7 Overlooked Towns In North Carolina Worth Visiting

North Carolina is a state bursting with secret corners, natural beauty, delightful surprises, and overlooked towns that are worth visiting. With one of the wettest and most varied landscapes in the county, the state spans across three distinct regions: the misty peaks of the Appalachians, marshy coastal tidewaters, and lake-speckled Piedmont. This ever-changing terrain has shaped various lifestyles, cultures, and stories, all tucked into charming towns that often fly under the radar. These towns offer visitors a chance to experience a new kind of adventure, where nature takes center stage, and unspoiled terrain is available for exploration.

Washington

Often called ‘Little Washington,’ the port town of Washington, North Carolina, invites you to enjoy exceptional dining, quirky finds, and a variety of outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore the state’s only estuarium, the North Carolina Estuarium, an interactive facility dedicated to the science and ecology of estuaries and river systems. The center features over 200 exhibits, an aquarium, and guided riverboat tours that bring these environments to life. Located in the heart of downtown Washington, along the Pamlico River, is Havens Gardens Park, providing a nice little green space to relax, take in the view, and fish. For an unforgettable and exceptional culinary experience, the restaurant Blu Farm to Table offers rooftop dining and a menu that is almost entirely sourced from the waters and fields of Eastern North Carolina.

Mount Airy

The birthplace of actor Andy Griffith, Mount Airy is ideally situated between scenic mountains and the city of Winston-Salem. The town charms visitors with its nostalgic attractions, welcoming atmosphere, and delightful local shops. Visit the Andy Griffith Museum, where you can take an audio tour of the large collection of memorabilia, and stop by the gift shop. The town also features the Mayberry Courthouse and Jail, where you can take a picture in this iconic television show set replica. Watch a movie, attend a ‘jam session,’ or visit the music heritage museum, all located in the Earle Theatre, a 1930s American music hall transformed into an arts complex. Another great place to explore in the area is the Gertrude Smith House. From April until December, this preserved home and living museum opens for tours.

Beaufort

Once known as ‘Fishtown,’ in connection with its role in the fishing industry, Beaufort is a small waterfront town on the Crystal Coast. Beaufort is home to the popular tourist attraction, the North Carolina Maritime Museum (temporarily closed for renovations), a waterside museum that has a wide array of exhibits on marine life, boating, pirates, and more. Take a trip aboard the Beaufort Pirates Revenge, a boat tour agency that takes passengers on a magical adventure on North Carolina’s largest pirate ship. The cruise departs daily and features a crew dressed in pirate costumes, who sing, sword fight, and battle for treasure. Located south of Beaufort is the Shackleford Banks, accessible by boat. This barrier island features unspoiled beaches and wild horses, making it a perfect place to create remarkable memories.

Blowing Rock

Serene landscapes and breathtaking natural beauty await in the small town of Blowing Rock, where immersing yourself in nature is effortless. A popular tourist attraction, Mystery Hill, is a must-see site with access to three museums featuring historic artifacts and amazing exhibits. This mind-bending location allows you to defy gravity in the Natural Gravitational Anomaly or get wrapped in a giant bubble in Bubblerama! The famous cliff, known as the Blowing Rock, offers an experience like no other, where lightly thrown objects are blown back to the thrower by strong gusts of wind. Take the family out to Tweetsie Railroad, an amusement park that contains a wide range of activities for people of all ages, from train rides and chairlifts to live shows and a petting zoo.

Edenton

Edenton, North Carolina, is a historic port town with some of the oldest homes in the state. Spend the day exploring the historic district and see the history that makes this town unique, such as the Chowan County Courthouse National Historic Landmark, built in 1767. A particularly intriguing historical site is the 1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse, open for visitors to explore. The lighthouse is part of the Museum Trail, a walk through the town that connects 15 historical sites and tells the stories of these original buildings. Get ready for fun at the award-winning Chowan County Regional Fair in Edenton. Guests can enjoy food, rides, and games as well as a wide range of contests and events, such as encounters with tigers and fire arts.

Brevard

Brevard, North Carolina, exudes small-town charm, offering a mix of outdoor adventures and engaging museums that captivate visitors. On a sunny day, there is always something happening at Silvermont Mansion and Park. Housing a Colonial-Revival museum, this 8-acre park features a playground, woodland garden, and tennis courts. North of town is Looking Glass Falls, a waterfall with a plunge pool, named for the smooth rock it features that freezes over and creates a mirror effect. Approximately 8 miles outside of town is another beautiful natural attraction known as Sliding Rock, a swimming hole where you can slip down a 60-foot-long natural rock slide. Fueled by about 11,000 gallons of water that flows down the rock every minute, this popular swimming spot attracts visitors from all across the state.

Pittsboro

Described as one of the best suburbs of Raleigh, Pittsboro has a historic downtown area with various antique shops, candy stores, and delicious food. One place that will catch your eye is Willy’s Cinnamon Rolls Etc. Walking by this adorable pink-accented building, the irresistible smell of freshly baked dessert fills the air. Take a tour of the Carolina Tiger Rescue, where you can see a variety of wild cats, from servals and caracals to tigers, lions, and cougars. This wildlife rescue service seeks to educate the public about the animals on their grounds and the stories of their rescue. Bring the family over to Knight Farm Community Park, featuring a splashpad and an adorable playground.

Take the Time to Look Closer

Each of these overlooked North Carolina towns is where the state displays its true character. These places are where history comes to life, where nature demonstrates beauty, and back roads lead to scenic surprises. From historical landmarks and quiet parks to hometown charm and unexpected wildlife encounters, these overlooked towns showcase that North Carolina’s most memorable moments often occur beyond the spotlight. Take the time to wander farther, enjoy moments a little longer, and you will discover the state’s real magic is found in places that some might pass right by without knowing the magic they hold.