Now that it is summer, I find myself looking for places for day trips on weekends. One of my favorite parts about this venture is that I get to share some of my favorite spots in North Carolina with you. Over the past few years, I have had a great time exploring local areas to be able to write day trip and weekend guides for I’m Fixin’ To.  I have a page where you can find the Best of North Carolina travel guides linked. I am so excited to share some of my favorite NC small towns for road trips this summer.
This post was originally written in 2018 and has since been updated and recirculated for 2023.
Photo by GloryRoze Photography
14 Best NC Small Towns for Road Trips this Summer
Eastern North Carolina Road Trip Ideas
Belhaven
Belhaven is just so quaint and charming with beautiful waterfront views!
Greenville
Head to Greenville for the weekend to do some shopping, exploring, and maybe consider timing your visit to attend an East Carolina football game! And whatever you do, make dinner reservations at Ford + Shep.
Halifax
Take a trip to Halifax County, which just so happens to be my home county!
Kinston
Be sure to check out a Down East Wood Ducks game at Grainger Stadium on your trip to Kinston.
Oriental
This gorgeous coastal town has a lot to offer for a weekend away!Â
Tarboro
Tarboro is a great day trip destination to take in some history, grab a good beer, and have a delicious meal!
For more Eastern North Carolina favorites, check out this page.Â
Central North Carolina Road Trip Ideas
Greensboro
There is just so much to do in Greensboro! It is easily one of my favorite cities in the state.
Hillsborough
Hillsborough is such a charming small town! Add it to your list if you have yet to visit!
Pittsboro
It is no secret that I am obsessed with Pittsboro and Fearrington Village! It is such a hidden gem in the area.
Saxapahaw
I just absolutely adore Saxapahaw! Such a great spot for a day trip!
For more Central North Carolina favorites, check out this page.Â
Western North Carolina Road Trip Ideas
Black Mountain
David and I fell in love with Black Mountain a few years ago and had the best weekend trip there earlier this year!
Blowing Rock
Blowing Rock is always a good idea, in my opinion!Â
Bryson City
One of the best anniversary trips was to Bryson City a few years back! This treetop soaking tub stays on my NC bucket list.
Hendersonville
A beautiful mountain town to spend a weekend with some great trails.
For more Western North Carolina favorites, check out this page.Â
This post you are to share sounds like we are in for adventure this summer!!! I look forward to traveling with you as you share these neat places with us in words and pictures. So come on let’s hit the roads of North Carolina together !!! Safe travels, traveling mercies, and let’s have some fun !!! BjT
Thank you for your kind words, Brenda! I hope you enjoy some road trips yourself!