8 Coziest North Carolina Towns To Visit In 2025

While some states continue to face the chill of winter, North Carolina is welcoming the warmth of spring with open arms. As the sun shines brighter and the afternoons grow warmer, the idea of a cozy weekend getaway becomes evermore tempting. Whether you want to sip craft beer in a mountain brewery, marvel at a 120-foot waterfall, or kayak through a river gorge, these eight towns offer a laid-back retreat that will remind you of the simple pleasures in life.

Saluda

Saluda is the perfect base for adventure, offering activities like kayaking, whitewater rafting, and ziplining. For a birds-eye view of the Green River Gorge, travelers can zip across The Gorge Zipline, which features 11 treetop ziplines, a sky bridge, and three rappels. To explore the River Gorge from below, visitors can book an experience with one of Saluda’s outfitters. Green River Adventures, which has been operating in Saluda for over 10 years, provides guided kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and whitewater excursions, along with waterfall repelling programs. Those in need of a place to stay can make a reservation at the Saluda Inn, an 1880s cozy mountain lodge that is within walking distance from Saluda’s downtown.

Manteo

As one of the oldest towns in North Carolina, Manteo is a coastal town filled with historic landmarks. The Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse is one of the area's most iconic sites, a replica of the original 1877 cottage-style lighthouse that has since deteriorated. Travelers can also explore the Fort Raleigh National Historic Site while in town. This landmark features the earthwork from an original 1580s fort along with artifacts that were excavated from the area. To stay near the water, travelers can make their overnight reservations at the Roanoke Island Inn, which offers gorgeous water views and 1.5 acres of gardens to explore on the property.

Sylva

Situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Sylva is an exciting mountain town known for its great dining and annual festivals. The Greening Up the Mountains Festival is one of Sylva’s most iconic annual events, taking place in April. This festival welcomes spring while celebrating the local artisan community through Appalachian art, food, and music. Sylva’s restaurants are just as much of a cultural experience as its festivals are. Travelers can enjoy a scenic creekside lunch and crafted cocktail at Creekside Oyster House and Grill, which serves hand-shucked oysters, shrimp, and sandwiches. The views from the outdoor patio are some of the most relaxing in town! One of the most popular places to stay the night is Hotel Sylva, a boutique hotel on Sylva’s Main Street. Surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains, each of the 35 rooms is uniquely designed to offer you a memorable stay away.

Blowing Rock

Several highly rated ski resorts lie near Blowing Rock, making it the perfect place for a weekend on the slopes. The Appalachian Ski Mountain is located in the Blowing Rock City limits and has been operating in town for over 50 years. Travelers who visit this ski resort will have access to 12 slopes, six lifts, three freestyle terrain areas, and an outdoor ice skating rink. After a chilly day of skiing, travelers can warm up at Blowing Rock Brewing Co. This brewing company uses pristine mountain water and high-quality ingredients to make a delicious selection of craft brews. For panoramic views of town, consider staying in Cliff Dwellers Inn, a local, hillside lodge that offers several cozy amenities like fireplaces and jacuzzis.

Beaufort

Established in the 1700s, Beaufort is a charming and historic seaside village that is filled with seafood restaurants, maritime stores, and hundreds of boating docks. Travelers can explore original 18th-century buildings at the Beaufort Historic Site, home to landmarks like the 1796 county courthouse and the 1732 Russel House. Afterward, they can dine at a top-rated restaurant like Aqua, just a block from Taylor Creek, serving tapas like tuna poke and seared crab cakes. To stay close to the attractions, consider lodging at The Beaufort Inn, which dates back more than a century and is located in the heart of Beaufort’s historic district.

Bryson City

Both the Nantahala National Forest and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park surround Bryson City, making hiking one of the most popular activities in the area. For panoramic views of the Smokies, consider hiking the Newfound Gap to Charlies Bunion, which is a segment of the Appalachian Trail. In addition to the incredible summit views, travelers will also spot a stone outcrop and flowing spring along the trail. If you prefer a laid-back bike ride, Nantahala Bikeway is a great option. This paved trail stretches 1.2 miles through the Nantahala National Forest, featuring plenty of wooded scenery. Regarding lodging, the Folkstone Inn is one of the coziest inns in Bryson City. Set in a 1920s farmhouse, this inn offers farm-to-table dining, a peaceful rural setting, and a front porch with mountain views.

Franklin

Franklin is located in a lush valley, surrounded by some of the earth’s oldest mountains. There are also several majestic waterfalls to explore near town, such as the Rufus Morgan Falls, a 60-foot cascade, and Bridal Veil Falls, a 120-foot fall. If you are in the mood for a show, check out the calendar for the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts musicals, rock concerts, symphony performances, and other live acts. To sprinkle in a bit of history to your trip, you can stay in Franklin Terrace Bed and Breakfast housed in an Antebellum-style home that was constructed in 1887.

Banner Elk

From alpine coasters to ski slopes, Banner Elk has all kinds of thrilling activities to try out. Open year-round, the Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster, inspired by European designs, features 3,160 feet of tracks with twists, loops, and waves that wind through the forest. Just about a 10-minute drive away, travelers can reach Sugar Mountain Resort, a skier’s paradise that has 20 trails and 125 acres of skiable terrain to explore. After a day of thrilling adventures, unwind for the evening in the Perry House Bed and Breakfast, a restored early 20th-century home that contains beautiful antique furnishings.

Final Thoughts

The beauty of North Carolina’s vacation destinations lies in their diversity. While coastal towns may offer warm, humid afternoons, mountain towns often still have snowy slopes for skiing. No matter how you prefer to spend your time, spring is the perfect season to experience it all in the state. So, step out of your winter den and get ready to discover the coziest destinations in North Carolina this spring!