9 Unique Experiences That Should Be On Everyone’s North Carolina Bucket List

With so many unique experiences in North Carolina, it is no wonder that this lovely place hosted approximately 43 million visitors in 2022, earning the prize as the sixth most-visited state in the nation, according to VisitNC. And even as residents, it's difficult to make it around to every exciting opportunity. Viator.com, a global tours and attractions business, has done some homework on sourcing fun trips in the Tar Heel State and beyond. Here are some you'll want to take.

1. SEA LIFE Aquarium

This water journey takes us down into the deepest parts of the rivers and oceans where more than 5,000 marine mammals, fish, and other sea creatures live. We love to watch the sharks through a 180-degree tunnel. Tickets for the excursion are $25.24. Discover more on the

Viator website.

2. Carolina Panthers Football Game

For all of the sports fans out there, here's a ticket to a Carolina Panthers NFL Game at Bank of America Stadium. This exciting experience puts you in the 75,000-seat stadium cheering along with everyone else. The cost for this trip is $41.77. Read more about the experience on the Viator website.

3. Copper Barrel's Premium Distillery Tour & Tasting

Taste the spirits during a visit to this state-of-the-art distillery. After the tour, enjoy the craft spirit samples with some yummy moonshine-infused snacks. The $10 ticket is worthwhile. Discover more on the Viator website.

4. Horse-and-Carriage Ride through Moses H. Cone Park

See Blowing Rock like never before on a leisurely horse-and-carriage ride through the beautiful Moses H. Cone Park. This journey goes past the historical manor with plenty of views of the Blue Ridge Parkway. This ride is $125 per seat with a maximum of seven travelers per ride. Find out more on the Viator website.

5. Carolina Hurricanes NHL Game

Not only do we get to watch the Hurricanes on this adventure, but visiting PNC Arena is a thrilling experience while cheering on an amazing hockey team. Tickets are $28.92 for this exciting competition on the ice. Read more about the fun trip on the Viator website.

6. Gem Mining and Goat Farm Walking Tour

This well-deserved trip out to the country offers time with some fuzzy goats, a visit to the aviary, and a chance to mine for gems and fossils. Take this excursion for $25.99 a person.

Read more details on the Viator website.

7. Kayak Tour at Lake Lure

We're in good hands with a certified naturalist on this kayak tour around the sparkling Lake Lure, tucked inside the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains. Learn about the local history, and in the warmer months, you are welcome to swim. The tour is operated by Hike Bike Kayak Asheville for $125. For more information, visit the

Viator website.

8. Private Wine Tasting for Two

This journey takes us to the pretty Carolina Heritage Vineyard and Winery where wines are produced from organic grapes below the tasting room. A

$24 gets you a spot on this trip. Discover more on the Viator website.

9. Wrightsville Beach Fishing Trip

Take a trip to Wrightsville Beach with the experienced Capt. Jennings Rose of North State Guide Service. Fishing is the most fun when someone else is driving the boat. Plus, you won't believe the wildlife that follows along on this scenic ride. Find out more on the Viator website.

We hope you take advantage of some of these unique experiences in North Carolina. If you've already gone on some of these exciting journeys, please tell us about it in the comments below.