7 Of The Most Eccentric Towns In North Carolina

North Carolina is quirkier than you might expect. Where else in the United States can you visit a Swiss-inspired town, see the birthplace of one of the world’s most iconic drinks, and stroll through a downtown art display made entirely of pigs, all in a single state? And when you are ready to unwind from all the unexpected adventures, you can soak in the naturally warm, soothing waters of Hot Springs. If you are seeking an adventure to some of North Carolina’s most surprising and delightfully odd towns, these seven eccentric destinations are the perfect starting point.

New Bern

As the birthplace of Pepsi-Cola, New Bern is the ultimate destination for soda lovers. Travelers can learn about the Pepsi brand at the Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola store, where they can enjoy a soft drink from the soda fountain “bar”, appreciate a variety of brand memorabilia, and purchase a quirky souvenir from the gift shop.

Another unique attraction in town is Tyron Palace, an 18th-century, Georgian-style building that served as the North Carolina government’s first permanent seat. Today, visitors can learn more about this remarkable building by touring its beautifully furnished interior, landscaped gardens, and historical exhibits.

One of the most offbeat ways to learn about New Bern’s town history is aboard a historical trolley with New Bern Tours! This tour, which lasts 90 minutes and covers three centuries of its past, includes a visit to several notable landmarks.

Little Switzerland

Little Switzerland's story began in 1910, when a local judge founded the town and named it for the Blue Ridge Mountains, whose peaks reminded him of the Swiss Alps. Over the years, many buildings in the town were built with Old World-style Swiss chalet architecture, replicating that European feel. The Switzerland Inn is one example of this charming architecture, perched atop a green slope and offering amenities such as Swedish massages in its spa, dining at the Chalet Restaurant, and a pool with panoramic mountain views.

Each Saturday evening in July and August, the town’s Geneva Hall comes alive with community square dancing, where visitors are welcome to join in and test their rhythm! Bikers, meanwhile, can experience the area’s Swiss-like beauty by taking a trip along The DiamondbackNC, a 12-mile route with 190 twists and turns.

Lexington

Barbecue enthusiasts may have heard of Lexington, often referred to as the “Barbecue Capital of the World.” The town is home to numerous award-winning restaurants, including Lexington Barbecue, which has been serving its famous slow-cooked pork shoulder and other mouthwatering specialties since 1962.

October is a great time to plan your visit to Lexington as well, during the annual Barbecue Festival. As you explore town, keep your eye out for the town’s colorful painted pigs! These sculptures, part of the “Pigs in the City” initiative, pay tribute to the town’s barbecue heritage while helping to revitalize the downtown district.

Beaufort

Anyone intrigued by the story of Blackbeard the pirate should visit Beaufort, home of the North Carolina Maritime Museum. This museum contains a fascinating collection of artifacts from Queen Anne’s Revenge, Blackbeard’s ship, along with displays, props, and quizzes that help tell its story. Afterward, visit the Hammock House, dating back to around 1700 and believed by many to have served as a headquarters for the notorious pirate. If all of this pirate lore is making you want to sail the seas, consider reserving a cruise with Beaufort’s Pirate Revenge, where children will learn to sword fight, shoot a cannon, and take the pirate oath!

Bath

People often think of cities like Chicago and New York when talking about walkable places in the United States, but the tiny town of Bath, with only about 240 residents, is just as walkable! Founded in the early 18th century, this town was the first established in North Carolina and still preserves its historic buildings and quaint village atmosphere.

Strolling through town, travelers can check out landmarks like the Van Der Veer House, which dates back to around 1790, featuring double-shouldered Flemish bond chimneys and a gambrel roof. The St. Thomas Episcopal Church is another interesting site, originally built in 1734. After a historic tour of town, hungry visitors can grab a drink and a quick bite at the Quarterdeck Marina, a one-stop shop on the waterfront that sells beer, ice cream, and other delicious grub.

West Jefferson

Calling all food lovers to West Jefferson! This small town, situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is home to the iconic Ashe County Cheese. Founded in 1930 by Kraft and later sold to a local manager, this company has maintained its artisanal, award-winning cheese methods, which guests can witness for themselves at the facility’s viewing room.

After watching some cheese making and purchasing delicious cheese of your own, enjoy lunch at New River Brewing, which serves Ale House Burgers, bratwurst, sandwiches, and an extensive list of craft beers. For a souvenir from town, visitors can also stop by The Ole Burley Market, which consists of a variety of local businesses, including Doe Ridge Pottery, Unwound Yarn, and Sprinkle's Salt of the Earth.

Hot Springs

If you are looking for a relaxing soak, you will only find one town in North Carolina with natural warm waters: Hot Springs. The town offers two options for enjoying its hot springs. The first, Hot Springs Resort and Spa, lets visitors relax in jacuzzi-style tubs continuously supplied with flowing natural mineral water. Broadwing Farm Cabins is another option, a cabin rental property where guests can enjoy hot mineral springs right from their private outdoor tub.

After your soak, head over to Artisun Gallery and Cafe for a coffee and a new piece of art. Recently damaged by Hurricane Helene, this gallery is open and running again in its new Artisun Emporium location. If you visit in August, don't miss the Wild Goose Festival for music, art, and more!

If you did not already see North Carolina as an eccentric destination, these seven towns make it clear. The small town of Lexington celebrates the state’s passionate love for barbecue, while villages like Bath showcase its knack for preserving history. In Beaufort, you can even spend a day living like a pirate. No matter which town you visit, you are sure to leave with a fresh appreciation for North Carolina’s quirky character.