Treat yourself to this underrated fall destination in North Carolina, offering hiking trails, kayaking, and a variety of shopping, eating, and even dancing opportunities. The historic town also has its share of renovated buildings and spaces, giving opportunities to explore pieces of its interesting past. Let's take a look at this charming town in northeastern North Carolina: Rocky Mount.

1. Rocky Mount Historic District

This rich historic space, all decked out for fall, includes about 166 buildings in Rocky Mount from the late 19th century through the mid-20th century.

2. Battle Park

One of the best ways to explore the vivid fall leaves is by taking a hike, and Rocky Mount offers a variety of ways, such as this easy, four-mile out-and-back Tar River trail.

Have a picnic with scenic overlooks of the Tar River and the historic cotton mill. Discover the trail on the AllTrails website.

3. Rocky Mount City Lake and Park

Take the half-mile concrete path around the charming lake to explore the interesting sculptures, appreciate the fall foliage from the trees, and watch the ducks swim from the gazebo in this beautiful space.

4. Tar River Flea Market

It's that time of year again, and the Tar River Flea Market is prepared. Located on 12 acres of land, the ample space offers indoor and outdoor shopping year-round.

5. Nash County Farmers Market

Another festive place to visit is the farmers market with plenty of seasonal offerings, including fresh produce, home decor, and pottery. Discover more on the Nash County Farmers Market Facebook page.

6. Rocky Mount Mills

Rocky Mount Mills is beautiful any time of year, but especially in the autumn. Home to the second cotton mill built in the state in 1816, it now boasts 150 acres of business space, restaurants, and breweries. Now, kayaking is also an option on the pretty Tar River through Tar River Life. Discover more about this cool place on the Rocky Mount Mills Facebook page.

7. Music at the Mills

We also love the opportunity to dance under the stars with the autumn chill. Check out the event's page for regularly scheduled live music performances on the Rocky Mount Mills website.

8. River & Twine

Commit to an overnight or weekend stay at this little community of 21 boutique tiny houses by the banks of the picturesque Tar River, also located on the Rocky Mount Mills campus.

9. Tap@1918

Have a drink at TAP@1918, where we always feel welcomed and well-fed by the chefs with their excellent cuisine, wine, and beer. Read all about it on the Tap@1918 Facebook page.

Lunch and dinner options include an extensive appetizer list. You can't go wrong with the melt-in-your-mouth Prime Rib dinner with yummy asparagus.

And for those vegetarians in the crowd, try the Roasted Eggplant.

Visit Rocky Mount and appreciate this underrated fall foliage destination in North Carolina. And don't forget to pack your coziest flannel shirt!

Where & When To See Fall Foliage In North Carolina

Here in North Carolina, we're lucky to experience the autumn season so fully. For the best fall foliage in North Carolina, you may consider a trip to the Smokies. It's here that the leaves take on an almost resplendent quality, and you can enjoy them along an amazing fall foliage hike. This year, North Carolina fall foliage is expected to peak between October 16th and October 23rd.

Know Before You Go

If you're planning a trip to Rocky Mount, you really can't miss Rocky Mount Mills. With its festive activities, seasonal events, live music, and opportunities for dining, it's the true heart of the town. In addition to the Prime Steakhouse and Tap @1918, we'd recommend checking out LouReda's: An American Table.