12 Best Small Towns To Visit In North Carolina
The best small towns in North Carolina are unique because of their diverse landscapes and settings. The state is divided into three distinct geographical areas. The Coastal Plain in the east, the Piedmont in the center, and the Mountains in the west. The mix of different vibes allows visitors to experience a well round, naturally inspired trip or a new small town to call home. Each of these small towns in North Carolina differentiates itself with a unique advantage and selling point. However, there is one thing these charming small towns have in common: stunning natural beauty.
Boone
Named after American explorer Daniel Boone, The town portrays the essence of British American settlers accentuated through architecture and documented history. Sitting atop the Blue Ridge Mountains, the town is home to Appalachian State University and enjoys a lively student atmosphere during study periods. Boone is also a vacation destination for those who enjoy an abundant outdoor experience surrounded by nature in its diverse setting. Some of the most popular destinations in Boone include The Greenway Trail, Hickory Ridge Living History Museum, and Daniel Boone Native Gardens.
Beaufort
Nicknamed America’s favorite town, Beaufort is an old-world southern charm that offers a mix of nature-centric outdoor activities from watersports to world-class competitive fishing. The locals take pride in their cuisines that incorporate a wide range of different seafood. Founded in 1711, Beaufort still maintains its historic architecture and small-town feel. Shop downtown Beaufort, enjoy boat and ferry rides, and visit the Maritime Museum, home to pirate treasures and historical tales.
Blowing Rock
One of the oldest tourist destinations of North Carolina, topping almost every list of the best touristy towns to visit. The town is a world-class hiking destination and gets its name from a unique geological foundation of rocks that sits 3000 feet above John’s River Gorge. The legend of Blowing Rock is a classic lover’s leap tale involving a Cherokee brave who jumped to his death, only for the wind to blow him back up to his Chickasaw maiden. Blowing Rock Musem allows for an authentic mountain educational trip to make your way to other nearby mountain towns like Little Switzerland and Waynesville.
Brevard
Brevard is a small town known for its natural beauty including waterfalls and forests. Situated in the mountains of Western North Carolina, it has earned the nickname "Land of Waterfalls" due to the numerous waterfalls in the surrounding area. It is also home to Brevard College, a private liberal arts college. Locals and tourists alike enjoy the town's charm, outdoors activities, and its music and arts scene, with events like the Brevard Music Festival drawing visitors annually. Some of the top touristy places to check out include the Transylvania County Heritage Museum, Brevard Clay, and the Red Wolf Gallery.
New Bern
New Bern is home to the First State Capital of North Carolina, Tryon Palace. The second oldest colonial town in North Carolina, thus its advanced architecture and rich history. Cool things to do in the area include Trent River and the Neuse River waterfronts, and Union Point Park. Famed for antique stores, visitors can stroll the welcoming downtown area and shop vintage to support the thriving artistic and creative community.
Edenton
The second largest seaport in North Carolina, Edenton, is rich with coastal atmospheres and historic architecture. The town played a significant historic role in ending enslavement and was once a safe spot for those trying to escape the harsh realities of neighboring cities. Along the banks of the beautiful Albemarle Sound, Edenton offers amazing views of surrounding beaches and lighthouses. Enjoy beautiful waterfront parks, and immerse yourself in the local history by visiting nearby historic houses like Cupola House.
Bladenboro
A productive town is known for its large-scale production of turpentine and lumber and is an old railroad city that worked as a connecting hub between surrounding major cities. The town balances a rural and small-town suburban feel with a wide range of beautiful natural landscapes. It sits in the southwestern corner of Bladen County with a small population that allows visitors to enjoy a peaceful escape and a tourist-welcoming atmosphere.
Morganton
Morganton is Burke's county seat and a cultural, governmental, and commercial activity hub. Enjoy a range of outdoor activities, hit the waters with your friends and family, and learn about the town’s historic offerings. Morganton gets its name from Brigadier General Daniel Morgan, a hero of the American Revolutionary War. The charming historical architecture adds to the town’s beauty with buildings like the Historic Burke County Courthouse.
Southport
As its name indicates, Southport is a charming town on the waters closely located to Bald Head Island, another special town in the Brunswick Beaches region. The town offers stunning waterfront views that emphasize a relaxing small-town vibe. Top things to do in Southport include waterfront sports, visiting local art galleries, and checking out historic cultural destinations, including Cape Fear Museum and the downtown business area.
Mooresville
A large town located in the southwestern section of Iredell County in North Carolina. The town is known for being a car racing city, an excellent weekend escape for race lovers and adrenaline junkies. Visitors and car fans shouldn't miss the chance to tour racing facilities and pick up some local merchandise to support locals. Visit the Pit Indoor Kart Racing go-kart facility, dozens of unique shops, delicious restaurants, and cute craft stores, making Mooresville a thriving town with plenty to do.
Hendersonville
A small town known for its scenic views, southern hospitality, and lively downtown business area, Hendersonville is an agricultural region that boasts an impressive culinary scene. Home to the 77-year-old North Carolina Apple Festival, Hendersonville is a place to kick back, relax and enjoy the authentic American small-town feel.
Bryson City
Finally, famous for its beautiful mountain views and cotton candy sunsets, Bryson City in North Carolina to enjoy nature-centric, picturesque sceneries. A romantic escape for nature lovers in Swain County, Bryson City is a popular destination for its locations as a bordering mountain town bordering the Great Smoky Mountains. Main Street and the surrounding downtown area are where all the live events and community gatherings happen, along with the weekly Farmers Market on Bryson St.
The best small towns in North Carolina offer an all-inclusive experience with diverse landscapes, mainly stressing the state’s natural beauty. Nature lovers will enjoy North Carolina more than other visitors. Still, the state has something for all preferences and likings. Take a family vacation or zone out alone in one of Earth's most relaxing, chill places.
