North Carolina is a state that invites exploration at every turn. From the misty peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the sun-kissed shores of the Outer Banks, each destination offers its own unique charm and story. Whether you're wandering through Asheville's vibrant arts scene, savoring the collegiate atmosphere of Chapel Hill, or finding tranquility in the Great Smoky Mountains, there's a piece of North Carolina that resonates with every traveler.
In this guide, I've shared personal reflections and highlights from some of my favorite spots across the state. I hope these insights inspire your own journey through the diverse landscapes and communities that make North Carolina so special.
Best Places to Visit in North Carolina:
Wandering through the Blue Ridge charm of Asheville
Asheville surprised me with its rhythm—equal parts mountain town and artsy soul. Tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains, the city feels like it's humming with creativity. Everywhere I turned there was live music, murals, or someone with a sketchpad and a story. I wandered the River Arts District and took in the color and texture of it all, and I remember thinking, “This place doesn’t try too hard—it just is.”
What I Loved Most: Sitting on a bench at the North Carolina Arboretum, surrounded by blooming trails and quiet forest, I felt deeply content. The kind of content you don’t realize you’ve been missing until it shows up.
My highlights? A dreamy lunch at Tupelo Honey in downtown Asheville. I had their honey-dusted fried chicken with mac & cheese waffles, topped with powdered sugar and served with pickled okra. Sitting outside with a view of the city buzz, it was the perfect blend of indulgent and comforting.
Travel Tips:
- Drive Time from Charlotte: ~2 hours west
- Vibe: Artsy, laid-back, nature-infused
- Highlights: Blue Ridge Parkway, River Arts District, Biltmore Estate
- Best Time to Visit: October for foliage or spring for wildflowers
- Cost: Mid-range (meals ~$15-25, Biltmore ticket ~$70)
- Hours: Most shops and galleries open 10am–6pm
- Address: Downtown Asheville: 1 Page Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
Stay at Biltmore House and Gardens.
Slow mornings and sweet discoveries in Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill felt like an open book—pages fluttering with history, Southern charm, and a youthful spark. I strolled Franklin Street under a canopy of trees, soaking in the warmth of the place and the buzz of students and old-timers alike. There was something grounding here. I remember thinking, “If comfort had a hometown, this might be it.”
What I Loved Most: Wandering through the Coker Arboretum at golden hour. The dappled light and hush of campus in early evening made it feel like time had slowed down just for me.
My highlights? A cozy breakfast at Sunrise Biscuit Kitchen, a drive-thru gem loved by locals. I had their famous chicken biscuit—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.
Travel Tips:
- Drive Time from Raleigh: ~40 minutes west
- Vibe: Welcoming, collegiate, nostalgic
- Highlights: UNC campus, Ackland Art Museum, Coker Arboretum
- Best Time to Visit: Fall for campus energy and crisp air
- Cost: Affordable (free campus sights, budget-friendly eats)
- Hours: Most spots open 9am–5pm, restaurants later
- Address: Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Breathe deep in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
There’s a hush in the Smokies that’s hard to explain—like the mountains are holding something sacred just under the trees. I hiked early, mist curling through the branches, and every step felt like a meditation. Even with others on the trail, there was solitude. I remember thinking, “This is what it means to feel small in the best way.”
What I Loved Most: Watching the sunrise from Clingmans Dome—light pouring over the peaks in waves of blue and gold. It was the kind of moment that makes you quiet inside.
My highlights? After a long morning on the trail, I stopped in nearby Bryson City at The High Test Deli & Sweet Shop. I had their turkey and cranberry sandwich with apple slaw on a toasted bun, plus a scoop of homemade salted caramel ice cream. It was casual, cozy, and hit the spot perfectly.
Travel Tips:
- Drive Time from Asheville: ~1.5 hours west
- Vibe: Peaceful, awe-inspiring, naturally grounding
- Highlights: Clingmans Dome, Cades Cove, hiking trails, waterfalls
- Best Time to Visit: Spring for wildflowers, fall for foliage
- Cost: Park entrance free; parking tag ~$5/day
- Hours: Open 24/7, though visitor centers close ~5pm
- Address: 107 Park Headquarters Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Big ideas and easy charm in Raleigh
Raleigh felt like a quiet powerhouse—polished but never pretentious. Museums, green spaces, buzzing restaurants... it all lived in harmony. I walked through downtown and felt the energy of a city that’s growing but still holding onto its roots. I remember thinking, “This is the kind of place that grows on you—fast.”
What I Loved Most: The North Carolina Museum of Art, especially the outdoor trails dotted with sculptures. Art and nature side by side—it was unexpectedly moving.
My highlights? Dinner at Beasley’s Chicken + Honey, where I had the fried chicken and waffles, served with warm syrup and a side of braised collard greens. The vibe was relaxed, the flavors bold, and every bite felt like a Southern hug.
Travel Tips:
- Drive Time from Durham: ~30 minutes east
- Vibe: Smart, creative, low-key lively
- Highlights: Museums, breweries, Pullen Park, State Capitol
- Best Time to Visit: Spring or fall for festivals and temperate weather
- Cost: Mostly free museums; meals ~$15–30
- Hours: Museums open 9am–5pm, parks dawn to dusk
- Address: Downtown Raleigh: 400 Fayetteville St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Mountain magic and misty mornings in Boone
Boone felt like stepping into a mountain postcard—foggy ridges, winding roads, and cozy corners. The Appalachian charm was instant. I remember standing on the Blue Ridge Parkway and thinking, “I could stay right here forever and never need a reason.” There’s a gentleness in Boone that wraps around you like a well-worn sweater.
What I Loved Most: Driving along the Parkway just after sunrise. The silence, the views, and the slow bends in the road made it unforgettable.
My highlights? Brunch at Melanie’s Food Fantasy in downtown Boone. I had their avocado toast topped with poached eggs, a dusting of paprika, and crispy rosemary potatoes on the side. Sitting out front with the morning breeze and mountain air, I felt completely at peace.
Travel Tips:
- Drive Time from Asheville: ~2 hours northeast
- Vibe: Scenic, mellow, outdoorsy
- Highlights: Blue Ridge Parkway, Appalachian State, Grandfather Mountain
- Best Time to Visit: Fall for colors, winter for skiing nearby
- Cost: Budget-friendly; parks free, meals ~$10–20
- Hours: Shops open 10am–6pm; Parkway always open
- Address: Downtown Boone: 667 W King St, Boone, NC 28607
Urban energy and Southern soul in Charlotte
Charlotte had a pulse—fast-moving and full of contrast. Sleek skyscrapers rose above old brick buildings, and shiny restaurants shared blocks with neighborhood barbecue joints. It was the South, yes, but with ambition in its stride. I remember thinking, “This is the kind of city that doesn’t slow down—but it still smiles.”
What I Loved Most: An afternoon at Freedom Park, lounging by the lake and watching locals jog, picnic, or just sit under the trees. It was peaceful in a way only a big city park can be.
My highlights? A late lunch at Midwood Smokehouse—the brisket plate with mac and cheese and Eastern-style slaw. Tender, smoky, tangy…it was barbecue perfection, and the kind of meal that demanded a slow walk afterward.
Travel Tips:
- Drive Time from Raleigh: ~2.5 hours southwest
- Vibe: Sleek, dynamic, surprisingly friendly
- Highlights: NASCAR Hall of Fame, Freedom Park, art museums
- Best Time to Visit: Spring or early fall for festivals and mild weather
- Cost: Moderate to upscale; attractions ~$15–30, meals ~$20+
- Hours: Museums open 10am–5pm; restaurants stay open late
- Address: Uptown Charlotte: 500 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202
Find a place to stay. Be sure to check out the waterfalls near Charlotte
Riverside calm and coastal charm in Elizabeth City
Elizabeth City felt like a gentle exhale. The kind of place where people wave from porches, the water glimmers at sunset, and time slows down without asking. I wandered along the harbor, boats bobbing nearby, and I remember thinking, “Maybe quiet is exactly what I’ve been missing.” There was something about the blend of Southern ease and maritime spirit that stayed with me.
What I Loved Most: Watching the sun dip over the Pasquotank River from Mariners’ Wharf Park, a soft breeze on my face and nowhere to be but present.
My highlights? A seafood lunch at Quality Seafood Market, a no-frills local favorite. I had the fried shrimp platter—golden, crisp, and served with hush puppies and coleslaw. Sitting by the window looking out at the marina, it was everything I wanted and nothing fancy.
Travel Tips:
- Drive Time from Norfolk, VA: ~1 hour south
- Vibe: Serene, historic, coastal small-town
- Highlights: Harbor views, Museum of the Albemarle, Mariners’ Wharf Park
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring or early fall for fewer crowds and mild weather
- Cost: Budget-friendly; most attractions free
- Hours: Shops and museums open ~10am–5pm; park open sunrise to sunset
- Address: Mariners’ Wharf Park: 106 S Water St, Elizabeth City, NC 27909
Embracing the Journey
Traveling through North Carolina is more than just a series of destinations—it's about the moments that stay with you long after you've returned home. It's the warmth of a small-town café, the awe of a mountain sunrise, and the stories etched into historic streets. As you plan your adventure, remember to leave room for spontaneity and discovery. The true essence of North Carolina often lies in the unexpected encounters and hidden gems along the way.
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.
Jump to a Spot...
- • Wandering through the Blue Ridge charm of Asheville
- • Slow mornings and sweet discoveries in Chapel Hill
- • Breathe deep in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- • Big ideas and easy charm in Raleigh
- • Mountain magic and misty mornings in Boone
- • Urban energy and Southern soul in Charlotte
- • Riverside calm and coastal charm in Elizabeth City