From BBQ joints and mountain views to little gems you stumble across by accident—my favorite places in NC that are worth the trip.
Sections
3
Food & Drink
Recreation & Relaxation
History Enrichment
Food & Drink
BBQ, breweries, and southern kitchens—North Carolina classics and local favorites worth the stop.
The BBQ was fantastic, and we really appreciated the excellent service as well.
Lexington Barbecue
I'm always happy to grab a really good burger whenever the chance comes up.
Cypress Hall
It's a really great place to eat; the food and drinks are both really good.
Deluxe Fun Dining
Cute cafe with books and seating to read while you enjoy coffee and pastries.
Fable Books and Café
This is a truly wonderful little cafe, and I've consistently found all of their food to be absolutely delicious!
Dewberry Cafe
The beer is really great here, and it's awesome that they host live music on the weekends. Also, I really appreciate that dogs are welcome here anytime – that's a huge plus for me.
Brown Truck Brewery
Recreation & Relaxation
Mountains, beaches, and trails—places to hike, unwind, and take in North Carolina’s natural beauty.
This is a really fantastic place if you're planning a family fun day out. And specifically, the Peanuts area designed for kids is truly the best spot if you're looking to find everything related to Snoopy.
Carowinds
I have a vivid memory of taking one of these train tours, and I can say without a doubt that it was a really fantastic and enjoyable experience.
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
I really enjoy checking out zoos in the local area. This one actually looks just as great as SC's, so I'm looking forward to visiting.
North Carolina Zoo
It's widely considered to be one of the very best spots for enjoying both pumpkin and apple picking.
Grandad's Apples 'N Such
Be sure to check out the truly unique and fascinating culture that is associated with the highland games.
Grandfather Mountain Highland Games
Beautiful garden and nursery. Would be the perfect place for a field trip to learn about the different plants.
The Gardens of Southeastern North Carolina
The pier located on this beach is widely regarded as an iconic spot for fishing.
Nags Head
It's known as the largest collection of rare and endangered waterfowl! As a big fan of exotic birds, this is definitely on my list.
Sylvan Heights Bird Park
History Enrichment
Those recreational places that hold history; such as museums and lookout points.
This is a truly stunning mansion, and it offers a fantastic tour that's definitely worth checking out.
Biltmore
This is a fantastic location for anyone interested in learning about the history of the Cherokee people.
Museum of the Cherokee People
This is a truly old piece of history, and you can see it right here in Old Salem.
Old Salem Museums & Gardens
What's really interesting is that in North Carolina, you actually have the opportunity to visit specific locations where it's historically claimed that a particular pirate once passed through.
The Story of Blackbeard
LOVED the panetarium when I was a kid. Great place for a field trip.
The Schiele Museum of Natural History & Planetarium
I love going to these museums to see fossilized items since it's so fascinating how these bones and creatures have been preserved.
