15 Best & Fun Places To Visit in North Carolina

North Carolina is a southeastern state in the United States. It boasts diverse landscapes, from the Appalachian Mountains in the west to the coastal plains in the east. North Carolina’s population exceeds 10 million, making it the ninth-most populous state. Raleigh, the state capital, is a hub of technology and education, while Charlotte, the largest city, is a major financial center.

The state is nicknamed the “Tar Heel State” and the “Old North State.” North Carolina played a pivotal role in the American Revolution and was the first state to call for independence from Britain. The state is known for its historical landmarks, including the Wright Brothers National Memorial, marking the site of the first powered flight.

North Carolina features the highest point in eastern North America, Mount Mitchell. Its coastal region includes the famous Outer Banks, a chain of barrier islands. North Carolina is also renowned for the Research Triangle Park, a major center for research and development.

From its historical significance to its natural beauty and economic prowess, North Carolina offers a unique blend of attractions and features that make it a notable state in the U.S.

Are you planning an exploration of North Carolina? Check out the best places to visit.

Places To Visit in North Carolina

1. Biltmore Estate

The Biltmore Estate in Asheville is a marvel of architecture and history. George Washington Vanderbilt II built this magnificent mansion in the late 19th century. The estate spans 8,000 acres, featuring gardens, a winery, and miles of walking trails.

Inside the Biltmore House, visitors can explore over 250 rooms, including grand banquet halls, lavish bedrooms, and a massive library. Each room showcases Vanderbilt’s extensive collection of art, antiques, and decor. The mansion’s opulence gives a glimpse into the life of America’s elite during the Gilded Age.

The gardens, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, are equally impressive. The formal Italian Garden, the vibrant Rose Garden, and the serene Azalea Garden offer picturesque views and seasonal blooms. Don’t miss the conservatory, filled with exotic plants and flowers.

Wine enthusiasts will enjoy the Biltmore Winery, where you can sample award-winning wines. The estate also offers outdoor activities such as horseback riding, biking, and river rafting. Dining options range from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants, all using ingredients sourced from the estate’s farms.

Address: 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803

2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a natural wonder straddling the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. This park is famous for its biodiversity, ancient mountains, and remnants of Southern Appalachian culture. It’s America’s most visited national park.

One of the park’s highlights is its extensive network of trails. Hikers can choose from over 800 miles of trails, including the famous Appalachian Trail. The trails vary in difficulty, offering something for everyone, from easy walks to challenging backcountry hikes.

The park is also home to numerous waterfalls. Laurel Falls and Abrams Falls are popular destinations, offering stunning views and refreshing experiences. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot black bears, elk, and a variety of bird species.

Cades Cove is a must-visit. This scenic valley surrounded by mountains provides a glimpse into the area’s history with preserved homesteads, churches, and a grist mill. The 11-mile loop road around Cades Cove is perfect for a leisurely drive or bike ride.

Camping is a great way to experience the park. There are ten developed campgrounds and numerous backcountry sites for more adventurous visitors. The park also offers ranger-led programs, horseback riding, and picnicking areas.

Address: 107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

3. Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic highway stretching 469 miles through the Appalachian Highlands. It connects Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” it offers breathtaking views and numerous recreational opportunities.

Driving along the Parkway is a serene experience. The road winds through diverse landscapes, offering long-range vistas and close-up views of the rugged mountains. There are numerous overlooks where you can stop, take in the scenery, and snap some photos.

Hiking is a popular activity along the Parkway. Trails like the Humpback Rocks, Linville Falls, and Craggy Gardens offer stunning views and varying levels of difficulty. The Parkway also provides access to the Appalachian Trail, allowing for extended hikes.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is home to several visitor centers, including the Blue Ridge Music Center and the Folk Art Center. These centers offer insights into the region’s cultural heritage, including traditional music and crafts.

Wildlife viewing is another highlight. Keep an eye out for deer, black bears, and a variety of bird species. The Parkway is also famous for its wildflower displays, especially in spring and summer.

Picnicking, camping, and cycling are other popular activities. The Parkway’s campgrounds provide a perfect base for exploring the surrounding area. 

Address: 199 Hemphill Knob Rd, Asheville, NC 28803

4. Wright Brothers National Memorial

The Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk commemorates the first successful powered flights by Orville and Wilbur Wright. The brothers achieved this milestone on December 17, 1903. The memorial features a granite monument atop Kill Devil Hill, honoring their achievement.

Visitors can explore the reconstructed camp buildings where the Wright brothers lived and worked. The visitor center offers detailed exhibits about their experiments and the history of aviation. You can see a full-scale reproduction of the Wright Flyer and other aircraft models.

The grounds include markers that trace the flight paths of the first four successful flights. There’s also a life-size bronze sculpture of the first flight, capturing the moment Orville Wright piloted the plane with Wilbur running alongside.

Interactive displays and educational programs make this site engaging for all ages. Rangers provide guided tours and informative talks about the Wright brothers’ journey and their contributions to aviation.

Address: 1401 National Park Drive, Manteo, NC 27954

5. Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Cape Hatteras National Seashore stretches over 70 miles along the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Known for its beautiful beaches and iconic lighthouse, it’s a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the tallest brick lighthouse in the U.S., is a highlight. Visitors can climb its 257 steps for panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding landscape. The lighthouse is currently undergoing restoration but remains a focal point of the park.

The seashore offers pristine beaches ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Lifeguarded beaches provide safe swimming areas during the summer. Surfing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding are popular activities, thanks to the consistent winds and waves.

Cape Hatteras is also a great spot for fishing. Whether you prefer surf fishing or offshore charters, the waters here are teeming with fish. Birdwatching is another favorite activity, with many species nesting in the dunes and marshes.

Camping is available at several sites, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of the seashore overnight. Off-road vehicle enthusiasts can explore designated areas of the beach, adding an adventurous twist to their visit.

Address: 1401 National Park Drive, Manteo, NC 27954

6. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in Raleigh is a must-visit for science and nature enthusiasts. It’s the largest museum of its kind in the Southeast, offering a variety of exhibits and interactive experiences.

The museum is divided into two main centers: the Nature Exploration Center and the Nature Research Center. The Nature Exploration Center features permanent and special exhibits, including dioramas of North Carolina’s diverse ecosystems, a live butterfly conservatory, and a giant dinosaur skeleton.

The Nature Research Center focuses on scientific research and its applications. Visitors can observe scientists at work in state-of-the-art labs and participate in hands-on activities. The SECU Daily Planet, a three-story multimedia theater, offers dynamic presentations on various scientific topics.

Special exhibits and events keep the museum experience fresh and exciting. Live animal programs, educational films, and workshops cater to all ages, making learning fun and engaging.

Prairie Ridge Ecostation, part of the museum, offers outdoor learning experiences with hiking trails, wildlife habitats, and sustainable living demonstrations.

With free general admission, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is an accessible and enriching destination for anyone curious about the natural world.

Address: 11 West Jones Street, Raleigh, NC 27601

7. USS North Carolina Battleship

The USS North Carolina Battleship is a floating museum in Wilmington. This World War II battleship, also known as “The Showboat,” earned 15 battle stars and participated in every major naval offensive in the Pacific theater. It now serves as a memorial to the over 11,000 North Carolinians who sacrificed their lives during the war.

Visitors can explore nine levels of the ship, from the gun turrets to the engine rooms. You’ll see where the crew lived, ate, and worked. Interactive exhibits and detailed displays provide a deep dive into the ship’s history and the daily life of the sailors.

One of the highlights is the State Employees Credit Union (SECU) Memorial Walkway. It encircles the battleship, offering stunning views and a chance to appreciate its grandeur. The battleship also hosts various events and educational programs throughout the year, making it a dynamic and engaging destination for all ages.

Touring the USS North Carolina is both educational and inspiring. It’s a tribute to bravery and a fascinating glimpse into naval history.

Address: 1 Battleship Road, Wilmington, NC 28401

8. Grandfather Mountain

Grandfather Mountain is a stunning nature preserve and tourist attraction in Linville. It’s famous for its Mile-High Swinging Bridge, which offers breathtaking views from one mile above sea level. The bridge stretches 228 feet across an 80-foot chasm, providing an exhilarating experience for visitors.

The park also features various hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. The trails lead to some of the most scenic vistas in the Blue Ridge Mountains. For those interested in wildlife, the park’s environmental habitats house native animals like black bears, cougars, and bald eagles.

At the nature museum, you can learn about the mountain’s ecology and history. Interactive exhibits and educational programs make it a great stop for families. The museum also has a theater that shows nature films and presentations.

Address: 2050 Blowing Rock Highway, Linville, NC 28646

9. Pisgah National Forest

Pisgah National Forest is a vast wilderness area in western North Carolina. Covering over 500,000 acres, it offers a variety of outdoor activities and stunning natural landscapes. The forest is known for its hardwood forests, whitewater rivers, waterfalls, and miles of trails.

Hiking is one of the most popular activities here. Trails like the Graveyard Fields Loop and Looking Glass Rock Trail provide breathtaking views and challenging terrains. Pisgah is also a favorite spot for mountain biking, with trails like the Bent Creek Experimental Forest offering exciting rides.

Water enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and fishing in the forest’s numerous rivers and streams. The Davidson River is especially popular for fly fishing. For a more leisurely experience, you can picnic by the picturesque waterfalls or camp in one of the many campgrounds.

Pisgah National Forest is also home to the Cradle of Forestry, a historic site that commemorates the birthplace of modern forestry in America. It features educational exhibits, walking trails, and a recreated 19th-century logging community.

Address: 1600 Pisgah Highway, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768

10. Linville Gorge and Falls

Linville Gorge and Falls is a stunning natural wonder in North Carolina. Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Linville Gorge offers breathtaking views, challenging hikes, and the impressive Linville Falls. The gorge is part of the Pisgah National Forest, covering over 12,000 acres of rugged terrain.

Hiking is a popular activity here. Trails range from easy walks to strenuous climbs, offering something for everyone. The Erwin’s View Trail provides a relatively easy hike with spectacular views of Linville Falls from multiple overlooks. For a more challenging adventure, try the Linville Gorge Trail, which descends into the gorge and follows the Linville River.

Linville Falls is a highlight of any visit. The falls plunge 90 feet into the Linville Gorge, creating a dramatic scene. The falls can be viewed from several vantage points, each offering a unique perspective. The Upper Falls, with its gentle cascades, provides a stark contrast to the powerful plunge of the Lower Falls.

Camping is available for those who want to immerse themselves in nature. The Linville Gorge Wilderness Area offers primitive campsites, perfect for a back-to-nature experience.

Address: Linville Falls, NC 28647

11. North Carolina Zoo

The North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro is the world’s largest natural habitat zoo. Spanning over 2,600 acres, it offers a unique experience with expansive exhibits that closely mimic the animals’ natural environments. The zoo is divided into two main regions: Africa and North America, each showcasing a diverse range of wildlife.

In the Africa region, you can see elephants, rhinos, and giraffes roaming vast savannas. The Watani Grasslands Reserve offers breathtaking views and close encounters with these majestic animals. The Lemur Island exhibit and the Forest Glade aviary are also must-sees, featuring a variety of birds and lemurs.

The North America region features animals native to the continent. Highlights include the Rocky Coast exhibit, home to polar bears and seals, and the Cypress Swamp, where you can see alligators and otters. The Prairie exhibit allows you to observe bison and elk in a sprawling grassland setting.

Interactive experiences, such as the giraffe feeding station and the Kidzone nature play area, make the zoo engaging for visitors of all ages. The zoo also focuses on conservation efforts, educating the public about wildlife preservation.

Address: 4401 Zoo Parkway, Asheboro, NC 27205

12. Fort Raleigh National Historic Site

Fort Raleigh National Historic Site on Roanoke Island preserves the history of England’s first attempt to establish a colony in the New World. The site commemorates the Roanoke Colony, also known as the “Lost Colony,” which mysteriously disappeared in the late 16th century.

Visitors can explore the reconstructed earthwork fort, which represents the original fortifications built by the English settlers. The visitor center offers exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the Roanoke expeditions and the Native American tribes who lived in the area. The center also features a short film about the history and mystery of the Lost Colony.

The Elizabethan Gardens, located adjacent to the historic site, provide a beautiful and serene setting. These gardens are designed to reflect the style of the Elizabethan era, with flowering plants, statues, and a tranquil waterfront.

Fort Raleigh is also home to the outdoor drama “The Lost Colony,” which has been performed since 1937. This play recounts the story of the settlers and their struggles, bringing history to life in an engaging way.

Address: 1401 National Park Drive, Manteo, NC 27954

13. Old Salem Museums & Gardens

Old Salem Museums & Gardens in Winston-Salem offers a fascinating glimpse into early American life. This historic district replicates the Moravian settlement from the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can explore meticulously restored buildings, including homes, shops, and churches.

The Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA) is a highlight. It features an extensive collection of southern furniture, ceramics, textiles, and more. The historic district also includes beautiful gardens, which showcase heirloom plants and traditional gardening techniques.

Interactive exhibits and live demonstrations make history come alive. You can watch artisans practice traditional crafts such as pottery, blacksmithing, and baking. The Winkler Bakery, famous for its Moravian cookies, offers a taste of history.

Old Salem is not just about the past. It engages visitors in conversations about food security and sustainability, reflecting on historical practices to address modern issues. Special events throughout the year, like the Candle Tea and the Easter Sunrise Service, provide unique cultural experiences.

Address: 900 Old Salem Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27101

14. Carowinds

Carowinds is a premier amusement park located on the border of North and South Carolina. It offers over 60 world-class rides and attractions, making it a top destination for thrill-seekers and families alike.

One of the park’s main attractions is Fury 325, the world’s tallest and fastest giga coaster. This ride delivers an adrenaline-pumping experience with drops and speeds that will leave you breathless. For those who prefer water fun, Carolina Harbor water park features a variety of slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river.

Carowinds also offers plenty of family-friendly activities. Camp Snoopy is a delightful area for younger children, with Peanuts-themed rides and attractions. Live entertainment, including musical performances and shows, keeps the fun going all day long.

The park hosts seasonal events like SCarowinds, a Halloween-themed event, and WinterFest, a holiday celebration with festive lights and activities. Dining options are plentiful, offering everything from quick snacks to sit-down meals.

Address: 300 Carowinds Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28273

15. Concord Mills

Concord Mills is the largest shopping mall in North Carolina, located in Concord. It offers a unique shopping experience with over 200 stores, including popular outlets like Nike, Coach, and Bass Pro Shops. The mall’s diverse range of retailers makes it a shopping haven for all tastes and budgets.

Beyond shopping, Concord Mills features a variety of entertainment options. The SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium is a major attraction, offering interactive exhibits and a walk-through tunnel where you can see marine life up close. The AMC Theatres provide a great spot to catch the latest movies.

For family fun, the mall has a Dave & Buster’s, offering arcade games and a sports bar. The mall also hosts special events and seasonal activities, ensuring there’s always something exciting happening.

Dining options at Concord Mills range from fast food to sit-down restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, there’s something to satisfy every craving.

Address: 8111 Concord Mills Boulevard, Concord, NC 28027

Final Thoughts

North Carolina offers an incredible variety of attractions that cater to all interests. Each destination provides unique experiences, whether you’re diving into history, seeking adventure, or enjoying modern amenities.

These highlights showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant lifestyle. Exploring North Carolina’s best places is a journey filled with fun, education, and memorable moments, making it a must-visit state for travelers.