Posted in North Carolina
August 03, 2015
Here Are The 10 Most Beautiful, Charming Small Towns In North Carolina
After visiting North Carolina, most people want to pack up their life and move here forever. As a native all I have to say is…can you really blame them? From the beach to the mountains…we have it all. Of course, North Carolina has its cities…but for those who like to live a more intimate, slow, and down-home life there are also some beautiful small towns just for you. Here are ten.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
The history of this charming coastal town dates back to 1710. As one of the most historically rich places in the state, you can still see the Masonic Temple and Athens Theatre...both of which gave this town the nickname of "Athens of the South."
While Boone is certainly a college town (and city of Daniel Boone), it's 14,000 or so residents can enjoy year long, breathtaking mountain views. The quaint King Street is filled with shops and restaurants. While just outside Boone you'll find natural wonders like Grandfather Mountain, Elk Knob State Park, and of course the ever popular, Blue Ridge Parkway.
Charming yet quirky...Bath is like stepping back in time. One stroll through this historic town, a few looks at some beautiful churches, and a smell of salt water in the air, will make you realize why Blackbeard called Bath home.
Located in Orange County, this little town has been ranked as one of the 'coolest' towns in the nation. It's no surprise. You'll find coffee shops, art galleries, cute stores, hiking trails, and outdoor activities. The Wall Street Journal even did an article about how Hillsborough is "America's Little Literary Town" with a large amount of authors dominating the quaint population of just over 6,000.
Another seaside beauty is Beaufort. This small coastal town is the third oldest in the state of North Carolina. Located in the 'inner banks' Beaufort is still fairly close to the beach. Beaufort even has it's own Blackbeard history. Blackbeard ran his ship, Queen Anne's Revenge, aground near the present day inlet.
40 miles outside of Asheville you'll find Saluda. This quaint town has a population of only 500...making it one of the best kept secrets in NC. Browse main street for cute coffee shops, mom n pop restaurants, and a shop or two. You can even stop by the train station to see a genuine 19th century caboose.
In Blowing Rock you'll find beauty within the town and right outside as well. Tucked away in the mountains, Blowing Rock offers charming streets, delicious restaurants, and breathtaking mountain views only a short drive away.
Blink and you might miss it...but this charming small town outside of Winston will have your eyes open to catch all of the sights. As Forsyth County's oldest town, Bethania displays beautiful Moravian-inspired building that have been preserved to stand even in the present day.
For Outer Banks charm, minus the crowd, check out Manteo. Stroll along the boardwalk or seashore. Pop in cute, locally owned shops and restaurants. The beauty of this small town is enhanced by the beautiful beaches.
With a moderate climate, cozy feel, and sweeping mountain views the small 'city' of Brevard has been bustling with tourism and interest. The Hunger Games put Brevard on the map...but after the word spread everyone realized for themselves why this town is just so amazing. The main street is full of life, shops, and restaurants while you're only a quick drive away from several outdoor activities.
Which one do you want to call home? Tell us in the comments!
