Everywhere you look in North Carolina, you’re sure to find beauty. Yet sometimes that beauty transcends into whimsy and in some cases, pure magic. It’s true; there are whimsical places in North Carolina that can seem like they’re plucked straight from a fairytale. That’s especially true of the following destinations, each of which holds an allure that’s nearly mythical. How many of the following fascinating places in North Carolina have you experienced in person?

1. Craggy Gardens
Flickr / Selena N.B.H
Flickr / Selena N.B.H
Craggy Gardens is like something out of a fairytale. With beautiful trees twirling over the trails, this hike is spectacular. Plus, the view from the top is spellbinding. Most notably, it offers one of the best perspectives of the Blue Ridge Parkway in the state. Bonus: in June the rhododendron blooms add an extra layer of beauty.
2. Crabtree Falls
Flickr / Matthew Paulson
North Carolina has plenty of waterfalls to choose from, but Crabtree Falls is the one you'll be wanting to return to time and time again. It's just so enchanting!
3. Cape Lookout National Seashore
Flickr / Zach Frailey
Among wild horses, lighthouses, and gorgeous blue water, you'll feel like you've entered a world of whimsy at Cape Lookout National Seashore.
4. Linville Gorge and Falls
2Fortunes / TripAdvisor
Flickr / Zach Frailey
Linville Gorge has been called the 'Grand Canyon of the East Coast' and it's certainly true. The view from Wiseman's is something that always manages to take your breath away. Linville Falls is worth the hike for that extra special perspective many don't see.
5. Biltmore Estate
Flickr / Smart Desitnations
Aptly named "America's Castle," Biltmore Estate is the crown jewel of our whimsical places in North Carolina list. Be sure to tour the gardens at spring for your very own Alice in Wonderland-like experience.
6. Outer Banks Scenic Byway
VisIt NC
With the Pamlico Sound on one side and the Atlantic on the other, this drive is truly a must-do. Roll down the windows, turn up the music, and soak in the beauty of the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

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7. Körner's Folly
Körner's Folly / Google
This house circa 1880 in Kernersville is an architectural wonder. Doors are varied in sizes, windows are tall and short, and in one room you're treated to cathedral ceilings only to duck low to get to the next room. Nothing is quite what it seems here, but it reminds you of a home plucked straight from a favorite childhood book.
8. The Road to Nowhere
Flickr / woodleywonderworks
Speaking of childhood books, the Road to Nowhere might be from a darker genre but that doesn't diminish its beauty or mystery. It starts in Bryson City and leads to a tunnel deep within the Smoky Mountains. Though the route dead-ends at the tunnel, it gives you breathtaking views of Fontana Lake and the Great Smoky Mountains.
9. Chimney Rock
Mark S / TripAdvisor
Chimney Rock is classic North Carolina, offering one of the most memorable views of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the state.
10. Grandfather Mountain
Flickr / Derek Misler
From a distance, the mountain eerily resembles an old man. At the top, you'll find a mile-high swinging bridge that allows you to walk in the clouds. That's some magical stuff!
11. Linville Caverns
Flickr / Kolin Toney
This active limestone cavern nestled deep underground is home to blind trout and fascinating formations.
12. Dry Falls
Flickr / Timothy Wildey
If you've ever wanted to walk behind a waterfall, you'll have your chance at Dry Falls. This gorgeous waterfall has its own walkway beneath and is perfect for moments of solitude or even a romantic kiss.
13. Rodanthe
EJ-J / Getty Images
Rodanthe is one of the last untouched locations on the Outer Banks and still brims with original charm. Although the Serendipity House has been moved from its former location, you'll still get a glimpse of nautical houses literally surrounded by waves.
14. Mt. Mitchell
Flickr / Kolin Toney
There's no way to not feel like you're living a fairytale when you stand atop the highest peak east of the Mississippi.
15. Kindred Spirit Mailbox
Flickr / -ted
Located on Bird Island, this mailbox awaits your penned-out hopes and dreams. Proof that real life is sometimes more creative than fiction.

What did you think of our list? What are your favorite whimsical places in North Carolina? Be sure to share with us in the comments below!

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More to Explore

Whimsical Places In North Carolina

Beth C. | June 11, 2020

What are the best little known attractions in North Carolina?

From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Outer Banks, North Carolina is chock-full of unique and little-known attractions to discover. In fact, the number of places to explore borders on overwhelming. Your bucket list for exploring the Tar Heel State's most underrated attractions might include the Abandoned Henry River Mill Village, the Land of Oz Theme Park, Castle Mount Rouge, Graveyard Fields, and the American Museum of the House Cat. As you can see, many of these little known attractions also belong on our list of the whimsical attractions in North Carolina.

Does North Carolina have any natural wonders?

You bet! North Carolina's natural wonders seem to reveal themselves at every turn. Whether you're taking the long scenic route or simply strolling along a charming small town's Main Street, you're bound to find something to capture your curiosity. Some of the most famous natural wonders in North Carolina include the Blue Ridge Parkway, Cape Hatteras and Cape Lookout, Grandfather Mountain, the Great Smoky Mountains, Ocracoke Island, Lake Mattamuskeet, and Merchants Millpond State Park. North Carolina is bound to have something to impress every kind of nature enthusiast.

What are the most picturesque hiking trails in North Carolina?

Fortunately, you don't have to work too hard to find a picturesque hiking trail in North Carolina. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the perfect place to begin if you love mountain views. Equally gorgeous are the trails you'll find within the state parks of North Carolina. Some of the state's top-rated trails include Grandfather Mountain, Art Loeb, Roan Mountain, Looking Glass Rock, Deep Gap Trail, and the Sam Knob Loop. If you plan on tackling a longer hike, don't forget to pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and wear appropriate footwear. Also be sure to pack some layers, especially if you plan on hiking in the mountains.

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Featured Addresses
Craggy Gardens, North Carolina 28778, USA
Crabtree Falls, North Carolina 28777, USA
North Carolina, USA
Linville Gorge, North Carolina 28657, USA
Biltmore Estate Drive, Biltmore Estate Dr, Asheville, NC, USA
Outer Banks, North Carolina, USA
Körner's Folly, 413 S Main St, Kernersville, NC 27284, USA
Bryson City, NC 28713, USA
Chimney Rock, NC, USA
Grandfather Mountain, North Carolina 28646, USA
Linville Falls, NC 28752, USA
Dry Falls, North Carolina 28741, USA
Rodanthe, NC 27968, USA
Mount Mitchell, Mt Mitchell, North Carolina 28714, USA
Kindred Spirit Mailbox, Sunset Beach, NC 28468, USA