A aspect North Carolina has no shortage of is tourist attractions! There are many of the best cities that are located within North Carolina from coastal towns to those located in the thick forests of the western portion in the state.
We’ve selected North Carolina small towns (and some cities) across the state with many things to offer visitors.
Here are 20 small towns to visit in North Carolina for a weekend
Did we overlook any cute town in NC or one of your top spots that you would like to explore within North Carolina? Tell us in the comments if it is so! Thanks!
Blowing Rock
The town is known by the name of “Crown of Blue Ridge” and is home to more than 1,000 people, Blowing Rock is one of the most charming towns for a trip to North Carolina.
There’s a reason why Blowing Rock is a popular tourist destination “Blowing rock” is on the top of people’s lists of activities to enjoy during their visit to Blowing Rock. It’s relaxing to take in these mountains in a spot that’s “North Carolina’s oldest Tourist Attraction”.
Another activity that is very popular is to walk through the downtown area of the town. There are numerous charming shops along Main Street, the Martin House as well as adjacent the Memorial Park.
Antiques, outdoor equipment furniture for the home, toys for kids are all readily available. Many people say it’s because there is a great coffee here is excellent too and you shouldn’t miss this either! You should definitely visit Bald Guy Brew Blowing Rock (in The Martin House) and Camp Coffee Roasters when there!
Edenton
Edenton can be described as the second Colonial capital within the Inner Banks of North Carolina. The town has recently been a sought-after retirement spot and also a popular tourist destination for the heritage.
The town’s visitors can enjoy the best-preserved Colonial Courthouse in America, the 1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse, cruises to the bay and historic trolley tours, kayaking along Edenton Bay, free boat slips, and a charming downtown area near the waterfront, The list could go on!
There are some other unique occasions like The Christmas Candlelight Tour, the Peanut Festival as well as the Pilgrimage Tour All of them are distinctive and worth a visit during your stay in Edenton.
Mount Airy
Mount Airy, also called Mayberry is located at the foothills of Blue Ridge Mountains, on the Ararat and Yadkin Rivers. It is home to a variety of outdoor activities, among being Pilot Mountain State Park, with miles of trails, camping and canoeing.
The town is most well-known for being the place where the birth took place and the residence of the star Andy Griffith. You might like to visit the Griffith Museum and browse through the many items covering Griffith’s life as well as his career!
If you’re interested in gaining an idea of life in Mt. Airy in the 1800s through today, you should add to the Mount Airy Museum Of Regional History to your list of must-sees while visiting the NC town.
Banner Elk is located near Boone in the Blue Ridge Mountains of the North Carolina High Country. It’s the type of spot that blends the beauty of a small town with the conveniences of a larger city.
The town has great outdoor activities as well as a wide variety of art and theater and family-friendly attractions such as Grandfather Mountain, wineries, beer breweries and winter sports, etc.
In winter, make use of two biggest skiing resorts of the South, Sugar Mountain Resort and Beech Mountain Resort, which are located just 10 minutes of Banner Elk. Both resorts provide thrilling snowboarding and skiing terrains and the most up-to-date rental equipment.
If you’re interested, make sure to take a look at Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster, the first North Carolina-based alpine rollercoaster, and only opened in the winter of this year!
Lexington
To discover unique and unforgettable experiences, Lexington is a great location to stay in. Lexington is also known by the title of”the “Barbeque Capital of the Globe”. It is situated within Davidson County in the Piedmont region.
Apart from enjoying delicious Carolina BBQ, normal tourists can also go shopping downtown, sampling wines, browsing through art, and enjoying the great outdoor activities.
The Daniel Boone Canoe Trail, an area of 22 miles along the Yadkin River with access points and historical markers, is an excellent option for those who want to enjoy outdoor activities in Lexington.
Explore the 110 acres of Boone’s Cave Park that provides miles of hiking trails as well as the point where (further downstream) the Yadkin river flows into High Rock Lake.
The lake, which covers 15 acres is the second largest lake in North Carolina and is popular for paddleboarding, boating, fishing, and swimming specifically for largemouth bass.
Boone
Boone is located within The Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. Boone was named in honor of Boone, the famed American pioneer and pioneer Daniel Boone, and it has hosted an amphitheater outdoor show, “Horn in the West” every season since 1953 (with only the exception of in 2020).
It illustrates the British settlement in that region throughout the American Revolutionary War and features the contribution of the name of the region.
One of the most popular tourist attractions in the vicinity are Grandfather Mountain. A scenic drive takes the visitors to the wheelchair-accessible Mile High Swinging Bridge, thousands of feet above the Carolina Piedmont region.
A top-quality nature museum, informative programs, and amazing trails lead to thrilling experiences in Grandfather Mountain State Park.
Southport
As the owner of America’s most joyful beach town Southport has a beautiful and historic city.
A visit to this historical town on the sea gives you a opportunity to go back to the time of pirates and privateers as well as antibellum Southern belles and blockade runners were the kings of the seas.
Southport is a well-known spot for sea-farers since the beginning of the 1500s and remains among the top renowned little towns found in North Carolina today.
Apart from being a fantastic destination for film enthusiasts (several films have been made in the area), Southport has a variety of historic activities to visitors, which are that are suitable for all ages and different types of tourists. Visit the Fort Johnston-Southport museum and Visitors Center is a good start!
The North Carolina Maritime Museum in Southport is a must-see for those who are interested in the region’s maritime history. There, you can find out about the natural and the cultural heritage that is part of Southport and the Lower Cape Fear area. There’s also a short distance from the most stunning NC lighthouses.
Bryson City
Bryson City is located at the southern border of Great Smoky Mountains National Park One of the most beautiful destinations to visit throughout Tennessee or North Carolina. It’s a moderately popular town with 1,300 residents and has more stoplights than stop signs!
It’s a walking town with independent bookshops, working artists’ art and craft galleries, a bicycle shop and two fly fishing shops and a museum of historical significance, an exhibit on fly fishing and an excursion train two beer breweries, as well as an surprising array of restaurants.
In the vicinity of on the Tuckasegee River, visitors usually have a good time listening to music and eating sweet treats. You can throw a fishing line or go on a kayak or paddleboard. If you’re in the area you may want to visit at the Visitor Center to get more in-depth recommendations regarding where to go as well as how to get there.
Morganton
The town of Morganton is situated along the Catawba River in the Blue Ridge Mountains which are in the base. It is considered to be “Nature’s playground” due to its stunning countryside as well as natural resources and a myriad of recreational opportunities.
History fans will appreciate The History Museum located in Burke Country. It has exhibits that go back to the past and all the way into the times the time when Native Americans lived and hunted in the region. A visit to this museum is sure to be an excellent starting point for the journey of Morganton explorations
If you’re a lover of wine make sure to go to Silver Fork Winery. You can visit their vineyards and taste wine in the tasting rooms, as well as breathe in the breath-taking mountain views. It’s truly one of the most enjoyable weekends that you can have in North Carolina!
Southern Pines
Southern Pines is famous for its equestrian opportunities and huge horse farms. It is home to the Walthour-Moss Foundation, an unspoiled reserve of nearly 4000 acres, with miles of riding trails is situated in the middle of Southern Pines’ “Horse Country.”
Downtown is a bustling shopping area, with amazing restaurants, boutiques and coffee shops owned by locals. Visitors are welcome to tour The Weymouth Center and grounds, along with other historical locations.
If you’re looking to visit any of the state’s top arts theatres, Sunrise Theater (located in the heart of downtown) is the ideal location to stop by.
Brevard
Brevard is a beautiful tourist and cultural destination located in the western region of North Carolina, situated at the point of entry into the Pisgah National Forest. The pleasant weather, natural beauty and the rich cultural offerings draw a lot of tourists to the town.
There’s plenty you can do in Brevard all through the year, but there are some interesting events that occur in the city throughout the year like The White Squirrel Festival, Halloweenfest along with The Twilight Tour.
Don’t forget to take in Brevard’s natural beauty when you are visiting the area especially if you enjoy waterfalls. Start by visiting areas of Pisgah National Forest, much of it is a cool rain forest that receives 90+ inches of rain per year, and more than 250 waterfalls.
Looking Glass Falls and the popular summer waterfall, Sliding Rock, are the most popular waterfalls (and are fantastic waterfalls that are worth a visit in the vicinity of Asheville).
Beaufort
Named “America’s Most Coolest Small Town”, Beaufort was founded in 1713 and is the fourth-oldest town of North Carolina.
To experience a bit of history visit the 2 acres Beaufort Historic Site spot on Turner Street that features six authentically restored structures.
Another great place to visit there can be an amazing museum called the North Carolina Maritime Museum, which is among the three states with Maritime Museums with the other two located in Hatteras as well as Southport. They are all dedicated to the preservation, collection, and understanding the coastal lifestyle and its history.
This museum is home to the official archives of objects found in the wreckage of Blackbeard’s flagshipship, Queen Anne’s Revenge, which was found at Beaufort Inlet in 1996.
Davidson
The state of North Carolina’s Davidson is an ideal NC small town worth a visit for those looking for an enchanting atmosphere in a small college town within the state.
Tourists are invited to wander around the adorable downtown area, which is dotted with exclusive restaurants and shops while walking along the sidewalks lined with flowers.
If you’re more into the natural world, then spend your time in Lake Norman. It offers plenty of opportunities for recreation, such as renting boats paddle boarding and fishing for bass or catfish, and taking a cruise on Queen’s Landing Dinner Cruise.
For a different option, you can enjoy Charlotte’s culture and traditions by going to see a performance by the Davidson Community Players, attend an incredible show from Charlotte Ballet, Charlotte Ballet, or take in the delights of the gorgeous music that emanate from Charlotte Symphony. Charlotte Symphony.
It’s so close to Charlotte which means you can benefit from the nightlife and cultural activities in Charlotte, in addition.
Bath
Bath Bath, the most prestigious town of North Carolina, celebrated its 300th anniversary in 2005. It was the town’s first port of entry along the Pamlico River, where trade in furs, naval stores and tobacco was booming from the time of the creation in the city.
This little, but very historical country offers breathtaking perspectives of Pamlico River and Bath Creek.
The story of the town is not just its gorgeous history such as the founding in 1734 of St. Thomas Episcopal Church in 1734, but also some spooky things like the house of an unknown pirate named Edward Teach or “Blackbeard”.
There isn’t much of events in this town, as the town hasn’t changed much over the past 300 years. However, tourists visit during summer, mostly to take in the rich history.
Hillsborough
With more than 100 houses, structures and churches built between the 18th and 19th centuries, Hillsborough is known as another small town with an extensive background.
Every year, barbecue enthusiasts visit the city for Hog Day, and the downtown is awash with art as well as entertainment Friday evenings during the Last Fridays celebrations.
The greenways in the area as well as the Riverwalk which is home to many annual events and other events such as Handmade Parade, Handmade Parade and Tarwheels & Hillsborough Half Marathon road races.
In addition to the many fun things to do within the heart of area, Hillsborough is also home to the Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area and a myriad of other trails.
Manteo
Although Manteo might appear to be an iconic city on the coast of North Carolina, the region is actually very wealthy both in fun things to do and local culture. Manteo is also near some of the most beautiful beaches found in NC.
It doesn’t matter if you want to visit for a single day or the whole week, historic attractions such as Roanoke Island Festival Park, the Roanoke Island Festival Park and The Island Farm, and the Elizabethan Gardens will make you feel like you’ve stepped back to the past.
If you are in the city, it is advised to go to The Pioneer Theater, located along the streets. It claims to be the oldest single-screen Tudor-style, family-owned cinema. It’s affordable and open throughout the year.
Manteo is an excellent base to explore Manteo to visit the Outer Banks and other cute towns in the area!
Pinehurst
Pinehurst is situated at Moore County, North Carolina. The majority of the village’s central area which includes those resorts was declared an National Historic Landmark District for its landscaping and significance in American golf’s history.
To feel the atmosphere and atmosphere of town go on the carriage rides and wander through the historical homes and charming roads of Pinehurst Village. For this, you’ll need to get in touch with Carriage Tours of Pinehurst Village, Inc.
As a historic site The Tufts Archives is one of the top places to go in Pinehurst. It showcases a rich heritage as well as numerous artifacts that date back to the founders of the town.
Saluda
Another small town with amazing galleries, shops, and eateries. Pearson’s Falls and the Green River Gorge are situated close to each other. In the past, Saluda gained a reputation as a peaceful mountain town, which offered wellness benefits to visitors.
The town’s downtown area hasn’t seen much change since it was established, and the majority of structures along Main Street have been added to the National Register of Historic Places.
One of the must-sees in the region is Heartwood Gallery which has been offering the finest American products for sale to the public for over 30 years. If you are in the area in May, don’t forget the highly-recommended Saluda Arts Festival!
Hendersonville
Hendersonville can be found inside Western North Carolina, 22 miles to the south of Asheville and is located in the middle of the Blue Ridge Mountains
This town’s Crest part of the Blue Ridge American Viticultural Area has 16 craft brewers, (including Sierra Nevada) along with wineries and cideries.
In the course of the season, Hendersonville’s downtown has a range of activities which include Hendersonville’s annual NC Apple Festival taking place on this time of the year, Labor Day weekend, as along with art exhibitions as well as an antique fair parade, car events.
New Bern
It is renowned for its diversity of culture, New Bern is the second-oldest European settlement town, and also one of the first Colonial capital city located within the Inner Banks of North Carolina. It’s a tiny Inner Banks town located around 40 miles to the north from Emerald Isle.
In addition to praising stunning nature and rich historical significance It is also located close to the gorgeous NC Crystal Coast. It technically is classified as an urban area, however, it has the charm of a small town and a sense of the comfort.
Top activities you can do while to do in New Bern NC
New Bern NC
Visitors are welcomed warmly to Tryon Palace. Tryon Palace, which served as the capital city of post-Revolutionary War and post-independence North Carolina. There are numerous historic structures and almost 16 acres of beautiful gardens.
Furthermore, all Pepsi lovers can find out the details on Pepsi-Cola Corporation, which was initially founded in New Bern and is one of the most enjoyable activities to take part in when visiting New Bern!
What are the most charming tiny towns of North Carolina that we missed on this list? Please let us know via the comment section! Thanks!
