9 Towns in North Carolina That Transport You to the Past

North Carolina's small towns reflect the state's rich colonial, revolutionary, and pioneer history, from the Atlantic Ocean to the Great Smoky Mountains. In Bath, the oldest town in the state, you can trace the footsteps of the notorious pirate, Blackbeard, through historic sites and heritage homes, while a trip to the maritime town of Beaufort offers further insights into his life and legacy. From tales of pirates to political milestones, Edenton was the home of America's first women's political protest, a story which is told in depth at the Penelope Barker House museum. Meanwhile, pioneer days come to life in Banner Elk, tucked away and well preserved in the Blue Ridge Mountains of the North Carolina High Country. Each of these nine towns transports you to the past and offers a vacation destination unlike any other.

Banner Elk

Banner Elk, a charming town in the northwest part of North Carolina, boasts numerous historic sites and landmarks that transport visitors back in time. A self-guided walking tour of the downtown area covers much of Banner Elk's history. Start your journey at the Banner House Museum, one of the earliest homes in Banner Elk, constructed by Samuel Banner, one of the town's founders, in 1870. The museum is filled with heirlooms and antiques that showcase life in Banner Elk from the 1870s to the 1900s. It features a room dedicated to various displays that highlight the region's history, as well as interactive experiences for children to learn about pioneer life.

In the downtown area, you'll also find BJ's Resort Wear, a boutique that first opened its doors in 1978. The building that houses the store has a history of its own, dating back to 1920 when it served as a general store and was later transformed into a popular restaurant for both locals and visitors.

Edenton

Edenton, known as the second-oldest town in North Carolina, boasts a rich history that dates back to the 18th and 19th centuries. It was the state's first colonial capital and, prior to emancipation, served as the second-largest port in North Carolina, facilitating escapes for enslaved individuals via the Maritime Underground Railroad. Today, visitors can explore this historic site located in Colonial Waterfront Park.

The town features several historic buildings, including the Penelope Barker House. Once the residence of Penelope Barker, a passionate advocate for the American Revolution and leader of the Edenton Tea Party, the nation's first recognized women's political protest, this house is now a museum that provides insights into Barker's life and the town's evolution. Another significant part of Edenton's history is the restored Roanoke River Lighthouse, built in 1886. This lighthouse stands proudly in Edenton's harbor and offers a glimpse into the life of a lightkeeper.

Hillsborough

Hillsborough's rich history during the Colonial, Revolutionary War, Antebellum, and Civil War periods is showcased through its well-preserved buildings, sites, and landscapes. Those interested in exploring these historical eras and notable structures should make a stop in Hillsborough's downtown historic district. A key destination is the Hillsborough Visitors Center, which offers valuable information on dining, shopping, and exploring the area while providing insights into the town's captivating history.

Each year, events such as the Revolutionary War Living History Day highlight the legacy of the American Revolution. In addition to guided tours of the downtown area and lively Revolutionary War reenactments, visitors to Hillsborough should also venture into the Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area.

Beaufort

Beaufort is a picturesque coastal town located on Beaufort Inlet, which flows southward toward the Atlantic Ocean. As the third-oldest town in North Carolina, Beaufort's rich history is showcased in the homes and public buildings constructed by its early merchants. To get a glimpse of life in its early days, you can visit the two-acre Beaufort Historic Site.

Explore the area's oldest residence, now home to the Mattie King Davis Art Gallery, and take a walk through a cottage built in 1778 that displays colonial artifacts, as well as the local courthouse established in 1796. Additionally, the North Carolina Maritime Museum in Beaufort showcases artifacts from the wreck of Queen Anne's Revenge, a ship used by Blackbeard in the early 18th century.

Boone

Boone, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina, is famous for its pioneers, who were often independent and solitary individuals who explored and settled the area. One of the most notable figures is Daniel Boone. To delve deeper into Daniel's life and the experiences of that era, the residents of Boone have created Horn in the West, an outdoor drama that depicts the Revolutionary War and the stories of early settlers, running every summer since 1952. The Hickory Ridge History Museum is another excellent resource for exploring the past, offering programs and exhibits that highlight the Colonial period.

Moreover, the town celebrates an annual event called Daniel Boone Days, which honors Boone with educational symposiums, music, and living history demonstrations. The community also pays tribute to him with a striking statue located on the campus of Appalachian State University and a bronze plaque embedded in the pavement at the county courthouse.

Sylva

Located within the Nantahala National Forest, Sylva is a charming mountain town nestled at the base of the Balsam Mountains and close to the Great Smoky Mountains. Beyond its stunning landscapes, Sylva boasts a rich history. The Jackson County Courthouse, which opened in 1914, still stands proudly today, featuring striking stone blocks and impressive Ionic Greek columns, along with a lovely bronze statue of Lady Justice gracing its grounds. Don't miss The Coffee Shop, a quaint, vintage diner that has been welcoming guests since 1926, perfect for a bite before heading to the nearby Appalachian Women's Museum. For a cozy stay, consider booking a room at the Whistle Stop Inn, a historic farmhouse dating back to 1878.

Bryson City

Bryson City, situated in Swain County, is a charming small town celebrated for its stunning mountain vistas, hiking trails, and cascading waterfalls. Visitors can explore the town's beautiful landscapes, including Fontana Lake, Nantahala National Forest, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, by taking a scenic train ride on the historic Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.

Beyond its breathtaking scenery, Bryson City offers insights into the area's history at the Swain County Visitor Center and Heritage Museum, housed in the historic courthouse in downtown Bryson City. This museum is an excellent spot to discover the lives of early settlers through photographs, exhibits, and videos, as well as the story of the Fontana Dam's construction.

Highlands

Highlands, located on a plateau in the southern Appalachian Mountains within Nantahala National Forest, is not only a great spot for outdoor adventures but also boasts significant historic landmarks and sites. The Highlands Historic Museum, run by the Highlands Historical Society, is a key attraction worth visiting. It operates seasonally and features various exhibits that offer insights into life in the town over the last century.

Additionally, guests can explore the Prince House, the oldest structure still standing in the town, which was built in 1877. This house, which was converted into a commercial boarding house in 1935, retains its 1930s architectural charm. Another historic boarding house, the Central House, was built in July 1878 and has now been transformed into the luxurious Old Edwards Inn and Spa, offering an array of dining options, a lounge, a wine garden, and a full-service spa.

Bath

Step back in time by visiting North Carolina's first incorporated town, Bath. Nestled along the Pamlico River, this historic site was briefly home to the infamous English pirate, Blackbeard. Historic Bath features a display dedicated to Blackbeard and his crew, and you can also find an exhibit at the Van der Veer House. After exploring these attractions, consider dining at Blackbeard's Tavern on Main Street. Bath is also home to other notable historic residences, such as the Palmer-Marsh House, a prominent 18th-century home, and the Bonner House, which showcases early 19th-century Carolina architecture. For a complete Bath experience, take an afternoon ferry to Ocracoke Island and return to relax at The Inn on Bath Creek.

Discover These Historic Towns in North Carolina

These lovely North Carolina communities surround notable outdoor landmarks like Fontana Lake, Nantahala National Forest, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the Great Smoky Mountains. However, outside of its striking natural features, there are centuries of history and legends of those who once lived there. From Blackbeard's time in Bath to Penelope Barker's making an impact in Edenton to Daniel Boone's settlement in Boone, North Carolinians are fortunate to live in many historic towns that transport them to the past.