North Carolina, located on the southeastern coast of the United States, offers visitors a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. With its diverse landscapes ranging from the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains to the picturesque Outer Banks, the state is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
North Carolina is also renowned for its vibrant cities. Explore the vibrant streets of Asheville, known for its vibrant arts scene and craft beer culture. Visit the capital city of Raleigh, where museums, galleries, and a lively food scene await. And don’t miss the vibrant music and culinary scene of Charlotte, the state’s largest city.
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Asheville
If you’re searching for the best things to do in North Carolina then you cannot miss the chance to visit Asheville.
See, Asheville is easily one of the coolest towns in the United States and is well-located near the stunning, Blue Ridge Parkway.
Therefore, because of its close proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains, you could easily spend your time hiking through the Pisgah National Forest before checking out the North Carolina Arboretum.
After all, this exquisite place features 430 acres of trails, gardens, and more. If you can though, stop by between April and October when many of the property’s plants are in bloom.
Afterward, be sure to visit the historic Biltmore Estate, which is a charming, old-world mansion that has been turned into a massive museum with its very own shopping district. In fact, it’s an exceptionally awesome place to visit during the holiday season when the entire property is bedazzled with gorgeous Christmas decorations.
You can also venture into Asheville proper and check out one of fifteen art murals that have been scattered around the town before exploring the various abandoned warehouses and mills that have been converted into hipster-chic art galleries and studios in the River Arts District.
Additionally, Asheville is known for its amazing craft beer. So, be sure to grab a pint at fantastic local breweries like Burial Beer Co., Wicked Weed Brewing Pub, and Asheville Brewing Company.
Then, grab a delicious local meal at fantastic eateries like Posana Restaurant and Twisted Laurel Downtown as you enjoy all of the very best things to do in Asheville.
Biltmore Estate
North Carolina is filled with incredible locations, including sandy beaches, charming mountain towns, and vibrant cities. However, North Carolina is home to a record-breaking attraction, the largest privately-owned home in the United States — the Biltmore Estate!
The Biltmore Estate is a 250-room French Renaissance chateau nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains in Asheville, North Carolina. It was built by George Vanderbilt, a prominent member of the Vanderbilt family, in 1895. The Biltmore Estate is still a family-owned and operated estate that has stayed in the same family for over a century.
When you visit the Biltmore Estate, your tickets will include admission to the Biltmore House, Biltmore Gardens, and Antler Hill Village. It will take you a few hours to tour the home and another couple of hours to explore the gardens. When you’re finished, head to Antler Hill Village, where you can enjoy restaurants, shops, and the Biltmore Winery (each ticket comes with a complimentary wine tasting!).
One of the best tips for visiting the Biltmore Estate is to purchase your tickets in advance — tickets sell out quickly, especially during weekends, holidays, and the Christmas season. Paying for the audio guide during the house tour is also wise. You will learn about the Vanderbilt family, interesting facts about the home, and the lifestyle of the people who lived there.
If you want to enjoy the Biltmore Estate to the fullest, visit during late spring, summer, or early fall to see the Biltmore Gardens in full bloom. But don’t worry — if you visit in the winter, you will still be able to see beautiful blooms in the Conservatory!
Beaufort
Just south of Cape Lookout, NC you’ll find a charming little village located on the water- a town you don’t want to miss! Being the third oldest town in the state, Beaufort is rich with history. You’ll find a beautiful collection of old homes with centuries of history- even the pirate Blackbeard called Beaufort, NC home for a while! While you’re visiting enjoy a historic tour or visit the NC Maritime Museum to see old wooden boat making and enjoy some coastal history.
The quaint town is relatively small with everything within a quick walk or biking distance. Downtown you’ll find a long boardwalk that is perfect to stroll along and catch the sunset. The waterfront is a great place for people-watching and you’ll often find live music in the summer months.
A visit to Beaufort wouldn’t be complete without taking advantage of the growing foodie scene! The town has everything from dive bars, to delicious waterfront dining locations, to craft breweries and French bakeries. There are shops that line the downtown filled with unique gifts made by local artisans. While you’re visiting you’ll want to keep an eye out for wild horses on the neighboring islands, that you can take a quick ferry ride to! It is only a short visit from Beaufort to nearby beach towns like Atlantic Beach, NC. If you’re planning a trip to Beaufort, NC be sure to read this post for all the details to help you plan your trip!
Cape Lookout National Seashore
Cape Lookout National Seashore is a beautiful stretch of coastline in North Carolina that makes for a really fun day out. Located along the Southern Outer Banks, the national seashore features some of the most pristine beaches in the country as well as breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
One of the most popular things to do at Cape Lookout National Seashore is dolphin watching. These intelligent and playful creatures can often be seen frolicking in the water just off the coast and there are several tour operators in the area that offer dolphin-watching excursions. In fact, the national seashore is one of the best places to see dolphins in North Carolina.
In addition to dolphin watching, Cape Lookout National Seashore offers a wide range of other outdoor activities including hiking, camping, fishing and boating. The national seashore is actually home to several historic lighthouses, including the iconic Cape Lookout Lighthouse, which has been in continuous operation since 1859.
The national seashore is also home to a diverse range of wildlife including sea turtles, pelicans and wild horses that roam freely on the beaches. Visitors to Cape Lookout National Seashore can also explore the many small islands and sandbars that dot the coastline which offer a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the area.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach or an action-packed adventure, Cape Lookout National Seashore is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting North Carolina.
Carolina Beach
Carolina Beach is one of the most popular beaches in North Carolina. Located just 15 miles south of Wilmington, the wide sandy beaches and lively boardwalk make it a popular vacation spot for families. Its proximity to the fun and charming town of Wilmington makes it an easy destination for a day trip for a beach adventure or a relaxing weekend getaway.
Beachgoers can enjoy a variety of activities such as surfing, bodyboarding, snorkeling, or simply lounging on the beach or looking for seashells. In fact, the beach has a shallow shoreline that gradually slopes down, and some of the best waves in the area, making it a popular choice for those learning to surf or bodyboard.
After a day of fun in the sun, take a stroll along the boardwalk. Voted one of the best beach boardwalks in the United States, you will find plenty of dining options offering fresh seafood and southern cuisine along the popular walk. For kids, there is even a giant ferris wheel and other amusement rides.
For a brief look at history in the area, the Fort Fisher State Historic Site is just a short drive away. Or for something truly peculiar, head to Carolina Beach State Park where you can join a park ranger on a carnivorous plant hike looking for Venus Fly Traps. The fascinating plant only grows native within a 100-mile radius of this North Carolina area.
Carowinds Theme Park
Charlotte, North Carolina (also known as the Queen City), is a fun location worth spending the extra time to explore. Speaking of exploring, it is imperative you check out Carowinds.
Carowinds is an amusement park located on the North Carolina-South Carolina state line and has been open for 50 years! It’s a great place to visit with friends, family, or both. This theme park has a plethora of rides (more than 60) to choose from.
What makes this amusement park so special in addition to the many rides available, are the other activities the park offers. For instance, Camp Snoopy is located within the massive park and is perfect for the kiddos to explore. Carowinds also boasts live entertainment, a water park, and delicious Carolina cuisine to whet the appetite. If you’d like to stay longer (because you’re having so much fun), you can stay at their hotel or campground to create memorable experiences to last a lifetime.
If you like themed events, during Halloween you can attend SCarowinds to get spooky and escape out of haunted mazes or go during Winterfest which takes place in the holiday season for ice skating, dazzling lights and so much more.
Carowinds continues to innovate and has recently launched Aeronautica Landing which provides an immersive experience and encompasses both aviation and adventure for pilots of all ages.
Now that you know all about Carowinds please make sure to visit on your next trip to Charlotte, North Carolina; you’ll have a blast!
Charlotte
Charlotte, North Carolina, is a dynamic and vibrant city that offers a wealth of experiences for visitors. As the state’s largest city, Charlotte combines southern charm with a bustling urban atmosphere, making it an exciting destination for travelers.
One of the city’s main attractions is the NASCAR Hall of Fame, a must-visit for racing enthusiasts. Here, you can delve into the history of stock car racing, view iconic race cars, and even try your hand at racing simulators. Sports fans can also catch a Carolina Panthers football game at the impressive Bank of America Stadium or enjoy a Charlotte Hornets basketball game at the Spectrum Center.
For art and culture lovers, the Levine Center for the Arts is a hub of creativity. It houses the Mint Museum Uptown, which showcases a wide range of American and European art, and the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, which features an extensive collection of 20th-century artworks. The nearby Blumenthal Performing Arts Center hosts Broadway shows, musical performances, and theater productions throughout the year.
Nature enthusiasts can explore the picturesque Freedom Park, a sprawling urban park that offers walking trails, sports facilities, and a tranquil lake. The Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is another serene escape, with its stunning displays of plants and flowers spread across 380 acres.
Food lovers will find themselves spoiled for choice in Charlotte, with its diverse culinary scene. From Southern comfort food to international cuisine, the city offers a range of dining options to satisfy every palate. The NoDa neighborhood is known for its trendy eateries, art galleries, and live music venues, while the South End district boasts craft breweries and stylish restaurants.
With its blend of sports, arts, nature, and delectable dining, Charlotte provides an exciting and memorable experience for visitors. Whether you’re exploring its cultural institutions, cheering on the local sports teams, or savoring the flavors of the city, Charlotte is sure to captivate and entertain.
Charlotte Motor Speedway
A tour at the Charlotte Motor Speedway in Charlotte, North Carolina is an experience like no other. You can choose from three different tours that will give you a unique insight into not only what it’s like to be on the track, but also behind-the-scenes information about the history of racing and how the Speedway functions.
The Fast Pass Tour is a great option for those looking to get a brief overview of the Charlotte Motor Speedway. You’ll go behind the scenes and learn about the history of NASCAR, explore race control, get an up-close view of the starting grid, and take a lap around the track. It’s a great way to get an introduction without taking too much of your time.
For those wanting a more immersive experience, then you should check out the Feel The Thrill Speedway Tour. This tour takes you further behind the scenes and includes stops at pit road, pre-race inspection, and Victory Lane. You’ll even get to take a lap around the track in an official race car and feel the excitement of the speedway firsthand.
The Infield Experience Tour is an incredible way to explore the history of Charlotte Motor Speedway. Guests will take a 14-passenger van ride around both the inside and outside of the NASCAR infield, giving them a breathtaking view from the comfort of the vehicle. The tour also includes access to the garages and winners’ circle, allowing you to take photos and explore the history of NASCAR.
No matter which tour you choose at the Charlotte Motor Speedway, you’ll be sure to have an amazing experience filled with excitement and history.
Foraging Tour in Asheville
North Carolina is the perfect place to take a foraging tour and there’s none better than the No Taste Like Home Tour. If you appreciate good food and nature, it’s the perfect way to spend a few hours. And, it’s the most unique food tour in Asheville!
On this tour, you’ll learn about different plants in the forests, and which ones are safe to eat. From herbs and sassafras to mushrooms of every kind. You’ll wind up with a basket of goodies by the end of the tour but don’t take anything without running it by your guide first. They are highly skilled at knowing if there’s something poisonous or inedible. You are guaranteed to learn something on this tour, and you’ll be surprised how fun roaming through the forest with a group of strangers can be.
At the end of the day, the guides will go through all of the plants collected and share knowledge about the flora not previously discussed. They will also cook up a tasty snack for everyone right there at a picnic table using a camping stove.
The best part is the opportunity to take some of the foraged items to one of the partner restaurants in downtown Asheville. The restaurant will use the ingredients you bring to craft a free appetizer just for you. This definitely will make up for any energy and effort you spent into collecting them. You must reserve with the approved restaurant after you make your foraging tour reservation.
Highlands
No trip to the North Carolina mountains is complete with a visit to Highlands! This adorable little town is located in the western corner of the state and is less than 25 minutes to both the SC-NC border and the NC-GA border.
In town, grab sandwiches for a picnic from Mountain Fresh Grocery on Main Street, or opt for a delicious all-day breakfast at Blue Bike Cafe on North 4th Street.
Main Street has upscale shopping options from children’s boutiques to an outdoor gear store. Don’t forget to stop and grab a scoop of ice cream from Kilwin’s when you’re ready for a snack break.
After you’ve explored downtown, head out to one of the many outdoor adventures nearby.
The Highlands Biological Station has several great, short hikes and a beautiful botanical garden.
For a slightly more challenging hiking experience, the Whiteside Mountain Trail is a 1.6-mile loop with spectacular long-range mountain views. Highway 64 leads out of Highlands and offers multiple waterfall viewing opportunities. At Lake Sequoyah, there’s a short trail to the waterfall created by the dam on the north end of the lake.
Less than 2000 feet past this turn-off, you can see Bridal Veil Falls from Highway 64. About a mile beyond that waterfall is Dry Falls (pictured), so named because you can walk behind the thundering water.
Kayaking & Camping on Masonboro Island
Masonboro Island is the largest uninhabited barrier island on the southern coast of North Carolina. The narrow island between Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach has an 8.4 miles of beach to stroll and look for shells. The best way to experience the salt marshes, tidal estuaries, and remote sandy beach is by kayaking and camping on Masonboro Island.
The island can be reached by a ferry in the summertime or by kayak year round. Kayak rental is available in Wrightsville Beach or Carolina Beach. Outfitters will deliver kayaks to the put-in boat ramp at Trails End Park. Load your kayak with camping gear, food, and water as you are primitive camping so there are no food or water sources or port-a-potties.
From the put-in, kayak across the Big Bay area until you reach the back of the dunes. There are a few previously used campsites to set up your camp. Camping is free and you don’t need a permit. The surf of the wild Atlantic Ocean will be at the front door of your campsite.
The island is home to nesting shore birds such at oystercatchers, willets, terns, black skimmers, and Wilson’s plovers, so don’t enter roped-off protected areas to prevent accidently stepping on their camouflaged ground nests. Both the rare diamondback terrapin and the loggerhead sea turtle also nest on the island.
Kayaking out to and then camping on magnificent Masonboro Island is certainly one of the best outdoor adventures in North Carolina.
Outer Banks
The Outer Banks in North Carolina is a truly unique vacation destination that offers visitors a wealth of activities, sights, and experiences. One of the biggest draws of the Outer Banks is its stunning beaches, which stretch for miles and offer a wide range of activities, including swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. Whether you want to relax and soak up the sun or get active and try your hand at water sports, the Outer Banks has something for everyone.
Another reason to visit is its rich history and cultural heritage. The towns of the Outer Banks offer a range of historical activities. From the famous Wright Brothers to the Lost Colony of Roanoke, the Outer Banks has played a significant role in shaping American history. Visitors can explore historic sites, museums, and lighthouses to learn about the area’s past, or take part in guided tours to gain a deeper understanding of the region’s unique culture and heritage.
Finally, the Outer Banks is a fantastic destination for anyone who loves nature and wildlife. From wild horses to sea turtles, the Outer Banks is home to a diverse array of animals and plant life, many of which can be seen up close and personal on guided tours or nature walks. Whether you’re interested in bird watching, fishing, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, the Outer Banks is the perfect place to connect with the great outdoors and experience all the wonder and magic of the natural world.
Rough Ridge, Blue Ridge Mountains
Enjoy one of the best views you can find in the Blue Ridge Mountains at Rough Ridge.
The trailhead is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway at Mile Post 302.8, 1 ½ hours from Asheville and 30 minutes from Boone.
This dog-friendly hike is just 1.5 miles roundtrip with a spectacular payoff. Most of the trail is steep and rocky but don’t let this deter you- it’s not all that difficult and you’ll likely see people of all ages on this hike.
Just one-third of a mile up you will reach the picturesque boardwalk area. There are plenty of places to sit and enjoy the view here; just be sure to stick to the boardwalk path to protect fragile plant life.
To reach the famous spot to get a picture standing or sitting on the rock at Rough Ride, you will walk just a half mile more uphill.
Set aside an hour to complete this hike with picture stops.
This lookout makes for a great sunrise or sunset hike since it doesn’t take much time to hike up, and the sun casts a beautiful glow on the trees and mountains.
Go in October for peak fall foliage views that make the view even better!
Sliding Rock
Sliding Rock is a natural waterslide located in Pisgah Forest, North Carolina. For reference, Pisgah Forest is approximately one-hour southwest of the city of Asheville, North Carolina. Please keep in mind that cell reception is not the best in the nearby vicinity of Sliding Rock. You should thus pay attention to the directions for getting there so you can also get back out.
The natural waterslide is technically open at all times of the year, but staff are only on duty from the months of May through September during the hours of 10:00am to 6:00pm. There is an entrance fee of $4 per person during these hours. Please also note restrooms and changing rooms are only open and available when staff is on duty.
If you visit during the off-season when no staff are present, please remain cautious and avoid visiting during periods of hazardous weather.
Sliding Rock is a large rock that is approximately 60 feet (~18 meters) long. The rock has a slight downward incline, so you are able to gain a bit of speed as you slide down. The rock is fairly smooth, though you still might hit a bump or two on your way down. At the end of the rock you will fall into a small pool of water approximately eight feet (~2.5 meters) deep.
It is recommended that you wear/bring a swimsuit, water shoes, towel, and an extra set of clothes.
Waterfall Hopping
Fun and amazing areas to explore in North Carolina are plentiful and look no further than these stunning waterfalls for the natural wonders that the state has to offer. Visitors may even recognize some of the locations as backdrops for movies like “The Hunger Games” and “The Last of the Mohicans”
Located approximately 50 miles south of Asheville, Triple Falls is an amazing spot for water lovers, with three separate cascades for visitors to explore. This 120-foot waterfall is especially beautiful during peak season in late October & early November when the leaves are turning and a mist from the falls can be seen from afar. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic and you can even go swimming here if you’re feeling brave enough!
Nearby Bridal Veil Falls is a freefall resembling a bridal veil when viewed from below with plenty of space to sit back, relax and take in the scenery. There’s also a path that leads to the bottom of the falls where you can get up close and personal with nature.
Last but not least is Looking Glass Falls. Located near Brevard to the northwest of Bridal Veil Falls and Triple Falls, this fan-shaped waterfall is one of the most beautiful spots in western North Carolina. It’s easily accessible and an ideal spot for explorers who want to admire its beauty without having to go on a long hike.
Whether looking for a tranquil escape or an unforgettable adventure, visiting these waterfalls in North Carolina won’t disappoint.
Wilmington
Wilmington, North Carolina is a great place to visit if you’re looking for historic sites, beautiful beaches, and ghost tours! This picturesque port city is located in southeastern North Carolina. Its old colonial-style homes, cobblestone streets, proximately to the port, and haunted past are similar to Salem, Massachusetts. Here you will find an array of things to do depending on the season you choose to visit.
Some of the best things to do in historic downtown Wilmington North Carolina include taking a stroll down the Riverwalk on the Cape Fear River. Here you will find a variety of shops and restaurants serving up some of the best seafood on the east coast.
Also in the historic district, you will find The Cotton Exchange, a shopping mall converted from eight historical buildings from the late 19th century and early 20th century.
For a more in-depth tour of Wilmington’s haunted past, consider doing a Ghost Walk of Old Wilmington. This tour is rated as one of the top 5 ghost walk tours in North America. Similar to a witch trial tour in Salem, you will get an overview of the most actively haunted homes, and hear eerie tales of the city’s darkest secrets.
If you are visiting Wilmington, NC in the summer you can take advantage of the beautiful beaches such as Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, and Kure Beach. All also happen to be famous film locations for the show Dawson’s Creek. Don’t forget to bring a sun hat and SPF, Wilmington can get very hot and humid in the summer.
Wineries
You might not immediately think of wineries when looking for things to do in North Carolina, but there are over 200 great wineries scattered across the state! In fact, North Carlina has the claim to fame as discovering the very first grapevine on U.S. soil. From wine trails and tastings along the coast to sipping high up in the Blue Ridge Mountains, visiting a winery is one of the best things to do in North Carolina.
The cozy mountain towns of Banner Elk and Linville collectively hold three wineries, each with a different vibe. The Banner Elk Winery has outdoor seating where visitors can enjoy a wine flight on one of the couches or picnic areas all around their gorgeous property. Guests can also stay overnight in the Banner Elk Villas. Hikers and outdoor enthusiasts will love exploring the Linville Gorge and hiking to Linville Falls. Just outside of the gorge is the Linville Falls Winery, a sprawling property with plenty of seating, outdoor fireplaces, and live music.
Or visit Grandfather Mountain State Park, and afterwards head to the Grandfather Mountain Winery for a glass of wine by the river. Nearby in the town of Asheville is the famous Biltmore Estate, boasting the number-one visited winery in the country! And for those who are not wine aficionados, Asheville is also known as “beer city” for having the most craft breweries in the country. Alternatively, the Yadkin Valley along the east coast of North Carolina is home to over 40 wineries and vineyards, as well as craft breweries and delectable restaurants.
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This is a great list! I’d love to visit the wineries and the Outerbanks!
I have been vacationing in NC since I was a child as it has everything: seashore, mountains, and cities. The Outer Banks will always be my love.
I didn’t know there’s so much to see in North Carolina, especially so many historical places like castles and estates. I would also love to explore the Blue Ridge Mountains!
Thank you! Very useful information!