Whether you seek charming, sun-soaked coastlines or rush-rolling mountains, North Carolina will impress you. North Carolina has incredible natural beauty and rich history, among other panoramic attractions. The state boasts constant beach weather, Southern hospitality, sophisticated cities, and breathtaking mountains.
In this beautiful Southern state, you can unwind in the famous Appalachian Mountains, sink your feet in the warm sandy beaches or stroll via the quaint towns found in North Carolina. Culture and art lovers will find this state quite impressive, thanks to the numerous museums, local galleries, and festivals. If you love skiing in the snow, you will also have splendid moments in North Carolina.

1. Raleigh

Raleigh is never short of art and culinary scenes, astonishing science and technology institutions, and rich heritage. It is where you will discover emerging local bands, art exhibitions, craft beer events, and bluegrass festivals. Some top attractions in Raleigh include the North Carolina Museum of Art, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, the Marbles Kids Museum, and Pullen Park.

Outdoor lovers can check out William B. Umstead State Park and Neuse River Trail. If you wish to stay in Raleigh, check in at the Hilton Garden Inn Raleigh or the Hyatt House Raleigh North Hills.

2. Crystal Coast

One of the best weekend getaways in North Carolina is Crystal Coast. The beautiful coastal area is known for its fantastic beaches, sailing, fishing, and surfing. Couple this with some great places to eat and drink, and you have a full-on weekend in North Carolina. You can check out Sea Breeze Crystal Beach Home or stay at the Whaler Inn Beach Club.

Outdoor activities are also available. Try kayaking, surfing, or hiking at Crystal Coast State Park. Kayak the Croatan National Forest, track wild horses on the Shackleford banks, or explore Cape Lookout National Seashore.

3. Winston-Salem

Here you can see the historic downtown district, which is home to the Old Salem museums and gardens. You can also check out the Middleton House or stroll through Forest Park and Shaffner Park.

Winston-Salem is also known for its large College of Humanities, which attracts big names like Michael Jordan, Bill Clinton, and Billy Graham.
Outdoor activities available include the Nature Trail at Blue Ridge Parkway State Park. Here you can enjoy more than 50 miles of hiking trails traversing four mountain counties with approximately 11 rock formations. There are many forested areas suitable for camping along miles of trails found around this area.
Explore Reynolda House and Museum of American Art, as it is a top attraction in Winston-Salem.

4. Wilmington

Among the best weekend getaways in North Carolina is Wilmington. Here, you can enjoy entertainment and stay-at-home activities. There are many festivals in Wilmington, such as the World of Art Festival, New Hope Festival, and the Wilmington Maritime Festival. Also, a Carolina Maritime Museum and Museum of Art member often hosts different exhibits. Wilmington is a historical city and has several historic houses to visit.

For instance, see the Cameron Art Museum. It is a famous museum with traditional and contemporary art pieces. The gallery also has rotating exhibits, weekly live music, and community art classes. You could also explore Airlie Gardens & Mansion, one of the most picturesque gardens in the city.

5. Chapel Hill

It is a great college town featuring a perfect blend of fun and romance. Whether you prefer to spend time with your partner or enjoy some quality time away from the kids, Chapel Hill is a perfect destination for you. You can take a walking tour downtown and enjoy the city’s diversity in art and culture.

There are also numerous festivals, concerts, and galleries that keep this city vibrant.
You could also stroll via Franklin Street and marvel at the boutiques, souvenir shops, and charming restaurants. Drive to Maple View Farm, explore a dairy farm, and enjoy some ice cream nearby.

6. Edenton

Edenton also offers the best weekend getaways in North Carolina. The North Carolina coastal waters are incredibly inviting, and plenty of outdoor activities keep you active. Go fishing in a beautiful lagoon, hike through nature trails, or kayak along the rivers.

A popular place for a weekend getaway is Edenton Bay Walk which is filled with shops and restaurants that offer all sorts of items from clothing to art. Don’t miss out on dining at one of the European-style restaurants that provide delicious food and drinks, such as the Refectory Cafe. The people of Edenton pride themselves on the unofficial title that it is the prettiest small town in the Southern part of the country.
Hop on the Edenton Trolley Tour and discover what this small town is all about. You could also tour the restored lighthouse just near the waterfront park. Rent kayaks and tour Edenton through the Edenton Bay cruises.

7. Banner Elk

Found in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Banner Elk is among the most romantic getaways in North Carolina. Depending on your preferences, you can rent a cabin in the woods or stay in a traditional hotel. The area is small and homey, making it the perfect place for large groups and families.

Banner Elk caters to skiers who enjoy downhill and cross-country skiing near Linville Gorge. You can also participate in outdoor activities such as snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking. For those who prefer indoor entertainment, visit the historic Ensemble Stage theater, tour the local galleries or play golf at one of the many Banner Elk golf courses.
Visit some impressive ski resorts near this place, including Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain. You could also enjoy a downhill ride at Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster.

8. Charlotte

It is among the most notable and famous cities in North Carolina. Charlotte has a brilliant history and is known for its great culture and traditions.

The city has award-winning restaurants, historical sites, and major attractions. The Uptown area of Charlotte is an entertainment hub with many bars, restaurants, and clubs, such as the Fig Tree Restaurant. Visit the famous Bank of America Stadium to see the NFL Carolina Panthers play or to attend a rock concert at Time Warner Cable Arena.
Tour the many visitor attractions here, including Discovery Place. Other notable interests include the Charlotte Museum of History and the Mint Museum Uptown. Check out the Discovery Place IMAX Theater for sensational movies after a long day at the beach.

9. Asheville

Asheville offers the best weekend getaways in North Carolina. The city offers incredible natural scenery, recreational activities, and fun nightlife. The Biltmore Estate is among the top tourist destinations in Asheville. It is a historic home that George Vanderbilt built.

Other major attractions include the Asheville Art Museum and the North Carolina Arboretum. Tour one of the many breweries in Asheville, or play some golf at one of the several courses in this area for an unforgettable weekend getaway.

10. Durham

Durham is a city of wonders in North Carolina and is home to Duke University and North Carolina Central University. Downtown Durham features the Museum of Life & Science and the innovative Duke Gardens.

Tour historic sites like the landmark Durham County Detention Facility where Jesse Washington was once incarcerated. Many children’s attractions in downtown Durham, including Adventure Valley and Diggerland. Even though the city is dedicated to enhancement in technology, it does not forget about the natural environment. You can bond with nature at the Falls Lake State Recreation and Eno River State Park.

11. Greensboro

The other city that offers the best weekend getaways in North Carolina is Greensboro. It is the place to go if you are looking for somewhere to unwind and forget about the stressful weekdays. Explore the Greensboro Science Center, as it is a massive facility with many attractions. Here, you are sure to come across a zoo, museums, and an aquarium to give you an explosive experience.

This city pays homage to some of the best reenactments of the civil war, museums, and exhibits. Some of the stunning museums you can check out include the International Civil Rights Center & Museum and Greensboro History Museum.

12. Blowing Rock

This gorgeous town acquired its name from a rock cliff. The cliff elevates at 4,000 feet above the Johns River Gorge. Winds in this town flow upward, which makes people say it is the only place where snow falls upside down. It is a beautiful town that has attracted tourists for many years thanks to its picturesque views.

There are several ways to have fun here, like hiking, rock climbing, white water rafting, canoeing, and more. Ensure you check in at the award-winning restaurants here, such as the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Appalachian Ski Mountain resort. You could also spend the night at the Bob Timberlake Inn and marvel at the magnificent views of Chetola Lake.

13. Southern Pines

For the best weekend getaways in North Carolina, visit Southern Pines. What makes Southern Pines unique is its proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains.

You can enjoy a weekend in the Southern Pines with your family and friends by checking out the breathtaking world-class golf courses, hiking trails, scenic views, and more. The town came up as a railroad town with tracks still making their way down its main street.
Check out the Country Bookshop and read your favorite book on a lazy afternoon. You could also enjoy different types of cheese at Southern Whey.

14. Cary

If what you are looking for is more relaxation, Cary is your ideal destination. This town is known for its fine art museums, such as the Cary Hall and the Cary Art Center.

You could also explore Cary’s more laid-back waterfront area and shop at some great boutiques and antique stores. You could explore Lake Johnson or check out Lake Crabtree County Park.

15. Wake Forest

Wake Forest is known for its railroad history and the town’s quaint atmosphere. Check out some great restaurants in Wake Forest, such as Brigs at the Forest or Over The Falls.

These two establishments offer many different cuisines, from unforgettable to traditional dishes. Here you can enjoy various outdoor activities in the E. Carroll Joyner Park. You can run, jog, bird-watch, hike, or even bike. Make sure you also check out Hills Ridge Farm and discover the various exhibits here.

16. Wrightsville Beach

If you are looking for the best weekend getaways in North Carolina, visit Wrightsville Beach.

This beach has pristine white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, making the beach picturesque. It is among the ideal locations to dip your feet in the sand and soak in the sunshine with family and friends. Here you can engage in various water sports such as swimming and surfing. You could also take a stroll down the historical boardwalk constructed in 1939.

17. Boone

Boone offers tourists impressive mountain views, a vibrant college town, and quaint shops in North Carolina. The city was named after Daniel Boone, situated near the Blue Ridge Parkway. This stunning town is near Tennessee, meaning you can also head to the city and enjoy other sensational attractions.

This town also pays homage to Appalachian State University, where you can learn. Tour Grandfather Mountain and Elk Knob State Park if you enjoy mountain settings.

18. Kitty Hawk

North Carolina hit the headlines and made history for producing the first controlled-powered airplane. It was an essential part of history, and this is one place you have to visit once in Kitty Hawk. You could also decide to relax at the beach community and enjoy the ambiance of the sandy beaches and blue waters.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kitty_Hawk,_North_Carolina
You could also check out Kitty Hawk Wood and discover marine life in the maritime forest. You could also tour the iconic lighthouses found around the shore. If you want somewhere to spend the night, check-in at the Baymont Inn & Suites or the Hilton Garden Inn Outer Banks. Explore the Kitty Hawk Pier or the Sandy Run Park.

Final Thoughts

The Southern part offers the best weekend getaways in North Carolina, including Wake Forest, Cary, and Greensboro. Whether you are looking for a relaxing or historical destination, North Carolina has you covered.

FAQs

What is the most romantic beach in North Carolina?

Crystal Coast is the most romantic beach in North Carolina. It is found in Carteret County on the southern Outer Banks.

Where should I vacation in North Carolina in the summer?

You could visit New Barn, Wilmington, Bald Head Island, or the Nags Head.

What are the family weekend trips from Charlotte, North Carolina?

Charlotte’s alluring family weekend trips include the Great Smoky Mountains, Tweetsie Railroad, Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, North Carolina zoo, Lake Lure, and Carowinds.