Most People Don’t Know These 15 Hidden Gems Exist In North Carolina

North Carolina is full of gorgeous scenery, museums, and interesting day trips. There's no shortage of fun to be had here in the Old North State, and you can read about some of those well-known places here. However, if you're looking to have a secret adventure in North Carolina, you'll find all sorts of hidden treasures across the state where you can do just that. Add these 15 hidden gems in North Carolina to your bucket list.

1. Saluda

40 miles south of Asheville, Saluda is a quaint (population 500) hidden gem that takes you back in time. Browse shops, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy the view while you take a walking tour of historic Saluda. Stop by the Train Depot as well to check out a genuine 19th century caboose.

2. Marshall High Studios

Located 25 miles outside of Asheville, this high-school-turned-art-studio houses over 28 studios. It's sure beautiful as it sits on Blanahassett Island in the middle of the French Broad River.

3. Secret Falls, Nantahala National Forest

Secret Falls got its name from the fact very few know how to get there, or its location. With the directions easily accessible online, this hidden gem is right by the Georgia border and is perfect for a relaxing, peaceful day.

4. Jones Lake State Park, Elizabethtown

In Bladen County, dozens of oval shaped, crater lakes, dominate the area, but aside from the more popular White Lake is Jones Lake State Park. While the beach is somewhat popular, you'll find solace and serenity hiking along the various trails.

5. Kindred Spirit Mailbox, Bird Island

Kindred Spirit is waiting to hear your penned out hopes and dreams, that is, if you can find it.

6. Battery Park Book Exchange and Champagne Bar, Asheville

For passionate bibliophiles, Battery Park Book Exchange is a must visit. It feels like you're stepping into someone's private library, with plush couches, two-level mazes of shelves with books stacked high (with that book smell included, mmm), and not to mention... champagne! What a perfect combination.

7. Newbold-White House, Hertford

Built in 1730 by a Quaker Family, the Newbold-White House is the third oldest home in North Carolina, and open to the public! You'll love the colonial kitchen and muscadine grape vineyard. On your next trip to the beach, stop in for some history.

8. Blue Ridge Distilling Company, Bostic

For a fun, adults-only activity in North Carolina, check out a tour of the Blue Ridge Distilling Company. Take a look at the interior and take a sip of Defiant malt whisky!

9. Linville Gorge Wilderness, Pisgah National Forest

For a hidden hiking trail, and some secret camping, try the Linville Gorge Wildnerness Trail. The hike totals three days but this untouched wilderness provides you with breathtaking views, wonderful plant life, and secluded moments.

10. Navitat Canopy Adventures, Barnardsville

If you're looking for some high up adventure, without the crowds, false scenery, or high prices, try Navitat. With canopy tours and zip lines through wild terrain, this secret adventure is waiting for you during the warmer months.

11. Mirlo Beach, Rodanthe

This subdivision of Rodanthe has been battered and bruised by hurricanes, but still remains rustic and beautiful. Take a day trip to explore a beach town frozen in time and excluded from the world.

12. The backside of Jockey's Ridge

While the front of Jockey's Ridge gets all the hype, the largest sand dune on the East Coast is hiding a fabulous, erm, rear end. Explore peaceful nature trails and take in all that this wild terrain has to offer.

13. Paint Rock, Hot Springs

Considered North Carolina's best pictograph, Paint Rock is over 5,000 years old and contains Native American 'paintings' made from natural ingredients. The Native Americans considered Hot Springs a sacred area, and just six miles away you can find Paint Rock. With hiking trails, hidden waterfalls, and breathtaking views...this is a great day trip idea!

14. Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden, Wilmington

For an up close view of plants that can eat you (jokes guys) Stanley Rehder Plant Garden is home to native Venus Fly Traps, pitcher plants, and sundews. Stanley Rehder dedicated his life to the cultivation of flesh-eating plants, so after his death, the three-acre area was marked off in memory and now open to the public. It's the only carnivorous plant garden in the world -- and it's right here in North Carolina!

15. Bob's Sinkhole, Cateret County

What looks like a pond, is actually a deceiving sinkhole. Named after the man who discovered it, Robert ('Bob) Kaylor, this little section of deep water is a neat place to explore.

What are some of your favorite hidden gems in North Carolina? We'd love to hear about them -- tell us in the comments below!

Looking for more off-the-beaten path places to explore? This hidden park in North Carolina is a secret little oasis that's positively perfect.