13 Small Towns In North Carolina To Visit For A Weekend Getaway
North Carolina’s unique natural beauty, rich culture, and thriving culinary scene make it a sought-after destination on the East Coast. Between the 300 miles of Atlantic Ocean shoreline and the rugged foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the Tar Heel State presents a tapestry of adorable little towns that give you a break from civilization. Boasting a laid-back atmosphere, lush surroundings, and welcoming residents, these delightful escapes showcase an underrated side of the state worth experiencing.
Whether drawn to outdoor adventures, historical investigations, cultural encounters, or culinary experiences, tourists have immense opportunities to make lasting memories with loved ones and strangers alike. From savoring Southern-style barbecues in Lexington to climbing mountain trails in Blowing Rock, here is the top 2025 list for the top towns in North Carolina to visit for a weekend getaway.
Bald Head Island
It takes a 20-minute ferry ride from the mainland to get to this beautiful barrier island along the Cape Fear River mouth. Bald Head Island is perfect for tourists seeking isolated getaways, with its wide-open spaces, blue skies, and scenic sea views. The M. Kent Mitchell Nature Trail invites tourists to isolated hikes through a peaceful marshland habitat, where you can unwind with soothing wildlife encounters. Meanwhile, a visit to Sandpiper Coffee & Ice Cream allows guests to cool off from the heat with a generous scoop of cold ice cream.
The Old Baldy Lighthouse is an unmissable sight on the island, dominating the skyline with its rustic 18th-century facade. Built in 1817, it is the state's oldest lighthouse and stands next to the Smith Island Museum, whose fascinating displays chronicle the region's dynamic history. A short walk from the site, the Inn at Bald Head Island provides comfortable accommodation with luxurious amenities.
Black Mountain
20 minutes from Asheville, Black Mountain is a picturesque town in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, renowned for its stupendous outdoor scenery, vibrant art scene, and active beloved brewery culture. It spoils nature lovers with scenic trails at Lake Tomahawk Park, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll while admiring the water against the backdrop of the Seven Sisters Mountains. The Black Mountain Center for the Arts hosts a colorful array of theater productions in an intimate community venue to entertain locals and visitors. Enthusiasts fill the arena to watch captivating dances, musicals, and plays by homegrown performers.
Beer lovers can prep their palates for tastings of refreshing drafts at Black Mountain Brewing. The establishment offers a cool spot to visit later in the day for handcrafted ales and lagers. After a fun evening, Hampton Inn Black Mountain assures guests of a nice place to rest for the night.
Burnsville
This charming mountain town, located on the western side of the state, stands out for its stunning natural surroundings and an active arts community. It is a favorite stop for outdoor adventurers who can't get enough of Mount Mitchell State Park. Spanning over 4,700 acres, the reserve houses the highest peaks in eastern America and offers rugged hiking trails and camping sites. Downtown Burnsville is an artist's playground, dotted with galleries where local creatives display their crafts. Guests can visit Hearth Glass & Gallery to marvel at sophisticated glass-blowing techniques and the fantastic art pieces that result from them.
The main thoroughfare further hosts the Yancey County Farmers' Market every Saturday, welcoming tourists to shop for jellies, baked goods, cheese, and other produce in a festive atmosphere riddled with excited local vendors. For accommodations, the Carolina Country Inn is a convenient option along the same corridor.
Edenton
Many consider Edenton one of the prettiest towns in North Carolina to visit for a weekend getaway, thanks to its gorgeous architecture that decorates its downtown district. The town is steeped in history, having served as the state's first colonial capital, a legacy that comes to life at the Edenton State Historic Site. This complex features a cluster of over 300 structures from the 18th century, with the oldest being the 1767 Chowan County Courthouse, which presents a rare glimpse into the colonial days.
The Penelope Barker House is a noteworthy landmark, a credit to its majestic mix of Georgian, Greek Revival, and Federal architectural styles. Beyond the old town district, tourists can enjoy sailing adventures by Edenton Bay Cruises to admire the scenery from the water. Finally, the Inner Banks Inn guarantees comfortable lodging at the end of an eventful day.
Elkin
This special Blue Ridge Mountain town, situated along the banks of the Yadkin River, impresses guests with its delicious wines, Southern cuisine, and stunning natural beauty. Elkin hosts a barrage of wineries where newcomers can sample fine wines, including Slightly Askew Winery. This welcoming establishment promises remarkable tasting experiences of its grape wines. Like the wines, you can't miss out on Elkin's sumptuous local cuisine at Southern on Main. The family-friendly diner specializes in favorites like shrimp, steaks, and chicken pot pie.
Outdoor lovers often head to Elkin Municipal Park to be in their element. This 25-acre recreational space overlooks the raging waters of the Yadkin River, offering the ideal setting for walking, picnicking, and birdwatching. Later, you can spend a stress-free night at Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites.
Oak Island
You can never go wrong with an island getaway in North Carolina, and this relaxed town along the Atlantic Ocean rewards vacationers with white sand beaches, serene ocean views, and a laid-back vibe fit for letting loose. The Oak Island Pier delivers some of the best panoramas on the island and is a popular gathering spot for those looking to catch a romantic sunset. Additionally, Middleton Park offers family-friendly playtime with its diverse amenities, featuring a picnic shelter, splash pad, pickleball courts, and ready beach access.
Culinary Connoisseurs can sample tasty island dishes at Swain's Seafood and Cut Restaurant, recognized for its mouthwatering shrimp and oyster dishes. Lastly, Beach House Motel & Suites is one of the many lodging options to consider on Oak Island.
Hillsborough
38 miles from Raleigh, Hillsborough is one of the oldest communities in the state and holds a special place in North Carolina's historical and cultural heritage. According to the Orange County Historical Museum, the town was founded in the mid-18th century. Visitors can browse a vast collection of exhibits inside the museum to examine its chronology. However, you can go further back in history with a tour of the Occaneechi Indian Village. This replica settlement depicts the lives of a Native Indian tribe from the early 1700s through a cluster of old structures.
Ardent adventurers can immerse themselves in the great outdoors at the 200-acre Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area, which attracts hikers, rock climbers, campers, bird watchers, and mountain bikers. After wrapping up a fun-packed itinerary, be sure to get a deserved night's rest at the Colonial Inn.
Manteo
Coastal charm, artistic heritage, and natural beauty collide in this waterside community on Roanoke Island. Manteo offers exciting pursuits for the whole family, highlighted by a tour of the Roanoke Island Maritime Museum. This incredible facility wows guests with live marine animal encounters, featuring sharks, sea turtles, jellyfish, and other aquatic creatures. Nature lovers will involuntarily gravitate towards the Elizabethan Gardens, which display over 500 species of plants in a tranquil 10-acre sanctuary and a pleasant Butterfly Center.
Manteo promises riveting theatrical entertainment at the Lost Colony, where hundreds gather to watch a live symphonic drama in a unique outdoor venue. When you have to call it a day, try the recently refurbished Heart of Manteo Motor Lodge.
Ocracoke
An easygoing weekend away from the noise and crowds awaits in this idyllic village on Ocracoke Island. The landmark Ocracoke Lighthouse is probably the most recognizable structure on the island. Standing at 75 feet tall, it was built in 1823 and is the second-oldest operating lighthouse in the state. Ocracoke is famous for its shelling beaches, and tourists often flock to Lifeguarded Beach to stroll on the smooth sand, swim in the shallow waters, and catch the gentle waves for a surfing expedition.
Elsewhere, those who enjoy culture are welcome to watch community-based stage performances at Ocracoke Alive's Deepwater Theater for a rich cultural and artistic experience. When it comes to accommodation, look no further than Ocracoke Harbor Inn, which is a 5-minute stroll from the historic Ocracoke Lighthouse.
Tryon
Tryon is a quaint village nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, boasting splendid natural surroundings and a delightful downtown district. Its walkable town square hosts diverse points of interest, and artistically inclined tourists will fancy enjoying a live show at the Tryon Fine Arts Center. This 315-seat auditorium stages an entertaining music and concert series for the public's amusement. Souvenir collectors will want to stop by Tryon Antique Mall & Marketplace and check for cute antiques worth buying.
Finally, newcomers can inspect the community's old days at the Tryon History Museum by combing through piles of engaging exhibits and rare artifacts before calling it a night at the GreenLife Inn.
Lexington
Christened the "Barbecue Capital of the World," Lexington is a gastronomic mecca in Davidson County that enchants travelers with its luscious smoked meats. Culinary enthusiasts come from all over the state to try out its North Carolina-style ribs and crispy pork at Lexington Barbecue. This is followed by a complementary glass of fine, crafted wine to accompany the meal at Childress Vineyards. This location boasts a menu featuring at least a dozen award-winning wine varieties for a memorable tasting experience.
Beyond its sumptuous flavors, Lexington invites guests to explore its bygone eras at the Davidson County Historical Museum. Housed inside a mid-19th-century Greek Revival courthouse, it displays an important library of historical artifacts. Additionally, comfortable lodging is readily available at Affordable Suites Lexington.
Blowing Rock
Blowing Rock promises to calm you down with exquisite views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the soothing sounds of the gently flowing Johns River. Outdoor adventure awaits in Blowing Rock, and hikers can get comfortable shoes for a trek down the Glen Burney Falls Trail. This scenic nature trail leads you through a wooded section to the gorgeous Glen Marie Falls. Meanwhile, the 4,200-acre Julian Price Memorial Park wilderness presents an array of recreational activities, including camping, fishing, hiking, and picnicking.
The Blowing Rock Art & History Museum showcases the rich Appalachian heritage through an interactive library of historical, cultural, and artistic artefacts in a lovely setting. When you have to retire for the day, the Getaway Blowing Rock makes for an excellent lodging choice.
Beaufort
Beaufort's unbeatable blend of rich history, terrific oceanfront views, and sea adventures sets the stage for an unforgettable weekend getaway. Tracing its origins to the early 18th century, the town is steeped in history and offers a rare glimpse into the formative years at the Beaufort Historic Site. The neighborhood is dotted with vintage structures from the 1800s and 1700s, offering an idea of life at the time. Beachgoers who wish to go beyond the smooth sands can charter a tour with Lookout Cruises Sail Boats for special moments out at sea.
Remember to meet the locals during a delightful shopping experience at the Olde Beaufort Farmers' Market, with vendors selling everything from groceries and crafts to baked goods to seafood. Later, you can call it a day when you book a room at Beaufort Harbour Suites.
Final Thought
North Carolina’s abundant natural landscapes, vibrant culture, and deep historical roots offer travelers a rich palette of experiences in the United States, ideal for a memorable weekend escape in 2025. Whether you’re soaking up salt-sprayed breezes on the coast at Ocracoke or uncovering the layered past of the region's early days in Edenton, the Tar Heel State invites you to engage with place, history, and flavor. Just a few days can immerse you in the heart of this unforgettable Southern treasure.
