11 Things That Belong On Everyone’s North Carolina Summer Bucket List

It doesn't get much better than summer in North Carolina. Some of the destinations and adventures below are well-known, but you may come across a new and memorable place. Make some plans to explore these unforgettable sights in North Carolina.

1. North Carolina Zoo: Asheboro

One of our greatest assets is the

North Carolina Zoo - a perfect destination for folks of all ages. From the addra gazelle to the zebra, a huge selection of animals await. Watch them in their habitats as they cool off during the humid summer heat.

2. Carowinds: Charlotte

Speaking of cooling off, the

Carolina Harbor Water Park at Carowinds features splash pads, water slides, two wave pools, and other exciting and refreshing water activities. For those seeking bigger adventures, the Boogie Board Racer is the Southeast’s longest mat-racing slide.

3. The Bristol Cafe & Catering: Statesville

North Carolina has some of the best restaurants in the nation. Give The Bristol Cafe a try with outdoor seating. It opened in 2017 in a building that was originally a saloon in the late 1800s.

The classy eatery is open for Mimosa Brunch Thursday-Sunday with a full menu, including the delicious Crabcake Benedict.

Read all about it on The Bristol Cafe & Catering website.

4. Medoc Mountain State Park: Hollister

It wouldn't be summer without visiting one of our gorgeous state parks.

Medoc Mountain State Park is a spacious, 3,893-acre property with trails, Fishing Creek, remnants of homesteads, and the Vinson Family Cemetery.

5. The Carolina Theatre: Greensboro

Before the summer is over, check out some of the entertaining and vintage movies to watch during the

Summer Film Festival. And while you're there, learn about other attractions in

Greensboro for an awesome weekend getaway.

6. Siamese Twins Museum: Mount Airy

At this new and improved museum as of July 1, 2024, learn about Chang and Eng, the Siamese twins born in a village in Siam on May 11, 1811. They moved to Mount Airy, North Carolina in 1854, and had 22 children. We find this fascinating education worthwhile and unforgettable. For further information, visit the

Siamese Twins Museum website.

7. Little Washington Sailing School: Washington

Children revel in this education of sailing for youth and are matched with the right-sized boats. They learn safety, self-reliance, and sportsmanship. Find out more on the Little Washington Sailing School website.

8. Happy Dash Farm: Boomer

Since 2009, this family farm is the first in Wilkes County to offer one-hour Highland Cow experiences, where you can meet, brush, and feed some other furry creatures, such as goats, ducks, and pigs. Look for events on the Happy Dash Farm website.

9. Maggie Valley Yurts & Tiny Log Cabins

If you find yourself out in Western North Carolina, stay all night or weekend in a luxurious yurt or tiny log cabin. You never know who might show up. Check for availability on the Maggie Valley Yurts & Tiny Log Cabins website.

10. The Scotsman Public House: Waynesville

While you're in Maggie Valley, drive over to Waynesville and enjoy an authentic pub atmosphere in a stately, 100-year-old building. The Scotsman Public House provides live music which is one of the best ways to celebrate summer in North Carolina.

While this is a heavy dish - the Guinness Braised Ox Cheek is an example of the exceptional house-made cuisine.

Check out the August entertainment lineup on the The Scotsman Public House website.

11. Oak Island Beach: Oak Island

A walk across some sand is standard North Carolina vacation material, and what better place to experience the rushing waves and seashells than at Oak Island. Fish from the Oak Island Pier or grab some rays in this breathtaking space. The Town of Oak Island offers 65 public beach access locations. Find them on the

Oak Island Beach web page.

Will you add some of these escapades to your summer bucket list in North Carolina? Wherever you find yourself, a cozy Vrbo is usually nearby.