6 Coziest Small Towns in North Carolina
The state of North Carolina covers a diverse and beautiful landscape stretching from the Blue Ridge portion of the Appalachian Mountains to the chain of barrier islands along the Atlantic Ocean called the Outer Banks. The “Tarheel State” has both a long history and a growing population, giving many of its small towns an inviting mix of classic charm and modern vitality. Whether your idea of a cozy small town is a mountainside hamlet or an oceanfront community, North Carolina has travel destinations to suit your preferences. Get started on your vacation plans with our list of six of the coziest North Carolina towns.
Bath
The small village of Bath, which is situated along the lovely Pamlico River near its meeting point with Pamlico Sound, has the distinction of being the oldest existing town in North Carolina. Bath was the then-colony of North Carolina’s first capital from 1712 to 1722, and also spent part of that period as a hideout for the notorious pirate Blackbeard. Much of the town is now a state historic site called Historic Bath, with buildings restored to their colonial-era appearance and walking tours that recount the town’s colorful political and pirate history. The remainder of Bath also has a historic feel, but also offers modern dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
Black Mountain
The city of Asheville is the best known community in western North Carolina’s picturesque Blue Ridge region, while its nearby neighbor in Buncombe County, Black Mountain, stands as an underappreciated gem. Black Mountain has much of the same eclectic and independent spirit as Asheville, but with a cozier setting in a town of about 8,000. Black Mountain maintains a big arts and culture scene for a small town, with events like the Lake Eden Arts Festival and venues like the Black Mountain Center for the Arts. Downtown Black Mountain also includes multiple historic districts, including the site of the former Black Mountain College, that are great for walking tours.
Edenton
The location of the town of Edenton, along the Albemarle Sound, was in 1658 the site of the first successful English settlement in what is now North Carolina. It took another 50-plus years for the town to be established, and in 1774 Edenton experienced its own colonial protest, the Edenton Tea Party, that was modeled after the more famous Boston Tea Party. Edenton has done a great job preserving its long history, with architectural highlights such as the 1767 courthouse and 1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse in Edenton Bay. The historic downtown area and stunning waterfront combine to make for a perfect walking tour, or you can hitch a ride on one of the town’s trolley tours.
Mount Airy
The western North Carolina town of Mount Airy inspired a beloved fictional town, and that fictional town now inspires today’s Mount Airy. Actor Andy Griffith was born in Mount Airy, and used his hometown to help model the town of Mayberry in the 1960s Andy Griffith Show. Mount Airy celebrates this connection with recreations of famous settings (like Floyd’s Barbershop) and props (like Andy’s police cruiser) from the show. But, even if you know nothing about the Andy Griffith Show, Mount Airy is a great place to visit. The town is known as one of the birthplaces of bluegrass music, and great live music still emanates from venues like the historic 1938 Earle Theatre.
New Bern
New Bern, located at the confluence of the Meuse and Trent Rivers and formerly an important port town, appeals to history lovers for many reasons. New Bern was North Carolina’s last colonial capital and first state capital, and the rebuilt Tryon Palace (the colonial governor’s mansion) and its opulent gardens are situated right in the heart of town. If your historical interest is a bit more modern and commercial, you can visit the pharmacy where Pepsi Cola was invented in 1898. New Bern’s quaint and timeless-feeling downtown is great for a walking tour, as is the town’s waterfront district. Union Point Park offers great water views and regularly hosts concerts and festivals.
Ocracoke
The town of Ocracoke, situated on Ocracoke Island at the opening to Pamlico Sound, has a soothing coziness you simply will not find in the bustling Outer Banks beach towns located further north. There are no bridges to Ocracoke Island, meaning visitors must rely on the ferries that run from both the north and south. Due to this isolation, Ocracoke moves at a slower pace and has retained more of its natural coastal beauty. While there are few big beachfront homes and condos to be found, Ocracoke instead has a beachfront campground operated by the National Park Service. If you really want to get away from it all on your beach vacation, Ocracoke may be the place for you!
What image comes to mind when you think of a cozy small town? Are you browsing local shops along a classic main street? Are you waking up to the smell of coffee at a charming and historic bed-and-breakfast? Or are you enjoying the peaceful serenity of an uncrowded beach? If any (or all) of these cozy images ring true for you, start making plans to head to North Carolina. And save some time to explore the state and uncover some cozy small towns of your own!
