Best Places to Visit in North Carolina
From misty mountains to sun-soaked beaches, North Carolina has a way of offering it all. Whether I was hiking along the Blue Ridge Parkway, dipping my toes into the Atlantic on the Outer Banks, or uncovering the state’s rich colonial and musical heritage, every stop added a new layer to the experience. After exploring the many sides of this vibrant state, I’ve narrowed it down to the places that I think are most worth your time.
1. Asheville
Asheville is ringed by natural beauty. The iconic Blue Ridge Parkway winds just outside town, offering panoramic overlooks and trailheads, while the French Broad River carves its way through the city, giving locals and visitors a chance to kayak, float, or just enjoy riverside views. Downtown, you’ll find a walkable grid of galleries, historic architecture, and music spilling from street corners and breweries.
We flew from Austin TX to Asheville for 2 hours 30 minutes and based ourselves at Aloft Asheville for three days. Omni Grove Park Inn is another great option.
- What to Know Before Visiting Asheville
- Best Airport: Asheville Regional Airport (AVL), with Charlotte (CLT) as a larger hub nearby
- How Many Days: 3–4 for Asheville itself, longer if you’re exploring the Parkway or nearby towns
- Time of Year to Visit: Spring for wildflowers, summer for festivals, fall for foliage, winter for cozy mountain vibes
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 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. Each bite felt simple but layered, the flavors lingering with warmth and spice. The room buzzed with conversation, and the smell of paprika hung in the air.
So where should you eat in Asheville? This city is a food-lover’s playground. Start your day with biscuits at Biscuit Head, grab creative farm-to-table dishes at Rhubarb, or enjoy tapas at Cúrate, one of Asheville’s most acclaimed spots. Don’t miss the brewery scene—Wicked Weed and Burial Beer Co. are standouts—and for a sweet finish, try French Broad Chocolate Lounge downtown.
What should you do in Asheville? Hike to waterfalls in Pisgah National Forest, explore trails at the North Carolina Arboretum, or drive the Blue Ridge Parkway for unmatched views. 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.
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. Asheville delivers that rare mix of mountain calm and cultural vibrancy—making it the perfect place to recharge and explore.
A downside? Parking downtown was tricky, especially on weekends.
2. Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill is North Carolina’s quintessential college town with a cultured Southern twist. Anchored by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the town radiates energy from its blend of academics, sports, history, and creative spirit.
- What to Know Before Visiting Chapel Hill
- Best Airport: Raleigh-Durham International (RDU), about 30 minutes away
- How Many Days: 2–3 for Chapel Hill itself, longer if exploring the Triangle
- Time of Year to Visit: Spring for blooms and campus life, fall for college football and vibrant foliage
Chapel Hill 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? The historic Carolina Inn, located on campus, offers Southern hospitality with elegant touches, while Graduate Chapel Hill blends collegiate style with boutique comfort.
So where should you eat in Chapel Hill? Franklin Street staples like Sutton’s Drug Store deliver nostalgic diner vibes, while Crook’s Corner is beloved for Southern classics like shrimp and grits. For a more upscale meal, Lantern combines Asian flavors with local ingredients, and beer lovers should stop at Carolina Brewery, a Chapel Hill institution.
What should you do in Chapel Hill? Check out the Ackland Art Museum, and catch a Tar Heels game if you can. 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.
3. Charlotte
Known as a banking hub with a skyline to match, Charlotte mixes urban sophistication with warm Southern hospitality. Beyond its skyscrapers, you’ll find distinct neighborhoods, buzzing food halls, leafy green spaces, and a sports scene that keeps the city lively year-round.
The drive from the airport to Charlotte was quick. Glass towers mixed with pockets of tree-lined streets that gave the “Queen City” its balance of bustle and ease.
- What to Know Before Visiting Charlotte
- Best Airport: Charlotte Douglas International (CLT)
- How Many Days: 2–4 for the city itself, longer if exploring nearby lakes or day-trips
- Time of Year to Visit: Spring and fall for mild weather, summer for lake life, winter for festive events
Charlotte is a city of contrasts: Uptown offers museums, theaters, and rooftop views, while neighborhoods like NoDa (North Davidson) pulse with street art and craft breweries. Outdoorsy travelers will find plenty to do along the Catawba River and in nearby Lake Norman, making the city as much about adventure as it is about business and culture.
Where do you stay in Charlotte? We based ourselves at The Westin Charlotte offering easy access to museums, sports arenas, and nightlife. For a boutique vibe, the Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel mixes luxury with artsy style, while neighborhoods like South End and NoDa offer eclectic Airbnbs and loft stays close to breweries and art scenes.
So where should you eat in Charlotte? Charlotte’s dining scene is booming. Head to Optimist Hall, a trendy food hall with local vendors, or indulge in Southern staples at Leah & Louise. For barbecue, Midwood Smokehouse is a must, while Kindred (just outside the city in Davidson) has earned national acclaim for elevated Southern fare. Breweries are everywhere—try Wooden Robot or Sycamore Brewing for local pours.
What should you do in Charlotte? Sports fans will be in heaven: catch an NFL Panthers game, cheer on the Hornets, or feel the rush at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Culture seekers can explore the Levine Museum of the New South or the Mint Museum for art. Families will love Discovery Place Science, while adrenaline junkies can raft and zipline at the U.S. National Whitewater Center. And don’t miss a stroll through Freedom Park or the murals of NoDa for a taste of Charlotte’s creative side.
A downside? Uptown traffic during rush hour was heavy, and navigating one-way streets slowed me down.
4. Elizabeth City
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.
Welcome to Elizabeth City, 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 yet engaging getaway in coastal Carolina.
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.
- What to Know Before Visiting Elizabeth City
- Best Airport: Norfolk International (ORF), about an hour away; Raleigh-Durham (RDU) for larger connections
- How Many Days: 1–2 for the city itself, longer if exploring nearby coastal towns and waterways
- Time of Year to Visit: Spring and fall for mild weather, summer for water activities, winter for a peaceful retreat
Where do you stay in Elizabeth City? The Culpepper Inn offers a historic and welcoming stay, while smaller waterfront inns and vacation rentals give you a chance to wake up with river views. Chain hotels are also available for convenience.
So where should you eat in Elizabeth City? 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. For a casual meal, Big Boss Burritos and Montero’s Restaurant are popular local picks. Finish the evening with ice cream at a local parlor or a craft beer at Ghost Harbor Brewing Company.
What should you do in Elizabeth City? Start with the Museum of the Albemarle, which brings the region’s history to life. Stroll the waterfront and Mariners’ Wharf Park, where concerts and community events often take place. 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.
A downside? Some of the shops and cafés downtown closed early. I wished the waterfront stayed lively a little longer after dark.
5. Durham, North Carolina
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.
- What to Know Before Visiting Durham
- Best Airport: Raleigh-Durham International (RDU), about 20 minutes away
- How Many Days: 2–3 for the city itself, longer if pairing with Raleigh or Chapel Hill
- Time of Year to Visit: Spring and fall for ideal weather and festivals; winter for a quieter, cozy experience
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.
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. For the outdoors, the Eno River State Park offers trails and swimming holes just minutes from downtown.
A downside? Parking near the campus was tight, especially on weekend evenings.
6. Wilmington, North Carolina
Nestled along the Cape Fear River and just minutes from Atlantic beaches, Wilmington blends maritime charm, a 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.
- What to Know Before Visiting Wilmington
- Best Airport: Wilmington International (ILM)
- How Many Days: 2–3 for the city itself, 4–5 if including nearby beaches
- Time of Year to Visit: Spring and fall for mild weather, summer for peak beach season, winter for fewer crowds and cozy riverfront strolls
We drove about two hours southeast from Raleigh, the road flattening as it neared the coast. By the time we pulled into Wilmington, the air was thick with salt and the Cape Fear River shimmered alongside the historic downtown streets. We stayed two nights at he Graystone Inn.
I enjoyed exploring Airlie Gardens ($10) in the morning. The paths wound past azaleas and live oaks. Their branches were heavy with Spanish moss. The air was floral and sweet. The stillness made it easy to forget I was just minutes from downtown.
So where should you eat in Wilmington? 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. Don’t miss Kilwin’s for a sweet treat on the riverwalk.
What should you do in Wilmington? Begin with a stroll along the Riverwalk, lined with shops, cafes, and live music. 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, while Airlie Gardens offers trails, sculptures, and blooming azaleas. When the sun calls, head to Wrightsville Beach for surfing, Carolina Beach for boardwalk fun, or Kure Beach for a quieter coastal escape.
A downside? Summer weekends brought heavy crowds to the Riverwalk.
7. Winston-Salem
Welcome to Winston-Salem, North Carolina’s “Twin City” that balances historic roots with a modern artsy edge. Once known as a tobacco and textile hub, Winston-Salem 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, the city offers both heritage and fresh energy.
- What to Know Before Visiting Winston-Salem
- 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
Where do you stay in Winston-Salem? We based ourselves at the Kimpton Cardinal Hotel, set in the historic R.J. Reynolds building. Another good choice here is Hotel Indigo for a modern boutique feel. For something unique, consider a stay in a restored inn near Old Salem, where Moravian history adds charm. The Graylyn Estate, just outside downtown, is a luxurious option with storybook architecture.
So where should you eat and drink in Winston-Salem? The food scene is a tasty mix of Southern comfort and modern flavors. Sweet Potatoes is a local staple for soul food, while Mozelle’s Fresh Southern Bistro serves up elevated regional classics. Barbecue lovers should try Little Richard’s or Bib’s Downtown. 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. Smaller breweries like Wise Man and Incendiary round out Winston-Salem’s strong beer culture.
What should you do in Winston-Salem? Begin with Old Salem Museums & Gardens, where costumed interpreters, restored homes, and working shops bring Moravian culture to life. Then head to the Reynolda House Museum of American Art, part historic estate and part world-class museum, featuring works by artists like Georgia O’Keeffe, Grant Wood, and Andy Warhol.
Art lovers should also visit 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.
For us, the highlights were stepping back in time at Old Salem, admiring masterpieces at Reynolda House Museum of American Art, and sipping pints at Foothills Brewing before catching live music downtown. Winston-Salem blends history, culture, and innovation in a way that feels both rooted and forward-thinking—making it one of North Carolina’s most rewarding cities to explore.
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.
8. Raleigh, North Carolina
Known as the “City of Oaks” for its tree-lined streets, Raleigh 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.
- What to Know Before Visiting Raleigh
- Best Airport: Raleigh-Durham International (RDU), about 20 minutes from downtown
- How Many Days: 2–3 for the city itself, longer if pairing with Durham and Chapel Hill
- Time of Year to Visit: Spring for gardens and festivals, fall for foliage and mild weather, winter for cozy museums, summer for lake days
Where do you stay in Raleigh? Downtown Raleigh offers boutique hotels like Guest House Raleigh or the contemporary Origin Hotel, both 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.
So where should you eat and drink in Raleigh? 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. Craft beer fans will find plenty of options, with standout spots like Trophy Brewing and Raleigh Brewing Company.
What should you do in Raleigh? Start with the city’s outstanding museums—many of them free—including the North Carolina Museum of Art, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, and the North Carolina Museum of History.
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 both the farmers’ market and Raleigh’s many food tours.
A downside? Downtown parking filled quickly during lunch and evening hours.
9. Boone
Named after pioneer Daniel Boone, this mountain town blends outdoor adventure, Appalachian culture, and a laid-back college-town vibe thanks to Appalachian State University. With winding mountain roads, crisp air, and a backdrop of rolling peaks, Boone is a year-round escape that feels equal parts adventurous and cozy.
Boone is a true four-season destination: hiking trails and river rafting in summer, blazing foliage along the Blue Ridge Parkway in fall, skiing and snow tubing in winter, and wildflower meadows come spring. At its core, Boone balances rugged outdoor beauty with friendly small-town charm and a growing food and craft beer scene.
- What to Know Before Visiting Boone
- Best Airport: Charlotte Douglas (CLT), about 2 hours away; Tri-Cities Airport (TRI) in Tennessee is another option
- How Many Days: 2–4 for Boone itself, longer if exploring the High Country (Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, Grandfather Mountain)
- Time of Year to Visit: Fall for foliage, winter for skiing, spring and summer for hiking and river adventures
Where do you stay in Boone? Downtown offers cozy stays like the Horton Hotel, with its rooftop bar overlooking King Street. For a mountain retreat, rent a cabin tucked into the woods or book a lodge near the Blue Ridge Parkway. Families will enjoy the convenience of chain hotels near campus, while romantic getaways often choose secluded cabins with hot tubs and big mountain views.
So where should you eat and drink in Boone? Boone’s food scene is casual but creative. Start the morning with a hearty breakfast at Melanie’s Food Fantasy or Stick Boy Bread Company. For lunch or dinner, Proper serves homestyle Southern plates, while Vidalia offers a refined, farm-to-table twist. Beer lovers shouldn’t miss Appalachian Mountain Brewery, a local favorite with a welcoming beer garden, and Lost Province Brewing downtown for wood-fired pizzas and craft beer under one roof.
What should you do in Boone? The outdoors is the star here. Hike Rough Ridge or Flat Top Mountain for sweeping Blue Ridge Parkway views, or 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), a tranquil botanical space showcasing native Appalachian plants and flowers—perfect in spring and summer.
In winter, nearby Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain offer skiing and snowboarding. For something lower key, float or paddle the New River, or wander downtown Boone with its mix of quirky shops, galleries, and live music venues. Don’t miss Horn in the West, an outdoor drama telling the story of Daniel Boone and the region’s early settlers.
10. Jockey’s Ridge State Park
Jockey’s Ridge State Park is home to the tallest living sand dunes on the East Coast. Located in Nags Head on North Carolina’s Outer Banks, this natural wonder is both otherworldly and accessible—an ever-shifting landscape of golden sand shaped by wind and time. Whether you’re climbing dunes, flying kites, or learning to hang glide, Jockey’s Ridge is one of the Outer Banks’ most iconic experiences.
- What to Know Before Visiting Jockey’s Ridge
- Best Airport: Norfolk International (ORF), about 2 hours away; Raleigh-Durham (RDU) for larger connections
- How Many Days: 1–2 hours for a quick stop, or half a day if you plan to hike, fly kites, or take a hang-gliding lesson
- Time of Year to Visit: Spring and fall for mild temperatures; summer for beach days (bring water—it gets hot!); winter for quiet sunsets
Where do you stay near Jockey’s Ridge? Base yourself in Nags Head or nearby Kill Devil Hills for easy access.
So where should you eat near Jockey’s Ridge? After dune climbing, head to local favorites like Tortugas’ Lie for Caribbean-inspired seafood, Sam & Omie’s for a classic Outer Banks diner vibe, or Blue Moon Beach Grill for hearty coastal fare. For something sweet, grab a cone at Surfin’ Spoon, a frozen yogurt shop nearby.
What should you do at Jockey’s Ridge? Start with the climb up the dunes—kids love rolling down the sandy slopes, while adults soak up panoramic views of both the sound and ocean. This is one of the best places on the East Coast to fly a kite, thanks to steady winds.
For the adventurous, sign up for a hang-gliding lesson with Kitty Hawk Kites, which operates right at the park. Sunset is magical here—bring a blanket and watch the dunes glow as the sun sinks over the sound. Trails at the base of the dunes also offer a chance to see wetlands and wildlife.
11. Linville Gorge
Tucked into North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains, this wild gorge offers some of the most dramatic scenery in the Southeast. Sheer cliffs, rugged ridgelines, and the rushing Linville River make it a haven for hikers, campers, and anyone who craves raw, untamed wilderness. For a a few days, we traded city noise for the quiet call of hawks circling overhead and the steady roar of waterfalls echoing through the canyon.
The gorge is largely protected as the Linville Gorge Wilderness, part of Pisgah National Forest. Two main access points frame your visit — the east rim, with sweeping overlooks and the visitor-friendly Linville Falls area, and the west rim, where trails dive quickly into steep backcountry terrain. Whichever side you choose, expect big views and a sense of solitude that feels rare in the Southern Appalachians.
- What to Know Before Visiting Linville Gorge
- Best Airport: Charlotte Douglas International (CLT) or Asheville Regional (AVL)
- How Many Days: 2–4 to explore both rims and hike into the gorge
- Time of Year to Visit: Spring and fall for mild temps and colorful scenery; summer is is lush but hot, while winter brings quiet solitude and icy trails
Where do you stay near Linville Gorge? Unlike a beach escape, there are no resorts here — the gorge is pure wilderness. Options include rustic campgrounds like Linville Falls Campground, dispersed backcountry camping within the wilderness, or cozy mountain rentals and inns in nearby towns like Linville, Marion, or Morganton. Staying outside the gorge gives you easy access to trailheads while still enjoying creature comforts.
So where should you eat around Linville Gorge? Dining is casual and mountain-town cozy. Stop in at Louise’s Rock House for hearty Southern breakfasts, grab a burger at Famous Louise’s in Linville Falls, or head into Morganton for breweries and farm-to-table dining. Pack plenty of trail snacks — hikes here are strenuous, and you’ll be glad for the energy boost.
What should you do in Linville Gorge? Days here are all about hiking, climbing, and soaking in the views. Don’t miss the iconic Linville Falls trails, where several overlooks give different perspectives on the roaring waterfall. Experienced hikers can descend into the gorge itself for rugged solitude along the river.
The Table Rock and Hawksbill Mountain trails reward you with some of the best panoramic vistas in the Blue Ridge. Rock climbers flock to the granite cliffs, while photographers love sunrise and sunset from Wiseman’s View, one of the gorge’s most accessible overlooks.
Conclusion
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.
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.
