7 Offbeat Towns to Visit in North Carolina
From the stunning Appalachian Mountains to its attractive Atlantic coast, North Carolina is dotted with offbeat tourist destinations that have managed to maintain their small-town appeal. From the aptly named Blowing Rock, famed for its rock formation and stunning Blue Ridge Parkway setting, to the fascinating Native American history and culture on display in Cherokee, there are plenty of great excuses to venture beyond the usual tourist traps and explore the “Tar Heel State”. Hit the road and learn more with this fun list of seven offbeat towns to visit in North Carolina.
Blowing Rock
Picturesque Blowing Rock gets its name from its unique geological formation and is a must-visit for those looking for an offbeat North Carolina getaway. The "blowing rock" in question is a massive cliff over 4,000 feet above sea level where the wind flows strongly upward, causing light objects to float upwards when thrown over the edge. It’s a fascinating spot to visit and is even popular for those seeking a memorable if somewhat dramatic wedding photo.
Another of the town's most visited attractions is the Blue Ridge Parkway. Known as “America's favorite drive,” this scenic route provides panoramic vistas of the Appalachian Highlands and access to hiking trails, waterfalls, and picnic areas. Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, a part of the Parkway, offers miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding, plus the chance to visit the historic Cone Manor. Another highlight is the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum (BRAHM) with its exhibits relating to the region’s vibrant cultural heritage.
Boone
Boone is another small town that’s worth including on any list of things to do in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Thanks to its being home to the Appalachian State University, Boone has a distinctly offbeat, youthful energy that adds to the fun. In addition to being a great jumping-off point for explorations of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Boone is situated close to the epic Grandfather Mountain. Known for its mile-high swinging bridge, wildlife habitats, and challenging hiking trails, this area of outstanding natural beauty is home to Grandfather Mountain State Park with its backcountry trails.
Downtown Boone is also fun to explore, with a variety of quirky shops, art galleries, restaurants and cafés that reflect the town's unique vibe. The Boone Farmers Market is held on Saturdays and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to shop for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts. Cultural experiences can be had at the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts, while the Appalachian Summer Fest features exhibitions, performances, and workshops.
Brevard
Located close to the border with South Carolina, Brevard is nicknamed the "Land of Waterfalls" for good reason. This charming town in the Blue Ridge Mountains boasts an impressive 250 waterfalls, some of the best located in Pisgah National Forest and Gorges State Park. In addition to the waterfalls, these parks are popular for their hiking and biking experiences. If you can only manage a visit to one waterfall, make it Looking Glass Falls. Easily accessible from the roadside, it boasts superb views year-round.
A visit to DuPont State Recreational Forest is another must-do, with the big attractions here being Triple Falls, High Falls, and Hooker Falls. Fancy a more rigorous adventure? Take a hike through Pisgah National Forest to Sliding Rock, a natural water slide that provides an offbeat – and exhilarating – experience.
Cherokee
The town of Cherokee is located at the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is deeply rooted in the heritage and traditions of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. The main attraction here is Oconaluftee Indian Village, a living history museum where visitors can experience the daily life of the Cherokee in the 18th century, including demonstrations of traditional crafts, storytelling, and dance. Another top attraction is the Museum of the Cherokee People with its fascinating displays about Cherokee history through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations.
The “Unto These Hills” Outdoor Drama is another must-see and tells the story of the Cherokee people from their origins to the Trail of Tears through performances of songs, dances, and storytelling.
Edenton
Strategically positioned on the picturesque shores of Albemarle Sound in the northeast corner of the state, Edenton stands as a testament not just to colonial history, but also to that unique Southern charm the state’s so famous for. Established in 1722 and one of the oldest communities in North Carolina, head first to Edenton Historic District for a look at the 1767 Chowan County Courthouse. One of the oldest in courthouses the country, this must-visit landmark features elegant Georgian architecture and played an important role in the country’s early history after the Declaration of Independence.
Cupola House, another architectural gem dating back to 1758, is another must-photograph and is surrounded by lovely gardens. The Roanoke River Lighthouse, now situated on Edenton's waterfront, adds to the town's charm and was originally built to guide ships safely through Albemarle Sound. Another highlight is the Harriet Jacobs Trail which highlights the life of the African American writer who escaped from slavery and became a notable abolitionist.
Mount Airy
Affectionately referred to as "Mayberry" to fans of the classic The Andy Griffith Show, Mount Airy is a definite it with fans of offbeat small towns. It was here that Andy Griffith was born, a fact celebrated at the Andy Griffith Museum. In addition to viewing the country’s largest collection of the star’s props, costumes, and personal items, visitors can even take a ride in a replica of the squad car from the hit TV show.
The old Americana vibe can also be experienced in historic Downtown Mount Airy with its attractive old Main Street. Highlights include the Earle Theatre, an original 1938 Art Deco movie house that continues to screen classic films. It also hosts live music events, as well as the popular “old time” radio show, the Merry-Go-Round. Nearby Pilot Mountain State Park offers breathtaking views, hiking trails, and outdoor activities, with its distinctive peak serving as a natural landmark that serves as a memorable selfie backdrop.
Saluda
We end our exploration of these seven fabulous, offbeat towns in North Carolina with a visit to Saluda. Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this quaint town is home to the historic Saluda Grade, the steepest standard-gauge mainline railway grade in the United States. Though the trains no longer run, their legacy can be explored at the Saluda Historic Depot and Museum.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to love in Saluda, too, thanks to its proximity to the Green River and its gorge. Popular among white-water rafting, kayaking, and tubing enthusiasts, the gorge's lush forests and rushing waters provide a picturesque backdrop for thrilling water sports and nature strolls.
The Final Word
These small towns in North Carolina each reflect a little of what makes the Tar Heel State so special a place to visit. From the stunning mountain terrain of Blowing Rock, Boone, and Brevard, to the Native American history on display in Cherokee, as well as the historical waterside of Edenton and the nostalgic streets of Mount Airy, these seven small towns in North Carolina showcase some of the very best offbeat travel experiences in the nation.
