North Carolina is a wonderful state to explore, full of natural attractions and activities that’ll keep individuals, couples or families busy. The state’s diverse landscape means there are many possibilities to go hiking in North Carolina, as well as major metropolitan cities to explore. Whether you want to visit lakes, beaches, islands or mountains, North Carolina is a state full of potential. Here are 10 Places to Visit in North Carolina:
1. Sliding Rock, Pisgah National Forest
Visit the Sliding Rock between the end of May and Labor Day so that you can experience this natural wonder in all its glory. There will be lifeguards on duty between the hours of 10 am till 6 pm, providing plenty of time for you to experience the slide; however, be prepared for crowds.
2. Cryptozoology & Paranormal Museum, Littleton
For all things creepy and unusual, visit the museum for Bigfoot prints, haunted dolls and UFO sighting testimonials that are paired with photographic evidence. The owner of the museum also hosts ghost tours of Littleton, complete with paranormal hunting equipment.
3. The Devil’s Tramping Ground
There is an empty patch of woods, a dusty circle, and no sign of plant life – as the legend says, it’s so that the Devil can come to dance. It is also believed that if you place an object in the middle of the barren ground, no matter how heavy it is, it will be thrown back out overnight. This is so that the Devil has room to dance.
4. The Mountains-to-Sea Trail
If you are looking to do some hiking in North Carolina, look no further, as the Mountains-to-Sea trail spans more than 1,100 miles. You will experience beautiful vistas, witness majestic mountains as well as forests, the coast, and historic colonial towns.
5. Good Karma Ranch, Iron Station
Visit adorable alpacas at the Good Karma Ranch, a sustainable ranch in Iron Station. Not only are you welcomed by alpacas that’ll melt your heart, but the point of the ranch is to focus on eco-friendly livestock farming and new methods of breeding the Huacaya alpacas.
6. Banner Elk Winery and Villa
Lovers of fine wine rejoice, as Banner Elk Winery is an award-winning winery offering breathtaking scenery – sip on your wine as you look out towards the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Make it a weekend to remember by staying over in their luxurious accommodation; you have many suites to choose from, all of which have their own unique offerings.
7. Greensboro Science Center
Visit the Greensboro Science Center for an all in one aquarium, zoo, museum, and tree-top adventure park – ideal for families with young children! You’ll come face to face with penguins, otters, sharks and more; as well as this, you get the opportunity to learn more about dinosaurs and how the eco-system works from the exhibitions they have on offer.
8. Lake Macintosh and Marina
This beautiful lake is perfect for paddle boating, pier fishing, and row boating. Bring along a picnic and sit within the picnic site and relish in your surroundings. For families with young children, there is a playground for them to enjoy and a park overlooking the lake, which is also home to a Revolutionary War commemorative monument for the Battle of Clapp’s Mill.
9. Cedar Creek Stables, Lake Lure
Whether you are a seasoned horse rider or new to the sport, Cedar Creek Stables is a horseback facility located within the beautiful mountains of Lake Lure. Public trails last around 1 to 2 hours, and if you are a young child, there are pony rides available.
10. Bernie’s Berries, Greensboro
When the weather is on your side, head to Bernie’s Berries for a fun day out. Enter the open field with a basket and pick ripe strawberries for you to take home and enjoy. You don’t have to wait until the strawberry season, however, as there is plenty more produce to enjoy, such as watermelons, blueberries, and pumpkins.
How to See It All
With so many things to do in North Carolina, it can be difficult to see it all. The best way to see this wonderful state is to rent a car and plan a road trip, hitting all your main points of interest. A road trip offers freedom, rather than you staying static and in one place.
