12 Best Small Towns To Visit In North Carolina
The best small towns in North Carolina are unique because of their diverse landscapes and settings. The state is divided into three distinct geographical areas. The Coastal Plain in the east, the Piedmont in the center, and the Mountains in the west. The mix of different vibes allows visitors to experience a well round, naturally inspired trip or a new small town to call home. Each of these small towns in North Carolina differentiates itself with a unique advantage and selling point. However, there is one thing these charming small towns have in common: stunning natural beauty.
Boone
Named after American explorer Daniel Boone, the town reflects the culture of British American settlers, highlighted through its architecture and documented history. Located atop the Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone hosts Appalachian State University and has a vibrant student scene during academic periods. It also serves as a favorite vacation spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking nature in a diverse landscape. Popular attractions in Boone include The Greenway Trail, Hickory Ridge Living History Museum, and Daniel Boone Native Gardens.
Beaufort
Known as America’s favorite town, Beaufort exudes old-world Southern charm with a variety of outdoor activities, from watersports to top-tier competitive fishing. Locals proudly celebrate their diverse seafood cuisine. Established in 1711, Beaufort preserves its historic architecture and small-town atmosphere. Visitors can explore downtown shops, take boat and ferry rides, and visit the Maritime Museum, which showcases pirate treasures and historical stories.
Blowing Rock
One of North Carolina's oldest tourist destinations, Blowing Rock consistently ranks among the top towns to visit. It is renowned for its exceptional hiking opportunities and derives its name from a distinctive geological formation of rocks that sit 3000 feet above John’s River Gorge. The legend of Blowing Rock tells of a Cherokee brave who leaped to his death, only for the wind to blow him back up to his Chickasaw maiden- a classic lover's leap story. The blowing Rock Museum offers an authentic mountain educational experience and serves as a gateway to nearby mountain towns such as Little Switzerland and Waynesville.
Brevard
Brevard is a small town known for its natural beauty, including waterfalls and forests. Located in the mountains of Western North Carolina, it has earned the nickname "Land of Waterfalls" because of the many waterfalls in the area. It is also home to Brevard College, a private liberal arts college. Both locals and visitors enjoy the town's charm, outdoor activities, and its vibrant music and arts scene, with events like the Brevard Music Festival drawing crowds every year. Popular attractions include the Transylvania County Heritage Museum, Brevard Clay, and the Red Wolf Gallery.
New Bern
New Bern is home to the First State Capitol of North Carolina, Tryon Palace. It is the second oldest colonial town in North Carolina, which explains its historic architecture and rich history. Cool things to do in the area include visiting the Trent River and Neuse River waterfronts, as well as Union Point Park. Famed for its antique stores, visitors can stroll through the welcoming downtown area and shop vintage to support the thriving artistic and creative community.
Edenton
The second largest seaport in North Carolina, Edenton, is rich with coastal atmospheres and historic architecture. The town played a significant historic role in ending enslavement and was once a safe spot for those trying to escape the harsh realities of neighboring cities. Along the banks of the beautiful Albemarle Sound, Edenton offers amazing views of surrounding beaches and lighthouses. Enjoy beautiful waterfront parks, and immerse yourself in the local history by visiting nearby historic houses like Cupola House.
Bladenboro
A productive town is known for its large-scale production of turpentine and lumber and is an old railroad city that worked as a connecting hub between surrounding major cities. The town balances a rural and small-town suburban feel with a wide range of beautiful natural landscapes. It sits in the southwestern corner of Bladen County with a small population that allows visitors to enjoy a peaceful escape and a tourist-welcoming atmosphere.
Morganton
Morganton is Burke's county seat and a cultural, governmental, and commercial activity hub. Enjoy a range of outdoor activities, hit the waters with your friends and family, and learn about the town’s historic offerings. Morganton gets its name from Brigadier General Daniel Morgan, a hero of the American Revolutionary War. The charming historical architecture adds to the town’s beauty with buildings like the Historic Burke County Courthouse.
Southport
As its name indicates, Southport is a charming town on the waters closely located to Bald Head Island, another special town in the Brunswick Beaches region. The town offers stunning waterfront views that emphasize a relaxing small-town vibe. Top things to do in Southport include waterfront sports, visiting local art galleries, and checking out historic cultural destinations, including Cape Fear Museum and the downtown business area.
Mooresville
Mooresville is a large town in the southwestern part of Iredell County, North Carolina. It is famous for being a car racing city, making it a great weekend getaway for race fans and adrenaline junkies. Visitors and car enthusiasts should take the opportunity to tour racing facilities and buy some local merchandise to support the community. Check out the Pit Indoor Kart Racing go-kart facility, explore dozens of unique shops, enjoy tasty restaurants, and browse charming craft stores, all contributing to Mooresville's vibrant atmosphere.
Hendersonville
A small town known for its scenic views, southern hospitality, and lively downtown business area, Hendersonville is an agricultural region that boasts an impressive culinary scene. Home to the 77-year-old North Carolina Apple Festival, Hendersonville is a place to kick back, relax and enjoy the authentic American small-town feel.
Bryson City
Finally, famous for its beautiful mountain views and cotton candy sunsets, Bryson City in North Carolina to enjoy nature-centric, picturesque sceneries. A romantic escape for nature lovers in Swain County, Bryson City is a popular destination for its locations as a bordering mountain town bordering the Great Smoky Mountains. Main Street and the surrounding downtown area are where all the live events and community gatherings happen, along with the weekly Farmers Market on Bryson St.
The best small towns in North Carolina offer an all-inclusive experience with diverse landscapes, mainly stressing the state’s natural beauty. Nature lovers will enjoy North Carolina more than other visitors. Still, the state has something for all preferences and likings. Take a family vacation or zone out alone in one of Earth's most relaxing, chill places.
