5 Spots in North Carolina We’re Especially Thankful for This Year

Cherishing our favorite towns in North Carolina feels more important than ever this year. After the damage that was inflicted by Hurricane Helene in 2024 and the slow deterioration of Highway 12 in the Outer Banks, it can feel like our most beloved North Carolina spots could disappear in the blink of an eye. 

I’ve been exploring the Tar Heel State my entire life. I have visited the Crystal Coast almost every year since I was born, lived in Emerald Isle off and on for years, and have taken countless trips to the mountains and the Outer Banks. I’m always left in awe and wonder at the diversity of this state! Without further ado, here are five of the best places to visit in North Carolina that I’m especially thankful for this year and are worth adding to your bucket list.

Blowing Rock

Tucked at an elevation of almost 4,000 feet, Blowing Rock is one of the highest cities in North Carolina. The minute you set foot in this charming enclave, you’ll be transported to Gilmore Girls with its quintessentially Americana main street, delicious local eateries, and cozy boutiques. A jumping-off point for exploring some of Appalachia’s most beautiful corners, don’t rush off to the mountains too quickly. Hang around to nosh on locally caught fish at The Speckled Trout, grab a pint at the oldest bar in North Carolina, or stock up on outdoor gear at Footsloggers. Once you’ve had your fill, you’re just minutes from Grandfather Mountain for hiking.

Ocracoke

There’s just something special about Ocracoke. Only accessible by boat (or small aircraft), this magical, isolated island marks the southern end of the Outer Banks and is steeped in history. Pay a visit to the short and stout Ocracoke Lighthouse, grab lunch at SmacNally’s at the marina, look for local art in boutique shops, or head out to the windswept beaches. If you’re lucky, you might find a Scotch Bonnet, the official seashell of North Carolina. This is the best place in the state to search for one! I highly recommend camping on the island at the NPS campground. Tent sites are tucked in the dunes, and you’ll fall asleep to the sound of lapping waves and views of the Milky Way on clear nights.

Corolla

Situated at the northernmost edge of the Outer Banks — that you can still reach without 4WD — Corolla is a stunning city on the North Carolina coast. The Currituck Lighthouse, the last privately owned and operated lighthouse in the state, calls the city home. Visitors can actually climb to the top of this 162-foot structure for a birds-eye view of the barrier island and the historic Whalehead Club. If you’re lucky, you might also spot the Corolla wild horses in the distance. If you do happen to have a 4x4 vehicle, you can continue up the coast to Carova next, where the asphalt turns to sand.

Beaufort

The second-oldest town in all of North Carolina, Beaufort is one of my absolute favorite spots in the state. Founded by European settlers in 1709, this was once the home of the infamous pirate, Blackbeard. Perched just across from the Rachel Carson Preserve, this is another spot on the coast where you’ll have the chance to see wild horses. When you’re not sipping a cocktail with a view of the water, uncover the city’s history at sights like the Beaufort Historical Association, North Carolina Maritime Museum, and the Old Burying Grounds, one of the oldest cemeteries in the state. I never visit Beaufort without eating at Beaufort Grocery, known for its crab dip and homemade desserts. 

Asheville

While this may come as no surprise, Asheville is one of my most cherished places in the Tar Heel State. Now more than ever, I feel grateful for the “Land of the Sky.” As this community continues to heal following Hurricane Helene, I’m looking forward to spending my time perusing stores like the Bee Charmer (where you’ll find rare and local honey), sipping brews at the Wicked Weed Funkatorium, and grabbing BBQ at Moe’s. If you’re a hiker, I also love the Craggy Gardens Trail on a quick trip. On my last visit, just a few months before the hurricane, we saw 10 bears while we were driving to and from the trailhead!

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip to North Carolina using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.