North Carolina

Known widely for its haunted “appeal,” Kersey Valley Attractions also hosts outdoor laser tag, a zipline tour, and Kersey Valley High Ropes throughout the year. Individual ticket prices vary depending on the attraction, and reservations are required for laser tag, High Ropes, and the zipline. More ideas: Resorts in North Carolina

Next read: 10 Most Beautiful North Carolina Lighthouses

Outer Banks

There are air, land, and sea experiences – including being a top the East Coast’s highest sand dune, climbing the tallest brick lighthouse in America at Cape Hatteras, or catching a great meal at one of more than 100 restaurants. More Outer Banks attractions

The American Tobacco Historic District

300 Blackwell St #104, Durham, NC 27701, Phone: 919-433-1566

Fishermen may find themselves at the oceanfront beaches or Kitty Hawk Pier for surf fishing. Kitty Hawk swimming beaches are outstanding. More Romantic Weekend Getaways in NC

Grandfather Mountain

There is a display of North Carolina minerals and gems and the birds of North Carolina, plus early explorers of the area – including Daniel Boone. More day trips in NC

Downtown is also host to the Historic Riverwalk, which introduces newcomers to the waterfront milieu. More North Carolina vacations

Bakersville

Though the town is home to a population of less than 500, it is known as a world-class art community, with top regional galleries showcasing the works of hundreds of local artists. Other attractions include the beautiful Rhododendron Gardens and the picturesque heights of nearby Roan Mountain. More ideas: North Carolina Beaches

Blue Ridge National Heritage Area

Signs are posted at walkways to cultural, historic, and scenic sites, towns, cities and attractions as well as in state parks, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, along the Blue Ridge Parkway, and at the state’s five Welcome Centers within the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area.

Linville Gorge and Falls

The entire Wilderness Area is quite a draw for rock climbers, backpackers, and hikers. Linville Gorge is home to bear, deer, raccoon, ruffled grouse, and turkeys. Fishing and hunting are allowed with permits. More things to do in North Carolina

Cherohala Skyway

The Skyway has been featured as a “Top 10 Motorcycle Ride in North America” on the Discovery Channel.

• 1. Asheville, North Carolina
• 2. Chapel Hill, North Carolina
• 3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• 4. Raleigh, North Carolina
• 5. Boone, NC
• 6. Charlotte
• 7. Elizabeth City, North Carolina
• 8. Blue Ridge Parkway
• 9. Greenville, NC
• 10. Davidson
• 11. Cape Hatteras National Seashore
• 12. Cape Lookout National Seashore for Couples
• 13. Winston-Salem, North Carolina
• 14. Places to Visit in North Carolina: New Bern
• 15. High Point, North Carolina
• 16. Hickory
• 17. Outer Banks
• 18. The American Tobacco Historic District
• 19. Kitty Hawk
• 20. Grandfather Mountain
• 21. Southport
• 22. Bakersville
• 23. Blue Ridge National Heritage Area
• 24. Linville Gorge and Falls
• 25. Cherohala Skyway

More Features

Best Things to Do in Goldsboro, North Carolina

17 Best Charlotte Coffee Shops

10 Best Things to Do in Belmont, NC

• About Us/Contact Us
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

Get us in your inbox

Subscribe to get the latest travel articles by the North Carolina Travel Guides team straight to your inbox.

16 Amazing Places to Visit in North Carolina (You’ll Love)

Taylor Martin --> January 30, 2024

Whether you’re looking for a large city or a charming small town, there are a lot of incredible places to visit in North Carolina .

North Carolina is a beautiful state that has a lot to offer. From going to a city and seeing many famous landmarks to visiting a picturesque town, going on a getaway in the state is amazing.

If you want to plan a getaway to North Carolina but you’re not sure where to go, then I got you covered. I made this North Carolina places to visit guide that includes a large variety of amazing destinations you can go to.

Best Places to Visit in North Carolina

Asheville is a city that is located in western North Carolina. The city is the largest city in the western part of the state.

There are many things to do in Asheville , including visiting Biltmore, which is a large mansion that dates back to the 19th century. It is the largest privately owned residence in America and was the house of George Washington Vanderbilt II.

Asheville is known for its art galleries, which you can find at many spots in the city. For example, you can go to Grovewood Village, where there are art galleries. An example of an art gallery in the city that you can go to is Lexington Glassworks . At this place, you can see works made from glass and you can see glass-blowing demonstrations too.

You can also go to the Asheville Art Museum , which is a museum with a collection of American art from the 20th and 21st centuries, including works that were made in Western North Carolina.

The Asheville Pinball Museum is a great place to visit as well. This is a museum where you can find lots of vintage pinball machines that you can play as many times as you like for a fixed fee.

Besides that, Asheville’s restaurant scene is great to explore as well. There are lots of eateries for everyone’s liking.

Mount Airy is a small town in Central North Carolina, close to the border with Virginia. You can reach the town from the nearest larger city, Winston-Salem, in about 40 minutes by car.

The town is famous for being the birthplace of Andy Griffith, a famous actor, and for being the inspiration of the town Mayberry in the Andy Griffith Show. Because of this, the town’s nickname is Mayberry.

There are many things to do in Mount Airy, including interesting museums.

One highlight of the town is the Andy Griffith Museum. At this museum, you can find the largest collection of memorabilia related to Andy Griffith’s personal life and career.

You can also go to the Mount Airy Museum of Regional History and learn about the town’s history.

The Mayberry Replica Courthouse, which is a replica of the courthouse from “The Andy Griffith Show”, is great to visit as well.

Charlotte, the state’s most populous city, is located in Central North Carolina and makes for one of the best places to visit in North Carolina. There are many things to do in Charlotte , which means you can have a lot of fun in the city.

You can visit one of the many museums in Charlotte and learn something new. For example, you can go to one of the two branches of the Mint Museum and see interesting art from all around the world or you can go to Discovery Place Science , where you can learn about science.

The NASCAR Hall of Fame is another sight that is worth checking out as well. At this place, you can learn about the people and the history of NASCAR through various changing exhibits. For example, you can see stock car replicas at this place.

If you like sports, you can go to one of the stadiums in Charlotte and see a game. For example, you can go to the Bank of America Stadium and see a football game of the Carolina Panthers or a soccer game of Charlotte FC. Another place to see sports is Truist Field, which is a baseball stadium in Charlotte’s Uptown where you can see a game of the Charlotte Knights.

There are also a lot of theaters in Charlotte where you can see great performances, such as the Knight Theater.

Instead of exploring the city itself, you can go to Carowinds , which is also one of the most fun things to do in Charlotte with kids . This is an amusement park with lots of different rides and attractions, including various roller coasters. There’s also a water park, called Carolina Harbor, at Carowinds.

Blowing Rock

Blowing Rock is a small town in Western North Carolina.

The town is known for the Blowing Rock, which is a rock formation that “blows” when winds flow against it.

There are many great things to do in Blowing Rock , such as visiting the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum . At this museum, you can learn about the heritage and history of the town and the Southern Appalachian region. You can see exhibitions and attend a variety of events at this museum.

You can also explore Blowing Rock’s main street and shop for unique items at boutique shops. Some of the best restaurants in Blowing Rock are also located on the town’s main street.

Mystery Hill is a unique place with both indoor and outdoor attractions that are a lot of fun. For example, you can see fun and unique optical illusions at this place.

Brevard is a small town that is situated in Western North Carolina. The town can be reached from Asheville, the nearest larger city, by car, in about 45 minutes.

There’s a lot to do in the town. For example, one of the best things to do in Brevard is to go to the Veterans History Museum of the Carolinas and learn about military history.

You can also find a lot of boutique shops and other unique shops in Brevard. For example, you can find the O.P. Taylor’s Toy Store on Broad Street. This is a toy store that was founded in 1987 with a large selection of toys, including many unique ones.

The town’s many restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, and other eateries, are great to check out too.

If you want to attend a performance when you are in Brevard, you can go to the Paul Porter Center of the Performing Arts, which is a venue that is part of Brevard College. You can attend various types of performances at this venue.

Wilmington, located in Eastern North Carolina, is one of the best cities you can visit in North Carolina with a lot to discover. From museums to historic architecture to viewpoints, there are lots of things to do in Wilmington .

Wilmington has a beautiful historic district with lots of grand mansions and other historic buildings.

A great way to explore the historic district is by doing a guided horse-drawn tour during which a costumed driver gives you a lot of information. These tours take 30 minutes in total and depart from Market Street.

You can find one of the best museums in Wilmington in the history district: the Bellamy Mansion Museum . This is a historic mansion from the 19th century and a great example of antebellum architecture.

Other interesting museums are the Wilmington Railroad Museum, the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science, and the Cameron Art Museum.

The Wilmington Riverwalk is a wonderful two-mile walkway along the Cape Fear River. The walkway offers a view of the Cape Fear River and is great for a relaxing stroll. There are many great restaurants on the Riverwalk where you can get delicious food with a view.

Another famous sight in the city is Battleship North Carolina , which is a fast battleship from the year 1940 that took part in various military operations of World War II. It is a museum ship and you can see all nine decks of the ship through a self-guided tour.

Beaufort, NC, is a small town that is located in Eastern North Carolina. The nearest larger city is Jacksonville, which you can reach by car in about 1 hour. The city of Wilmington can be reached in about 2 hours.

Beaufort is one of the oldest small towns in North Carolina and was established in 1713.

The town is home to historic sites, places with views, and much more.

When you are in the town, you can go to the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort , which is a museum where you can learn about maritime history.

The town also hosts numerous annual festivals throughout the year.

Durham, known as the Bull City, is one of the state’s most populous cities and can be found in the Triangle in Central North Carolina.

The city is home to Duke University, and you can find some of the best things to do in Durham on the campus of this university.

For example, you can find the Nasher Museum of Art , which is a museum with a collection of more than 13,000 objects from around the world, there. Another sight that you can see here is the Duke University Chapel, which is a chapel that was constructed in the year 1932.

Some of the best museums in the city, besides the Nasher Museum of Art, are the Museum of Life and Science, the NCCU Art Museum, and the Museum of Durham History.

When you are visiting Durham, the American Tobacco Campus is a great place in the city to go too.

This is a historic tobacco factory that dates back to the year 1874 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Nowadays, you can find a lot of restaurants, shops, and places with entertainment here.

Durham has a lot of great venues where you can see performances. Some great places are the Durham Performing Arts Center and the Carolina Theatre.

New Bern is a small city that also makes for a very fun place to visit in North Carolina. It is located close to the Atlantic coast in Eastern North Carolina. The town can be reached from Wilmington in about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

One of the best things to do in New Bern is to visit Tryon Palace . This is a building that used to be the official residence and the administrative building of the British governors of North Carolina. It was taken from the British in 1775. You can see the building and learn about its history by doing a guided tour.

You can also go to the New Bern Firemen’s Museum and learn about the history of firefighting in New Bern, or you can go to the North Carolina History Center to learn about the history of New Bern and the surrounding region.

The Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola is located in New Bern. This is the site where Pepsi-Cola was invented in the year 1898. You can learn about the history of the drink here and see lots of memorabilia.

It can also be fun to see a show of the New Bern Civic Theatre at the historic 1922 Athens Theatre while visiting New Bern. You can see dance shows, improv comedy, and lots of other shows here.

Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Beach is a small town that you can find on the Atlantic coast, next to the city of Wilmington, in Eastern North Carolina.

The town is great if you want to take in a view of the Atlantic Ocean, as there are a lot of places with views. For example, you can get a great view at the historic Crystal Pier, or you can get great food with a view of the ocean at the Shell Island Restaurant and Oceanfront Lounge.

Also, one of the best things to do in Wrightsville Beach is visiting the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History . This is a small museum where you can learn about the people and buildings of Wrightsville Beach.

A variety of events takes places in the town throughout the year, such as the North Carolina Holiday Flotilla, which is a 3-day festival during which there are many festivities, including an arts and crafts market, a boat parade, and a fireworks show.

Raleigh, NC, is the capital city of North Carolina and it is situated in Central North Carolina. There are many things to do in Raleigh , including learning new things at a museum, seeing performances, and so much more.

When visiting the city, there are many museums that are worthwhile to visit. For example, you can go to the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences and learn new things about science and nature.

You can also go to the North Carolina Museum of Art to see objects from the state from many periods of time.

Other interesting museums include CAM Raleigh , the City of Raleigh Museum, the North Carolina Museum of History, and the Gregg Museum of Art & Design.

When you want to see a performance or a movie in Raleigh, there are lots of venues to choose from. Some of the best places to see a performance or movie include the Kennedy Theatre, Marbles IMAX, the Raleigh Little Theatre , and the A.J. Fletcher Opera Theater.

If you want to see and learn about plants and flowers, it can be great to go to an event at the JC Raulston Arboretum, which is a botanical garden and arboretum of the North Carolina State University.

Besides these activities, there’s much more to do in the city.

Boone is one of the best small towns to visit in North Carolina. It is located near Blowing Rock, in Western North Carolina. There are many things to do in Boone , such as visiting a museum and doing a guided tour.

When you are visiting Boone, you can go to the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts, which is a center that belongs to the Appalachian State University. The center has free art galleries with contemporary art and events also take place at the center.

You can also do a guided tour of the Hickory Ridge Living History Museum, which is a museum where you can learn about the Colonial era in Boone.

Boone is also home to many places where you can have a fun time. For example, you can go to Mysterium Escape Adventure to play an escape game, you can bowl at High Country Lanes, or you can play miniature golf at Sunrise Mountain Mini Golf.

If you like sports, you can see a football game at the Kidd Brewer Stadium.

In addition to that, there are several places in Boone where you can attend a performance, such as the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country , which is a historic venue that dates back to the 1930s.

Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem is one of the largest cities in North Carolina and it is located in Central North Carolina, close to Greensboro.

From visiting a museum to seeing interesting sights to going to a show at a performing arts theater, there are a lot of things to do in Winston-Salem .

Some of the best museums in Winston-Salem are the Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art, the Reynolda House Museum of American Art , and the Winston Cup Museum.

There are also great things to do in Winston-Salem with kids , such as going to Kaleideum, which is a children’s museum where children can learn about all kinds of subjects through fun exhibits.

For a fun time, there are many places that are great to check out. For example, you can go to the Rockin’ Jump Trampoline Park, play games while having a drink at the Reboot Arcade Bar, or see a movie at a/perture.

If you like sports, you can go to Truist Stadium, and see a game of the Winston-Salem Dash, which is a team that competes in Minor League Baseball.

Greensboro is a city in Central North Carolina that is located close to Winston-Salem. There are many fun things to do in Greensboro , so you’ll have a great time when visiting.

You can go to the Greensboro Science Center. This is a science museum with various interesting exhibits and a zoo.

Some other great museums in Greensboro are the Greensboro History Museum , the Miriam P. Brenner Children’s Museum, and the Weatherspoon Art Museum.

Lots of events take place in the city throughout the year, including great events that take place at the city’s parks. For example, you can often attend events at Center City Park and LeBauer Park.

The city also has many venues where you can attend a performance. For example, you can go to the Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts for this. This is a modern theater where Broadway shows, concerts, and other types of shows take place.

Mooresville

Mooresville, a town in Central North Carolina that is situated next to Lake Norman and close to Charlotte, is also an incredible place to go to in North Carolina. From Charlotte, you can get to Mooresville in about 30 minutes.

Mooresville is known for being the home of lots of NASCAR racing teams, and there are many things to do in Mooresville related to racing.

When visiting the town, you can go to the North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame , which is a museum where you can learn about drag racing, stock car racing, and much more.

Another museum that can be great to visit is the Memory Lane Museum. At this museum, you can see more than 100 unique vehicles and memorabilia.

You can also find a lot of stores and eateries that can be great to visit when you are in the town. For example, you can shop at Main St. Antiques & Design Gallery , which is the largest antique mall in the Carolinas. You can also go to the Mooresville Ice Cream Parlor, which is the oldest ice cream brand that is still operating in North Carolina.

Fayetteville

Fayetteville, NC, is the largest city in Eastern North Carolina. The city is located next to Fort Liberty, which is one of the largest military bases in the world.

There are many museums in Fayetteville where you can learn new things. For example, you can go to the Airborne & Special Operations Museum to learn about the Special Operations and the Airborne division of the U.S. Army, and the Army in general, through lots of different exhibits.

Other museums in Fayetteville that you can go to are the Museum of the Cape Fear and the JFK Special Warfare Museum .

Fayetteville is also home to various historic landmarks that are great to see. For example, one of the best things to do in Fayetteville is to do a guided tour of the historic 1897 Poe House. You can also see the historic Market House.

If you want to have a fun time during which you play games and have a drink, you can go to the Stop Button Bar, which is an arcade bar.

It can be great to visit the city with kids as well, as there are many things to do with kids in Fayetteville . For example, you can go to the Fascinate-U Children’s Museum , which is a museum with hands-on exhibits.

The city also has a lot of venues where you can attend a performance or another event. For example, you can go to the Crown Coliseum for concerts, dance shows, ice shows, and much more.

Other venues in the city are the Gilbert Theater and the Cape Fear Reginal Theatre.

More North Carolina Articles

Day trips from Greensboro

Weekend trips from Raleigh

Day trips from Charlotte

Weekend trips from Winston-Salem

Day trips from Raleigh

North Carolina Places to Visit Tips

Some of the places that I mentioned in this article are located close to each other. When considering going to a place, it’s often easy to also visit another place.

For example, the cities Durham and Raleigh are near each other. By car, you can get from one city to the other in about 30 minutes, and you can also travel between the cities by train, which takes about 40 minutes.

Also, the towns of Boone and Blowing Rock are located near each other.

Asheville and Brevard are two places that are close to each other as well.

The map on this page can be used to see which spots in this North Carolina places to visit guide are located near each other as well.

Places to Visit in North Carolina Map

As you see, there are many great places to visit in North Carolina. Thanks for reading my guide!

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.

• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary navigation
• Skip to primary sidebar

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

15 Best Places To Visit In North Carolina (+ Unique Vacation Spots)

December 2, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in North Carolina, you’ve come to the right place! North Carolina is a beautiful state with a fantastic variety in its landscape. Starting in the western part of the Tarheel State, you will have many opportunities to chase waterfalls, hike, and see breathtaking views. Meanwhile, there are fun cities, hiking, wineries, and more in central North Carolina. Then as you move to the coast, you will find saltwater marshes, The Graveyard of The Atlantic, and a rich history complete with pirate treasure! With the beautiful variety in the state, you will be sure to find unique, beautiful, and exciting places to visit. No matter your travel style, you will find a city, site, or activity that will make for a unique and memorable vacation. While you’re in North Carolina, you should take the opportunity to try some of the food in the area. In towns across the state, you can find yummy foods like pimento cheese, seafood, fried green tomatoes, barbecue, and more! As you plan your trip to North Carolina, you will find that there is such an abundance of beautiful towns and sites to choose from, it can be hard to decide what to see first. This list of places to visit in North Carolina will help you determine what sites in the state are must-visits for you. So, get your bathing suits and hiking boots, and get ready to explore the beautiful state of North Carolina!

15 Best Places To Visit In North Carolina

Little switzerland.

When looking for places to visit in North Carolina, you won’t want to miss Little Switzerland ! Little Switzerland is an unincorporated community in both the McDowell and Mitchell counties, just an hour northeast of Asheville, NC. You could easily spend a few hours here enjoying the views and the atmosphere of the area.

Little Switzerland is truly one of the best Mountain Towns In North Carolina! Make sure you take the Blue Ridge Parkway to Little Switzerland so you can drive through the Little Switzerland Tunnel. Located at milepost 333.1 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the tunnel is one of the most incredible things to do in the area. Keep in mind that if you follow directions to Little Switzerland that have you coming in on a road that isn’t the Blue Ridge Parkway, you will end up driving over the tunnel instead of through it. There’s a lot to do in the area, including hiking, shopping, and eating delicious food! The Switzerland Inn Chalet Restaurant has a beautiful stone terrace where you can eat outside and take in the surrounding views. After you eat, you can grab sweets from The Swiss Shoppe. Here, you can try ice creams, candies, and fudge, and more. This is an excellent opportunity to buy a souvenir to take back home. (The Little Switzerland General Store is another great option!) There is also a church, museum, and the famous road known as the Dragons Backbone nearby. Where to stay: Entire Guest Suite in Haus Edelweiss on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Boone is one of the most beautiful places in North Carolina and is easily one of the best places to visit in North Carolina as well. Boone, North Carolina , is known for its beauty and outdoor adventures. The town is an excellent place for winter sports during the winter months. Appalachian Ski Mountain is the perfect place to be for winter sports enthusiasts and beginners alike. Of course, visiting for the views and atmosphere is just as great! Just a few minutes outside of Boone, you will find the Grandfather Vineyard & Winery. Get a taste of the local delicacies while enjoying the spectacular views! From the mountain overhead to the river that flows alongside the vineyard, this winery and vineyard is the perfect place to be to enjoy the beauty of the town of Boone. Arguably the most popular thing to do in Boone is to visit Grandfather Mountain. The mountain stands at 5,945 feet and has eleven trails for you to explore the area from. Black bears, otters, cougars, eagles, and more can be seen around Grandfather Mountain. Of course, you can’t miss the Mile High Swinging Bridge. The bridge will give you 360-degree views of the area. The path to and through the bridge is wheelchair accessible, and the bridge itself is 228 feet long. You will love this North Carolina vacation spot! Where to stay: Alpine Log Cabin

Rough Ridge Overlook

There are tons of natural wonders to see and experience in North Carolina. The natural beauty of the state is hard to beat! The Rough Ridge overlook is a perfect addition to any North Carolina road trip when deciding on places to go in North Carolina. Rough Ridge is a stunning natural feature in the Blue Ridge Mountains that has been an inspiration and a spot of solace for millions of people each and every year. There are three viewpoints along the Rough Ridge Trail, each offering a different view of this popular Ridge. The Rough Ridge Trail is actually a part of the Tanawha Trail, which is 13.5 miles in total. However, the Rough Ridge trail is just a 0.8-mile stint of the Tanawha Trail. This is a great trail for those who aren’t interested in hiking long distances, as you can hike less than a mile and still take in some of the most awe-inspiring views in the state. With that being said, you do not have to walk the full 0.8 miles of the trail to get to see the views of the Ridge. If you don’t want to walk the full length of the trail, that’s no problem at all! The first viewpoint on the trail is actually the most popular, and it is very easy to get to, even for inexperienced hikers, making it one of the best places to visit in North Carolina! The first Rough Ridge overlook has a series of wooden boardwalks built along the mountain, and they act as viewing platforms for the overlook. You will see for miles, catch a glimpse of the viaduct and the Blue Ridge Parkway that is built into the mountainsides. Where to stay: Renovated Mountain Home, 5 Mins to Downtown Boone!

Catawba Falls

Catawba Falls is a beautiful waterfall is around 25 miles east of Asheville, North Carolina, near Old Fort. This waterfall in the Pisgah National Forest is just three miles off of I-40. You can reach the falls via a 1.5-mile hiking trail. This trail is ranked moderate and is great for kids, dogs, and hikers of various experience levels, making it one of the best places to visit in North Carolina! The Catawba Falls Trail takes you through a relaxing and serene wooded area where you will make several small water crossings and see several smaller waterfalls before reaching Catawba Falls. The waterfall is 100 feet tall, has multiple tiers, and is surrounded by large rocks and a moss-covered cliff. The area around the waterfall and the waterfall itself are both stunning and make for a perfect place to enjoy nature, with the sounds of the waterfall helping you to feel relaxed and renewed. For adventurers and experienced hikers, you may want to belong gate your hike past Catawba Falls and take the strenuous hike to the beautiful Upper Falls. Upper Falls is 50 feet tall, and the hike, although strenuous, is only half a mile long. Whether you choose to only go to Catawba Falls or if you take it a step further and visit Upper Falls, you will be sure to have an amazing time exploring the beautiful North Carolina woods. Where To Stay: Jarret Creek Cottage

The city of Charlotte is one of the coolest places to see in North Carolina! There is so much to see and do that all types of travelers will be satisfied. Art-lovers, history buffs, foodies, and nature enthusiasts can all find the activities in Charlotte that they will be excited about. During the summer months, a visit to Carowinds may be right up your alley! Carowinds has all sorts of roller coasters and other rides for adrenaline junkies, and a waterpark as well. For those who like to check out museums when traveling, Charlotte has plenty for you to choose from! The Nascar Hall of Fame, Mint Museum Uptown, and the Levine Museum of the New South are all great options. Another exciting thing to do in Charlotte, North Carolina is the Whitewater Center where you can go rafting and kayaking along with other activities out of the water. There are many popular activities including ziplines and ropes courses, outdoor yoga, rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, and more! Charlotte is one of the best places to visit in North Carolina for many reasons. One of the biggest reasons is the food. Southern delicacies like fried green tomatoes, pimento cheese, fried chicken, and seafood can all be found in Charlotte. Good Food On Montford, Sea Level NC, Haymaker, and Brick Top’s are all restaurants where you can get a taste of some North Carolina goodness. Where To Stay: Hilton Charlotte Uptown

Chimney Rock

If you are a nature lover, there are many places in North Carolina that will pique your interest, one of the best of those is Chimney Rock State Park. The state park is located twenty-five miles southeast of Asheville. Chimney Rock is an outdoor enthusiast paradise. The rock is one of the most iconic sites in the state. It stands at more than a thousand feet high and draws in around a whopping 17 million each year. For hiking, you have a choice of ten hiking trails in the park. For those traveling with kids and for non-experienced hikers, you will be happy to know that you can find several trails in the park that are less than one mile. These shorter trails still offer views and serenity in the park despite their short length. For those who love to hike, the Weed Patch Mountain Trail is the longest trail in the park and is a great way to explore the remote wilderness of the park. The trail is 8.5 miles long and will take you over rough and rugged mountain terrain and you may find yourself sharing the trail with rock climbers and mountain bikers. These activities along with fishing are all possible in the park as well. There’s also a concession stand and a restaurant in the park that is open year-round near the front gate of the park. Where To Stay: The Chimney Rock Inn & Cottage s

Drive The Blue Ridge Parkway

A drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway is a must-add to any North Carolina road trip bucket list! The Blue Ridge Parkway starts in Northern Virginia, just south of the Shenandoah Valley and it crosses through 29 counties in both Virginia and North Carolina. The parkway runs for 469 miles and showcases one of the most beautiful areas of the United States. You could easily spend days exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway and the surrounding areas. The ideal time to drive the parkway is either the summer or fall months. Fall foliage along the Blue Ridge Parkway is legendary. The fall colors typically pop sometime in October and millions of visitors come from around the world to see their splendor. There are many popular stops along the Blue Ridge Parkway. You will find Mount Mitchell at milepost 355.4. Mount Mitchell is at 6,684 feet and is the highest peak in the Appalachian Mountains. It’s a great stop along the parkway where you can get incredible 360-degree views from the observation deck. Some other great options for your drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway include Craggy Gardens at milepost 364.1, the Folk Art Center at milepost 382, and Sliding Rock at milepost 411.8. The Blue Ridge Parkway is by far one of the best places to visit in North Carolina! Where To Stay: Carter ridge- On The River

When looking for North Carolina vacation spots it’s only natural that beach towns come to your mind. Nags Head is one of the best beaches in the Outer Banks and one of the most pristine beaches in the South. The Outer Banks are a beautiful part of the state of North Carolina that has a vast and interesting history as it pertains to the state and the country as a whole. Nags Head is beautiful and had many exciting things to do. One of the most iconic and exciting things to do is to visit the Bodie Island Lighthouse. At this lighthouse, there is a long wooden boardwalk and viewing deck where you can get truly awe-inspiring views over the marshlands and the lighthouse which are particularly wonderful at sunset. Don’t forget to check out some of the best things to do in Nags Head. Jockey’s Ridge State Park in Nags Head is another must-see in town. The state park is home to the largest living sand dune along the east coast of the United States. The park is free and is perfect for travelers of all ages. The park is perfect for hang gliding, flying kites, hiking, or watching the sunrise or sunset. If you have never hang glided before, no worries! You can take lessons and try your hand at it yourself with help from experienced hang gliders. Nags Head is a fun and beautiful town along the east coast and is one of the best places to visit in North Carolina! Where To Stay: Oasis Suites Hotel

Visit The Biltmore

The Biltmore Estate is a private home located in Asheville, North Carolina. The home was built in the late 1800s. The home is massive and has 250 rooms, including 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, and 65 unique fireplaces. Given the size of this estate, you could spend hours at the estate exploring the rooms and grounds. The estate is quite iconic in the state of North Carolina and has found its way onto many North Carolina Bucket Lists as it’s one of many cool places to visit in North Carolina. At the estate, you can take an audio tour of the house which is included in your ticket price. (The audio tour lasts for 40 minutes.) You can also explore the gardens around the home. The estate has an Italian Garden, an Herbal Garden, and a Walled Garden. The most popular of the three is the Walled Garden as it has something blooming year-round, depending on the season. One of the coolest things about the Biltmore is that has a Christmas Store that is open all year long. It’s there that you can find turn-of-the-century style decorations and ornaments. This is a great place to get souvenirs while in North Carolina. The Biltmore Estate also has a well-loved conservatory. It’s a large greenhouse building that is warm year-round, making it a favorite place to visit during the winter months. The conservatory is full of exotic plants and has great views of the terrace Butterfly Garden and the Walled Garden. These are just a few of the exciting things to do at Biltmore that all add up to making the estate one of the best places to visit in North Carolina. Where To Stay: Cottages On Biltmore Estate

Blowing Rock

Blowing Rock is one of the cutest small towns in North Carolina and one of the best places to visit in North Carolina as well. Blowing Rock has amazing shopping in the historic downtown. Walking around and shopping at the shops is a lot of fun when in town. There are jewelry shops, antique shops, galleries, and more for you to check out while you’re there. You may also want to check out the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum while you’re there as well as it is a super informative museum that teaches about local culture and traditions in the area. Plus, it’s free! You will find many beautiful churches in town that play an important role in the history of the area. They are great places to take pictures and learn a little about the history of the town. During non-service hours you can usually take a step inside the buildings to see the beautiful interiors. If you find yourself running on fumes, head to Bald Guy Brew for an eco-friendly and socially responsible cup of Joe!

Make sure to check out our list of the best Breweries In North Carolina to find some of your favorite local craft beer. The Linn Cove Viaduct near Blowing Rock is a huge attraction in the area. It’s situated on the face of Grandfather Mountain. It’s a beautiful feature that is built into the mountain and is a popular place for photographers. Last, but not least, you may want to also check out the Tweetsie Railroad. (especially if traveling with kids) The Tweetsie Railroad has amusement rides, entertainment, and two historic trains. You can ride the trains during regular park hours or during special events. There are holiday events each year that add extra fun to a visit to Tweetsie. Where To Stay: Chetola Resort at Blowing Rock (lodge)

Carolina Beach

Carolina Beach is a coastal town along the central portion of the North Carolina coast. The town is a popular vacation spot for those living in central North Carolina and people from visiting out of state as well. The town is known for its boardwalk. The Carolina Beach Boardwalk has restaurants, amusement rides, and more fun waiting for its visitors. If you are traveling with kids, a short drive to the Aquarium and Fort Fisher is a great option to add to your itinerary. Fort Fisher State Historic Site is a site near Carolina Beach that has indoor exhibits and the remains of an old Civil War fort. For history lovers, this is one of the best places to visit near Carolina Beach. If you are looking for a place to hike in the area, picnic, or maybe just have a piece of sandy beach to yourself, then Carolina Beach State Park is the place to be! You can find small beach accesses near trails and picnic areas within the park that make for a great way to get away from any crowds that might be in the area during the summer months. Carolina Beach is one of the best places to visit in North Carolina! Where To Stay: Carolina Beach Inn

Asheville is easily one of the best vacation spots in North Carolina! This town in N.C. has a plethora of sites, trails, and attractions to keep every type of traveler happy during their stay. Asheville is known for many things. One of those is its art scene. That art scene is so vibrant and healthy that it is overflowing onto the streets of Asheville, make sure to check out the street art during your visit. For outdoor lovers, you will find many hiking trails in and around Asheville . The easy to moderate Craggy Pinnacle Trail is one of the most popular ones trail around Asheville. The trail typically takes about 20 minutes to hike and offers hikers 360-degree views of the valley below. There are also many waterfalls in Asheville that nature lovers will love. There’s also an amazing food scene in Asheville. Restaurants in Asheville are plentiful and they serve a variety of palates. You can find international cuisine, fine dining, and local-focused menus in town. There are also plenty of breweries in Asheville to visit as well, like the Bhramari Brewing Co. You may also be interested in checking out some of the coffee shops in town , like the Liberty Cafe. You’re sure to fall in love with Asheville, as it is one of the best places to visit in North Carolina! Where To Stay: Cambria Hotel Downtown Asheville

Crabtree Falls

If you ask around about where to visit in North Carolina, you will definitely hear people recommending the beautiful waterfalls in the Tar Heel State! Of all the waterfalls you have to choose from, Crabtree Falls should be a top contender! Crabtree Falls is simply one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in North Carolina! Thanks to the cool mist that comes from the waterfall, the surrounding area is full of thriving greenery, including moss, ferns, and wildflowers galore. This makes for spectacular mystic vibes at the base of the waterfall! There are two ways for you to get to Crabtree Falls. You can take a 3-mile out and back trail that has a steady slope you will need to ascend on your return from the waterfall. Your second option is to take the more strenuous 3.5-mile loop trail that climbs rocky terrain up a steep ridge over the falls. Both will allow you to experience this fantastic North Carolina waterfall! Where to stay: La Petite Chalet Cottage

Climb Clingmans Dome

When looking for North Carolina attractions, take a look at the North Carolina and Tennessee border. At the border, you will find the Clingmans Dome. At 6,643 feet,  Clingman’s Dome  is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The observation tower at the top is a highlight of any trip to this mountain range. From the parking lot, you will walk up a very steep half-mile trail before you reach the observation tower. With how steep this trail is, you will want to make sure you leave enough time for breaks on the way up to the tower. The observation tower provides jaw-dropping, 360-degree views of the mountains. On a clear day, you can see for a hundred miles and into all seven states of Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina, Virginia, Georgia, Alabama, and South Carolina. Clingman’s Dome is one of the best things to do in the Smoky Mountains and also one of the best places to visit in North Carolina as a whole. Make sure not to miss this cool North Carolina attraction! Where To Stay: Stonebrook Lodge

Raleigh is easily one of the best places in North Carolina to visit! Raleigh is a lively city that is full of history, delicious food, and other fun things to do! Due to the central location and cool attractions, the city welcomes millions of visitors every year. Whether you are a foodie, history buff, or love outdoor activities when traveling, you will find tons of cool things to do in Raleigh! There are many cool museums in Raleigh, many of them free. First, you want to make sure you don’t pass up the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. The museum is the largest natural history museum in the southeast. It spans more than two city blocks and has four levels of interactive exhibits to entertain people of all ages. The North Carolina Museum of History shouldn’t be overlooked either. The museum is next door to the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences and the capitol building, making it a great place to visit if you are walking around downtown Raleigh. Other fun things to do in Raleigh include visiting the Raleigh Farmer’s Market, Pullen Park where family travelers can have fun at the 5th oldest amusement park in the country, and the Raleigh Brewing Company where you can enjoy food trucks and local brews. Where To Stay: Clarion Pointe Raleigh Midtown

North Carolina is a wonderfully diverse state with loads of memorable activities to participate in and beautiful sites to see. Without a doubt, the state caters to all types of travelers. From coastal wetlands and pirate history to mountain views and bustling cities, get ready for your exciting and memorable trip to North Carolina! Which of these best places to visit in North Carolina will you visit first?

• Last Updated On
• June 24, 2023

15 Best Places to Visit in North Carolina — Fun & Unique Places to Go!

There’s something fascinating and satisfying for everyone in the Tar Heel State.

With its Old South charm, jaw-dropping mountains and pristine beaches, North Carolina bursts with unforgettable activities.

From tranquil coastal getaways to lively cities, the state has infinite vacation possibilities.

And, to help you decide which NC destination is right for your next trip, we’ve rounded up the best places to visit in North Carolina.

1. Chimney Rock State Park

Chimney Rock, NC 28720 (828) 625-9611

Encompassing 8,014 acres, this state-owned park is a paradise for outdoor adventurers and nature lovers.

Why You Should Visit This Place

Up for some exhilarating outdoor activities, but don’t know what to do in North Carolina?

Then, don’t forget to put this state park at the top of your list of places to travel in North Carolina.

With miles of scenic trails and an iconic 300-foot monolith, this park will surely quench your thirst for outdoor adventure.

Plus, it offers ample opportunities for wildlife viewing.

An Expert Tip Before You Go

If you’re visiting the park in summer, we recommend arriving early to beat the crowds and heat.

Also, bring some snacks and a lot of drinking water since convenient amenities are limited.

2. Bald Head Island

Bald Head Island, NC 28461 (910) 457-9700

Nestled in Cape Fear, this 5.86-square-mile village is one of the most laid-back and idyllic destinations in North Carolina.

If you’re on the hunt for relaxing and serene vacation spots, look no further than Bald Head Island.

Not only does it have a relaxed atmosphere, but it also features over 10 miles of pristine beaches.

Not to mention, it has a first-rate golf course, maritime forests and marshes.

Pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes or bring your own bike on your visit to his island.

Cars are not allowed on the island, meaning you need to walk or bike to see its popular sites.

Related: Best Things to Do in North Carolina

3. Hanging Rock State Park — Danbury

1790 Hanging Rock Park Rd Danbury, NC 27016 (336) 593-8480

Established in 1935, this 9,011-acre state park is listed on the US National Register of Historic Places.

Known for its bare rock peaks, sheer cliffs and serene forests, this state park entices travelers with its spectacular scenery.

What’s more, the park has gorgeous trails, and interpretive programs that give you insights about the park and its surrounding areas.

Hike the 2.2-mile-long Cook’s Wall Trail.

Once you reach the peak of this trail, you’ll see the famous Pilot Mountain and enjoy vistas of soaring eagles.

In autumn, this trail will entice you with its alluring fall foliage.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn Mount Airy

4. The Biltmore Estate — Asheville

1 Lodge St Asheville, NC 28803 (800) 411-3812

In 1966, this must-visit Chateauesque mansion earned a spot on the US National Register of Historic Places.

The Biltmore Estate is truly one of the most exquisite places to see in North Carolina.

With its striking architecture and expansive gardens, this estate is filled with Instagrammable sights at every turn.

Moreover, it has 250 rooms housing antiques, vintage clothes and artwork.

Get your tickets to the mansion in advance online to secure a spot.

Keep in mind that Biltmore is incredibly popular, meaning tickets often sell out.

Also, visit the Biltmore Winery to enjoy the complimentary wine tasting (included in your ticket).

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Inn On Biltmore Estate

Related: Best Beaches in North Carolina

5. Wilmington

Wilmington, NC 28401

Founded in the early 18th century, this port city teems with historical attractions.

Searching for more cool and unique places to visit in North Carolina?

Trust me, you’re going to love Wilmington .

With its old-world homes and historical attractions, this riverfront city gives you a glimpse of its beautiful past.

As a bonus, this town offers easy and instant access to several outstanding beaches.

Planning on visiting the city’s historic homes?

You might want to grab a discounted 3-hour passport.

It’s cheaper than buying individual tickets to historic homes, like the Latimer House, Burgin-Wright House and Bellamy.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Related: Best Places to Eat in Wilmington

6. Blue Ridge Parkway — Asheville

Blue Ridge Parkway Asheville, NC 28803

Stretching for 469 miles, this All-American Road is the longest linear park in the country.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a can’t-miss, bucket-list-worthy experience. In fact, this parkway boasts some of the most breathtaking sights and beautiful places to visit near you.

With scenic overlooks and a max speed of 45 MPH, this highway provides plenty of opportunities to soak up the scenery.

You don’t have to drive the whole parkway to experience a memorable trip along this stretch.

There are, after all, a number of noteworthy attractions within 19 miles of Asheville.

Milepost 355.4, for one, is home to the tallest point in the area: Mount Mitchell.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Omni Grove Park Inn – Asheville

Related: Weekend Getaways in North Carolina

7. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences — Raleigh

11 W Jones St Raleigh, NC 27601 (919) 707-9800

Open to the public for free, this educational museum in downtown Raleigh is educational and awe-inspiring.

There’s nothing quite like this museum.

Although this museum is free for everyone, it has outstanding, world-class exhibits that are worth a million bucks.

Through its educational presentations and interactive exhibits, this museum is also an educational experience.

Don’t hesitate to ask the staff anything related to their exhibits.

They are highly trained, and more than willing to share interesting tidbits about their displays.

Also, drop by the cafe, and indulge in any of their delectable and reasonably priced food.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The StateView Hotel, Autograph Collection

Related: Best Waterpark Hotels in North Carolina

8. Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Nags Head, NC 27959 (252) 473-2111

Operated by the National Park Service, this 70-mile stretch is packed with recreational activities.

You can find it in Nags Head .

There’s more to this national seashore than its untouched and splendid beaches.

Rich in wildlife and history, this park also appeals to other kinds of travelers.

There are also outdoor pursuits available here, including kayaking.

For a unique and memorable experience, climb to the top of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse.

Also, if you want to enjoy a relaxing stroll along the beach, visit the seashore at low tide.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hatteras Island Inn

Related: Places to Eat: Nags Head, NC

9. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, NC 28719 (865) 436-1200

Straddling the Tennessee-North Carolina border, this 522,419-acre park provides an outdoor escape like no other.

Great Smoky is one of the top places to go in North Carolina for an amazing vacation.

A mecca for intrepid outdoor lovers, this free national park is a prime destination for hiking and hiking.

Additionally, it has a bevy of majestic waterfalls, wildlife, and educational exhibits.

Batteries, camping supplies and groceries are a bit more expensive at the camp stores within the park.

So, bring your own suppliers from home or make a pit stop at a grocery store in any of the nearby towns.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Super 8 by Wyndham Cherokee

10. Grandfather Mountain — Linville

2050 Blowing Rock Highway Linville, NC 28646

Standing at 5,946 feet, this towering landmark is the tallest mountain on Blue Ridge’s eastern escarpment.

Grandfather Mountain is a breathtaking natural wonder with challenging hikes and refreshing mountain breeze.

With its rare wildflowers and stellar views, this mountain is ideal for photographers and Instagrammers too.

You can feel more connected to the area you’re about to explore by viewing the exhibits at the Nature Museum.

From its large amethyst to its innovative theater, the museum has a variety of beguiling and informative exhibits about the mountain.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Bluegreen Vacations Blue Ridge Village, an Ascend Resort

11. Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem, NC 27023

Founded in the 1700s by Moraivians, this twin city entralls travelers in a variety of ways.

Winston-Salem is truly one of the top places to visit in North Carolina.

With its blooming arts scene and historical charm, this destination will keep you occupied for weeks.

And, guess what?

Winston-Salem also has delightful wines and vibrant nightlife spots.

Start your trip on the right foot with a visit to the New Winston Museum.

Through a range of artifacts and exhibits, this museum will give you an insight into some of the town’s most beloved historical landmarks.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hawthorne Inn & Conference Center

12. Raleigh

Raleigh, NC 27513

While well-known as a center for higher education and research, the state capital is an excellent choice for an inexpensive vacation.

Wondering where to go in North Carolina for a cheap getaway?

Do yourself a favor, and indulge in an enriching and affordable vacation in Raleigh.

With a bundle of admission-free museums and attractions, you can spend days exploring the city’s top spots without breaking the bank.

Save money on transportation by taking the city’s hybrid circulator public bus, R-LINE.

It’s free for everyone, and makes over 12 stops throughout the city’s downtown area.

Related: Best Places to Eat in Raleigh

13. Charlotte

Charlotte , NC 28105 (704) 336-7600

Nicknamed the Queen City, this bustling metropolis in the Piedmont region is a feast for the senses.

Charlotte is, no doubt, one of the best cities to visit in North Carolina.

Whether you’re an art aficionado, culture hound or dedicated foodie , you’ll find a ton of fantastic places of interest in Charlotte.

And, did we mention that it’s a dream destination for sports fans?

Charlotte’s public transit system isn’t as convenient and well-connected as in some major cities.

So, we recommend driving your own car to navigate Charlotte.

You may also take ride-hailing services, like Lyft and Uber to get around the city.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Ivey’s Hotel

14. Asheville

Asheville, NC 28715 (828) 258-6129

Founded in 1787, the state’s 12th most populous city is home to some of the top North Carolina tourist attractions.

Asheville epitomizes the best of North Carolina.

Famous for its historic architecture and lively arts scene, this city is also filled with outdoor attractions and cultural marvels.

Even better, this hipster haven has a burgeoning beer scene and scores of fantastic restaurants .

Stop by the city’s visitor center in the downtown area.

Besides providing a wealth of information about the city, it also has year-round coupons for the most popular attractions.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Four Points by Sheraton Asheville Downtown

15. The Outer Banks

Outer Banks, NC 27915 (252) 473-2138

Lining the North Carolina coastline, this 200-mile collection of barrier islands will fascinate you in a variety of ways.

No list of the best places to visit in North Carolina is complete without the Outer Banks.

Perfect for relaxation, this destination will rejuvenate your weary spirit with its serene beaches.

Furthermore, it offers a plethora of outdoor pursuits, including hang gliding and horseback riding.

Try to avoid visiting the Outer Banks in summer.

Prices for lodging usually skyrocket when the summer crowds arrive on these islands.

So, visit them during the offseason instead.

And, don’t worry, as most of the attractions are still open during the colder months.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Avon Motel

North Carolina Places to Visit: The 15 Best Places to Go for 2024

• Chimney Rock State Park
• Bald Head Island
• Hanging Rock State Park — Danbury
• The Biltmore Estate — Asheville
• Blue Ridge Parkway — Asheville
• North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences — Raleigh
• Cape Hatteras National Seashore
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Grandfather Mountain — Linville
• Winston-Salem
• The Outer Banks

18 Best Places to Visit in North Carolina

By: Author Susan Moore

Posted on Last updated: February 25, 2024

When planning your next trip to North Carolina you’ll be delighted to see that this state has a diverse range of things to do and see. Specifically, the different landscapes in the state are seriously impressive. You can head to the Outer Banks to spend the day on the sandy Atlantic beaches, or to the tranquil mountain forests. The choice is yours.

To help you make the most of your next trip, this list has 18 of the best places to visit in North Carolina . This way you’ll be able to plan your itinerary, picking from North Carolina’s best vacation spots .

Places to Visit in North Carolina

1.    great smoky mountains national park.

At the top of the best places to visit in North Carolina is the spectacular Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The park covers land in both North Carolina and Tennessee. But coming from the NC side, there’s so much to do and see.

Your itinerary will be packed with things like hiking, biking, and driving the scenic Newfound Gap Road . Clingmans Dome and the Oconaluftee Visitor Center are must-visits in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Read our full list of the best things to do in GSMNP

The Great Smoky Mountains provide adventure in the outdoors along with historic sites and beautiful scenic drives

2.    Blue Ridge Parkway

Running from Virginia into North Carolina, the Blue Ridge Parkway is an absolute treat. A drive along this scenic road will take you through the glorious mountain range with spectacular views.

There are plenty of places to pull off to get a better look and even get further in the natural beauty by hiking. You’ll love stopping at towns along the parkway like Boone and Elkin.

No wonder it’s one of the best places to visit in North Carolina, and it’s also on our list of best road trips in the USA!

Try to visit in October when the fall foliage is at it’s best, I drove the Blue Ridge Parkway from October 10 – 15 in 2022 and the fall leaves were beautiful shades of yellow, orange, and red with the evergreen trees interspersed. So pretty!

For the perfect North Carolina road trip drive the Blue Ridge Parkway especially beautiful in autumn

3.    Outer Banks

In the summertime there’s no better place to be than the Outer Banks.

The world-class sandy beaches along the Atlantic are ideal for everyone and anyone, making it one of North Carolina’s best vacation spots.

In fact it’s one of the best summer vacation spots on the East Coast .

Off the beach you’ll find plenty to do including strolling the quaint towns, looking for Corolla Wild Horses , visiting Jockey’s Ridge State Park , and learning about the first flight at the Wright Brothers’ Memorial .

Summer on the East Coast? How about Outer Bank North Carolina for sun and sand

4.    Asheville

The gem in the Blue Ridge Mountains is the great city of Asheville . This unique place is a perfect balance between urban and outdoors. I loved that I could hop on the Blue Ridge Parkway for a scenic drive to gorgeous hiking trails as a day trip from Asheville.

Creative minds in Asheville have contributed to both a vibrant art scene and foodie-approved restaurant offerings.

While walking around downtown Asheville you’ll spot some cool art murals in the alleys and in between the shops, bars, and eateries. I stayed downtown and really enjoyed exploring downtown and found amazing murals on my daily walks.

It’s easy to fill your Asheville itinerary with things like hiking the Pisgah National Forest , visiting the Biltmore Estate , strolling the River Arts District , and sipping local craft beer.

No wonder it’s one of North Carolina’s best vacation spots.

You can’t miss the Chicken Alley mural in Asheville NC!

5.    Hanging Rock State Park

Hanging Rock is a stellar state park in North Carolina. The 18 miles of trails will take you through the beautiful forest, past waterfalls and over peaks.

Hanging Rock has places to rock climb and even a beach to swim. If you’re looking to extend your time in the park, consider setting up camp.

Hanging Rock has a campsite that’s perfect. It goes without saying that the must-do is hiking up to Hanging Rock itself. The view is breathtaking. 

6.    Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Cape Hatteras National Seashore is one of the best places to visit in North Carolina for beach goers.

Located on the barrier island, it’s North Carolina’s furthest point east.

The wide beaches are filled with soft sand and crashing waves of the Atlantic. You’ll love to spend the day playing in the sand and cooling off in the water.

The national seashore is also a great place to kayak and spot wildlife in the refuge.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore is one of the top vacation spots in the southeast .

Cape Hatteras is one of the best spots for a vacation on the East Coast

7.    Chimney Rock State Park

Located about 40 mins away from Asheville is the wonderful Chimney Rock State Park.

Yet another example of the beautiful North Carolina landscape that is inviting to anyone who wants to explore the great outdoors.

Varied hiking trails allow folks to choose their appropriate level of difficulty.

For an alternative to hiking at Chimney Rock State Park, you can play mini golf and mine for gems at Chimney Rock Gemstone Mine.

8.    Charlotte

Charlotte’s popularity has grown over the past few decades and it’s clear why.

This fabulous city has something for just about anyone, solidifying its presence on this list of the best places to visit in North Carolina.

As a bustling urban center, it has everything from great shopping, restaurants, and culture.

Nature is at arm’s reach in the city too. Just hop on Charlotte’s Greenway on foot or bike to get a dose of green.

Charlotte is the biggest city in North Carolina

9.    Grandfather Mountain

Grandfather Mountain is known far and wide as being the one with the awesome swinging suspension bridge.

All the way up at a mile high, it’s actually the highest in America, that’s one of the reasons it’s one of the coolest places to visit in North Carolina.

Once you’ve experienced walking the bridge there are so many other things at Grandfather Mountain that you’ll love to do. Head out on the hiking trails or to the Nature Museum .

10.    Raleigh

Intellectual thinking is the theme in Raleigh, North Carolina’s capital. Beyond being the home to the state government, it’s also where you’ll find 10 universities including NC State.

There are also tons of museums to visit like the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences and NC Museum of Art .

You can also get out into nature in Raleigh at the Umstead State Park or the Historic Yates Mill County Park with a lakeside trail, a beautiful boardwalk, and of course the historic mill.

With so much to do, it’s clear that Raleigh is one of the best places to visit in North Carolina.

Spend some time exploring the Historic Yates Mill County Park in Raleigh NC

11.    Pisgah National Forest

The Pisgah National Forest is such an important feature of the North Carolina landscape that so many of the great things to do in the state are found within its borders.

For example, the Biltmore Estate is located in the forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway passes right through it.

Pisgah is the best place for outdoor fun.

You can hike, bike, fish, and swim in the forest. A favorite is climbing Mt. Mitchell , the tallest mountain on the east coast.

12.    Old Salem

Step back in time at Old Salem. This living history museum showcases the development of this area and lives of the people within it.

Here you’ll explore several historic buildings including individual homes, the Boys’ School, Single Brothers’ House, and gunsmith.

Don’t miss a stop at the Winkler Bakery , the oldest continuously run bakery in the country.

If you really want to get into it, consider staying at the bed and breakfast in Old Salem.

Visit Winkler Bakery in Old Salem – one of the best attractions in North Carolina

13.    Lake Lure

A huge claim to fame for Lake Lure is that it’s where the movie Dirty Dancing was filmed.

That’s right, you’ll recognize the lake from the scene where Baby and Johnny practice the lift move in the water.

If you’re really a big fan, you can take a Dirty Dancing guided tour of Lake Lure .

Okay, so Lake Lure is actually one of the best places to visit in North Carolina besides being the site of this iconic film.

You’ll love spending a day on the sandy beach and going for a dip in the crips lake water. Definitely check out the Flowering Bridge . 

14.    Wilmington

Wilmington is a great combination of bustling city, historic sites, and vacation ready beaches.

So, it’s a no-brainer that Wilmington is one of North Carolina’s best vacation spots.

Its proximity to the Atlantic makes the journey to the beach a breeze. With Wrightsville Beach so close you can spend a whole day on the beach or just part. 

Access to water is the reason Wilmington has such a long history. You’ll love strolling the historic district and Riverwalk .

Taking a stroll along the Riverwalk in Wilmington is one of the best things to do in North Carolina

15.    Boone

Follow in the steps of the great explorer Daniel Boone in the town of Boone, NC.

It’s said he cherished this beautiful area of the Blue Ridge Mountains and it’s no wonder why.

The beautiful landscape is rich with natural beauty making it one of the best places to visit in North Carolina.

Today, it’s easy to enjoy the landscape as Boone did along the Hebron Falls Trail and Cascades Trail . Head into town for great restaurants, bars, and shops.

Boone North Carolina is named in honor of Daniel Boone

16.    Linville Falls

If you’re interested in seeing one of the most beautiful waterfalls in North Carolina, set your sights on Linville Falls.

Located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 316 , it’s one of the great stops for anyone enjoying this scenic drive and one of the best places to visit in North Carolina. If you’re staying in Asheville you can get to Linville Falls in about an hour.

To reach the falls hiking is required. Depending on your comfort level, choose from two trails. On each, you’ll be rewarded by seeing the beautiful falls.

At milepost 316 you will find Linville Falls (after a hike) on the Blue Ridge Parkway

17.    Little Switzerland

Chances are you’ve heard of this fabulous little community in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.

Perfectly positioned along the Blue Ridge Parkway (milepost 334), it’s like you’ve left the US and been transported to the Swiss Alps (hence the name).

Mimicking the beautiful landscape buildings in this area look like they’re straight out of Europe.

You’ll absolutely love visiting the shops, restaurants and the Little Switzerland Inn all which make it one of the best places to visit in North Carolina.

18.    Chapel Hill

Part of the “Research Triangle”, one of Chapel Hill’s defining features is the presence of UNC Chapel Hill.

You’ll love strolling through the beautiful campus even if you’re not headed to classes.

The village of Chapel Hill is delightfully abuzz with energy. You’ll love the quaint town with all of the places to eat, grab a coffee and window shop.

Definitely make a visit to both Ackland Museum of Art and Morehead Planetarium and Science Center .

You’ll find this neoclassical rotunda at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill campus

Final Thoughts on Best Places to Visit in NC

It’s clear that North Carolina has so many different things to see and do. Your days in the Tar Heel State will be filled with everything from busting cities to escaping into the wilderness. No matter what you’re looking to do, this bucket list of the best places to visit in North Carolina has it.

Save it to Pinterest!

North Carolina Mountains

Invigorate all your senses, including your sense of wonder.

North Carolina’s Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains are well known for attractions like the Blue Ridge Parkway and Appalachian Trail. But our western region offers so much more to explore, from farm-fresh foods and some of the country’s best craft beer to the Land of Waterfalls and one of the oldest rivers on the continent.

Learn how you can make it your nature to preserve the beauty of these natural wonders for years – and generations – to come.

High Country

Enjoy mile-high views at Grandfather Mountain, visit landmark country stores, and hike, ski and snowboard the highest peaks in the East.

Grandfather Mountain • Tweetsie Railroad • Linn Cove Viaduct • Skiing, Snowboarding & Winter Sports • Hiking, Biking & Camping • Linville Falls • Wine Country

Smoky Mountains & Cherokee

Explore the beauty of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cherokee, the nation’s first fly fishing trail and “The Gem Capital of the World”.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park • Tail of the Dragon • Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort • Fontana Dam • Rafting, Cycling & Fly Fishing • Gem Mining

Asheville & the Foothills

Discover Chimney Rock, Lake Lure and other outdoor sights as well as the quirky charm of this region’s arts, dining and craft breweries.

Biltmore • Hiking, Camping & Zip Lining • Blue Ridge Parkway • Chimney Rock & Lake Lure • Craft Beer • Sliding Rock & Waterfalls

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations
• North Carolina

North Carolina's Biggest City Is Home to the Largest Human-made Whitewater River

Here’s how to plan a trip to Charlotte, the largest city in North Carolina.

Best Hotels

• Best Things to Do

Best Restaurants

Best shopping, best time to visit, neighborhoods to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

Sean Pavone/Getty Images

If you regularly travel the East Coast, there’s a good chance you’ve had a layover or two in Charlotte. To understand the vibrance and dynamic nature of North Carolina’s most populous city, though, you’ll need to make your way out of the airport terminals and into the neighborhoods that comprise the bustling metropolis and surrounding areas.

“Charlotte has many different cultures, and their influence can be seen and experienced throughout the city,” explains Andres Kaifer, the executive chef and owner of Customshop . From its robust culinary scene — it regularly boasts James Beard Award nominees — to its art galleries, esteemed museums, and appreciation of green spaces and public parks, the Queen City repeatedly proves its role as a financial center is just part of its larger narrative. Yes, Bank of America’s headquarters are located in Uptown Charlotte, but the city is also the home of NASCAR , the Carolina Panthers, and the Charlotte Hornets. As Ashley Creft, co-founder of Charlotte Black-Owned (@ cltblackowned ), shares, Charlotte is “very diverse, and there are lots of opportunities to connect with locally-owned and BIPOC-owned businesses in the city,” many of which you’ll discover below. 

Scroll on to read Travel + Leisure ’s guide to Charlotte, North Carolina.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Book a five-star stay at The Ritz Carlton, Charlotte, which recently completed a multimillion-dollar renovation.
• Root for the Carolina Panthers, the Charlotte Hornets, Charlotte FC, or the Charlotte Knights while on their home turf. 
• Take a tasting tour of some of Charlotte’s best breweries — The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, Divine Barrel Brewing, and Resident Culture Brewing among them. 
• Fill up on Southern fare at Jimmy Pearls. 
• Plan your trip in the spring or fall to experience Charlotte’s best weather (and fewer crowds).

The Ritz Carlton, Charlotte

The Ritz Carlton, Charlotte comes recommended by Kaifer, who credits its “easy accessibility to the light rail” and newly renovated wellness amenities as top reasons to book a stay. With a pool, steam room, hot tub, and sauna, the Uptown hotel’s spa is the perfect place to relax after a travel day — or before a big night out in Charlotte. 

The Ivey's Hotel

Another Uptown favorite, The Ivey’s Hotel has 47 rooms decorated to give off a “Parisian-style elegance with modern luxury” vibe. In its past life, the building functioned as The Ivey's Department Store (which opened in 1924). Today, it offers guests a range of comfortable rooms and amenities, including a 1,500-square-foot fitness center, the cozy Library Lounge, and a daily complimentary wine social.

The Ballantyne, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Charlotte

Courtesy of The Ballantyne

As the name suggests, The Ballantyne, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Charlotte is located in the upscale Ballantyne neighborhood, 20 minutes south of Uptown. Ideal for travelers who want to be away from the city center (or closer to The Amp Ballantyne ), it’s the type of hotel where you’re more than happy to spend time relaxing on the property — there’s even an outdoor pool, indoor pool, and spa.

Grand Bohemian Hotel Charlotte, Autograph Collection

“For mainstream hotel folks, I think the Grand Bohemian has the most character,” says Corri Smith, owner of Black Wednesday . She shares that its “stellar location in Uptown” is also a plus, but the inside of the property is unexpectedly artistic and bohemian, a contrast from the more buttoned-up look of the neighborhood. 

Best Things to Do 

Elizabeth W. Kearley/Getty Images

Raft the largest human-made whitewater river in the world.

If everyone in your party is eight years old and above, you can book a guided whitewater rafting experience at the U.S. National Whitewater Center . “The Whitewater Center is incredibly unique and special… [and] it has a wild amount of activities and events,” says Smith — and that includes things to do on dry land. “My favorite things are the Thursday night live music shows ( River Jam ) as well as free outdoor yoga.” According to Kaifer, there’s also the option to “enjoy a nice hike through one of their many trails.”

Explore Charlotte’s art scene.

“Art has become a more honored part of our culture,” says Smith, who recommends checking out a number of local Charlotte artists, including Grace Stott , Kathryn Godwin , Saloan Dunlap , Davita Galloway , and Matt Moore (take a look at their Instagrams or websites to see where their work is on display). Alternatively, travelers can add several of the city’s art museums and galleries to their list;  The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art , the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts and Culture , and the Mint Museum are some of the most popular. “ Goodyear Arts is a modern art gallery with a residency program that supports under-the-radar artists,” adds Smith. 

Sip on some local brews at any one of Charlotte’s numerous breweries. 

Like many major U.S. cities, Charlotte has an ever-growing craft beer scene; in fact, the Queen City has more than four dozen breweries to choose from. Once you’ve chosen your designated driver — or booked with City Brew Tours , Trolley Pub Charlotte , or Brew Ha-Ha Tours — visit some of the breweries that catch your eye. Don't know where to start? Stop by Sycamore Brewing , The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery , Birdsong Brewing Co. , Divine Barrel Brewing , and Resident Culture Brewing .

Cheer on Charlotte’s professional sports teams.

When it comes to athletics, Charlotte does it big. Depending on the exact time of year (and how far ahead you’re planning your trip), you might be able to catch a Charlotte Knights baseball game at Truist Field, watch the Carolina Panthers or Charlotte FC play at the Bank of America Stadium, or see the Charlotte Hornets at the Spectrum Center.

Peter Taylor/Restaurant Constance

Restaurant Constance

To narrow down Charlotte’s restaurants to just a handful is tough, but a few specific ones stood out to the Charlotteans we spoke with. Restaurant Constance was one of the first picks from Kaifer: “Chef Sam Diminich does an incredible job of featuring ingredients from local farms and making unique, delicious, and honest food,” he explains. 

Jimmy Pearls

Creft has Jimmy Pearls , the only Charlotte restaurant to receive a nomination in the 2024 James Beard Awards, on her list. Chefs Daryl Cooper and Oscar Johnson are the masterminds behind Jimmy Peals, which is described as an “ode to Virginia soul.” Expect menu items like crispy chicken gizzards, fish sandwiches, and fried shrimp — all made, according to the restaurant, to honor “Virginia’s rich history of Black food.”

Uptown Yolk

Not all meals need to be fancy affairs, especially if you’re in the mood for something casual (but equally tasty). For a “delicious” breakfast, Creft suggests Uptown Yolk . It has all of the classics — scrambled eggs, omelets, and pancakes — as well as some “Yolk Way” favorites, like shrimp and grits with smoked gouda and jerk shrimp and the Belgian waffle with chicken wings.

Menya Daruma

“ Menya [Daruma] is some of the most underrated food in the city, in my opinion,” says Kaifer. “The entire menu is delicious, and they have the best fried chicken sandwich in the city.” If the aforementioned Tori Katsu Sando doesn’t call your name, there’s also the ramen and abura soba (or soup-less ramen) dishes.

Customshop 

Travelers who like to pair a nice atmosphere with their meal should make a reservation at Customshop , a “chef-driven restaurant” in Midtown. “They recently changed ownership and though the chef-owner, Andres Kaifer, has created a giant impact and switched some things up (for the better), it remains one of the city's most beloved restaurants,” says Smith. “It's a spot where you can rely on the consistency of a delicious, creative, and special meal... It's [also] cozy and romantic and feels like a break from reality.”

Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Travelers with an affinity for high-end designer clothes may already know of Capitol , the legendary luxury boutique founded by Laura Vinroot Poole, as well as its sibling property, Poole Shop . The SouthPark stores are known for their expertly curated inventories — expect to see names such as Saint Laurent, Ulla Johnson, Zimmermann, and Carolina Herrera among the racks. 

Along with several large shopping complexes —  SouthPark Mall , Atherton Mill and Market , and Phillips Place — Charlotte has a variety of smaller shops, many of which are frequented by Creft and Smith. “I love stopping by 704 Shop to pick up Charlotte paraphernalia and [The] Brown Sugar Collab to shop products by BIPOC women suppliers,” says Creft. To add to your plant collection, head to Oakdale Greenhouses . “The owner, Bill, is a plant expert and is on-call for plant emergencies and education or tips. It's a family-run shop that is super welcoming,” says Smith. She also adds she regularly visits “ The Jungle [for] gifts and home decor, Boris and Natasha [for] clothing and accessories, and Paper Skyscraper [for] gifts.” 

For a slightly different shopping experience, keep an eye out for pop-ups. “I also do a lot of shopping during pop-up events which are often held at Camp North End or other industrial venues or warehouses,” says Smith. “ VTGCLT happens a few times a year and is a cool way to learn about new and fresh vendors and to scoop up unique antiques/pieces.”

JillLang/Getty Images

“Spring and fall are the prettiest seasons in Charlotte,” says Kaifer, who shares that the weather this time of year is “almost always perfect.” Smith agrees, noting that Charlotte has a “very short spring,” but travelers should aim to visit in April, October, or early November. The shoulder seasons also give way to quite a few festivals and sporting events. In the spring, mark your calendar for the Wells Fargo Championship , Charlotte Wine and Food Week , and the Coca-Cola 600 . Autumn festivities include the Charlotte International Arts Festival , Charlotte Craft Beer Week , and the Festival in the Park . 

Skyhobo/Getty Images

If you’re searching for the city center, or the “downtown,” you’ll need to make your way to Uptown Charlotte. Here, you’ll find the central business district, as well as a plethora of museums and sporting areas. The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts and Culture, and the Mint Museum are all located in the neighborhood, as are the Bank of America Stadium, the Spectrum Center, and Truist Field. Uptown Charlotte is also broken down into four wards — within the Second Ward, you’ll find the area that was once known as Brooklyn , which Creft recommends for travelers looking “to learn more about the history of the predominantly Black community that thrived there many years ago.”

Smith adds NoDa, short for North Davidson, to her list of must-experience Charlotte neighborhoods. The city’s arts and entertainment district, NoDa has a wide range of sights and activities to keep you busy. Embark on a self-guided street art tour to see the area’s impressive murals, pop in and out of vintage shops, or check the schedules at Neighborhood Theatre or The Evening Muse to see if any live performances strike your fancy. 

Plaza Midwood

Both Kaifer and Smith share their affinity for Plaza Midwood. Similarly to the NoDa neighborhood, Kaifer says it has a “great variety of retail and great restaurants, and [it’s] also nice to walk around in.” The pedestrian-friendly area is populated with historic homes, consignment shops, boutiques, breweries, and Veterans Park , where you can explore 19 acres of trails, green space, and more. 

Camp North End

Camp North End is technically billed as a “creative hub” versus a full neighborhood, but the 76-acre campus — which once served as Charlotte’s first Ford Motor Company factory — is filled with interesting tenants with stories to tell. “There is a local coffee and [natural] wines shop ( Hex ), a record store ( Hardy Boys Records ), a dairy-free ice cream shop ( Seemingly Overzealous ), a salon ( Explicit ), artist studios, shops , a charcuterie bar , and more,” says Smith. 

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is one of the busiest airports in the country. An American Airlines hub, it’s also served by seven other major airlines — including Delta, Southwest, JetBlue, and United — and offers flights to 180 destinations around the world. Uber or Lyft are readily available at the airport, but travelers can also opt to use the CATS (Charlotte Area Transit System) Sprinter Service . The bus provides rides (which take anywhere from 25 to 35 minutes) between CLT and Uptown Charlotte, and one-way tickets cost $2.20. 

espiegle/Getty Images

Charlotte is the largest city in North Carolina, and a car is necessary if you’re going to explore beyond Uptown. Still, there are a few other ways to get around the city center. The LYNX Blue Line light rail line serves 26 stations, and its routes span over 20 miles. One-way, one-day, seven-day, and round-trip tickets can be purchased through the self-service ticket vending machines at the stations or via the CATS-Pass app . If you prefer to tour the city on two wheels, hop on a Charlotte Joy Rides e-bike. A Flash Pass grants you a 30-minute membership for $5, and a $30 Joy Pass gives you bike access for 24 hours. 

Moving to North Carolina? Here are the 5 best cities, according to our 2024 study

Clara Haverstic is a data journalist at USA TODAY Homefront. She attended Cornell College in Mt. Vernon, Iowa, where she studied data science and political science. Her research experience across statistics, psychology, and political communication taught her how to ask questions and find data-driven answers. When she’s not combing through datasets, she enjoys improv, cooking, and reading science fiction. Clara is originally from southwest Missouri and now lives in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Editorial note: Homefront (defined in the Disclosure below ) may earn a commission from affiliate partner links featured on our site. This commission does not influence our editors’ opinions or evaluations.

With ample employment opportunities, highly rated universities and natural beauty from the mountains to the coast, North Carolina appeals to new residents, and the numbers show it. The Tar Heel State had the third-largest population gain between 2022 and 2023, behind only Texas and Florida.

While North Carolina has seen population growth across the state, some towns stand out among the rest as attractive places to live. The USA TODAY Homefront team ranked 22 cities in North Carolina across 17 metrics to determine which cities are best to call home.

Chapel Hill and suburbs such as Concord and Burlington ranked best, while coastal towns such as Jacksonville and Wilmington ranked among the worst due to the high risk of natural disasters.

North Carolina’s largest cities — Charlotte (No. 20) and Raleigh (No. 19) — ranked lower than their respective suburbs due to higher costs of living and crime rates.

See how analysis of life expectancies, median income, rent and home value, and unemployment rates influence North Carolina city ranking. Once you see which places stand out, you might want to pack up and call a moving company .

• North Carolina had a net gain of almost 140,000 people between 2022 and 2023.
• Chapel Hill is the best city to live in due to economic factors including low unemployment (3.1%) and ample medical care providers (21 primary care providers per 1,000 residents).
• Raleigh and Charlotte are outranked by their suburbs — Cary and Concord — due to steep rent and home value prices as well as higher crime rates.

Why are people moving to North Carolina?

North Carolina is home to highly ranked universities, medical facilities and major employers, yet jobs aren’t the only thing drawing new residents to North Carolina. The state also has the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains to the west and the beach to the east.

The state has a lower average cost of living compared with the U.S. as a whole, according to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis .

With a net population increase of nearly 140,000 people between 2022 and 2023 according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau , North Carolina is a popular state for newcomers. In fact, Texas, Florida, North Carolina and Georgia alone made up 67% of the United States’ population growth in 2023.

Best cities to move to in North Carolina

We compared 22 North Carolina cities across 17 metrics to rank their livability, health and safety, jobs and economy, and housing. Metrics included factors such as walkability, life expectancy, unemployment rates and rent-to-income ratios. 

Chapel Hill, Concord, Burlington, Mooresville and Cary collectively ranked the highest on average across these metrics, while Wilmington, Jacksonville, Charlotte, Raleigh and Fayetteville were at the bottom.

The two largest cities in the state, Charlotte and Raleigh, scored lower due to comparatively higher costs of living and crime than some of North Carolina’s smaller towns and suburbs. For example, Raleigh’s typical rent-to-income ratio (25%) is higher than Cary’s (17%). Raleigh also experienced 29 crimes per 1,000 residents, while Cary only experienced 12.

However, Raleigh still ranks highly on those metrics compared with similarly sized cities across the U.S. The North Carolina capital ranked No. 11 out of 315 for one of the best cities for renters .

Cary is a desirable suburban area outside Raleigh. It’s conveniently close to top employers in the Research Triangle Park and medical facilities such as Rex UNC Hospital. Cary attracts residents thanks to top-ranking schools, which scored an 8 out of 10 on NeighborhoodScout. Cary has a relatively low crime rate of fewer than 12 crimes committed per 1,000 residents, according to NeighborhoodScout.

Cary’s typical rent is $1,776 per month, higher than many other parts of North Carolina. However, Cary’s high median income of $125,317 means Cary still has a favorable rent-to-income ratio, and the area has the lowest percentage of rent-burdened residents on our list.

4. Mooresville

Mooresville, a suburban town less than 30 miles north of Charlotte, has the third-highest number of activities per capita (two activities per 1,000 residents). Lake Norman and downtown Mooresville are among the area’s recreational draws.

Mooresville ranks well for affordable housing, with a rent-to-income ratio of 25%. At $2,093 annually, it has the second lowest homeowners insurance premiums in our study.

3. Burlington

A quiet suburban town between Greensboro and Durham, Burlington attracts residents for its lower cost of living and high quality of life. Burlington’s typical rent is $1,227, the second lowest in our study. Typical home values are 4.34 times the median income, another indicator of affordability.

Burlington offers more affordability than its more populated counterparts and plenty of options for weekend fun and dining out. It has a vibrant historic downtown and our study ranks it third for restaurants per capita (four restaurants per 1,000 residents), trailing behind Asheville and Wilmington.

Concord, another Charlotte suburb, nearly doubled its population between 2000 and 2022, making it the sixth fastest-growing city in North Carolina.

“Concord is such a great city,” said Brigitte Perry , top North Carolina real estate agent with HomeLight. “From the Charlotte Motor Speedway to Concord Mills, Concord has it all — plenty of entertainment, restaurants, shopping and even great schools to boot.”

In addition to offering some of the highest-scoring public schools compared with other North Carolina cities we ranked, Concord is also an attractive place to live thanks to its low crime rate of fewer than 11 crimes per 1,000 residents.

1. Chapel Hill

Home to the UNC Health system and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill — which claims to be the oldest public university in the U.S. — Chapel Hill is a historic town just west of Durham and Raleigh.

Chapel Hill has a low unemployment rate of 3.1%. The university and hospital system, as well as nearby Research Triangle Park, collectively employ over 80,000 people.

The area also has the highest life expectancy and number of primary care providers per capita of any North Carolina town, according to our data.

Moving to North Carolina? Here’s what you need to know

Whether you’re moving across state lines or staying within North Carolina, planning is key to a successful move. Review these top tips as you get ready to move.

• Consider the weather and time of year: Summer is a popular time of year to move . Although North Carolina has diverse climates, most of the state experiences hot and muggy summers. Plan your move to avoid the sweltering heat. If you have to move in the summer, start early in the morning.
• Get your car up to speed: Since most areas of North Carolina are car-dependent, a car is essential. Make your appointment in advance to update your driver’s license and plates, as many DMV locations are booked for months. 
• Create a list: There are a lot of “to-do’s” to keep track of when you move. Make a list of everything from transferring your utility service and insurance to booking a moving company . 

Best and worst cities in North Carolina (full data)

See how each North Carolina city stacked up, according to our study:

Our methodology

For this study, the research team ranked 22 cities in North Carolina across 17 metrics to determine the best cities to live in.

• Walkability score from Walk Score
• School district ratings on a scale of 1 (low) to 10 (high) from NeighborhoodScout
• Number of restaurants from Tripadvisor per 1,000 residents
• Number of activities from Tripadvisor per 1,000 residents
• Primary care providers per 1,000 residents from U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
• County-level life expectancies from University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute’s County Health Rankings  
• Severe weather events from 2019–2023 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administratio n
• Number of violent and property crimes per 1,000 residents from NeighborhoodScout
• Expected annual loss from natural hazards from Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
• National Risk Index scores from FEMA
• Ratio of home values for single-family homes, condos and co-ops to median household income from Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) and U.S. Census Bureau 2022 American Community Survey 5-year Estimate . Cities are scored based on how close this ratio is to what we define as the “ideal home value ratio” of 2.5 value to income. 
• Ratio of typical rent for all home types to median income from Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI) and U.S. Census Bureau 2022 American Community Survey 5-year Estimate
• Percentage of renters who pay more than 30% of income to rent (“rent burdened”) from U.S. Census Bureau 2022 American Community Survey 5-year Estimates
• Median annual homeowners insurance premiums from Quadrant
• Unemployment rates at the county level from NC Department of Commerce
• Regional price parity: Values are a percentage of the overall national price level (a lower value is better) from U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis
• Percentage of the population with a bachelor’s degree from U.S. Census Bureau 2022 American Community Survey 1-year Estimates

For some metrics, data was only available at the county level. 

Data used from Quadrant is representative of publicly sourced data and should not be interpreted as bindable quotes.

Questions about our study? Please contact Homefront at [email protected].

Reference policy

We encourage journalists to share our findings on the best cities in North Carolina. If you choose to do so, please link back to our original story and credit USA TODAY Homefront for the research.

Editorial note: The name “Homefront” refers to the alliance between USA TODAY and Home Solutions that publishes review, comparison, and informational articles designed to help USA TODAY readers make smarter purchasing and investment decisions about their home. Under the alliance, Homefront provides and publishes research and articles about home service and home improvement topics.

Homefront has an affiliate disclosure policy . The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Homefront editorial staff alone (see About Homefront ). Homefront adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

• Solar Eclipse 2024

See How the Solar Eclipse Will Look Anywhere in America

Today's total solar eclipse will cut a 2,000-mile path across the United States in just over an hour, casting near darkness over a region of more than 200,000 square miles from Texas to Maine. The rest of the continental United States — plus Hawaii and a spot of southern Alaska — will enjoy a consolation prize of partial occlusion. The following interactive simulates what this will look like from any location in the U.S., no special glasses needed .

This eclipse is the second time in seven years that such an astronomical rarity has favored a large part of the nation. The August 2017 total solar eclipse — for which TIME rented a private four-seat plane to document the phenomenon — cut a mirroring path from Oregon to South Carolina.

This means there is 9,286 square-mile quadrangle centered on southern Illinois that the cosmos has favored with two complete solar eclipses in less than a decade. As astrophysical odds go, one envies the residents of this anointed parallelogram.

How the simulation works

TIME's solar eclipse simulation uses coordinates for the sun, Earth, and moon from NASA's industrial-grade SPICE toolkit , which we calculated in the J2000 reference frame centered on the Earth. (Many modern calculations use this pre-Copernican view of the cosmos as a matter of convenience.)

Rather than calculating the exact moment that the eclipse begins and ends for thousands of locations, our simulation uses these coordinates to create a realtime 3D simulation with the same type of computer programming that is common in video games. This includes rotating the viewer's camera in accordance with the Earth's rotation over the course of the eclipse, which accounts for why the moon appears to cut a curved path across the sky.

We took a few small artistic liberties in moderately exaggerating the degree of darkness one witnesses in a partial eclipse by adding a faint ambient light to see the surface of the moon in better detail.

Where the times you see in this simulation differ from other sources of eclipse data by a minute or two, the discrepancy is most likely a small difference in the precise location of the calculation or a slightly different way of accounting for the time it takes the speed of light to travel from the sun to the Earth.

More Must-Reads From TIME

• Exclusive: Google Workers Revolt Over $1.2 Billion Contract With Israel
• Jane Fonda Champions Climate Action for Every Generation
• Stop Looking for Your Forever Home
• The Sympathizer Counters 50 Years of Hollywood Vietnam War Narratives
• The Bliss of Seeing the Eclipse From Cleveland
• Hormonal Birth Control Doesn’t Deserve Its Bad Reputation
• The Best TV Shows to Watch on Peacock
• Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time

Write to Chris Wilson at [email protected]

Watch CBS News

What time the 2024 solar eclipse started, reached peak totality and ended

By Sarah Maddox

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:04 AM EDT / CBS News

The 2024 solar eclipse will be visible across North America today. As the moon's position between the Earth and sun casts a shadow on North America, that shadow, or umbra, will travel along the surface from west to east at more than 1,500 miles per hour along the path of totality . 

That means the eclipse will start, peak and end at different times — as will the moments of total darkness along the path of totality — and the best time to view the eclipse depends on where you are located. Some places along the path will have more totality time than others.

In Texas, the south-central region had clouds in the forecast , but it was better to the northeast, according to the National Weather Service. The best eclipse viewing weather was expected in New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine, as well as in Canada's New Brunswick and Newfoundland.

What time does the 2024 total solar eclipse start?

The total solar eclipse will emerge over the South Pacific Ocean before the shadow falls across North America, beginning in parts of Mexico. The path of totality , where onlookers can witness the moon fully blocking the sun (through eclipse viewing glasses for safety ), is expected to first make landfall near the city of Mazatlán around 9:51 a.m. MT. 

The total solar eclipse will cross over the U.S.-Mexico border into Texas, where it will emerge over Eagle Pass at 12:10 p.m. CT and then peak at about 1:27 p.m. CT.

In Dallas, NASA data shows the partial eclipse will first become visible at 12:23 p.m. CT and peak at 1:40 p.m. CT. The next states in the path of totality are Oklahoma and Arkansas, where the eclipse begins in Little Rock at 12:33 p.m. CT. 

Cleveland will see the beginning of the eclipse at 1:59 p.m. ET. Darkness will start spreading over the sky in Buffalo, New York, at 2:04 p.m. ET. Then, the eclipse will reach northwestern Vermont, including Burlington, at 2:14 p.m. ET. Parts of New Hampshire and Maine will also follow in the path of totality before the eclipse first reaches the Canadian mainland  at 3:13 p.m. ET.

Although the experience won't be exactly the same, viewers in all the contiguous U.S. states outside the path of totality will still be able to see a partial eclipse. Some places will see most of the sun blocked by the moon, including Washington, D.C., where the partial eclipse will start at 2:04 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:20 p.m. ET.

In Chicago, viewers can start viewing the partial eclipse at 12:51 p.m. CT, with the peak arriving at 2:07 p.m. CT.  In Detroit, viewers will be able to enjoy a near-total eclipse beginning at 1:58 p.m. ET and peaking at 3:14 p.m. ET.

New York City will also see a substantial partial eclipse, beginning at 2:10 p.m. ET and peaking around 3:25 p.m. ET.

In Boston it will begin at 2:16 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:29 p.m. ET.

The below table by NASA shows when the eclipse will start, peak and end in 13 cities along the eclipse's path.

What time will the solar eclipse reach peak totality?

Millions more people will have the chance to witness the total solar eclipse this year than during the last total solar eclipse , which was visible from the U.S. in 2017. 

The eclipse's peak will mean something different for cities within the path of totality and for those outside. Within the path of totality, darkness will fall for a few minutes. The longest will last more than 4 minutes, but most places will see between 3.5 and 4 minutes of totality. In cities experiencing a partial eclipse, a percentage of the sun will be obscured for more than two hours.

Mazatlán is set to experience totality at 11:07 am PT. Dallas will be able to see the moon fully cover the sun at 1:40 p.m. CT. Little Rock will start to see the full eclipse at 1:51 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 3:13 p.m. ET and Buffalo at 3:18 p.m. ET. Totality will reach Burlington at 3:26 p.m. ET before moving into the remaining states and reaching Canada around 4:25 p.m.

Outside the path of totality, 87.4% of the sun will be eclipsed in Washington, D.C. at 3:20 p.m. ET, and Chicago will have maximum coverage of 93.9% at 2:07 p.m. CT. New York City is much closer to the path of totality this year than it was in 2017; it will see 89.6% coverage at 3:25 p.m. EDT. 

Detroit is another city that will encounter a near-total eclipse, with 99.2% maximum coverage at 3:14 p.m. ET. Boston will see 92.4% coverage at 3:29 p.m. ET.

What time will the solar eclipse end?

The eclipse will leave continental North America from Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NT, according to NASA.

At the beginning of the path of totality in Mazatlán, the eclipse will be over by 12:32 p.m. PT, and it will leave Dallas at 3:02 p.m. CT. The eclipse will end in Little Rock at 3:11 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 4:29 p.m. CDT and Buffalo at 4:32 p.m. ET. Burlington won't be far behind, with the eclipse concluding at 4:37 p.m. ET.

Meanwhile, the viewing will end in Chicago at 3:21 p.m. CT, Washington, D.C. at 4:32 p.m. ET, and New York City at 4:36 p.m. ET. 

In Detroit, the partial eclipse will disappear at 4:27 p.m. ET, and in Boston, it will be over at 4:39 p.m. ET.

How long will the eclipse last in total?

The total solar eclipse will begin in Mexico at 11:07 a.m. PT and leave continental North America at 5:16 p.m. NT. From the time the partial eclipse first appears on Earth to its final glimpses before disappearing thousands of miles away, the celestial show will dazzle viewers for about 5 hours, according to timeanddate.com . 

The length of the total solar eclipse at points along the path depends on the viewing location. The longest will be 4 minutes and 28 seconds, northwest of Torreón, Mexico. Near the center of the path, totality takes place for the longest periods of time, according to NASA.

Spectators will observe totality for much longer today than during the 2017 eclipse , when the longest stretch of totality was 2 minutes and 32 seconds.

The moon's shadow seen on Earth today, called the umbra, travels at more than 1,500 miles per hour, according to NASA. It would move even more quickly if the Earth rotated in the opposite direction.

What is the longest a solar eclipse has ever lasted?

The longest known totality was 7 minutes and 28 seconds in 743 B.C. However, NASA says this record will be broken in 2186 with a 7 minute, 29 second total solar eclipse. The next total solar eclipse visible from parts of the U.S. won't happen until Aug. 23, 2044.

Sarah Maddox has been with CBS News since 2019. She works as an associate producer for CBS News Live.

More from CBS News

Key players to know in Trump's "hush money" trial, set to begin Monday

Transcript: IMF director Kristalina Georgieva on "Face the Nation," April 14, 2024

Salman Rushdie on censorship in America today

Time runs out for Americans hoping to flee chaos in Haiti

• Anniston/Gadsden

Eclipse 2024: Time, best places to watch, latest weather forecast, ZIP code tool, what will you see?

• Updated: Apr. 08, 2024, 3:05 p.m. |
• Published: Apr. 07, 2024, 9:16 a.m.

FILE - This combination of photos shows the path of the sun during a total eclipse by the moon Monday, Aug. 21, 2017, near Redmond, Ore. AP

• Leada Gore | [email protected]

The Great North American eclipse is Monday, April 8 and skywatchers – with proper glasses, of course – are ready to see the moon blocking out the sun during a solar eclipse.

What you will see, how long it will last and when it will take place will depend on where you live. While all states in the contiguous U.S. will experience some level of the eclipse, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, as well as small parts of Kentucky, Michigan and Tennessee are along the path of totality and will experience the greatest periods of darkness.

In the U.S., the path of totality will start in Texas at 1:27 p.m. CT and will end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. ET (2:25 CT.) In those states, the periods of greatest darkness will reach up to 4 minutes, 27 seconds.

Here’s everything you need to know about the total solar eclipse 2024:

2024 eclipse primer

Total solar eclipse on April 8: Why this eclipse will be much different than the 2017 version

Scientists say the sun is approaching its maximum activity of its cycle this year, meaning it will be sending off more solar flares and eruptions from its surface — potentially making this year’s total solar eclipse much more dynamic.

Best places to watch the eclipse

Total Solar Eclipse April 8: Map shows 15 best states to see April’s total solar eclipse

The path of totality will start in Mexico and move across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine before heading out over the North Atlantic. Small portions of Kentucky, Michigan and Tennessee will also experience almost the entirety of the eclipse. The eclipse will enter Canada in Southern Ontario, and continue through Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia. The eclipse will exit continental North America on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NDT.

Where to see solar eclipse 2024: NASA eclipse map shows best places along path of totality

During the eclipse, the sky will darken as if it were dawn or dusk. Weather permitting, people in the path of totality will be able to see the sun’s corona, or outer atmosphere, which is usually obscured by the bright face of the sun, NASA explains. Outside the path of totality, viewers will see a partial eclipse with the moon covering varying degrees of the sun.

How much will you see where you live?

April 8 eclipse in Alabama: How much coverage you’ll see in your city and when

Although Alabama is not in the path of “totality” during the April 8 eclipse – meaning we won’t see total darkness when the moon covers the sun – residents will see from 78 to 92 percent coverage, depending on location.

Total solar eclipse path 2024: Search your city, ZIP code for best viewing times

People viewing the eclipse from the path of totality will be treated to the ghostly-white outer atmosphere of the sun, known as the corona, when the moon completely blocks out the sun’s disk during the total eclipse, NASA explained. Along the path, the sun will be blocked out for about 4-and-a-half minutes.

April 8 solar eclipse path of totality: What time does the eclipse start?

Wondering how much of the eclipse you will see? NASA has a tool that lets you search by city or ZIP code to see complete eclipse details. You can use this tool to see when the eclipse will start and end in every state.

Eclipse weather

Alabama solar eclipse weather: Will skies be cloudy or clear?

A big question, for a lot of the nation, is how clear the skies will be for prime eclipse viewing. An updated forecast from the National Weather Service looks like a mixed bag.

The solar eclipse forecast for Monday from AccuWeather shows a mix of low to high amounts of cloud cover across the United States. Viewers in New Jersey can expect some increasing clouds, according to the latest forecast. AccuWeather.com

Eclipse education

Solar eclipse 2024 for kids: How to enjoy the event safely at home and in class

From building your own safety glasses to taking scientific data, researchers say there are plenty of ways to make the upcoming solar eclipse a fun learning experience for children.

Why are some schools closing for the solar eclipse?

The April 8 total solar eclipse will have millions of people gazing toward the sky as the moon tracks its way in front of the sun. And while some schools have special events planned, others – especially along the 15-state path of totality – are closing their doors that day.

NASA has a game to help kids learn about the solar eclipse: Play now

To help kids learn about solar eclipses, NASA is launching Snap It! An Eclipse Photo Adventure.

Eclipse safety

Solar eclipse 2024: Where to get free glasses to watch April 8 total solar eclipse

Skygazers planning to look at the eclipse through a camera lens or binoculars still need adequate eye protection. Without proper precaution, the sun’s rays can burn your retinas and cause severe eye injury.

Solar eclipse is Monday: 7 things to do if you’re driving that day

Crowds eager to see the eclipse are expected to be huge. According to AAA, Dallas, Austin and San Antonio are the most popular cities for eclipse viewers, followed by Indianapolis, Cleveland and Buffalo. In Dallas alone, Hertz rental car company said it is seeing six times more reservations than last year at this same time.

Solar eclipse on April 8 prompts cell phone warning

In addition to warnings about transportation systems, impacts on emergency service responses and fuel issues brought about increased demand, law enforcement said people should expect the cellular network to be strained.

How to spot fake solar eclipse glasses

Despite the ease of getting glasses, skygazers should be on the lookout for fake eclipse glasses. Real eclipse glasses are often designed with polyester film coated and coated in aluminum. Certified eclipse eyewear is designed to block all visible, and infrared light. Solar eclipse glasses must be from a vendor approved by the American Astronomical Society.

FAA issues warning ahead of April 8 total solar eclipse

The Federal Aviation Administration has issued a warning about possible travel disruptions related to the April 8 total solar eclipse.

Cell phone warning for April 8 solar eclipse: Will you be able to use your phone?

Warnings about traffic, flight congestion and emergency services are circulating ahead of the April 8 Great American Eclipse. Of particular note are concerns over cell phones and whether they will work during the eclipse.

April 8 total solar eclipse: Texas officials warn people to stock up on food ahead of solar eclipse

Mike Jones, Hays County, Texas’s direct of the Office of Emergency Services, said the area is expecting thousands of visitors to arrive to see the eclipse. To prepare for the crowds, Jones advised residents to stock up on groceries and fill up on gas. If they are out on the day of the eclipse, he recommends residents “pack your patience.”

National Guard will be deployed for total solar eclipse on April 8

At the request of local emergency management officials, the Oklahoma National Guard will have members of the 63rd Civil Support Team available to assist local governments during the eclipse, including working with first responders with additional HAZMAT responses if needed.

Total solar eclipse on April 8: How to safely look at an eclipse

Except during the brief total phase of the eclipse when the moon completely blocks the sun’s bright face, it’s not safe to look at the eclipse without specialized eye protection for solar viewing, NASA said on its eclipse information page. If you’re watching the eclipse directly, you will need solar viewing glasses – also known as eclipse glasses – or a handheld solar viewer.

Eclipse fun

Krispy Kreme is releasing a new doughnut in celebration of the solar eclipse

The doughnut chain has announced its limited-time “Total Solar Eclipse Doughnut” – an original Krispy Kreme glazed doughnut dipped in black chocolate icing and topped with silver sprinkles, piped with a buttercream made with Oreo pieces and a whole Oreo cookie in the center.

April 8 total solar eclipse: Why you should wear red or green on eclipse day

Experts have another recommendation if you’re planning on watching the eclipse in a group or public place: Skip the neutrals and wear red and green.

Sun Chips eclipse flavors: You will have less than 5 minutes to score limited-edition chips

The chip brand is releasing Pineapple Habanero and Black Bean Spicy Gouda, a blend of ingredients with a nod to " sunny skies and bright days ahead while nodding to the moon with a cheesy touch.”

Sonic has new black drink for April 8 total solar eclipse and you get free eclipse glasses, too

The drive-through chain is launching a limited-edition drink called “Blackout Slush Float” to give fans an “out-of-this world experience.”

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

Where to buy solar eclipse glasses near me? Some locations may still have glasses for last-minute eclipse watchers

Today's the day when the moon's shadow will (partially) blot out the sun for millions of Floridians, and some of them may still be scrambling for eclipse glasses so they can safely look at it without frying their eyes. Where can you still find them?

You may have to call around, or do some driving. Many retail locations have been selling solar eclipse glasses this year and some places have been giving them away, but availability is "while supplies last" and that will be different for every place.

There's an eclipse today? The procrastinator's guide to viewing the solar eclipse in Florida

Where can I find eclipse glasses?

Here are some places to check. Remember, some may have sold out, and not all locations may have been carrying them. Make sure any eclipse glasses you buy are legitimate and include an ISO rating, an ISO number and an address, avoid any that say "NASA Approved," and test them before you look up .

7-Eleven, Buc-ee's, Circle K and more

You may not have to go farther than the end of your street. Many convenience stores and gas stations have been carrying eclipse glasses and may still have some in stock.

Eclipse glasses have been spotted at 7-Eleven , Circle K, and Buc-ee's locations and many individual stores may have jumped on the opportunity.

Fake eclipse glases on sale online: Are yours safe? How to test before the April solar eclipse

Big chain stores such as Walmart, Lowes

Walmart has offered a wide variety of eclipse glasses in different styles, so has Target . However, all of the glasses on their websites are shipping only which will be a little late, so check your local store for availability.

Some other places where eclipse glasses have been spotted:

• Ace Hardware
• Cracker Barrel

Does Publix have eclipse glasses?

No, Publix did not carry eclipse glasses this year, according to a local customer service rep.

Warby Parker, Sonic offering free eclipse glasses

Prescription eyeglasses retailer Warby Parker began handing out free eclipse glasses at their locations on April 1 so definitely call first.

Sonic Drive-in locations are offering free eclipse glasses with the purchase of their new Blackout Sonic Float.

Does Amazon offer same-day delivery of eclipse glasses?

Online stores are great for fast service, but you may want to give it a miss this time. The   American Astronomical Society (AAS) does not recommend buying eclipse glasses online due to the number of counterfeit, unsafe glasses that have hit the market this year.

Shooting the eclipse with your phone: Can I take a photo of the eclipse with my phone? Yes, but take these steps so you don't fry it

Do I need to wear solar eclipse glasses?

If you plan to look directly at the sun, yes. Even a brief glance may cause temporary or permanent damage to your eyes and eyesight.

"Do NOT look at the Sun through a camera lens, telescope, binoculars, or any other optical device while wearing eclipse glasses or using a handheld solar viewer," NASA advises . "The concentrated solar rays will burn through the filter and cause serious eye injury."

How can I tell if my eclipse glasses are legitimate?

If you didn't buy your eclipse glasses directly from one of the vetted venders on the AAS list or a trusted source, check the text on the glasses for the  ISO 12312-2 standard listing and the address of the company. But these can be copied.

Don't trust any glasses that say they are NASA Approved . NASA doesn't do that.

Test your glasses first by putting them on inside and looking at a strong light source. You shouldn't be able to see anything, according to the AAS, although very bright lights may show up but would be very faint.

Go outside, put them on, and look at sunlight reflections or glance at the sun very quickly. You shouldn't see anything around you and the sun should appear to be a "sharp-edged, round disk" that's comfortably bright.

Can I watch the eclipse without looking at it?

Yes! If you don't manage to get glasses in time, there are several ways to see the eclipse that won't risk your eyes with items you probably have around the home.

Anything with a round hole in it can be held up to cast an image of the eclipse onto the ground or a sheet of white paper. Pinhole projectors, colanders, a slotted spoon, a Ritz cracker, even lacing your fingers together.

Or you can look under a tree. The sun shining through tree leaves and branches creates its own pinhole projector, casting lots of little crescent-moon shapes on the ground.

What time is the eclipse in Florida?

The eclipse will last roughly 2½ hours in Florida, starting around 1:40 p.m. EDT and ending around 4:17 EDT. The time of maximum coverage will be just before 3 p.m. EDT for most of the state.

You can find eclipse times for your ZIP code on the map below, just tap your location: