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While you may not be able to be in multiple places at once, North Carolina offers a unique opportunity to experience breathtaking landscapes—from the sandy beaches along the coast to the rolling hills in the Piedmont and the majestic peaks of the Smoky Mountains—all within a single week of travel.
Here, we present some of the most scenic spots to consider for your vacation in North Carolina.
Experience Sunrise at the Brunswick Islands
If you envision paradise as a serene coastal destination with its own stretch of beach, the Brunswick Islands could be just the place for you. This collection of barrier island towns offers ample sandy shorelines—over 45 miles in total—ideal for catching both the sunrise and sunset, thanks to their east-west orientation. Enjoying this kind of natural beauty often comes with fewer crowds and lower costs compared to more popular beach destinations.
Fish Along the Coastal Plains
North Carolina boasts an impressive 12,009 miles of coastline, including scenic bays, sounds, and wetlands, making it a perfect spot for a day of fishing. Opt for an early morning fishing charter with local companies such as Just Got Reel Inshore Charters or Pogie’s Fishing Center to try your luck at catching flounder, black sea bass, or king mackerel. Even if fishing isn’t fruitful, the ocean vistas are hard to beat.
Additionally, adventurers can hunt for marine fossils left behind from the Atlantic Ocean that once covered the area. Many enthusiasts search for impressive finds like megalodon teeth, the state fossil of North Carolina. For those wanting a guided experience, diving tours with companies like WB Diving or Jet Lag Dive Charters, LLC lead you through fossil-rich waters, while non-divers can explore the Aurora Fossil Museum to see a collection of ancient teeth.
Enjoy Nature at Merchants Millpond State Park
Established in 1811 when local inhabitants created a dam on Bennetts Creek, Merchants Millpond State Park spans 3,520 acres, incorporating a historic millpond and swamps rich in biodiversity. Visitors can hike through the lush trails or paddle along the serene waters, all while keeping an eye out for native American alligators amidst the cypress trees draped in Spanish moss.
Wine Tasting in Yadkin Valley
Located in the picturesque Piedmont region, the Yadkin Valley is home to numerous vineyards and charming towns amid stunning landscapes. As North Carolina’s initial federally recognized American Viticultural Area, it boasts over 45 wineries. Enjoy wine tastings at celebrated spots like Jones von Drehle Vineyards & Winery, Elkin Creek Vineyard, and Raffaldini Vineyards. For those seeking a fun twist, consider tubing down the Yadkin River in a metal tub accommodating up to six people.
Indulge in Lexington-Style Barbecue in the Piedmont
In the Piedmont area, savoring local cuisine is essential, and you’ll definitely want to try Lexington-style barbecue. This dish features pork shoulder served with a tangy red sauce, or “dip,” accompanied by classic hush puppies and red slaw—made with the same sauce instead of mayonnaise—making for a deliciously unique dining experience.
Relax at a Local Brewery
There’s something appealing about enjoying a refreshing brew alongside stunning views. Visit the rooftop at HopFly Brewing in Charlotte, where you can sample local favorites like the Carolina Crush wheat ale or the Endless Reign IPA, all while soaking in the views of the city skyline. North Carolina boasts over 400 breweries and brewpubs, making it a prominent destination for beer lovers, with many recognized at the recent World Beer Cup 2024.
Explore the Beauty of Sarah P. Duke Gardens
In the 1930s, Ellen Biddle Shipman was commissioned to design a garden at Duke University, funded by a significant donation from the widow of one of the university’s founders. Sarah P. Duke Gardens spans approximately 55 acres and attracts over 600,000 visitors annually to explore its diverse plant species, trails, and beautiful landscapes. Open year-round, the gardens offer a perfect escape into nature, with various tours available for deeper engagement.
Experience Adventure in the Blue Ridge Mountains
For thrill-seekers, look no further than the Blue Ridge Mountains. Hawksnest Zipline lets you soar above the treetops at speeds of 40 mph with panoramic views. For a different thrill, check out the Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster, where riders navigate gravity-fed carts through beautiful wooded landscapes.
Visit the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge
The Lake Lure Flowering Bridge, originally a highway bridge built in 1925, has been transformed into a beautiful space showcasing 12 themed gardens. With over 2,000 plant species, this 155-foot bridge offers stunning views of Chimney Rock and the surrounding landscape, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.
Observe Elk in Cataloochee Valley
Located in the heart of southern Appalachia, the Cataloochee Valley is a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Over the past two decades, elk have been reintroduced to this area, successfully boosting their population from 52 to over 200. Join one of the elk sighting tours during dawn or dusk to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Scenic Views on the Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is renowned as one of the most beautiful drives in the country, featuring around 280 overlooks along its route. Each offers unique vistas, from mountains to lakes. One highlight, the Cowee Mountain Overlook, delivers sweeping views at nearly 6,000 feet above sea level—ideal for sunset watchers keen to capture stunning twilight photos.
Stargaze at Bare Dark Sky Observatory
Head to the Mayland Earth to Sky Park & Bare Dark Sky Observatory for an extraordinary night of stargazing. Positioned amidst rugged mountain terrain, this observatory, free from light pollution, allows visitors to marvel at a sky filled with stars through both the naked eye and advanced telescopic equipment.
Plan Your North Carolina Adventure with These Travel Guides
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