These 10 Towns Are North Carolina's Best-Kept Secrets
North Carolina combines natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality. From cobblestone streets and vibrant downtowns to serene waterfronts, the Tar Heel State is generous to its tourists. Edenton, for instance, with its tranquil waterways and colonial architecture, exudes timeless Southern hospitality, while Beaufort invites discovery with ferry rides to nearby islands.
Beyond these examples, North Carolina is home to countless hidden gems, from mountain retreats to cultural hubs. Whether you’re exploring historic landmarks or enjoying outdoor adventures, these small towns promise unforgettable experiences. Ready to discover your next favorite getaway? Start with these ten must-see towns!
Little Switzerland
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Little Switzerland is an unforgettable town perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and those craving an escape from the hustle and bustle. Founded in 1909, this sweet little village is known for its Swiss chalet-style architecture and stunning views reminiscent of the Swiss Alps. Its rich mining history comes alive at Emerald Village, where you can tour historic mines, go underground at the North Carolina Mining Museum, and even pan for gold.
For a taste of local culture, Geneva Hall hosts mountain music and dancing every Saturday evening in July and August. Then, there’s the Switzerland General Store, a community staple since 1927 that provides a nostalgic shopping opportunity. Art lovers can visit the Artisan League of Little Switzerland Art Gallery, featuring works by local artists, while the Little Switzerland Orchard, Cidery, Winery & Brewery invites guests to relax with craft beverages, campsites, and friendly farm animals.
Want to get outside? Drive along the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway or test your skills on the thrilling Diamondback Trail. Hikers can take a serene trek to Crabtree Falls. It’s an epic day trip, but campsites are also available if you wish to prolong the adventure.
Edenton
Established in 1712, Edenton is a lovely town with a rich colonial past. Its historic downtown and easy access to the Chowan River, Edenton Bay, and Albemarle Sound make it a haven for water enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Enjoy kayaking, fishing, or paddleboarding in serene waterways, and don’t miss Colonial Waterfront Park, home to the 1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse.
Edenton is steeped in colonial history. Visit the 1767 Chowan County Courthouse, one of the oldest still in use in the U.S., or explore the 1758 Cupola House with its Georgian architecture and gardens. The Penelope Barker House celebrates women’s history, including the 1774 Edenton Tea Party—the first recorded political protest by women in the American colonies. A trolley tour offers a deeper dive into these historic landmarks, and, in April, the annual Pilgrimage Tour provides access to rare access to some of the more profound homes.
Art lovers will appreciate the Edenton Mural Trail, showcasing vibrant murals honoring the town’s culture--past, present, and future.
Hillsborough
In the tiny town of Hillsborough, history, art, and nature come together to create a magnetic small-town experience. Historical landmarks like Ayr Mount, a 19th-century Federal-style home with impressive grounds and the Poet’s Walk, and the Old County Courthouse highlight the town’s rich past. The Burwell School and Hughes Academy showcase early educational history, while the Occoneechee Speedway Trail takes visitors to one of NASCAR’s original tracks. For a deeper connection to Indigenous heritage, the reconstructed Occaneechi Indian Village gives a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Occaneechi people.
Popping back into the modern day, downtown Hillsborough is a treat in and of itself, featuring galleries like the Eno Arts Mill, a hub for visual, performing, and literary arts. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Eno River State Park and the Riverwalk Greenway, where trails wind along the river’s edge. Meanwhile, local farms like Eno River Farm add family-friendly fun with blueberry picking, fresh ice cream, and more.
The town’s community spirit shines through events such as the Moorefields Bluegrass Festival in October and Revolutionary War Living History Day, held every April. You don't want to miss 'em!
Sylva
Tucked away in the Smoky Mountains, Sylva is a diamond in the rough. Its welcoming community spirit and glorious access to the mountains make it a must-visit, especially for nature lovers. Hike the winding trails of Pinnacle Park and chase some waterfalls at Nantahala National Forest. If you like fishing, the Tuckasegee River is part of the Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail. Plus, it’s ideal for whitewater rafting with Dillsboro River Company.
Downtown Sylva exudes historic appeal with a modern twist. The craft brewing scene is hoppin' (pun intended) with favorites like Innovation Brewing and Lazy Hiker Brewing, and with its designated Social District, you can savor a brew as you stroll through town. Other attractions include The American Museum of the House Cat (the name says it all) and the iconic Jackson County Courthouse, a photographer’s favorite.
Sylva also thrives with community events. The Greening Up the Mountains festival celebrates spring with music, crafts, and local talent, while the Concerts on the Creek series brings live music to summer evenings.
Oriental
Located along the Neuse River, an ideal gateway to the Intracoastal Waterway, Oriental is known as the "Sailing Capital of North Carolina." With calm waters and a picturesque harbor, it’s a top destination for sailing, kayaking, and fishing. Charter a boat or take a sailing lesson with Bow to Stern Boating or appreciate the tranquil water from Lou Mac Park. With its colorful "dancing chairs" and scenic pier, it's a perfect spot to fish, bird watch, or simply sprawl out with a book.
The Oriental History Museum brings the town’s history to life, highlighting its evolution from a fishing village to a waterfront destination. The Old Theatre, built in 1945, shows movies, local performances, and workshops, while community events like the Oriental Dragon Boat Race in August and the Ol’ Front Porch Music Festival in the fall showcase local culture.
Outdoor lovers can venture to the nearby Croatan National Forest, home to many hiking trails and opportunities for wildlife watching. Afterward, wind down with some live music and mouth-watering Italian food at The Silos Restaurant.
Burnsville
Nestled in North Carolina’s Yancey County, the charming town of Burnsville is chock-full of history, culture, and natural beauty. At its heart is the Town Square, surrounded by attractions like the historic 1908 Nu-Wray Inn, a beloved landmark, and the Toe River Arts Gallery, which showcases pottery, glasswork, and regional art. Wander the friendly downtown before catching a show at the Parkway Playhouse, North Carolina’s oldest summer theater.
Burnsville is next to Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi, with breathtaking views, trails, campgrounds, and a museum at the top. At lower elevations, roaring Fork Falls and Setrock Creek Falls provide peaceful retreats, while a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway presents jaw-dropping mountain vistas. For a different kind of scenic drive, the Burnsville Quilt Block Trails invite visitors to discover the countryside, spotting colorful quilt patterns displayed on barns, churches, and historic buildings.
Burnsville is a stargazer's paradise, and The Mayland Earth to Sky Park is the hot spot. The park features the Bare Dark Sky Observatory for unforgettable stargazing and the Arthur Planetarium, where visitors can embark on an educational journey through the cosmos.
Blowing Rock
Blowing Rock, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a charming mountain town brimming with history, natural beauty, and culture. Begin your visit at the iconic Blowing Rock, a famous rock formation offering sweeping views and a unique breeze that lifts light objects upward—perfect for photos and legends alike. Outdoor enthusiasts will love Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, which features scenic hiking trails, picnic spots, and a chance to tour the grand manor that once belonged to a prominent textile magnate.
For those seeking a peaceful escape, the Glen Burney Falls Trail is a hidden gem. This serene hike takes you through lush forests to breathtaking waterfalls, immersing you in the heart of the mountains. Families and train enthusiasts should visit Tweetsie Railroad, a Wild West-themed park with historic steam trains, live shows, and rides for all ages.
Art lovers will enjoy the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum, which showcases Appalachian culture and rotating art exhibits. Afterward, explore the downtown streets lined with unique boutiques and galleries. When it’s time to eat, The Speckled Trout Restaurant and Bottle Shop serves up delicious Southern fare and fresh Lowcountry seafood in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Beaufort
Beaufort, established in 1709, is one of North Carolina’s oldest coastal towns. Its well-preserved historic district serves as a window into the past, while its surrounding landscapes will take your breath away. Start your visit with a stroll along Beaufort’s waterfront. Browse local shops and art galleries, and savor fresh seafood at local restaurants. Be sure to pop into the Bonehenge Whale Center to learn about these majestic creatures.
History enthusiasts can visit the Old Burying Ground to uncover stories of sailors, soldiers, and local legends. The North Carolina Maritime Museum showcases artifacts from Blackbeard’s ship, the Queen Anne’s Revenge, which sank nearby. At the Harvey W. Smith Watercraft Center, visitors can learn about traditional wooden boat building.
Beaufort is surrounded by islands and salt marshes. Pay a visit to Fort Macon State Park for hiking great trails, beach time, and a slice of Civil War history. Nearby, Rachel Carson Reserve is home to salt marshes, islands, and wild horses. You can take a narrated tour with Morehead City Ferry Service to see it all (plus some dolphins and watercolor sunsets, if you're lucky!).
Hot Springs
In the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hot Springs is one of the few places where the Appalachian Trail passes directly through civilization. This, in combination with the area’s breathtaking mountain views, restorative hot springs, and the gentle flow of the French Broad River, makes it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Once a resort town, Hot Springs is best known for its natural hot mineral springs, which have drawn visitors seeking relaxation and healing since the 1800s. But the area's history extends beyond modern-day relaxation. It is thought that the Native Americans of the region found the hot springs over 5000 years ago! Check out the pictographs at Paint Rock if you need convincing. Today, guests can soak in these therapeutic waters at the Hot Springs Resort and Spa or relish in private access at Broadwing Farms.
If you’re on the hunt for adventure, try whitewater rafting on the French Broad River or take a hike. The Laurel River Trail is gorgeous, and the trail to (and climb to the top of) the historic Rich Mountain Fire Tower boasts panoramic views. Oh, and don’t miss the town’s remarkable festivals, including the Bluff Mountain Festival in June (the best bluegrass around!) and the Hot Springs TrailFest, which celebrate spring and the Appalachian Trail community.
Valdese
Valdese was founded in the late 19th century by Waldensian settlers fleeing religious persecution in Europe. The town preserves its heritage through landmarks like the Waldensian Heritage Museum and the Trail of Faith, which features life-sized replicas of significant historical and religious sites.
Nature lovers will love McGalliard Falls Park, home to an impressive waterfall and the historic Meytre Grist Mill. The park is also connected to Valdese Lakeside Park via the McGalliard Creek Bridge, just in case you were looking for further opportunities for hiking and appreciating Valdese’s natural surroundings.
Valdese’s vibrant culture shines through its quaint downtown, adorned with murals that tell the story of the town and its people. The Old Rock School is a community hub, featuring art galleries, live performances by the Old Colony Players theater group, and cultural events. It is also home to the Piedmont & Western Railroad Museum and hosts a fantastic summer concert series.
North Carolina is home to hidden gems, with charming towns highlighting the state’s natural beauty, history, and diversity. From Little Switzerland's rich mining heritage to Oriental's serene waters, the state’s sailing capital, each destination offers something special.
These ten towns showcase the best of North Carolina, blending stunning landscapes and fascinating history. Whether you’re drawn to quaint small-town streets or crave outdoor exploration, these destinations deliver unforgettable experiences. So, pack your bags and discover the less-traveled destinations that make North Carolina truly unique.
