9 Best North Carolina Towns For A Weekend Trip
North Carolina is the ideal state for a weekend getaway, from hiking in the spectacular Blue Ridge Mountains around Asheville, soaking up the sun on the Outer Banks, exploring history in Salisbury, or golfing in Pinehurst. Relaxing in small coastal towns, shopping in adorable boardwalks, enjoying outdoor adventures, or taking in vibrant art scenes, North Carolina accommodates every desire with traditional Southern hospitality. Regardless of when you travel, it is the state for all seasons.
Beaufort
Have you ever been intrigued by pirates? Beaufort will satisfy your curiosity when visiting the NC Maritime Museum. It includes artifacts from the wreckage of Blackbeard’s pirate ship, the Queen Anne’s Revenge, which lies at the bottom of the ocean patiently waiting to be raised to the surface. Besides the museum, Beaufort’s Historic Site has six accurately restored buildings.
With several stunning creeks, Beaufort has plenty to offer outdoor enthusiasts. At Taylor’s Creek enjoy kayaking and stand-up paddling. While enjoying the fresh air and unspoiled natural environment, keep a watchful eye for the wild horses at Rachel Carson Reserve, just across from the creek. It’s an incredible experience to be only a few meters away from these majestic creatures.
The Beaufort Farmers Market is held every Saturday on the courthouse lawn, with the freshest produce and beautiful crafts for memorable souvenirs. Book in at the Langdon House B&B, close to all amenities, ensuring a wonderful fun-filled weekend.
Robbinsville
Wanting to escape the city madness? Robbinsville is the perfect solution. In the western tip of North Carolina, this small town has immaculate lakes, rivers, and old-town ambiance to relax and rejuvenate with the town’s slower pace. The courthouse is the center focus of downtown with a marker in memory of the Civil War’s last surrender.
Although a tiny community, Robbinsville hosts fun and exciting festivals, like the 4th of July Heritage Festival and the Ramp Fest in April. The Wehrloom Honey Farm welcomes visitors to learn about harvesting bees to produce lotions, soaps, and beeswax candles from raw honey.
Tragically, Robbinsville was a rendeveu on the 5,043-mile Trail of Tears, including the Great Chief Junaluska grave memorial site.
Morehead City
Morehead City is a bustling coastal hub, ideal for family-fun entertainment, such as Kitty Hawk Kites, voyaging on the pirate ship Revenge, and even sky diving with Crystal Coast Skydiving. The community holds many events throughout the year: the Annual Boatbuilding Challenge and the Atlantic Beach Music Festival in May, the biggest fishing tournament in North Carolina, the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament in June, and many more.
There is always something on the go in Morehead City. Downtown is a shopper’s delight with boutiques, art galleries, antiques, and delicious seafood restaurants. The Beaufort Harbour Suites is close to amenities and the seaside, and permits family pets; it’s perfect for a fun-filled weekend getaway.
Pinehurst
Golfing weekend getaways don’t get much better than at Pinehurst. The Pinehurst Resort Golf Club and the Country Club of North Carolina will keep your golf clubs swinging for hours. Also, visit the World of Golf Hall of Fame after a great round of golf. However, golf is not the only activity in Pinehurst. It’s popular with equestrian activity, like trail rides at the Pinehurst Resort through beautiful nature.
Gardening lovers will be delighted with a stroll through the Sandhills Horticultural Gardens, including Japanese, children’s, conifer, and the Desmond Native Wetland Trail Garden. Adventure seekers can get an adrenaline rush ziplining or with tethered balloon flights, through the Pinehurst Resort. Spend a few hours at a spa, or art and pottery studios, and museums to fulfill an all-around magical weekend. Besides the Pinehurst Resort, the SpringHill Suites offers everything for a comfortable stay.
Holly Springs
Holly Springs, aptly named after the abundant holly trees, welcomes visitors seeking a quiet retreat from life’s busyness, and excellent breweries. The Bass Lake Park offers quality time for the whole family. Hire canoes and jon boats for casual rowing or fishing in the middle of the lake. The 1.9-mile loop trail is smooth enough for a stroller and an easy walk to absorb the natural vegetation and the wildlife observation platform offers superb views.
The Carolina Brewing Company and the Bombshell Beer Company offer tours for behind-the-scenes quality beer brewing. Enjoy a delicious meal and a few pints of the house specialties. Downtown, the Holly Springs Cultural Center includes a performing arts theater, a conference center, and an outdoor stage for a touch of culture in Holly Springs. A comfortable weekend stay is yours at Clarion Pointe Apex, which includes breakfast.
Asheboro
Asheboro is a fantastic getaway for music lovers. Its Summer Concert Series has concerts of every music flavor at the Bicentennial Park, such as the Friday Night Concert Series, including AC/DC, Coldplay, and Bon Jovi tributes. The Sunday Night Concert Series includes Band of Oz, The Entertainers, and Eric & the Chill Tones. These groups will perform in summer of 2025.
Sports and racing enthusiasts will get their thrills in Asheboro. Caraway Speedway hosts events every weekend, and the Liberty Raceway Park is a dirt track for go-karts hosting several events yearly. Also, the American Classic Motorcycle Museum is well worth the visit. Return to the Wild West at Davis Rodea Ranch and witness thrilling bull riding events. An entirely different thrill awaits you at the Hoover Hatchet House; try your hand at axe throwing, get out of an escape room, or enjoy a round of virtual golf.
This delightful town has much to offer, so book in at the Quality Inn near all attractions.
Kill Devil Hills
Kill Devil Hills, the town’s name could scare anyone from visiting. The name’s origin has many theories, such as being named after a potent rum that could “Kill the Devil.” However the name was founded, it doesn’t distract that it’s a fantastic, vibrant town with miles of oceans for tons of fun in the sun.
The hill is where the Wright brothers began modern aviation with their first engine-powered flight. Visit the Wright Brothers Memorial at the top of the hill where the famous flight took place.
The beach is undoubtedly the main activity, but the Paradise Fun, the Lost Treasure Golf, and the paintball center ensure fun, laughter, and great memories. After exerting much energy at the activity centers, stroll along the beach road. It has many locally-owned shops, a brewery, restaurants, and an excellent nightlife.
John Yancey Oceanfront Inn is in the perfect location for an unforgettable weekend getaway in Kill Devil Hills.
Salisbury
Away from modern city living, Salisbury is rich in history with five historic districts, ten National Register Historic Districts, and three historic theaters. However, the most exciting way to explore Salisbury’s history is The Salisbury Ghost Walk, an enthralling delve into the past.
Salisbury excites visitors throughout the year with exciting events, such as its favorite Cheerwine Festival in May, the Bell Tower Brewfest in October, and New Year’s Eve at the Bell Tower Green. All events host family fun activities, music, and much more.
Salisbury-Rowan County Farmer’s Market and Church Street Market are a must for wonderful homegrown and homemade produce and gifts. Meet the locals while browsing and be entertained by their interesting off-the-record stories.
Staying in a historical building is almost a must when visiting a town with so much history. The Turn of the Century Bed & Breakfast, a 2001 Preservation North Carolina Award of Merit recipient, is a short walk from all the main attractions.
Mint Hill
Mint Hill is an eclectic town, attracting historians, golfers, and festival lovers. A walk through the Carl J. McEwen Historic Village reveals the town’s past with the Mint Hill Country Doctor’s Museum, the Ira V. Ferguson Country Store, and the Ashcraft Schoolhouse.
After learning about the town’s existence, explore its natural environment at Stevens Creek Nature Center and Preserve. Interact with the animals, visit the exhibit hall, and buy awesome memorabilia at the gift shop.
Mint Hill Veterans Memorial Park is best for a family outing. It has two soccer fields, tennis and beach volleyball courts, a nine-hole disc golf course, and a nature trail. However, a weekend getaway on Memorial Day Weekend is Mint Hill Madness, an annual festival with a parade, carnival, fireworks, live music, and great fun.
There’s no shortage of towns inviting a weekend getaway in North Carolina. An escape to a small town can be just what the doctor ordered to restore crucial, quality family time, or for a romantic getaway. Nature parks, golf courses, historic districts, gorgeous beaches, and superb shopping are the best medicines for a tired body, mind, and soul. Flying to faraway places is unnecessary when the perfect getaway is only a few miles drive in North Carolina, with communities happy to share their love for their towns.
