Day Trips in North Carolina
I’ve explored North Carolina many times, watching it evolve from a state travelers passed through into a destination brimming with charm. Yet on my trips I’ve still found plenty of peaceful, under-the-radar spots that feel far from the crowds. Here are my favorites.
1. Mount Airy
I thought Mount Airy made such a perfect North Carolina day trip! I also thought it was strikingly charming with its retro storefronts, Mayberry-themed attractions, cozy cafés, quirky shops, and friendly locals all set against the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
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.
In one day, we:
2. Carolina Beach
Carolina Beach turned out to be the perfect coastal escape! 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.
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.
In one day, we:
- Strolled on the Carolina Beach Boardwalk and stopped for hot, fresh Britt’s Donuts
- Relaxed on the wide sandy beach and watched surfers ride the waves
- Explored the Carolina Beach State Park trails and spotted the famous Venus flytraps
- Grabbed a casual coastal lunch at a local seafood shack
- Rode the Ferris wheel and played arcade games along the boardwalk
- Ended the evening with live music and a seaside dinner overlooking the ocean
3. Blowing Rock
Blowing Rock felt like stepping into a storybook mountain town. Perched high in the Blue Ridge, it was cozy and refined all at once, with tree-lined streets, boutique shops, art galleries, and sweeping views that seemed to appear around every bend.
It carried a calm, almost timeless atmosphere — crisp mountain air, the sound of rushing streams, and the steady rhythm of hikers and wanderers passing through. 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.
I found it deeply refreshing, with a slower pace, kind-hearted locals, and endless ways to connect with nature. Located along the Blue Ridge Parkway, it makes for a perfect retreat whether you want adventure, relaxation, or just a breath of cool mountain air.
In one day, we:
- Strolled through downtown Blowing Rock with its charming boutiques and cafés
- Stopped at the legendary Blowing Rock overlook for panoramic mountain views
- Explored the Glen Burney Trail to discover waterfalls hidden in the forest
- Visited the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum for a touch of culture
- Relaxed with a hearty lunch at Bistro Roca
- Drove a stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway, pulling over for breathtaking overlooks
4. Murphy, North Carolina
Murphy struck me as a hidden corner of North Carolina that still feels wonderfully untouched. 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 history lingers in every brick storefront and riverside trail.
There’s a simplicity here that feels rare — 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.
I found Murphy to be both grounding and inviting, with kind locals, Appalachian heritage, and panoramic views that make it feel worlds away from the bustle of city life. Sitting at the meeting point of North Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia, it’s a perfect place to pause, breathe, and explore the mountains.
In one day, we:
- Walked through historic downtown Murphy, browsing antique shops and local cafés
- Visited the Cherokee County Historical Museum to learn about the region’s heritage
- Strolled along the Murphy River Walk where the Hiwassee and Valley Rivers meet
- Had a relaxed lunch at Yogi's Neighborhood Grill
- Took a scenic drive along the Cherohala Skyway for sweeping mountain views
- Ended the day with sunset over the Hiwassee Lake Dam, a peaceful mountain backdrop
5. Brevard
Brevard 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.
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 cascading waterfalls and sweeping overlooks. What I loved most were the town’s little surprises: white squirrels darting across lawns, live bluegrass echoing out of breweries, and the way art and nature blended seamlessly everywhere you turned.
I found Brevard to be endlessly refreshing — a place where you 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.
In one day, we:
- Strolled through downtown Brevard, exploring galleries, boutiques, and cafés
- Stopped by the Brevard Music Center grounds, known for world-class performances
- Hiked in Pisgah National Forest to see Looking Glass Falls up close
- Visited the quirky White Squirrel Shoppe and learned about the town’s famous critters
- Had lunch at The Square Root
- Finished the evening with live music and a tasting at a craft brewery
6. Bryson City, North Carolina
For me, Bryson City was the perfect mountain getaway tucked into the Great Smoky Mountains. It’s a town where river adventures, scenic railways, and welcoming streets all come together to create a relaxed yet adventurous atmosphere.
The pace was 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.
I found Bryson City to be warm and inviting, with friendly locals, cozy cafés, and endless opportunities to get outside. Just west of the national park, it makes a wonderful day trip or base for exploring the Smokies.
In one day, we:
- Wandered through downtown Bryson City, stopping into shops and cafés
- Toured the Swain County Heritage Museum to learn about the town’s history
- Rode the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad for incredible mountain and river views
- Ate a hearty lunch at River's End Restaurant
- Spent the afternoon rafting the Nantahala River or hiking in the national park
- Ended the evening watching the sunset along the Tuckasegee River
7. Atlantic Beach
In Atlantic Beach everything slows down to the rhythm of the waves. Set along North Carolina’s Crystal Coast, it blends wide sandy beaches, ocean breezes, and a welcoming spirit into a laid-back seaside retreat.
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.
In one day, we:
- Strolled the Atlantic Beach shoreline and soaked up the ocean views
- Explored Fort Macon State Park and its centuries-old history
- Fished from the Oceanana Pier with the sea breeze all around
- Enjoyed a lunch at The Island Grille
- Spent the afternoon swimming, paddleboarding, or kayaking in the Atlantic
- Ended the day with a colorful sunset over Bogue Sound
8. Belmont, North Carolina
Just outside of Charlotte, Belmont, North Carolina 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.
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 Lake Wylie, or simply enjoying the small-town atmosphere, Belmont makes for a refreshing day trip or weekend getaway.
In one day, we:
- Explored the shops and cafés of downtown Belmont
- Visited the stunning Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
- Walked the trails and relaxed at Stowe Park
- Stopped for lunch at Nellie's Southern Kitchen
- Spent the afternoon kayaking or paddleboarding on Lake Wylie
- Watched the sunset from a lakeside spot before heading home
9. Wrightsville Beach
Wrightsville Beach 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.
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.
In one day, we:
- Walked the wide sandy shoreline of Wrightsville Beach at sunrise
- Biked the Wrightsville Beach Loop for a scenic tour of the island
- Kayaked or paddleboarded through the intracoastal waterways
- Ate a fresh seafood lunch at Bluewater Waterfront Grill
- Spent the afternoon surfing, swimming, or lounging by the ocean
- Closed the day with a sunset over the Harbor Island sound
10. Monroe, North Carolina
Monroe, North Carolina, 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.
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.
In one day, we:
- Strolled around downtown Monroe and the historic courthouse square
- Explored local shops and stopped at a café for coffee and pastries
- Toured the Union County Heritage Museum to learn about local history
- Enjoyed a hearty lunch at Main Street Bistro
- Visited a nearby vineyard or farm for a relaxed afternoon
- Caught the sunset while walking through a local park or greenway
Conclusion
Whether you’re drawn to history, outdoor adventures, or simply the charm of a walkable Southern town, Monroe offers a little bit of everything at a slower pace. It’s the kind of place where you can spend the day exploring, connect with the community, and leave feeling refreshed, a small city with a big heart in the middle of Union County.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
