North Carolina is diverse, scenic, and culturally rich. From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic coastline, the state offers a wide range of landscapes and experiences. If you are planning a trip and researching the Best Things to Do in North Carolina, you will quickly realise that this destination blends outdoor adventure, historic landmarks, charming small towns, and vibrant cities.
The most rewarding Best Things to Do in North Carolina combine mountain hikes, coastal escapes, cultural institutions, motorsport heritage, and Southern cuisine. Whether you enjoy scenic drives, beach relaxation, live music, or exploring historic districts, North Carolina offers balance and variety. This guide is organised into clear sections so you can build a well-rounded itinerary.
Mountain and Scenic Best Things to Do in North Carolina
The western region of the state is defined by rolling hills, ancient mountain ranges, dense forests, and wide-open overlooks. Exploring this region is essential when planning the Best Things to Do in North Carolina, especially for travellers who enjoy scenic drives, hiking trails, waterfalls, and charming mountain towns. The Blue Ridge Mountains create a dramatic backdrop for outdoor adventure and peaceful escapes throughout the year.
1. Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway
Blue Ridge Parkway is widely considered one of the most scenic drives in the United States. Stretching through the Appalachian Highlands, the road connects mountain vistas, picnic spots, hiking trails, and historic sites. Driving this route ranks among the iconic Best Things to Do in North Carolina, particularly in autumn when vibrant foliage colours transform the landscape into a sweeping display of red, orange, and gold.
2. Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park borders western North Carolina and features mist-covered peaks, forested valleys, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. As America’s most visited national park, it offers well-maintained trails for all skill levels. Hiking here adds natural beauty to the Best Things to Do in North Carolina, whether you choose a short scenic walk or a full-day trek through the mountains.
3. Explore Grandfather Mountain
Grandfather Mountain is famous for its rugged terrain and the Mile High Swinging Bridge suspended nearly a mile above sea level. Crossing this bridge ranks among the adventurous Best Things to Do in North Carolina, offering sweeping views across multiple states on clear days. The surrounding trails provide additional hiking opportunities with diverse ecosystems and panoramic overlooks.
4. Discover Chimney Rock State Park
Chimney Rock State Park features a dramatic granite monolith rising above Lake Lure. Visitors can hike or take an elevator to the summit for wide-ranging mountain views. Climbing to the top enhances the scenic Best Things to Do in North Carolina, delivering breathtaking panoramas of the Blue Ridge Mountains and nearby valleys that stretch far into the distance.
5. Visit Asheville
Asheville blends natural beauty with creative energy. Surrounded by mountains, the city is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and award-winning craft breweries. Exploring downtown Asheville ranks high among the vibrant Best Things to Do in North Carolina, combining outdoor adventure during the day with local dining, music, and cultural experiences in the evening.
Coastal and Beach Best Things to Do in North Carolina
The Atlantic coastline of North Carolina stretches for more than 300 miles, offering barrier islands, sandy beaches, maritime forests, and historic lighthouses. Exploring this shoreline is essential when planning the Best Things to Do in North Carolina, especially for travellers who enjoy ocean views, water activities, and laid-back coastal towns with rich maritime heritage.
6. Relax in the Outer Banks
Outer Banks is a chain of barrier islands known for wide beaches, rolling dunes, and windswept landscapes. The area is ideal for swimming, fishing, kiteboarding, and scenic drives along Highway 12. Spending time here ranks among the relaxing Best Things to Do in North Carolina, especially for families and beach lovers seeking open space and natural coastal beauty.
7. Visit Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse stands as one of the tallest brick lighthouses in the United States. Its distinctive black-and-white spiral pattern makes it instantly recognisable. Climbing the interior steps rewards visitors with sweeping ocean views, adding historic coastal charm to the Best Things to Do in North Carolina while highlighting the region’s long maritime history.
8. Explore Wright Brothers National Memorial
Wright Brothers National Memorial commemorates the site where Orville and Wilbur Wright achieved the first successful powered flight in 1903. Walking along the marked flight path and visiting the museum adds educational value to the Best Things to Do in North Carolina, connecting visitors to a milestone moment in global aviation history.
9. Visit Wilmington
Wilmington blends historic charm with coastal scenery. Its Riverwalk along the Cape Fear River features shops, restaurants, and sunset views, while nearby beaches such as Wrightsville Beach offer additional relaxation. Exploring this city ranks among the coastal Best Things to Do in North Carolina, combining waterfront leisure with Southern hospitality.
10. Discover Bald Head Island
Bald Head Island offers quiet beaches, salt marshes, and preserved maritime forests. Cars are limited on the island, and visitors typically explore by golf cart or bicycle. This slower pace enhances the peaceful Best Things to Do in North Carolina, making it an appealing destination for travellers seeking seclusion and natural beauty along the Atlantic coast.
Urban and Cultural Best Things to Do in North Carolina
North Carolina’s cities reflect a mix of history, creativity, innovation, and Southern hospitality. From grand estates to modern art museums and revitalised downtown districts, exploring urban destinations adds depth to the Best Things to Do in North Carolina. These experiences balance outdoor adventure with architecture, food, history, and cultural institutions that highlight the state’s evolving identity.
11. Visit Biltmore Estate
Biltmore Estate is America’s largest privately owned home, built by George Vanderbilt in the late 19th century. The mansion features ornate interiors, grand staircases, and expansive gardens designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. Touring this estate ranks among the luxurious Best Things to Do in North Carolina, especially during holiday seasons when decorations transform the property into a festive showcase.
12. Explore Charlotte’s Uptown
Charlotte is the state’s largest city and a major financial centre. Uptown Charlotte features museums, professional sports venues, rooftop dining, and modern skyscrapers. Exploring this district enhances the urban Best Things to Do in North Carolina, offering visitors a mix of cultural attractions, entertainment, and Southern-inspired cuisine in a walkable downtown setting.
13. Visit North Carolina Museum of Art
North Carolina Museum of Art houses an impressive collection ranging from European masterpieces to contemporary works. The outdoor sculpture park adds a unique dimension to the visit. Walking through galleries and landscaped trails enriches the cultural Best Things to Do in North Carolina, blending artistic appreciation with open-air exploration.
14. Discover Durham
Durham is home to Duke University and a revitalised downtown built around historic tobacco warehouses. Today, the city features innovative restaurants, breweries, and performing arts venues. Exploring Durham adds creative energy to the Best Things to Do in North Carolina, reflecting a modern Southern city with strong academic and entrepreneurial influence.
15. Tour Old Salem
Old Salem Museums & Gardens recreates Moravian colonial life in the 18th century. Visitors can walk through preserved buildings, watch craft demonstrations, and learn about early settlement traditions. Touring this living history site deepens the heritage-focused Best Things to Do in North Carolina, offering an immersive look into the state’s colonial past.
Nature and Outdoor Best Things to Do in North Carolina
North Carolina’s landscapes range from rugged mountain gorges to forested trails and cascading waterfalls. For travellers who enjoy fresh air and physical activity, outdoor exploration is a defining part of the Best Things to Do in North Carolina. These natural destinations offer scenic beauty, hiking opportunities, and memorable mountain views throughout the year.
16. Hike Linville Gorge
Linville Gorge is often called the “Grand Canyon of the East” because of its dramatic cliffs and deep river valley. The Linville River cuts through steep rock walls, creating breathtaking overlooks and challenging trails. Hiking along the rim ranks among the rugged Best Things to Do in North Carolina, offering sweeping views and a true wilderness experience.
17. Visit Hanging Rock State Park
Hanging Rock State Park features scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and well-marked hiking trails. The park’s namesake rock formation provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Exploring this area enhances adventurous Best Things to Do in North Carolina, combining manageable hikes with rewarding summit views and peaceful picnic spots.
18. Explore Pisgah National Forest
Pisgah National Forest covers more than 500,000 acres of mountain terrain, waterfalls, and hardwood forests. Popular spots include Looking Glass Falls and extensive mountain biking routes. Outdoor recreation here is central to the Best Things to Do in North Carolina, offering year-round opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring scenic backcountry landscapes.
Unique and Family-Friendly Best Things to Do in North Carolina
North Carolina offers more than mountains and beaches. The state also features motorsport heritage, classic amusement parks, interactive science centres, and charming mountain towns. Adding these experiences to your itinerary expands the variety of the Best Things to Do in North Carolina, making it a destination that appeals to families, couples, and solo travellers alike.
19. Experience NASCAR Hall of Fame
NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte celebrates the history and legends of stock car racing. Interactive exhibits, race simulators, and historic vehicles highlight the state’s deep connection to motorsport. Visiting ranks among exciting Best Things to Do in North Carolina for racing fans and anyone curious about this uniquely American sport.
20. Visit Tweetsie Railroad
Tweetsie Railroad in Blowing Rock offers Wild West–themed train rides pulled by a historic steam locomotive. Families can enjoy live entertainment, amusement rides, and hands-on attractions. This nostalgic park stands out among classic Best Things to Do in North Carolina, especially for visitors travelling with children.
21. Explore Carowinds
Carowinds sits on the border of North and South Carolina and features roller coasters, water rides, and seasonal events. Thrill rides and family attractions enhance the energetic Best Things to Do in North Carolina, offering a full day of entertainment during warmer months.
22. Visit Greensboro Science Center
Greensboro Science Center combines an aquarium, zoo, and interactive science museum in one location. Exhibits feature marine life, reptiles, and educational displays for all ages. This attraction adds variety to the Best Things to Do in North Carolina, blending learning with hands-on exploration.
23. Discover Blowing Rock
Blowing Rock is a charming mountain town known for its scenic overlooks and boutique shops. The nearby Blowing Rock formation offers dramatic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Exploring here enhances the charming Best Things to Do in North Carolina, especially for travellers seeking small-town atmosphere.
24. Visit Boone
Boone serves as a gateway to outdoor recreation and is home to Appalachian State University. The town offers hiking trails, seasonal festivals, and a lively college-town vibe. Visiting Boone adds depth to the Best Things to Do in North Carolina, combining mountain adventure with local culture.
25. Walk the North Carolina Arboretum
North Carolina Arboretum near Asheville features cultivated gardens, forest trails, and rotating plant displays. Walking through landscaped paths and woodland areas completes the scenic Best Things to Do in North Carolina, providing a peaceful environment ideal for relaxation and photography.
Must Read:
Conclusion:
North Carolina offers mountains, beaches, historic estates, and vibrant cities in one state. Exploring the Best Things to Do in North Carolina means experiencing scenic drives, aviation history, coastal sunsets, arts districts, and outdoor adventure.
The diversity of the Best Things to Do in North Carolina makes it ideal for families, couples, solo travellers, and road trip enthusiasts. Whether you seek mountain air, ocean views, or cultural depth, North Carolina delivers memorable experiences across every season.
