Best vacation places in nc
If you’re looking for best vacation places in NC, you will be happy to know that you’ve come to right place. We are a group of travel experts and we are here to help you plan an amazing vacation. We have put together this list of top vacation destinations in North Carolina for your convenience. For more information about the places so listed here, kindly get in touch with us.
NC has many wonderful places to visit and enjoy. If you’re planning to go on a vacation this summer, one of the best places would be North Carolina. Its quiet and peaceful beach, amazing wildlife and its interesting history are some of the most appealing points about the state. You should plan your trip there with your family!
There are so many attractions in North Carolina, it can be hard to find the vacation spots that best match your preferences. Look no further. I’ve done the research for you — in this article, you’ll find my picks of the most awesome vacation destinations in North Carolina.
The best vacation spots in North Carolina are someplace you can spend time with your family, but also have fun on your own.
If you’re looking for the best vacation spots in North Carolina, then look no further! We’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite places to go on vacation that will keep everyone happy—whether they’re kids or adults.
North Carolina is a beautiful state with a lot of wonderful vacation spots. Here are some of the best places to visit.
- Asheville, North Carolina: Asheville is home to many attractions including the popular Biltmore Estate and Pisgah National Forest. It is also known as the “city of craft beer” because it has a large number of breweries that offer tours and tastings. The town has a vibrant downtown area where visitors can shop at local boutiques, eat at local restaurants, or have fun at one of the many festivals held throughout the year.
- Charlotte, North Carolina: Charlotte is known for its professional sports teams and for being an economic center for businesses in North America. However, there are plenty of other things to do during your stay in Charlotte such as visiting museums such as Discovery Place Children’s Museum or Mint Museum Uptown; going shopping at SouthPark Mall; visiting historic sites like Old Settlers Cemetery; taking part in outdoor activities like horseback riding or golfing on courses designed by Arnold Palmer; going on scenic drives through the Blue Ridge Mountains; exploring nature preserves like Matthews Nature Preserve; eating delicious foods like barbecue ribs at Hwy 55 Bar-B-Que
1. Chimney Rock State Park
Chimney Rock, NC 28720
(828) 625-9611
Encompassing 8,014 acres, this state-owned park is a paradise for outdoor adventurers and nature lovers.
Why You Should Visit This Place
Up for some exhilarating outdoor activities, but don’t know what to do in North Carolina?
Then, don’t forget to put this state park at the top of your list of places to travel in North Carolina.
With miles of scenic trails and an iconic 300-foot monolith, this park will surely quench your thirst for outdoor adventure.
15 Best Places to Visit in North Carolina
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Plus, it offers ample opportunities for wildlife viewing.
An Expert Tip Before You Go
If you’re visiting the park in summer, we recommend arriving early to beat the crowds and heat.
Also, bring some snacks and a lot of drinking water since convenient amenities are limited.
2. Bald Head Island
Bald Head Island, NC 28461
(910) 457-9700
Nestled in Cape Fear, this 5.86-square-mile village is one of the most laid-back and idyllic destinations in North Carolina.
Why You Should Visit This Place
If you’re on the hunt for relaxing and serene vacation spots, look no further than Bald Head Island.
Not only does it have a relaxed atmosphere, but it also features over 10 miles of pristine beaches.
Not to mention, it has a first-rate golf course, maritime forests and marshes.
An Expert Tip Before You Go
Pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes or bring your own bike on your visit to his island.
Cars are not allowed on the island, meaning you need to walk or bike to see its popular sites.
Related: Best Things to Do in North Carolina
3. Hanging Rock State Park — Danbury
1790 Hanging Rock Park Rd
Danbury, NC 27016
(336) 593-8480
Established in 1935, this 9,011-acre state park is listed on the US National Register of Historic Places.
Why You Should Visit This Place
Known for its bare rock peaks, sheer cliffs and serene forests, this state park entices travelers with its spectacular scenery.
What’s more, the park has gorgeous trails, and interpretive programs that give you insights about the park and its surrounding areas.
An Expert Tip Before You Go
Hike the 2.2-mile-long Cook’s Wall Trail.
Once you reach the peak of this trail, you’ll see the famous Pilot Mountain and enjoy vistas of soaring eagles.
In autumn, this trail will entice you with its alluring fall foliage.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn Mount Airy
4. The Biltmore Estate — Asheville
1 Lodge St
Asheville, NC 28803
(800) 411-3812
In 1966, this must-visit Chateauesque mansion earned a spot on the US National Register of Historic Places.
Why You Should Visit This Place
The Biltmore Estate is truly one of the most exquisite places to see in North Carolina.
With its striking architecture and expansive gardens, this estate is filled with Instagrammable sights at every turn.
Moreover, it has 250 rooms housing antiques, vintage clothes and artwork.
An Expert Tip Before You Go
Get your tickets to the mansion in advance online to secure a spot.
Keep in mind that Biltmore is incredibly popular, meaning tickets often sell out.
Also, visit the Biltmore Winery to enjoy the complimentary wine tasting (included in your ticket).
Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Inn On Biltmore Estate
Related: Best Beaches in North Carolina
5. Wilmington
Wilmington, NC 28401
Founded in the early 18th century, this port city teems with historical attractions.
Why You Should Visit This Place
Searching for more cool and unique places to visit in North Carolina?
Trust me, you’re going to love Wilmington.
With its old-world homes and historical attractions, this riverfront city gives you a glimpse of its beautiful past.
As a bonus, this town offers easy and instant access to several outstanding beaches.
An Expert Tip Before You Go
Planning on visiting the city’s historic homes?
You might want to grab a discounted 3-hour passport.
It’s cheaper than buying individual tickets to historic homes, like the Latimer House, Burgin-Wright House and Bellamy.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Related: Best Places to Eat in Wilmington
6. Blue Ridge Parkway — Asheville
Blue Ridge Parkway
Asheville, NC 28803
Stretching for 469 miles, this All-American Road is the longest linear park in the country.
Why You Should Visit This Place
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a can’t-miss, bucket-list-worthy experience. In fact, this parkway boasts some of the most breathtaking sights and beautiful places to visit near you.
With scenic overlooks and a max speed of 45 MPH, this highway provides plenty of opportunities to soak up the scenery.
An Expert Tip Before You Go
You don’t have to drive the whole parkway to experience a memorable trip along this stretch.
There are, after all, a number of noteworthy attractions within 19 miles of Asheville.
Milepost 355.4, for one, is home to the tallest point in the area: Mount Mitchell.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Omni Grove Park Inn – Asheville
7. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences — Raleigh
11 W Jones St
Raleigh, NC 27601
(919) 707-9800
Open to the public for free, this educational museum in downtown Raleigh is educational and awe-inspiring.
Why You Should Visit This Place
There’s nothing quite like this museum.
Although this museum is free for everyone, it has outstanding, world-class exhibits that are worth a million bucks.
Through its educational presentations and interactive exhibits, this museum is also an educational experience.
An Expert Tip Before You Go
Don’t hesitate to ask the staff anything related to their exhibits.
They are highly trained, and more than willing to share interesting tidbits about their displays.
Also, drop by the cafe, and indulge in any of their delectable and reasonably priced food.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: The StateView Hotel, Autograph Collection
Related: Best Waterpark Hotels in North Carolina
8. Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Nags Head, NC 27959
(252) 473-2111
Operated by the National Park Service, this 70-mile stretch is packed with recreational activities.
You can find it in Nags Head.
Why You Should Visit This Place
There’s more to this national seashore than its untouched and splendid beaches.
Rich in wildlife and history, this park also appeals to other kinds of travelers.
There are also outdoor pursuits available here, including kayaking.
An Expert Tip Before You Go
For a unique and memorable experience, climb to the top of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse.
Also, if you want to enjoy a relaxing stroll along the beach, visit the seashore at low tide.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hatteras Island Inn
Related: Places to Eat: Nags Head, NC
9. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, NC 28719
(865) 436-1200
Straddling the Tennessee-North Carolina border, this 522,419-acre park provides an outdoor escape like no other.
Why You Should Visit This Place
Great Smoky is one of the top places to go in North Carolina for an amazing vacation.
A mecca for intrepid outdoor lovers, this free national park is a prime destination for hiking and hiking.
Additionally, it has a bevy of majestic waterfalls, wildlife, and educational exhibits.
An Expert Tip Before You Go
Batteries, camping supplies and groceries are a bit more expensive at the camp stores within the park.
So, bring your own suppliers from home or make a pit stop at a grocery store in any of the nearby towns.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Super 8 by Wyndham Cherokee