Best Places to Visit in North Carolina

Ready to unplug from the daily routine and take a trip from the city? Well, you are in the right place! These are my favorite places I've explored in North Carolina since I've moved to the South, and I hope you love them too. If you are looking for North Carolina beaches, I recommend this article.

Best Mountain Getaways in North Carolina (Western NC):

Looking to get away to the Blue Ridge Mountains? These are the places that captured my heart over the years.

1. Mount Airy

This town, set between rolling foothills and wide open country roads, is one of my favorite North Carolina day trips when I want a mix of history, food, and a little outdoor adventure.

• Location Map

It felt both relaxed and buzzing at once, with a walkable Main Street full of diners, music, and small-town Americana. As well as its timeless charm, I also loved its quirks and eccentricities. I saw classic squad car tours cruising down the street, locals chatting at Floyd’s Barber Shop, and long lines outside Snappy Lunch for its famous (and massive) pork chop sandwich!

I found it refreshingly nostalgic, with Southern hospitality, live bluegrass music, and a deep connection to Andy Griffith’s Mayberry legacy. Located in northern North Carolina near the Virginia border, it’s an easy drive from Winston-Salem, Greensboro, or even the Raleigh/Durham area.

What I loved best:

Lunch at Snappy Lunch was my favorite highlight (yes, I had their pork chop sandwich!)

2. Boone

Perched high in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this is one of my favorite vacation destinations in western North Carolina, and I think it’s one of the best mountain towns in the country!

Named after pioneer Daniel Boone, Boone offers outdoor adventure, Appalachian culture, and a laid-back college-town vibe thanks to Appalachian State University. We reached it in about 1.5 hours from our previous stop in Mount Airy and had a comfortable stay at the Horton Hotel for two days, with its rooftop bar overlooking King Street right downtown. For a mountain retreat, you could also rent a cabin tucked into the woods or book a lodge near the Blue Ridge Parkway.

We love that this is a true four-season destination! We've enjoyed hiking trails and river rafting in summer, incredible foliage along the Blue Ridge Parkway in fall, skiing in the winter (at Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain), and wildflower meadows come spring. I thought that "The Heart of the High Country" balances rugged outdoor beauty with friendly small-town atmosphere so well.

Boone’s food scene is casual but creative. I like to start my morning with a hearty breakfast at Melanie’s Food Fantasy, and a casual lunch at Stick Boy Bread Company after a morning exploring. Vidalia offers a refined, farm-to-table twist which I adore. Beer lovers shouldn’t miss Appalachian Mountain Brewery - locals told me about their welcoming beer garden and it truly was a standout! Lost Province Brewing downtown was another favorite for me because I love wood-fired pizzas!

If you have more time, hike Rough Ridge or Flat Top Mountain for sweeping Blue Ridge Parkway views, and head to Grandfather Mountain ($22 adult admission) for trails, a swinging bridge, and wildlife habitats. In town, stroll through the Daniel Boone Native Gardens ($5 Donation) to learn about native Appalachian plants and flowers (I love this place in the spring!).

• Location: In northwestern North Carolina in the Blue Ridge Mountains, south of Mountain City, Tennessee, and north of Blowing Rock
• Map & Directions

What I loved best:

Horn in the West, an outdoor drama telling the story of Daniel Boone and the region’s early settlers, was my favorite highlight.

3. Blowing Rock

Perched high in the Blue Ridge, less than 20 minutes from Boone, this mountain town feels like one of the most unspoiled and scenic stretches of western North Carolina. In fact, I think Blowing Rock is one of the best romantic small-towns, perfect for a honeymoon!

The "Crown of the Blue Ridge" carried a calm, almost timeless atmosphere with crisp mountain air, and the sound of rushing streams as we walked around. What I loved most were the contrasts: high-end restaurants alongside rustic general stores, scenic overlooks just minutes from a lively downtown, and quiet trails leading to dramatic cliffs (and waterfalls, my favorite!).

• Location: Western North Carolina in the Blue Ridge Mountains, south of Boone along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway
• Location Map

Banner Elk Winery and Villa, about 35 minutes from Blowing Rock, was a cool day trip, offering artisan wines we bought as gifts, and calm Blue Ridge Mountain views!

What I loved best:

Relaxing with a hearty lunch at Bistro Roca!

4. Murphy

Ready for a history-rich Appalachian getaway? Murphy is a standout. This place struck me as a hidden corner of North Carolina that still feels wonderfully untouched, about 3 hours and 30 minutes from Blowing Rock. Tucked deep in the state’s far western mountains, it’s the kind of town where the pace slows, the scenery takes center stage, and you can feel history around you.

• Location: Far western North Carolina in the Appalachian Mountains, near the Georgia and Tennessee borders
• Location Map

There’s a simplicity here that feels rare and that completely won me over — mountain ridges fading into the horizon, the gentle flow of the Hiwassee River, and a downtown where life moves to its own steady rhythm. What stood out most was the balance: a quiet, walkable town center paired with endless opportunities for outdoor adventure just minutes away.

Sitting at the meeting point of North Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia, for me, it’s a perfect place to pause, breathe, and explore the mountains.

What I loved best:

A relaxed lunch at Yogi's Neighborhood Grill was my favorite highlight!

5. Brevard

This city immediately charmed me with its mix of mountain beauty and small-town creativity. Nestled in the heart of Transylvania County — famously known as the “Land of Waterfalls” — it felt like a place where outdoor adventure and artistic energy flow side by side. We reached it in 2 hours and 20 minutes from our last stop in Murphy.

• Location: Western North Carolina in the Blue Ridge Mountains, near Pisgah National Forest and south of Asheville
• Location Map

The atmosphere was both laid-back and inspiring. Downtown buzzed with galleries, music shops, and cozy cafés, while just minutes away the forests opened into trails leading to waterfalls and overlooks.

I found Brevard to be endlessly refreshing — a place where I can hike to a waterfall in the morning, browse boutiques in the afternoon, and end the evening with live music and craft beer. Set against the backdrop of Pisgah National Forest, it’s the perfect day trip for anyone who wants both mountain adventure and small-town charm.

What I loved best:

Visiting the quirky White Squirrel Shoppe and learning about the town’s famous critters was my favorite highlight.

6. Bryson City

Tucked along the Tuckasegee River and surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains, I think this town is one of the best small-town bases for exploring the Smokies! We drove about 1 hour and 45 minutes from Brevard and checked into an affordable Airbnb for two relaxing days filled with fresh mountain air and great views.

I loved that the pace was so unhurried — people sitting on benches downtown with ice cream cones, anglers casting into the Tuckasegee River, and families lining up to board the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. What made it special were the contrasts: a tiny walkable downtown paired with vast mountain wilderness just minutes away, and a quiet riverside town that also serves as a hub for rafting, hiking, and Smokies exploration.

• Location: Western North Carolina in the Great Smoky Mountains, along the Tuckasegee River near the national park’s entrance
• Location Map

What I loved best:

Ending the evening watching the sunset along the Tuckasegee River was my favorite highlight!

7. Asheville

This city is ringed by natural beauty and I thought that it was one of the places to visit in North Carolina when I moved to the South. Why? First off, the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway winds just outside town, offering panoramic overlooks and trailheads. In addition, the French Broad River carves its way through the city, giving locals and visitors a chance to kayak, float, or just enjoy riverside views.

We drove just a little over an hour from Bryson City and based ourselves at 3-star Aloft Asheville for three days.

Downtown, you’ll find a walkable grid of galleries, historic architecture, and music spilling from street corners and breweries.

We spent the afternoon at Still Point Wellness, where time felt suspended. I floated in warm saltwater, weightless and quiet, the world gone hush. Afterwards, I moved slower, steadier, like my body finally remembered how to rest.

We had an amazing dinner after at Curate, a beloved Spanish restaurant downtown. I ordered tapas: garlicky shrimp that sizzled in olive oil, thin slices of jamón, and a bright tomato bread that reminded me of dining at home in Texas.

What should you do in Asheville? Hike to waterfalls in Pisgah National Forest, and explore the trails at the North Carolina Arboretum. Culture seekers will love the River Arts District, where artists open their studios to the public, and history buffs can spend a day touring the grand Biltmore Estate. Music lovers will find plenty of live shows, from bluegrass to indie rock, at venues across the city (I love that I didn't have to plan ahead but just followed my mood).

• Location: In western North Carolina in the Blue Ridge Mountains, north of Hendersonville and south of Weaverville
• Map & Directions

What I loved best:

For us, the highlights were catching a sunset from the Parkway, wandering through the colorful River Arts District murals, and sipping cider while listening to live bluegrass downtown.

A downside? Parking downtown was tricky, especially on weekends.

8. Mountains-to-Sea Trail

Ready for a scenic North Carolina escape? Check out the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, a real standout! I loved visiting in late fall when the mountain air felt brisk and the leaves danced with golden and red colors. Even the coastal sections have their own magic that time of year, with quiet dunes and cooler breezes.

Stretching from the Great Smoky Mountains all the way to the Outer Banks, Mountains-to-Sea Trail weaves through towns, over ridgelines, along rivers, and past more stories than any one person could tell.

I picked up a small section near Asheville, where the trail dips into the Blue Ridge Parkway.

After hiking, I stopped in Black Mountain for lunch at Blue Ridge Biscuit Company. I ordered the fried green tomato biscuit with goat cheese and arugula, plus a glass of fresh lemonade.

• Location: Statewide, stretches from Clingmans Dome to Jockey’s Ridge
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for clear skies and comfortable weather

What I loved best:

For me, Mountains-to-Sea Trail is one of the best things to do in North Carolina because it's so diverse and unique!

We didn’t see many people, and there is a peaceful rhythm here that’s easy to fall into, my favorite highlight.

Best Piedmont Places to Visit in North Carolina (Central NC):

North Carolina's Piedmont is home to some of the coolest cities like Raleigh, Durham, and Winston-Salem with lots of museums & gardens, plus outdoor escapes like Eno River State Park and Lake Wylie. Here are my absolute favorites day trips and weekend getaways in Central North Carolina.

9. Belmont

This is one of my favorite small towns to visit near Charlotte, North Carolina. Why? This town offers a slower pace of life with tree-lined streets, welcoming shops, and easy access to lakes and gardens.

The mood was relaxed — families strolling downtown with coffee in hand, kids playing by the fountain, and couples enjoying the trails at nearby parks. What made Belmont special was the blend: a historic downtown that’s walkable and lively, balanced with peaceful escapes on the water and in nature just minutes away.

• Location: South-central North Carolina in the Charlotte metropolitan area, along the Catawba River west of Charlotte
• Location Map

I found Belmont to be warm and inviting, with cozy cafés, locally owned restaurants, and a sense of community everywhere you turn. Whether exploring Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, kayaking on on Lake Wylie, or simply enjoying the small-town atmosphere, Belmont makes for a refreshin day trip or weekend getaway.

What I loved best:

A summer afternoon kayaking on Lake Wylie was a standout!

10. Monroe

Ready for a history-rich outing? Monroe is a standout. This felt like a welcoming small city where history, Southern charm, and local culture come together. Just southeast of Charlotte, it offers a mix of historic architecture, family-friendly parks, and a lively downtown square that feels both timeless and inviting.

• Location: South-central North Carolina in the Piedmont region, southeast of Charlotte in Union County
• Location Map

The atmosphere was relaxed — neighbors chatting outside the old courthouse, families gathering for weekend festivals, and kids playing in the splash pad at the town square. What makes Monroe special is the blend: a walkable, historic downtown filled with local shops and eateries, paired with wide-open spaces, vineyards, and countryside just minutes away.

I found Monroe to be warm and community-centered, with friendly faces, cozy cafés, and a proud sense of heritage. From its beautiful historic homes to its modern-day energy, it makes for a great day trip or weekend stop when exploring Union County and the greater Charlotte area.

What I loved best:

For me, Monroe is one of the best day trips in North Carolina because it's historic, affordable, and hope you will love it too!

Lunch at Main Street Bistro was my personal highlight!

11. Winston-Salem

This is one of my favorite places to visit on a day trip because Winston-Salem offers a bit of everything—historic neighborhoods, thriving arts districts, and peaceful gardens. Once known as a tobacco and textile hub, North Carolina’s “Twin City” has redefined itself as a center for innovation, education, and creativity. From the living history of Old Salem Museums & Gardens to the galleries of the Reynolda House Museum of American Art and the buzz of Foothills Brewing, I found that the city offers both heritage and fresh energy.

We stayed at Historic Brookstown Inn for two days, in a setting that is both cozy and historic since the inn was originally a cotton mill built in 1837, and one of the best weekend getaways in North Carolina!

• Best Airport: Piedmont Triad International (GSO), about 30 minutes away; Charlotte Douglas (CLT) for a larger hub
• How Many Days: 2–3 for the city itself, longer if pairing with Greensboro or the Yadkin Valley wine region
• Time of Year to Visit: Spring and fall for festivals and comfortable weather, winter for cozy museums, summer for nearby wine trails

So where should you eat and drink in Winston-Salem? The food scene is a tasty mix of Southern comfort and modern flavors. Mozelle’s Fresh Southern Bistro serves up elevated regional classics. And when it comes to craft beer, Foothills Brewing is a must-visit—famous for its People’s Porter and Hoppyum IPA, along with a lively downtown taproom that feels like the heart of the city.

• Location: In north-central North Carolina in the Piedmont Triad region, west of Greensboro and north of Lexington
• Map & Directions

Art lovers will love SECCA (Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art), while downtown offers murals, galleries, and live music. For fresh air, Quarry Park provides skyline views, and the Yadkin Valley wine region is just a short drive away.

What I loved best:

Little Richard’s is my favorite highlight for amazing barbecue.

A downside? Some areas of downtown felt quiet after business hours, with stretches of empty streets between lively spots. It made the city feel a little fragmented at night.

12. Charlotte

July turned this city into the ultimate Southern city escape for me — sunny afternoons, warm evenings, and just the right mix of laid-back charm and modern energy. I adored how the Queen City came alive with rooftop concerts, open-air markets, and the cheerful buzz of locals soaking up summer at breweries and greenway trails.

I drove 2 hours and 15 minutes from Asheville and spent seven blissful days in a vacation rental, biking the Rail Trail through South End’s colorful murals, kayaking on Lake Norman, exploring the Mint Museum’s contemporary art collections, and tasting my way through the city’s craft scene — especially at Lenny Boy Brewing Co., where small-batch kombucha and locally brewed beer made the perfect refreshment after a day in the Carolina sun.

The CPCC Art Galleries are tucked into Central Piedmont’s campus, but they don’t feel academic in the stiff sense. I wandered through the Ross Gallery first, where student and regional works shared the walls like old friends. Then we strolled through the gardens outside before heading into the second space, the Overcash Gallery. Afterward, I walked a few blocks and sat down at Sunflour Baking Company for a late lunch. Best of all, it's free admission!

Reid’s Fine Foods is a great place for a quick lunch while exploring.

A super cool day trip from Charlotte was Good Karma Ranch (about 45 minutes) where we learned about sustainable farming, the benefits of alpaca fiber, and how much joy can come from simply being around gentle creatures.

• Location: In south-central North Carolina near the South Carolina border, northwest of Matthews and northeast of Gastonia
• Map & Directions

What I loved best:

Staying at the chic 4-star Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel, where floor-to-ceiling windows framed the skyline and evenings on the rooftop bar felt electric was my personal highlight.

A downside? Uptown traffic during rush hour was heavy, and navigating one-way streets slowed me down.

13. Durham

I thought that this was one of the places to visit in North Carolina when I moved to the South. Why? Once a tobacco hub, Durham has reinvented itself as a vibrant city of tech startups, world-class universities, and a nationally recognized food scene. Anchored by Duke University and the revitalized American Tobacco Campus, Durham feels both historic and forward-looking—an urban gem in the heart of the Triangle.

Ready for a peaceful, artful escape? Check out Sarah P. Duke Gardens and the Nasher Museum Café, a true standout combination! I loved visiting in late fall when the gardens feel extra calm. In addition, it’s the perfect time to warm up afterward with a cozy lunch at the museum.

We drove just 20 minutes north from Chapel Hill, slipping quickly onto Durham’s city streets. Brick smokestacks rose against the skyline. The converted warehouses of the American Tobacco Campus came into view, glowing with strings of lights that made the place feel alive even from a distance. We based ourselves at 21c Museum Hotel for two days, which doubles as an art gallery.

My highlight was exploring the American Tobacco Campus courtyard in the morning. Workers carried coffee past fountains, couples strolled hand in hand, and the hum of conversation bounced off brick walls once stained by factory days. It felt communal, a city living in its own history without being weighed down by it.

I had dinner at Mellow Mushroom inside the American Tobacco Campus. I ordered a specialty pizza with caramelized onions, mushrooms, and mozzarella. The crust came crisp on the outside, chewy within, the toppings smoky and sweet. The smell of fresh dough and garlic filled the air as music drifted from the open courtyard outside.

• Location: In central North Carolina within the Research Triangle region, northwest of Raleigh and east of Chapel Hill
• Map & Directions

What should you do in Durham? Start with a walk through Duke University’s campus, home to the stunning Duke Chapel and the Sarah P. Duke Gardens. Explore the American Tobacco Campus and nearby Durham Bulls Athletic Park, where catching a minor league baseball game is a summer tradition. Art lovers should visit the Nasher Museum of Art, while history buffs can tour the Museum of Durham History.

What I loved best:

The Eno River State Park was my personal highlight for trails and swimming holes just minutes from downtown.

A downside? Parking near the campus was tight, especially on weekend evenings.

14. Chapel Hill

This is one of my favorite places to visit because Chapel Hill truly offers a bit of everything—college-town spirit, quiet neighborhoods, and beautiful outdoor spaces. In addition, iIt’s easy to get to, and fall here is especially magical.

"The Southern Part of Heaven" is part of the vibrant Triangle region (with Durham and Raleigh just a short drive away), but it holds its own with its walkable downtown, thriving music scene, and food culture that punches well above its size. Franklin Street, the town’s main artery, buzzes with Tar Heel pride on game days and offers a mix of local dining, bookstores, and nightlife the rest of the year.

I enjoyed wandering through the Coker Arboretum (free) at golden hour. The dappled light and hush of campus in early evening made it feel like time had slowed down just for me.

We had breakfast at Sunrise Biscuit Kitchen, a drive-thru gem loved by locals. I had their famous chicken biscuit ($4.99), crispy, peppery chicken tucked into a buttery biscuit, with a side of hash browns. I ate it in the car with the windows down, parked under a tree, and it was perfect.

Where do you stay in Chapel Hill? We checked into the 4-star historic Carolina Inn, located on campus for two days. I loved its Southern hospitality with elegant touches.

• Location: In central North Carolina within the Research Triangle region, west of Durham and southeast of Hillsborough
• Map & Directions

Be sure to check out the Ackland Art Museum. History buffs will appreciate the Morehead Planetarium, where astronauts once trained, while music lovers should look for shows at Cat’s Cradle in nearby Carrboro, one of the Southeast’s legendary venues. Nature is never far away either, with trails like Battle Park offering a peaceful forest escape right in town.

What I loved best:

The Franklin Street staple Sutton’s Drug Store delivers nostalgic diner vibes, while Crook’s Corner is amazing for Southern classics like shrimp and grits, my favorite highlight.

15. Raleigh

Ready for a city trip filled with character, comfort, and great food? Known as the “City of Oaks” for its tree-lined streets, this is a hub of government, education, and culture—anchored by its role in the Research Triangle alongside Durham and Chapel Hill. With its lively food scene, abundant green spaces, and thriving arts and music culture, Raleigh offers the perfect mix of sophistication and approachability.

Downtown Raleigh offers boutique hotels like Guest House Raleigh...close to the city’s food and nightlife scene. For a touch of history, The StateView Hotel on NC State’s campus combines modern design with academic atmosphere.

Raleigh’s dining scene is one of the best in the South. Poole’s Diner, helmed by James Beard Award–winning chef Ashley Christensen, is a must-visit for modern comfort food (and its famous macaroni au gratin). Brewery Bhavana offers an unusual but fantastic combination of craft beer, dim sum, and a flower shop. Tazza Kitchen is a local favorite for wood-fired pizzas, tacos, and seasonal small plates that mix Southern and global flavors.

If you want to experience it all, book a Taste Carolina Food Tour, which takes you through multiple restaurants downtown for a sampling of the city’s best flavors.

Start with the city’s outstanding museums (we loved that so many of them are free!) including the North Carolina Museum of Art, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, and the North Carolina Museum of History.

• Location: In central North Carolina within the Research Triangle region, east of Cary and south of Wake Forest
• Map & Directions

Explore the historic Oakwood neighborhood for beautifully preserved 19th-century homes, or stroll Pullen Park for family fun. Outdoors, bike or walk along the Capital Area Greenway, or head to William B. Umstead State Park for hiking and lakeside trails. Music lovers should check the lineup at Red Hat Amphitheater or Lincoln Theatre, while foodies will love Raleigh’s many food tours.

What I loved best:

The farmers’ market is my favorite highlight for local atmosphere and cheap snacks.

A downside? Downtown parking filled quickly during lunch and evening hours.

Best Places to Visit on the Coast of North Carolina (Eastern NC):

Ocean beaches are my favorite for a relaxing vacation and there are some amazing beaches to choose from in North Carolina.

16. Wilmington and It's Amazing Beaches

Ready for a coastal getaway that still feels deeply rooted in history? Wilmington is a real standout! Located along the Cape Fear River and just minutes from Atlantic beaches, I loved the lively riverfront, and a thriving arts and dining scene. Its walkable historic district, lined with centuries-old oaks and colorful homes, makes it one of the state’s most picturesque cities.

We drove about two hours southeast from Raleigh, the road flattening as it neared the coast, and we stayed an easy week in a vacation rental.

I enjoyed exploring Airlie Gardens ($10) in the morning, and having a stroll along the Riverwalk in the afternooon. History lovers will appreciate the Bellamy Mansion Museum and a tour of the Battleship North Carolina, moored just across the river. The Cameron Art Museum highlights local and international works, a cool spot if you are a history buff like me. When the sun calls, head to nearby beaches: Wrightsville Beach for surfing, Carolina Beach for boardwalk fun, or Kure Beach for a quieter coastal escape!

I loved that Wilmington is such a cool spot for foodies. Dockside Restaurant is a local favorite on the water, while Elijah’s and Pilot House offer riverside dining downtown. Indochine is beloved for its eclectic atmosphere and Thai cuisine, while newer spots like Savorez bring a modern, Latin-inspired twist.

• Location: In southeastern North Carolina along the Cape Fear River, near the Atlantic coast, south of Jacksonville and north of Carolina Beach
• Map & Directions

What I loved best:

Kilwin’s where we had sweet treats right on the riverwalk was my personal highlight.

A downside? Summer weekends brought heavy crowds to the Riverwalk.

17. Wrightsville Beach

This coastal town feels like one of the most unspoiled and inviting stretches of shoreline in the state, and I think Wrightsville Beach is one of the best day trips in North Carolina. This was a place where soft sand, clear blue water, and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere come together. Just minutes from Wilmington, it combines the energy of a surf town with the calm of a classic beach escape.

• Location: Southeastern North Carolina on a barrier island near Wilmington, along the Atlantic Ocean
• Location Map

The pace was easygoing — surfers catching waves at sunrise, families biking along the Loop, and friends gathering for seafood at waterfront spots as sailboats drifted by. What makes Wrightsville special is the mix: a walkable beach town full of energy, balanced with tranquil marshes, inlets, and miles of shoreline perfect for slowing down.

I found Wrightsville Beach to be both vibrant and welcoming, with a youthful spirit, friendly locals, and countless ways to get outside. Whether you’re paddling through saltwater marshes, strolling the beach, or exploring nearby Wilmington, it’s an ideal base for a coastal adventure.

What I loved best:

The afternoon swimming and lounging by the ocean was a standout.

18. Carolina Beach

This North Carolina beach town, tucked between the Atlantic Ocean and the Cape Fear River, is one of my favorite places to visit when I want a mix of classic beach fun and relaxed coastal charm. I thought it was wonderfully lively with its nostalgic boardwalk, sun-soaked beaches, colorful shops, and easygoing Southern charm all framed by the sparkling Atlantic Ocean.

• Location: Southeastern North Carolina on Pleasure Island, along the Atlantic coast near Wilmington
• Location Map

It felt both carefree and full of energy, with families building sandcastles, music drifting from the boardwalk, and the irresistible smell of fresh donuts in the air. Beyond the classic beach-town fun, I loved its little quirks and surprises, from spotting Venus flytraps in the state park to riding a retro Ferris wheel at sunset.

I found it refreshingly laid-back, with friendly locals, live music, fresh seafood, and a playful atmosphere that makes you instantly feel on vacation. Located just south of Wilmington, it’s an easy day trip from Raleigh, Durham, or Greensboro.

What I loved best:

Seaside lunch overlooking the ocean at Sunny Daze Smokehouse was my personal highlight - we had amazing barbecue brisket sandwiches.

19. Elizabeth City

Elizabeth City feels like one of the most unspoiled waterfront towns in northeastern North Carolina, and I think it's one of the absolute best small coastal destinations in the region.

Welcome to the “Harbor of Hospitality” on North Carolina’s Inner Banks. Perched along the Pasquotank River, this charming small city blends maritime history, a walkable downtown, and easy access to the Albemarle Sound. Known for its friendly locals and laid-back waterfront vibe, Elizabeth City makes for a quiet getaway in coastal Carolina.

We drove east from Raleigh, about 3 hours across flat farmland and pine woods. Then the Pasquotank River shimmered into view. Elizabeth City welcomed us with historic waterfront streets, pastel-painted homes, and scenic boats drifting in and out of the harbor.

The river is at the heart of life here: docks and marinas line the waterfront, sailboats drift by, and sunsets over the Pasquotank set the evening scene. Just beyond town, you’ll find easy access to kayaking, fishing, and exploring the Albemarle region’s network of sounds and rivers. It’s a destination that feels off the beaten path, but full of simple, authentic charm.

We checked into The Culpepper Inn for two days that offers a historic stay.

Dining here highlights local seafood and Southern comfort. Cypress Creek Grill is a downtown favorite for riverside dining, while Hoppin’ Johnz serves up creative takes on Southern classics.

• Location: In northeastern North Carolina along the Pasquotank River, south of the Virginia state line and west of the Outer Banks
• Map & Directions

Start with the Museum of the Albemarle, which brings the region’s history to life. Stroll along the waterfront and Mariners’ Wharf Park and catch a concert or community event. Kayak or paddleboard along the Pasquotank, or take a short drive to Dismal Swamp State Park for hiking and biking along historic canals. History buffs will enjoy exploring the city’s historic districts, lined with Victorian homes and shaded streets.

What I loved best:

Montero’s Restaurant for a casual meal was my personal highlight.

A downside? Some of the shops and cafés downtown closed early. I wished the waterfront stayed lively a little longer after dark.

20. Atlantic Beach

This is one of my favorite North Carolina day trips, as I was impressed by how much variety Atlantic Beach offers in a single day! I can go on morning swims, afternoon park visits, seafood dinners, and sunset drives along the sound. It’s simple, beautiful, and endlessly refreshing.

• Location: Eastern North Carolina on Bogue Banks, part of the Crystal Coast along the Atlantic Ocean
• Location Map

The atmosphere was unhurried — children running in and out of the surf, anglers waiting patiently on the pier, and friends lingering over fresh seafood at waterfront cafés. What stood out most was the balance: a beach town made for relaxing afternoons in the sand, yet only steps away from history, nature, and endless adventures.

I found Atlantic Beach to be bright and easygoing, with friendly locals, casual restaurants, and plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors. Just next to historic Fort Macon and a short drive from Beaufort and Morehead City, it’s a perfect spot to anchor a trip along the Crystal Coast.

What I loved best:

Ending the day with a colorful sunset over Bogue Sound was my personal highlight!

Hi, I'm Ema. I'm the face behind VacationIdea.com. My husband, son are frequent travelers and spent 5 years on the road discovering some of the best places to visit in the USA. We base ourselves in a new place every 4 weeks weeks which has allowed us to experience each destination as a local. I love to chase unique things to do near me and revisit old favorites for a cool, fresh perspective. I'm also eager to learn from my fellow travelers to see what works for people and what doesn't. Whether you like great sunsets, hidden gems, places of mystery, famous attractions, or underrated experiences, here you'll find all of those recommendations from locals that won me over. Let's explore together! More about us.