Places to Visit in North Carolina

I always say—let the seasons guide your vacation in North Carolina. There’s something magical about planning your trip around what nature’s doing. In spring, I love hitting the Appalachian Trail or biking through the trails at Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park. If you enjoy being active outdoors, I think you’ll feel the same rush I do when those trails come alive.

When summer rolls in, I always find myself pulled to the coast. North Carolina has over 300 miles of beautiful barrier island beaches, and I never tire of walking along a lighthouse trail or exploring the charming seaside towns. If you’re dreaming of a romantic escape, you’ll love the quiet charm of the lighthouses and sunsets over the dunes—I’ve watched many and they still take my breath away.

Fall is my favorite time to slow down and savor the colors along the Blue Ridge Parkway. If you haven’t done that drive yet, you’re in for a treat. I’ve done it more times than I can count, and I still find new views to love every season. The foliage alone is worth the trip, especially with a warm drink in hand and windows down.

And when you’re ready for city life, you’ve got plenty of options. I always enjoy exploring Raleigh, Durham, Winston-Salem, and Charlotte. If you're like me and enjoy museums, food scenes, or just discovering neighborhoods with character, you’ll find something to love in each of these cities.

Best Places to Visit in North Carolina: