9 Unforgettable Fall Getaways From Raleigh
North Carolina’s placement in the country ensures that it still very much experiences the full measure of the seasons, including a stark change in leaf coloring through autumn. During this magical time of the year, residents and visitors to Raleigh are tempted to venture out to the small towns and attractions nearby to experience the gorgeous foliage first-hand. From repurposed cotton mills in Rocky Mount to a Ghostwalk through historical landmarks and buildings of New Bern, cooler temperatures mean a plethora of seasonal activities and scenic beauty in the Tar Heel State. Discover these nine unforgettable fall getaways from Raleigh.
New Bern (2 Hours)
New Bern has become a blend of scenic beauty and architectural charm, amplified significantly during the fall. Those familiar with the small town recognize its historical significance as the birthplace of traditional Pepsi-Cola. However, there is more to the municipality than these roots, evident in landmarks like Tryon Palace (a former governor’s mansion featuring sprawling gardens) and the New Bern Firemen’s Museum. Retail therapy can also be a part of your fall getaway from Raleigh when you stop by areas like the Bear Plaza for local favorites like Bear City Fudge Company, The Black Cat Shoppe, and the toy store Snap Dragon.
The MumFest is one of the annual events that enliven New Bern during the fall months. This festival features culinary treats, art, and live music. Similarly, the fall also features Ghostwalk at the end of October, featuring various events allowing visitors to tour historical sites and paranormal locations on guided and self-guided tours throughout the town. This calendar of events at the end of the month showcases many properties the local historical society aims to protect in town.
Saxapahaw (45 Minutes)
If you head west on I-40 for around 45 minutes, you will find Saxapahaw. This is one of the top destinations to visit in the fall months because of its blend of beautiful and historical architecture. Its historical significance is evident in the renovated river mill, now housing businesses and accommodations within a few of the original structures from 1844. This landmark is the hub of local favorites like The Eddy Pub and the Saxapahaw General Store. Because it is already a popular stop for outdoor enthusiasts with its position on the Haw River in Alamance County, those enjoying kayaking or walking along the river’s shore will appreciate these options even more amid the attractive autumn foliage.
The town is far more active than its 1,200 residents might suggest, with multiple annual events that draw in crowds. In the fall, guests can stop by the Haw River Ballroom for the Oktoberfest festivities of brews, German-inspired food, and more. The fall also means fresh produce and seasonal crafts on Saturdays in the Saxapahaw schedule.
Carvers Creek State Park (1 Hour)
Heading south from Raleigh for 75 miles will lead you to the Sandhills region of Cumberland County and Carver’s Creek State Park. This serene and scenic spread of land encompasses more than 4,000 acres. The longleaf pine forest here comes alive with a brilliant golden hue during the autumn season, making it one of the most heavily visited attractions in North Carolina at this time of year. While most of the property is dedicated to preserving nature, you can look at early 20th-century agricultural life through historic structures and a gristmill of Long Valley Farm in the park, a former winter retreat for James Stillman Rockefeller.
Once visitors have had their fill of the state park’s amenities, they can head to nearby towns like Southern Pines for shopping, dining, and attractions. Most notably, the popular dining in the community is The Sly Fox Pub and the local artisan R. Riveter Boutique for handmade treasures.
Hanging Rock State Park (2 Hours)
In late October to early November, when the colors of the changing leaves are at their peak, many find their way down to Stokes County. Hanging Rock State Park is a captivating addition to this region and can be particularly beloved during this season. Only two hours from Raleigh via I-40, the protected portion of North Carolina wilderness is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. From the Lower Cascades Falls to scenic vistas of the Piedmont region from the Hanging Rock Trail hike, nature lovers have much more than a day’s worth of area to explore.
Because businesses and retail do not abound in Hanging Rock State Park, the nearby village of Danbury can help travelers find accommodations, dining, and even some entertainment for their short drive. Local favorites like the Green Heron Alehouse or the Hanging Rock Grill serve food and spirits. Those bluegrass, Americana, and blues fans can arrive a little before the leaves are entirely changing for the annual Stokes Stomp Festival on the Dan, which will celebrate its 50th year in 2024.
North Carolina Zoo (1.5 Hours)
Asheboro is one of the top 50 most populated communities of the more than 500 municipalities across North Carolina at 27,726 people. While it pales greatly to the size of Raleigh and Charlotte, it is still large enough to host the official North Carolina Zoo. This compound is among the largest natural habitat complexes on Earth. The facility's design intends to simulate authentic habitats across 2,600 acres, ranging greatly in size, such as the grasslands with the elephants and the Arctic with its polar bears.
During the fall, Asheboro and the North Carolina Zoo make great destinations for those looking for the scenery the state is known for without compromising the potential for seasonal activities. For example, in October, guests to the zoo can participate in a special ticketed event called Boo at the Zoo, where kids can dress up and head around the park to candy stations while getting a nearly complete experience in exhibits.
Fearrington Village (40 Minutes)
It is interesting to consider that the vibrant and lively community of Fearrington Village was once little more than a dairy farm. Today, visitors can still see remnants of the farm that started it all, with the Belted Galloway cows that roam near barns on the main thoroughfare in and out of the village. The connection with nature is still apparent with gardens and farm-to-table dining experiences like the Fearrington House Restaurant. You can also appreciate a seasonal menu with local produce exclusive to the fall harvest.
Because the village is predominantly rural, the trip West on 64 from Raleigh showcases some of the area’s beautiful foliage in late October when the colors peak. Even the village's relaxing retreats, such as the Spa at Fearrington, lean into autumn with seasonal ingredients. You can dive even further into the cozy setting of the fall with favorited local establishments like McIntyre’s Books or the Roost Beer Garden.
Seagrove (1.5 Hours)
If you are curious about the location of the “Pottery Capital of the United States,” look no further than Seagrove. This is one of the more popular destinations for day trips in the state, especially under one and a half hours from Raleigh. In the fall months, the entire community comes alive with brighter colors and welcomes masses in for the Celebration of Seagrove Potters in November. This annual event showcases the talent of local artists, has live demonstrations, and countless family-friendly activities to appeal to all ages.
Seagrove has been considered the country's capital in pottery because it has more than 100 pottery studios within the town limits, in addition to the North Carolina Pottery Center. Those interested in the history of the craft and its connection with the Carolinas can learn more about the artistry here. There’s no trouble finding handmade souvenirs throughout town; just stop into popular retail spots like Ben Owen Pottery or Jugtown Pottery for sculptures, vases, and mugs. Coming in the fall gives you breathtaking foliage views on the drive, and you can take care of some shopping on your holiday list while you are here.
Rocky Mount (1 Hour)
Some communities in North Carolina seem to be livelier and more popular in the fall season, and Rocky Mount is one such place. Only 60 miles due east of Raleigh, the community is as much about a slower pace to appreciate the scenic beauty as it is a haven for artisans and craft beer enthusiasts. One of the biggest draws to this place is the revitalized cotton mill, which was repurposed as a hub for retail, dining, and spirits and is called Rocky Mount Mills. Popular stops in this landmark site include Bin & Barrel and Tap @ 1918.
Another reason Rocky Mount has become a premier destination for a fall day trip from Raleigh is the annual events like the Eastern Carolina BBQ Throwdown or the Downtown Fall Festival. Each features various food vendors, live entertainment, and seasonal activities like pumpkin decorating. When you need a break from the festivals and the fun, you can unwind with nature at the City Lake Park, which features miles of walking trails to explore.
Brevard (2 Hours)
With less than 8,000 residents, Brevard is not one of the most talked-about places in North Carolina. However, this hidden gem is a must-see for those who appreciate fall foliage in season. Perhaps the best spot around Brevard to see this change in leaf color is Pisgah National Forest, where guests can see the full range of autumn hues alongside stunning waterfalls and breathtaking vistas along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
But if you want more than a nice view, Brevard has more than meets the eye. The town is a quintessential small community with local eateries and boutiques, like The Square Root, Rocky’s Grill & Soda Shop, or the White Squire Shoppe, highlighting one of the attractions of Transylvania County: an abundance of white squirrels. Finally, the fall is even more in swing with the annual Halloweenfest, where the community comes together in a family-friendly event with costumes, games, entertainment, and more.
Fall is an iconic season in the Tar Heel State. From the changing of the leaves at infamous locations like Hanging Rock State Park and Carvers Creek State Park to fall festivals and fun in Saxapahaw (Oktoberfest) or Rocky Mount (Downtown Fall Festival), there is much to see and explore in a short drive from Raleigh. Your fall fun can take you where Pepsi-Cola was born or the pottery capital of the United States, but wherever these winding roads of North Carolina lead, you are sure to see some gorgeous fall foliage for your troubles.
