10 Best Things to Do in North Carolina

Things to Do in North Carolina

They say ‘variety is the spice of life,’ and in North Carolina, you’ll find plenty of spice to add to your adventures.

From the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains to the beautiful beaches of the Outer Banks, there’s something for everyone in the Tar Heel State.

Explore the historic Biltmore Estate, relax on the sandy shores, or discover the vibrant city of Asheville.

For thrill-seekers, Carowinds Amusement Park is a must-visit. Indulge in delicious Southern cuisine in Raleigh or immerse yourself in nature at Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Step back in time at the USS North Carolina Battleship Memorial or enjoy the vibrant arts scene in Durham.

With so much to see and do, North Carolina is waiting to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Explore the Breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains

If you’re visiting North Carolina, make sure you explore the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains. With its stunning natural beauty and endless outdoor adventures, this mountain range is a must-visit destination.

The Blue Ridge Mountains offer a variety of breathtaking hiking trails, perfect for both beginners and experienced hikers. Lace up your boots and discover the wonders of nature as you traverse through lush forests, cross babbling streams, and reach scenic overlooks that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

The Appalachian Trail, which stretches through the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a popular choice for hikers looking to challenge themselves and immerse in the picturesque beauty of the region. So pack your backpack, grab your camera, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the awe-inspiring Blue Ridge Mountains.

Visit the Historic Biltmore Estate

To fully experience the best of North Carolina, you should plan a visit to the historic Biltmore Estate. This magnificent estate, located in Asheville, boasts stunning historic architecture that will transport you back in time.

As you explore the estate’s sprawling grounds, you’ll be captivated by the grandeur of the Biltmore House, a 250-room masterpiece built by George Vanderbilt in the late 19th century. Step inside and take a guided tour to learn about the fascinating history and opulent lifestyle of the Vanderbilt family. Marvel at the intricate details of the interior, from the elegant furnishings to the breathtaking artwork adorning the walls.

Don’t miss the opportunity to wander through the beautiful gardens and enjoy the picturesque views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. A visit to the Biltmore Estate is truly a journey into the past, and an experience you won’t soon forget.

Relax on the Beautiful Outer Banks Beaches

Continue your exploration of North Carolina by relaxing on the beautiful Outer Banks beaches.

With miles of pristine coastline, the Outer Banks offers the perfect setting for a day of sun, sand, and surf.

Whether you’re looking to lounge on the beach, take a refreshing swim, or engage in thrilling water sports, the Outer Banks has it all.

From surfing and paddleboarding to kayaking and jet skiing, there are endless beach activities to keep you entertained. Feel the exhilaration as you ride the waves or explore the calm waters of the sound.

The Outer Banks beaches are also ideal for beachcombing, fishing, and simply enjoying the breathtaking views.

Discover the Charming City of Asheville

Exploring the charming city of Asheville will leave you captivated by its unique blend of art, culture, and natural beauty.

This vibrant city, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is known for its charming architecture and friendly atmosphere. As you wander through the streets, you’ll be greeted by stunning historic buildings that showcase Asheville’s rich history and architectural heritage.

But it’s not just the buildings that make Asheville special. The city is also famous for its thriving craft beer scene, with numerous local breweries offering a wide variety of delicious brews. Take a brewery tour, sample some of the finest beers, and learn about the brewing process.

Whether you’re a fan of art, culture, or simply want to unwind in a beautiful setting, Asheville has something for everyone.

Experience the Thrills at Carowinds Amusement Park

Immerse yourself in the excitement and adrenaline-pumping rides at Carowinds Amusement Park, where thrill-seekers of all ages can indulge in a day of non-stop fun.

Located on the border of North and South Carolina, Carowinds offers an unforgettable experience with its thrilling roller coasters and exhilarating attractions.

Get your heart racing as you soar through the air on rides like the Fury 325, the world’s tallest and fastest giga coaster, or the Intimidator, inspired by NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt.

For those looking to cool off, the Carowinds water park is the perfect destination. Dive into a wave pool, race down thrilling water slides, or relax in a lazy river.

With its combination of thrilling rides and refreshing water park, Carowinds is a must-visit destination for any adventure lover.

Dive Into the Rich History of Wilmington

As you explore the best things to do in North Carolina, take a dive into the rich history of Wilmington. This vibrant city isn’t only known for its beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere, but also for its rich history and cultural heritage.

From its early days as a bustling port city to its role in the Civil War, Wilmington has a story to tell. Immerse yourself in the past as you stroll through the historic downtown district, lined with beautifully preserved buildings and charming cobblestone streets.

Visit the Bellamy Mansion, a stunning antebellum home that provides a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy plantation owners of the time. Explore the Cape Fear Museum, where you can learn about the region’s history through interactive exhibits and artifacts.

Don’t forget to take a riverboat tour along the Cape Fear River, where you can soak in the scenic views and hear stories of the city’s maritime past. Wilmington is a true treasure trove of history and culture, waiting to be discovered.

Indulge in Delicious Southern Cuisine in Raleigh

Get ready to savor mouthwatering Southern cuisine in Raleigh, where you’ll find a plethora of delectable dishes waiting to be devoured.

Raleigh, the capital city of North Carolina, is known for its vibrant food scene that showcases the rich traditions of Southern cuisine. From classic comfort foods to innovative culinary creations, Raleigh has it all.

Indulge in iconic dishes like crispy fried chicken, fluffy buttermilk biscuits, and savory collard greens. Don’t forget to try the famous North Carolina-style barbecue, slow-cooked and smoky with a tangy vinegar-based sauce.

The Raleigh food scene not only celebrates traditional Southern food traditions but also embraces the creativity and diversity of modern gastronomy.

Immerse Yourself in Nature at Great Smoky Mountains National Park

While exploring the vibrant food scene in Raleigh, you’ll find that North Carolina offers much more than just culinary delights.

One such opportunity is the chance to immerse yourself in nature at Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

This magnificent park, straddling the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, is a nature lover’s paradise.

Lace up your hiking boots and venture onto the park’s extensive network of trails, where you’ll be surrounded by lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain vistas.

The park is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for black bears, deer, elk, and over 200 species of birds.

Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll, Great Smoky Mountains National Park promises unforgettable nature hikes and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Step Back in Time at the USS North Carolina Battleship Memorial

Want to step back in time and experience a piece of North Carolina’s military history? Look no further than the USS North Carolina Battleship Memorial.

This impressive memorial allows you to explore a real battleship that played a crucial role in World War II. As you step aboard, you can’t help but feel a sense of awe and reverence for the brave men who served on this vessel.

The battleship’s massive guns, towering structure, and intricate details transport you to a different era. Take your time to wander through the various decks and compartments, and imagine what life was like for the sailors who called this ship home.

The USS North Carolina Battleship Memorial isn’t just a museum; it’s a chance to step back in time and truly appreciate the sacrifices made by those who served.

Enjoy the Vibrant Arts Scene in Durham

You’ll frequently discover a vibrant arts scene in Durham, North Carolina. Known for its creative energy and diverse cultural offerings, Durham is a haven for art enthusiasts.

The city is home to numerous galleries, theaters, and performance spaces, showcasing a wide range of artistic expressions. From contemporary art exhibitions to thought-provoking theatrical performances, Durham’s vibrant arts scene has something for everyone.

The Durham Performing Arts Center, one of the largest performing arts centers in the country, hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and other live performances.

The American Tobacco Campus, a renovated industrial complex, houses several art galleries and studios, providing a platform for local artists to showcase their work.

Whether you’re a seasoned art connoisseur or simply appreciate creative expression, Durham’s vibrant arts scene is sure to captivate and inspire you.