These 17 Perfectly Picturesque Small Towns In North Carolina Are Delightful

There's no denying North Carolina loves its small towns. In our (very) humble opinion, North Carolina is home to some of the most beautiful towns in the nation. Places that are quaint, unique, welcoming, and of course... totally picturesque. It's no surprise North Carolina has been an inspiration for novelists and the backdrop for over 200 feature length films; it's a totally lovely and inspiring place to be. With all this natural beauty, some of the most beautiful small towns you'll ever find are right here in North Carolina... starting with these 17!

1. Bath

Incorporated in 1705, Bath is North Carolina's oldest town and home of former pirate Blackbeard. The history is very much alive here. You'll certainly be in awe at the Van Der Veer house built in 1790 and St. Thomas Episcopal Church (pictured above) built in 1734.

2. Brevard

Brevard has a cozy downtown with sweeping mountain views. There's plenty to do in and outside the town. You might even catch a glimpse of the elusive white squirrels!

3. Edenton

Edenton is located on the beautiful Albermarle Sound. You might believe you've stepped back in time after strolling the quaint streets. For an authentic way to see it all, hop on a sailboat!

4. Blowing Rock

Blowing Rock is a small, yet gorgeous little mountain town. You'll find unique shops and delicious cafes as well as plenty of hiking and sights to see within a five minute drive.

5. New Bern

If the beautiful, historic New Bern reminds you of something straight out of Nicholas Sparks' novel....that's because it is!

6. Manteo

Manteo is filled with all that gorgeous, unique, Outer Banks charm...minus the crowd!

7. Saluda

With a population of only 500, the quiet little mountain town of Saluda is one of the best-kept secrets in North Carolina. The town and the surrounding scenery are perfect for capturing unique photographs.

8. Southport

Southport isn't too far from Wilmington, but this coastal town has a unique vibe all its own.

9. Boone

Home of the Mountaineers, Boone is an extremely charming college town named after Daniel Boone that's surrounded by 360-degree mountain views.

10. Beaufort

Beaufort is certainly a hidden gem where you can experience true coastal culture.

11. Tryon

Birthplace of Nina Simone, Tryon is a charming little mountain town known for equestrian activities and wine!

12. Mount Airy

If you're in search of Andy Griffith's Mayberry, you'll find it inMount Airy.

13. Forest City

Come Christmas time, this little mountain town turns into something simply magical.

14. Swansboro

It doesn't get more 'quaint coastal town' than Swansboro. This hidden gem is a year-round vacation.

15. Washington

Another extremely charming, little-known coastal town is Washington, North Carolina. Located on the Pamlico Sound, this town has so much character!

16. Bryson City

Located right on the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad, Bryson City is one of those towns you stumble upon and never want to leave.

17. Hillsborough

Hillsborough has been called one of the 'coolest small towns' in North Carolina. For starters, they have a thriving literary scene with many authors taking royaltoto residence here.

Did your town make the list? What are your favorite beautiful small towns in North Carolina? Tell us in the comments below!

For more beautiful places to visit in the Tar Heel State, check out these 10 quaint towns that are under-the-radar gems!