As a native North Carolinian, one of my favorite things to do is to share favorite experiences of what to do and see in the state. North Carolina has a lot to offer, and it is important to note that tourism dollars helps fund public schools, which is another passion of mine. So, today, I am sharing the ultimate North Carolina Bucket List with 25 things to see and do around the state. I’ve linked to previous experiences I’ve written about and noted which experiences are still on our list as well.
This list is broken down into three regions, which is the way that my North Carolina travel section is broken down on the website. I set a goal for myself in 2021 to visit all 100 counties in North Carolina, so you can find travel guides by county here.
The Ultimate North Carolina Bucket List: Top 25 Things to See and Do
North Carolina Bucket List: Western North Carolina
Climb Mount Mitchell, the Highest Peak East of the Mississippi River
Mount Mitchell is about an hour outside of Asheville in Burnsville and is the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. David and I have yet to climb this mount, so this is definitely still on our own personal bucket list. There is a museum that explains the history and cultural impact of Mount Mitchell, plus a variety of trail options. Book a stay in Asheville and enjoy the scenic hour drive.
Take in the Sights from the Mile High Bridge at Grandfather Mountain
Grandfather Mountain is home a museum, nature preserve, and the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge. Visitors can hike a trails to get to the top before crossing the swinging bridge or can drive to the top while listening to an audio guide provided at the entrance. David and I crossed this together and I did not stop to take in the scenes. I am petrified of heights, so this was a bit of a challenge for me.
Go Down a Natural Water Slide in Bryson City
The waterfalls near Bryson City offer a fun way to cool off on warm, humid summer days! Rent tubes or while hiking, take a break and take a quick dip.
Relax in the Treetop Soaking Tub at Overlooking Fontana Lake
Lakeview at Fontana is such a unique gem of a resort located near Nantahala National Forest. The crown jewel of the property is the treetop soaking tub overlooking Fontana Lake. We celebrated our anniversary here a few years ago and it is still one of my most favorite experiences in North Carolina to date.
Spend a Day at the Beautiful Biltmore Estate
I had always wanted to spend an entire weekend exploring the Biltmore Estate, especially at Christmas time. We finally did just that in 2020 and it is truly stunning. I highly recommend a candlelight tour during the holidays as it is such a lovely way to experience the property.
Taste North Carolina Wines on the Yadkin Valley Wine Trail
North Carolina wines have a bit of a misconception that they are all super sweet muscadine wines. Don’t sleep on the western North Carolina wineries! A trip out to the western North Carolina wineries on the Yadkin Valley Wine Trail is one of my favorite hidden gems of the state. You will find delicious food, great wines, and even better hospitality. Also, the views of Pilot Mountain and the foothills are gorgeous! Check out this overnight trip and then this weekend trip.
Book a Stay at the Historic Mast Farm Inn in Valle Crucis
It is hard to explain how wonderful Mast Farm Inn actually is for a weekend getaway. It is such a cozy, welcoming spot for a relaxing weekend in the North Carolina mountains. Enjoy breakfast downstairs before starting your day and head back for a night cap and dinner at the Valle Tavern. And don’t forget to head across the street to say hi to the horses.
Visit Moses H. Cone Memorial Park in Blowing Rock
Plan a trip to Blowing Rock and be sure to spend time at Moses H. Cone Memorial Park. Whether you are looking to stretch your legs with a walk around the lake or want to see the beautiful manor, it is a great place to explore! And be sure to allow enough time to stroll around downtown Blowing Rock to shop, grab a drink, and dinner at the Speckled Trout. If you’re looking for a great spot to stay, check out the Meadowbrook Inn.
Explore the Quaint Town of Tryon NC
Photo by Glory Roze Photography
Tryon, NC is located about an hour and a half west of Charlotte and half an hour from Asheville. Tryon is the birthplace of jazz star, Nina Simone, and has quite an extensive collection of art galleries, locally owned shops, restaurants, great wineries, and the host world class horse shows.
North Carolina Bucket List: Central North Carolina
Order Tomato Pie at Mozelle’s in Winston-Salem
Winston-Salem is one of the best cities in North Carolina, in my opinion, and there is no shortage of delicious restaurants to choose from, including the Katharine Brasserie and Spring House Restaurant. You must visit Mozelle’s and order the famous tomato pie!
Spend a Night in Hillsborough at the Colonial Inn
Photo by Glory Roze Photography
One my first trip to Hillsborough, I found a beautiful building that was in need of some love. Much to my surprise, the building had been bought the week before and underwent major renovations to re-open as the Colonial Inn. It is a cozy spot to call home base for a night while enjoying the things to do in town.
Plan a Date in Durham
Photo by Glory Roze Photography
Whether you are planning a date with friends, a solo date, or one with your partner, Durham has something for everyone! Cheer on the Durham Bulls, grab a delicious meal at on the M restaurants, have a unique happy hour at Kingfisher, visit art galleries, or catch a show at DPAC or Carolina Theatre. If you opt to stay the night, be sure to book at the gorgeously unique 21c Museum Hotel.
Book a Night at the Proximity Hotel for a Relaxing Getaway in Greensboro
Photo by Tammy Torres Photography
The Proximity Hotel uses sustainable practices and is the first LEED Platinum “green hotel.” There is a “taxi” that shuttles guests between the Proximity and the O.Henry Hotel, and the Proximity offers a beautiful garden, spacious seating areas, and a delicious restaurant, Print Works Bistro. Greensboro is a favorite city and would make a great weekend trip!
Have the Ultimate Staycation at the Carolina Inn in Chapel Hill
Photo by Glory Roze Photography
There is no where prettier than Chapel Hill in the spring! The Carolina Inn is the perfect place to have a staycation to explore the property, eat your weight in chocolate chip cookies, dine at Crossroads, and have a night cap on the patio by one of the fire pits.
Explore the Grounds at the Fearrington Village & Enjoy Afternoon Tea
Photo by Tammy Torres Photography
If you are looking for a spot to feel like you are worlds away while being close to some of the Triangle, look no further than Fearrington Village. Take a day trip over to enjoy shopping, a day at the spa, afternoon tea, and finish with dinner at the bar in the Fearrington House Restaurant. If you opt to spend the night, be ready for an elevated experience in the comfiest, yet elegant rooms. Be sure to add time to visit Pittsboro as well!
Take in the Charlotte Skyline at Cloud Bar
If you are a fan of rooftops and skylines, then having a drink at Cloud Bar (formerly City Lights) at the Le Meridien Hotel in Charlotte is a must-experience! It offers 360 views of the Charlotte skyline, weekly live music, highly DJs, and is first-come, first serve in terms of seating.
Spend a Spring Day in Saxapahaw
Head to Saxapahaw for an amazing day trip adventure! Rent a kayak to explore the Haw River or grab a drink at the Haw River Brewery and grab a seat to hang out. There are delicious restaurants to choose from, shops to visit, and stay for a show at the Haw River Ballroom!
North Carolina Bucket List: Eastern North Carolina
Enjoy the Ferry Ride and Escape Reality on Ocracoke Island
For the ultimate getaway, book a ferry to Ocracoke to unplug for a few days. Ocracoke is the spot that my family has vacationed since I was in 5th grade, so it holds a special place in my heart.
Hike the Tallest Sand Dune on the Atlantic Coast at Jockey’s Ridge
Jockey’s Ridge is the tallest living sand dune on the Atlantic Coast. The hang gliders, the sand castles, and the views make this a really fun way to spend an afternoon. The sound side offers a different experience, including sunbathing, wadding, paddling, and a one-mile nature trail.
Take a Drive Down to Oriental for the Day
Looking for a quaint town on the water that would be equal parts relaxing yet with quite a bit to do? Look no further than Oriental! It is such a pretty town with beautiful views, eclectic shops, an assortment of restaurants, and plenty of places to sit and watch the boats come in.
Enjoy the Sunsets at Bald Head Island
Bald Head Island is such a wonderful spot to escape the hustle and bustle on the mainland. Kayak through the marshes, hang out on the pristine beaches, and catch a sunset from the docks.
Cheer on the Down East Wood Ducks at Grainger Stadium in Kinston
Kinston’s Historic Grainger Stadium is the Carolina League’s second oldest ballpark, having opened in 1949. Cheer on the Down East Wood Ducks, a Single-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers, while enjoying Kings BBQ at the concession stand. And while you are in town, stop by Mother Earth Brewing for a pint and grab something to go from Viv’s Fridge!
Drive Over the New Outer Banks Bridge
The new bridge connecting Hatteras to the other parts of the Outer Banks is replacing the Bonner Bridge. It’s a spectacular drive down Highway 12 and an absolute must on a trip to the NC coast.
Spend the Day in Halifax County with Supper at Hen & the Hog
Photo by Glory Roze Photography
Halifax County is my home county, where I spent my first 18 years, so it is near and dear to my heart. Spend a day here and be sure to make time to stop at Sylvan Heights and Historic Halifax before finishing with supper the Hen & the Hog.
Eat the Best Eastern North Carolina BBQ at Skylight Inn BBQ
This is important because I generally try not to name favorites when it comes to eastern NC BBQ. Yet, here we are. Skylight Inn in Ayden is fantastic–order a BBQ sandwich with slaw, a side of potato salad, and a cornbread slice.
Spend a Day Exploring Edenton
Edenton is the original colonial capitol of North Carolina. It has been named one of the most charming towns in America. There is so much history to experience, views to take in, fun boutiques, delicious restaurants, famous vinyl night at Edenton Bay Trading Company, and beautiful inns!
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This post was originally published in 2019 and has since been updated and recirculated for 2022. Follow me on Instagram for more updates.
I haven’t done a lot of things in N.Carolina, BUT I have been to the grove park inn during the gingerbread event and it was so fun to see everything!