Discover North Carolina's Top Attractions

North Carolina is a year-round playground with its museums, outdoor activities, and theme parks. The High Country mountains offer hiking and waterfall swimming in summer, while ski resorts buzz in winter. The state's beaches and historical sites like the Biltmore Estate and Battleship North Carolina are timeless treasures. Explore the best places to visit with our guide to North Carolina's top attractions.

1. Blue Ridge Parkway

Known as "America's favorite drive," the Blue Ridge Parkway stretches 469 miles, connecting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. It's a hit with cyclists and motorcyclists for its scenic views and hiking trails. Visit Mabry Mill for historical demonstrations or the Folk Art Center to see local crafts. Check for seasonal road closures and consider renting a car for a personalized journey.

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/blri/index.htm

2. The Biltmore Estate in Asheville

The Biltmore Estate in Asheville is the largest private home in the U.S., boasting 250 rooms filled with art and antiques. Explore the gardens, forest, and Antler Hill Village. Downtown Asheville offers a vibrant scene with unique shops and restaurants.

Official site: http://www.biltmore.com/

3. Beaches of the Outer Banks

The Outer Banks is a 200-mile stretch of barrier islands with pristine beaches. Towns like Nags Head and Kitty Hawk offer accommodations and attractions like the Outer Banks History Center and the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum.

Official site: http://www.outerbanks.org/

4. Waterfalls in North Carolina

North Carolina's mountains are home to breathtaking waterfalls like Linville Falls in the Pisgah National Forest and Dry Falls near Highlands. Trails offer access to various overlooks and the chance to explore multiple waterfalls in a day.

5. Downhill Skiing

North Carolina's ski resorts, such as Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain, offer high-altitude slopes and terrain parks. Appalachian Ski Mountain and Wolf Ridge Ski Resort are family-friendly options with a variety of runs.

6. Battleship North Carolina

The USS North Carolina in Wilmington is a WWII battleship turned museum. Tour the deck and interior to experience naval history up close.

Official site: http://www.battleshipnc.com/

7. North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

This Raleigh museum offers interactive exhibits on the state's natural history, including a unique Acrocanthosaurus skeleton and a variety of educational displays.

Official site: http://naturalsciences.org/

8. North Carolina Aquarium

With four locations, the North Carolina Aquarium showcases the state's diverse marine life, from sharks to sea turtles.

Official site: http://www.ncaquariums.com/

9. North Carolina Zoo

Asheboro's North Carolina Zoo features over 1,600 animals and 52,000 plants along shaded pathways. Enjoy animal feedings, hiking trails, and family-friendly activities.

Official site: http://www.nczoo.org/

10. Cape Hatteras

Cape Hatteras National Seashore offers beaches, wildlife, and historic lighthouses like the Bodie Island Light Station and Cape Hatteras Light Station.

11. Chimney Rock State Park

Chimney Rock State Park features a 315-foot granite spire accessible by elevator. Hike to Hickory Nut Falls or enjoy the park's scenic views.

Official site: http://www.chimneyrockpark.com/

12. Grandfather Mountain

Grandfather Mountain in Linville offers diverse hiking trails and the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge, with panoramic views.

Official site: http://www.grandfather.com/

13. Morehead Planetarium and Science Center

Located in Chapel Hill, the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center provides educational planetarium shows and exhibits on natural science and space exploration.

Official site: http://moreheadplanetarium.org/