8 Most Unconventional Towns In North Carolina
Known for its mountain ranges, prestigious universities, and as "The First in Flight," North Carolina still isn't considered your typical vacation destination. With that said, it is a remarkable state to visit for unconventional escapes, with scenery that hasn't changed for decades.
Caswell Beach is a serene alternative with a famous lighthouse, where you can escape to the sounds and views of the lapping Atlantic, among the wading sea turtles in the summer. New Bern, the state's original capital, boasts galleries and the Tryon Palace at the fork of two raging rivers. So whether you're seeking a waterfront town or a mountain hamlet, each defines North Carolina's motto of "To be, rather than to seem," with a staple state feature plus a few memorable quirks.
Beech Mountain
At 5,506 feet above sea level, the highest town in the Eastern US is a pretty unconventional escape. Beautiful sunrises light up the peaks and meadows of the hilly landscape. Add in an unlikely attraction, the Land of Oz, since the original story began in Kansas' prairies, and call it a day. Built in 1970, the theme park opens a few times a year, like for the annual "Autumn at Oz" festival, when the slopes shimmer in colors, and foliage hikes, like Smoketree Trail and Sassafras Trail. With plenty of golf courses, creeks, and trails, you can exchange the stuffy city and heat of the lower elevations for small mountain town charm and the refreshing Elk River Falls.
The dramatic cascade boasts cliffside trails and a beach area with natural pools. End the day over at Sunset Park, an unforgettable vista south of downtown, before digging into steak, seafood, or American fare at Alpen Restaurant & Bar, a European-style inn with mountain views, a fireplace, and a patio. The next-door Famous Brick Oven Pizzeria serves brick-oven pies alongside games and weekly live music. It all feels different so high in the air—even the locally brewed beer tastes better and more hoppy at Beech Mountain Brewing Co. There's still time for snow fun at Beech Mountain Ski Resort, like skiing, tubing, and snowboarding, before it turns to mountain biking and disc golf in the warmer months.
Blowing Rock
Blowing Rock is defined by the eponymous rock formation "defying gravity" with an upward wind current that causes a snow dance and objects to levitate. The enticing "Crown of the Blue Ridge" is a bucket-list item hike to soak up the natural beauty overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountain peaks, forests, and Johns River Gorge. Many enjoy the nearby Appalachian Ski Mountain for downhill skiing and snow sports in winter, plus shopping and restaurants to warm up back in town. Take a walk through downtown amid the Colonial-era homes. A picture of peace today, few are aware of the backstory, just as integral to these hills and valleys, the eyes and ears of guerrilla battles that raged.
From scenic hikes to museums and local chats at the bar, you'll have a memorable time alongside landmarks and tales of gory from the American Civil War. So dig in and savor after a coffee at the Bald Guy Brew. Blowing Rock Art & History Museum offers an artistic spin for families with local artists' exhibitions, old records, and collections. Moses H. Cone Memorial Park crafts out the history of a preserved estate with miles of trails around the focal Flat Top Manor. Bridging the gap between the town's past, you can then reflect on locally sourced fare at Chestnut Grille at the historic Green Park Inn. Come now for the fun Blowing Rock Winterfest (January 23-26, 2025), with ice carving, polar plunges, and winter brews.
Brevard
Boasting over 250 natural waterfalls in the area, this Transylvania County mountain town is a real love affair for nature lovers. Tangled amid rivers with streams for rafting and fishing, Keystone Camp is a gorgeous campsite to set base. There are many hiking trails, including Art Loeb Trailhead (south), Looking Glass Rock Trailhead, and John Rock. Ranging from mountain hikes and rock climbing to the kid-friendly Bracken Preserve, enjoy sparkling waterfalls, horseback riding, and birding. With so much to see and do in the summer, Brevard brings live music to the streets, perfect to pair with alfresco dining and excellent breweries.
Without the summer crowds, the autumn colors the slopes and frames your trail adventures. Wake up ready to take it in after a freshly brewed coffee and something for the sweet tooth at the Blue Ridge Bakery. Sugar Loaf Mountain offers sweeping views of the patchwork valleys and lush forests. You can relax and people-watch around the cute downtown area while shopping and dining. Stop for eye candy at Duckpond Pottery, and the 1890s house turned Transylvania Heritage Museum. Many enjoy the views of the Colonial Revival Mansion at Silvermont Mansion and Park, as well as a sunny afternoon in the woodland garden, plus tennis courts and a playground. Lastly, the vintage Cardinal Drive-In serves great bites with a side of Americana nostalgia.
Caswell Beach
Under an hour south of Wilmington, Caswell Beach is an overlooked beach town in the eastern "natural corner" of the largely residential Oak Island. Named after Richard Caswell, the state's first and fifth governor and home to nearly 400, the tranquil feel within extends to the uncrowded shores. With a claim to the island's lighthouse, Caswell Beach offers an enviable blend of island vibes and a very long beach. With the sounds and views of the lapping Atlantic, you can really get away without the crowds of well-known destinations. May through August, sea turtles waddle around the vast sands to the delight of nature lovers and shell finders among them. Don't miss the old-school vibes at Old Bridge Diner for traditional American fare or all-day breakfast.
You can bask on the beach and explore the Intracoastal Waterway in a boat or kayak before a fun evening at Shagger Jacks, a favorite summertime spot serving down-home seafood meals, sandwiches, and cocktails with a patio and live music. Fish from the town's own pier next to Lazy Turtle Bar & Grill with tables in the sand. Built in 1957, the 148-foot Oak Island Lighthouse is not so lonely, with a string of architect fans journeying to admire its concrete cylindrical shape. Instead of the more common spiral staircases in other lighthouses, venture up to the balcony via a series of ship ladders, 131 steps to the most dramatic views. For mild temperatures and unobscured views, visit in the spring or fall.
Duck
Like an odd duck out, this darling town hangs out along the dunes at the heart of the barrier island between the Currituck Sound and the Atlantic. Duck feels like home but looks nothing like it. Surrounded by maritime forests, wetlands, and dunes, the sightseeing and adventures match every outdoor lover's interest, with clean waters and pristine beaches to relax after. Many enjoy easy access to Pine Island Audubon Sanctuary, just north, with trail hikes and kayaking tours in the land and marsh views through the peaceful Sound. The coastal town is an alluring tourist destination, thanks to all the unique experiences and efforts to maintain the delicate and diverse island environs.
With its own unique brand and flavors through Duck Village, the mile-long boardwalk links restaurants, marshes, and forests, plus boat launches into the Sound. From your morning brew at Duck's Cottage, a relaxed spot with books, you can browse independent businesses in the sea-salted air and break for a picnic at Beach Access Gazebo or the Duck Town Park. South in Kitty Hawk, the Wright Brothers National Memorial honors the state's aviation saga with public access to exhibits and the very spot where the first successful flight took off in 1903. Dine Caribbean-style at Sunset Grille & Raw Bar, serving seafood waterfront with tiki bars, and grab a box from Duck Donut for friends back home.
Edenton
Edenton, the state's second capital from 1722 to 1743, is a historic tourism destination. Established in 1712, this waterfront town is an Eden indeed for history lovers, having hosted the Edenton Tea Party in 1774 in solidarity with the Boston Tea Party. Visitors can take a historical tour downtown and stop by the Edenton Cotton Mill Museum of History. The town also claims the pretty Roanoke River Lighthouse, next to the welcoming center and a popular coffee shop. Tucked into a bay of Albemarle Sound, the history and calming nature make Edenton, named on various top small-town lists, a popular destination to retire.
Packed with beautiful historic buildings from the Colonial and Antebellum periods, strolling in the historically charged atmosphere against a photogenic backdrop transports you to another era. From the 1767 Chowan County Courthouse to the St. Paul's Episcopal Church, find a spot to revel in the history of the area. The Table at Inner Banks Inn serves great seafood with a modern twist next to the Historic Edenton State Historic Site.
Little Switzerland
Considered the “Jewel of the Blue Ridge Parkway," Little Switzerland can be your unconventional escape into the Alps. Overlooking the Appalachian Mountains from chalet-style buildings, the tranquility is unreplicable to unwind. Rejuvenate in the fresh mountain air with adventures like the Trails at Crabtree Falls, driving southwest for a hike to this 70-foot waterfall. Little Switzerland Tunnel is a historic landmark on the parkway you can drive through. Driving northeast, stop at the Museum of North Carolina Minerals before the Table Rock Mountain Overlook or North Cove Overlook at sunset, which is just 30 minutes back to town.
A real respite for nature lovers to escape the bustling city, the fall colors are lovely along the parkway with only nature's whispers. Having faced serious destruction by Helene, the disaster made the community more close-knit and stronger than ever, with a few delightful old favorites. Book ahead for spring now: The Switzerland Inn transports you to a hamlet overseas with plush accommodations and dining in the mountainous vistas. Little Switzerland Books & Beans offers to browse and relax with a good read that complements the peaceful mountain charm. You can also visit the nearby Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site for life insights of the famed American poet.
New Bern
Tangled amid waterscapes, marinas, and bridges, this remarkable riverfront town was the state's original capital before the title went to Raleigh, some 115 miles northwest. Home to over 32,500 today, you're in the birthplace of Pepsi Cola, at the fork of the Neuse and Trent Rivers. The historic waterfront downtown north of the bridge blends history and nature in the backdrop to browse local shops and eateries, plus the town's old pharmacy, where the soda was invented. Tryon Palace is like the Versailles to Paris in France, with a replica of the 1760s Royal Governor's mansion, plus 16 acres of gardens, tours, and a history center. You'll also find a modern, family-friendly museum with hands-on displays and a waterfront cafe.
With many brick and bungalow buildings, Georgian homes, Greek revivals, and Victorian mansions, don't miss The Accidental Artist, a pottery shop, plus The Next Chapter Books & Art. All the galleries huddle around the famous Union Point Park on the river fork, with play equipment, a large gazebo, and a boardwalk. To the south, Creekside Park is more serene, with a bridge and spectacular fall foliage. New Bern Civil War Battlefield Park offers guided tours and battlefield trails with interpretive panels. Hop onto a historic trolley tour or a boat tour down one of the rivers—you will literally see New Bern in a new light. The Cow Cafe serves delicious ice cream, while B & J Seafood, the Fish Market, is a must-stop to stock your cooler before the ride home.
Tangled amid raging rivers and dense forests, North Carolina is home to some of the quaintest towns in the US. Boasting some of the most diverse environments, Little Switzerland inspires the Alps with views of the Appalachians from your chalet-style room along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
From the highest town in the Eastern US to the Outer Banks, you can feel transported into the Amazonia, kayaking through marshes and marine forests along the Intercoastal Waterways. There's so much to experience in the Tar Heel State, so get fired up for nostalgia-inducing vibes, fresh air mountain adventures, plus modern shopping and dining.
