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 big 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 10 of the most charming small towns in North Carolina:
During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
To start off our list of the most charming small towns in North Carolina, we head to New Bern. 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 breathtaking mountain views all year long. 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, a visit to 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. It's certainly one of the best small towns in North Carolina.
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. It's the perfect place if you're looking for day trips in North Carolina. 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 7,000.
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.
Just 40 miles outside of Asheville you'll find Saluda. This quaint town has a population of around 900, making it one of the best kept secrets in NC. Browse main street for cute coffee shops, mom-and-pop restaurants, and a shop or two. You can even stop by the train station to see a genuine 19th-century caboose.
Blowing Rock is one of the most beautiful places in North Carolina where 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 its pristine 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. It's one of the best places to go if you are searching for day trips in North Carolina.
Which one of these charming small towns in North Carolina do you want to visit first? Tell us in the comments!
The OIYS Visitor Center
Charming Small Towns In North Carolina
September 01, 2021
Melissa M.
What are some of the safest towns in North Carolina?
The Tarheel State has its share of charming small towns and larger cities, but what are the safest places to live? Among the safest are Pinehurst, Davison, Elon, Winterville, and Holly Springs. You can learn more in this post.
What are some of the best day trips in North Carolina?
Hop aboard a train for a scenic day trip and see North Carolina in a way you didn’t think was possible! A scenic drive are always a great way to discover new places around the state as well. Or perhaps a trip to a state park is in order. There are plenty of parks that offer views, hiking, recreation, and more, like Mount Mitchel State Park.
What are some of the most beautiful places in North Carolina?
Among the most beautiful places around the state are Chimney Rock State Park, Craggy Bottoms Trail in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and The Biltmore Estate. You can find additional beautiful places in this post.
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