Trips & Routes

Small Towns

Trips & Routes
Small Towns

This Up-and-Coming Blue Ridge Trails Town Has the Region’s Newest Rail Trail

The recreational roots of up-and-coming Blue Ridge trails town Hendersonville run deep. Nothing showcases its heritage as well as its recreational future like the Ecusta Trail, the region’s newest rail trail.

by Aaron Theisen
on Mar 23
A cyclist stands in front of Trailside Brewing on the side of the Ecusta Trail
Trips & Routes

New Bern, North Carolina Is a Literary Pilgrimage for Fans of Nicholas Sparks

by Megan Todaro
on Mar 19
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Trips & Routes

Escape to This Charming Mountain Town in North Carolina Before Fall Ends

by Jackie Sutherlin
on Sep 9
A wooden fence cuts through vibrant red trees with fall colors in the mountains in the background.
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This Tiny Town in North Carolina Feels Like a Living Time Capsule

by Kelly Carroll
on Aug 25
Two-lane street with brick buildings on either side and mountains in the distance
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This Coastal North Carolina Town Feels Like a Scandinavian Seaside Getaway

by Megan Todaro
on May 9
A captivating image of Edenton's lively waterfront scene, showing brick historic buildings and water under a blue summer sky.

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Small Towns

Skip Europe This Summer: This Coastal Town in North Carolina Is Just as Picturesque as the French Riviera

Trade the French Riviera for the Carolina coast—Beaufort brings seaside charm, history, and elegance to your summer getaway, no passport needed.

by Megan Todaro
on Jun 13
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Small Towns

How I’d Redo my Trip to Franklin in North Carolina

After completely missing some of the most charming little towns in the mountains, here is how I would change my trip to Franklin North Carolina.

by Chris Dodge
on Feb 7
A Picturesque mountain downtown of Franklin North Carolina, with brick buildings and green peaks seen in the distance.
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Unique Trips

Why 2026 Is the Year for “Silent Travel” in Jackson County, North Carolina

This new travel trend emphasizes more quiet, mindful experiences over robust itineraries. Check out how to capitalize on this trend in Jackson County, North Carolina.

by Megan Todaro
on Feb 17
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Small Towns

From Hitting the Slopes to Enjoying a Soak: How to Enjoy a Perfect Weekend in This Winter North Carolina Town

For a perfect winter getaway in North Carolina, you have to head to Beech Mountain where you can glide the slopes then finish off the day with a steamy soak.

by Chris Dodge
on Dec 20
A perfectly groomed ski slopes during sunset.
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Small Towns
Unique Trips

North Carolina’s Rising Star: This Underrated City Is Ideal for Any Traveler

Morganton, North Carolina is an underrated destination with a plethora of outdoor activities, like the Catawba River Greenway and Lake James State Park. There's also the History Museum of Burke County, great restaurant, and breweries.

by Kelly Carroll
on Dec 17
Historic courthouse building in Morganton, North Carolina
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Small Towns

If You Only Have One Day to Visit This Small Town in North Carolina, Here’s Everything You Absolutely Can’t Miss

From unique parks to awesome attractions here are some of the best things to do in Cherokee North Carolina, and you can do it all in one amazingly fun day.

by Chris Dodge
on Jan 29
Aerial view of a vibrant town surrounded by lush green mountains and a winding river, with shops and parking areas visible.
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Small Towns

The Remote Small Town in North Carolina Locals Don’t Want You To Find

Tucked where the Hiwassee and Valley Rivers meet, Murphy is a misty mountain hideaway with scenic river trails, local brews, and world-class views.

by Kelly Carroll
on Apr 8
The riverwalk trail in Murphy, a charming mountian town in North Carolina.
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Road Trips
Small Towns

The Scenic Road Trip That Leads to 5 of North Carolina’s Most Charming Small Towns

Check out five of the coolest small towns in North Carolina on this epic multi-day road trip.

by Lisa Sammons
on Oct 17
Aerial view of a serene lakeside community at sunset, with colorful skies and boats docked along the shore.
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Small Towns

The Best Small Town Getaway In North Carolina: Best Things To Do In Beaufort

by Melissa Mahoney
on Jul 18
Aerial view of a coastal town with boats in the harbor, shops lining the waterfront, and a marina in the background.
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Small Towns

This Blink-And-You’ll-Miss-It Town in North Carolina Is So Worth Exploring

Sometimes we go so fast and pass life's little treasures. Plymouth is a small town in North Carolina worthy of a stop.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Sep 18
Downtown Plymouth, North Carolina
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Small Towns

The Cozy Small Town In North Carolina That Comes Alive Under A Blanket Of Snow

by Carolyn Harmon
on Jan 12
A winter scene featuring bare trees and a stone wall, with a misty atmosphere and icy branches.
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Small Towns

Enjoy A Classical Christmas When You Visit This Charming Small Town In North Carolina

by Carolyn Harmon
on Dec 15
A festive street scene at night, featuring decorated storefronts and a Christmas tree, with wet pavement reflecting lights.
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Small Towns

The Small Town in North Carolina That Comes Alive in the Fall Season

Pittsboro is charming any time of year, but autumn is when this town comes alive in North Carolina. Enjoy the markets, shops, and history.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Sep 22
Downtown Pittsboro, North Carolina
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Small Towns

The Rockfish Capital Of North Carolina Is One Of The Most Charming Small Towns You’ll Ever Visit

Weldon, North Carolina, known as the Rockfish Capital of the World, attracts thousands of visitors for its fishing, historic trails, and unique local attractions.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Mar 27
Sign for Weldon, NC, reading "Rockfish Capital of the World," featuring a large fish sculpture and a clear blue sky.
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Small Towns

8 Destinations Way Up High In North Carolina That Are So Worth The Drive

Explore eight of the highest small towns in North Carolina, each offering unique attractions and scenic beauty.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Jul 14
Aerial view of a small town surrounded by hills at sunset, with colorful skies and a winding road through the landscape.
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Small Towns

With a Farmers Market, Weekly Music, and Outdoor Activities, There’s Nothing Like a Summer Weekend in This North Carolina Town

This small town is the ultimate warm-weather getaway destination.

by Carolyn Harmon
on May 9
A wide river flows down rocky cliffs on a sunny day near Elkin, NC.
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Small Towns

You Could Spend Forever Exploring This North Carolina Small Town, But We’ll Settle For A Weekend

Cashiers, North Carolina, offers a variety of attractions and activities perfect for a weekend getaway.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Apr 25
A large abstract sculpture with intertwined forms, surrounded by lush green trees and a blue sky.
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Small Towns

You’d Be Surprised To Learn That Wanchese, North Carolina Is One Of The Country’s Best Coastal Towns

Wanchese, North Carolina, offers a rich historical experience and various water-related activities in a charming coastal town.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Jun 10
Aerial view of a coastal industrial area with buildings, a water tower, and boats along the waterway.
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Small Towns

A Charming And Historic Small City In North Carolina, Hickory Is Seemingly Frozen In Time

Discover the historic and charming town of Hickory, NC, with its rich history and numerous attractions.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Jun 5
A charming downtown street lined with shops, greenery, and brick pathways under a partly cloudy sky.
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Small Towns

Have Breakfast At A Lovely Inn Then Take A Fly-Fishing Tour On This Delightful Small-Town Adventure In North Carolina

Enjoy a small-town adventure in Bryson City, North Carolina, with a hearty breakfast at Fryemont Inn followed by a fly-fishing experience at Tuckaseegee Fly Shop.

by Carolyn Harmon
on May 11
A person fishing in a clear river surrounded by trees and mountains under a bright blue sky.
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Small Towns

This North Carolina Town Is One Of The Most Peaceful Places To Live In The Country

Rutherfordton, North Carolina, is a peaceful and historic small town known for its charming Main Street, parks, and trails.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Apr 11
A sunny street view of a small town with shops, traffic lights, and a mural welcoming visitors.
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Small Towns

Few People Realize How Much Railroad History Is Preserved In The Small Town Of Burlington, North Carolina

Burlington, North Carolina, preserves its rich railroad history through various historic sites and museums.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Jun 5
A brick building with a tower, next to a train platform and a police car, under a clear blue sky.
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Small Towns

What Life Is Like Inside The Tiny Town In North Carolina With No Cars

Experience a relaxing, car-free weekend on Bald Head Island, North Carolina.

by Only In Your State Staff
on Mar 22
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Small Towns

The Small North Carolina Town You’ve Never Thought About Visiting But Should

Elizabethtown, North Carolina, offers historical charm, beautiful architecture, and must-try restaurants.

by Only In Your State Staff
on Mar 24
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Small Towns

The White Squirrel Capital Of The World Is Hiding In Small Town North Carolina And It’s As Weirdly Wonderful As You’d Expect

Brevard, North Carolina, known as the White Squirrel Capital of the World, offers unique attractions including white squirrels, biking trails, and waterfalls.

by Robin Jarvis
on Mar 22
Historic brick building with a clock tower, surrounded by greenery and under a blue sky with fluffy clouds.
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Small Towns

The Highest Town East Of The Mississippi Is In North Carolina And There’s Loads To See And Do

Beech Mountain, North Carolina, the highest town east of the Mississippi, offers a variety of activities and attractions year-round.

by Robin Jarvis
on Mar 19
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Small Towns

Here Are The 10 Most Beautiful, Charming Small Towns In North Carolina

Discover ten charming small towns in North Carolina, each offering unique historical and scenic attractions.

by Only In Your State Staff
on Mar 5
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Small Towns

The Perfect Hot Springs Day Trip Itinerary – Not Your Average Bucket List Episode 5

Discover the unique outdoor adventures and lodging options in Hot Springs, North Carolina, a small town known for its scenic beauty and geothermal springs.

by Marisa Roman
on Feb 21
A street view of Iron Horse Station, featuring shops and a restaurant, with cloudy skies overhead.
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Small Towns

The Small North Carolina Town Of Hayesville Has More Outdoor Attractions Than Any Other Place In The State

Hayesville, North Carolina, offers a rich blend of outdoor activities and American Indian history, making it a unique destination for tourists.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Feb 17
A blue mountain bike rests on rocky shore by a calm lake, with mountains and cloudy skies in the background.
byExplore Bryson City

Explore North Carolina’s Most Beautiful Wildflower And Waterfall Trails This Spring With A Trip To Bryson City

Bryson City, North Carolina, offers exceptional hiking trails and natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

by Courtnie Erickson
on Feb 4
Aerial view of a small town by a river, surrounded by mountains, with colorful buildings and trees at sunset.
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Small Towns

There’s Nothing More Enchanting Than A Winter Getaway To This North Carolina Small Town

Banner Elk in North Carolina offers a charming winter getaway with a mix of outdoor activities, dining, and shopping.

by Jasmine Vieau
on Jan 19
A red cabin with a green roof sits by a snowy river, surrounded by trees and mountains in the background.
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Small Towns

The Small Town in North Carolina That Comes Alive During the Winter Season

Cherokee, North Carolina, offers rich Native American culture and winter activities, making it a unique travel destination.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Dec 2
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Small Towns

The Charming Small Town In North Carolina That Is Home To The World’s Largest Highboy

Explore Jamestown, North Carolina, home to the World's Largest Highboy and other historic sites, with great local dining options.

by Clarisa Akred
on Dec 20
A large wooden dresser sculpture stands outside a modern building with reflective glass windows and parked cars.
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Small Towns

Visit These 12 Incredible Charming Small Towns in North Carolina, One for Each Month of the Year

While all of these unique towns in North Carolina are worthy of visiting any time of year, we think certain months bring out their best.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Jan 2
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Small Towns

A Winter Getaway to One of North Carolina’s Snowiest Towns Is Nothing Short of Magical

Grab your warm, winter gear and head out for a Black Mountain, NC winter getaway. This is the coziest town for skiing, shopping, and hiking.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Nov 10
Ski resort in winter
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Small Towns

This North Carolina Christmas Town Is Straight Out Of A Norman Rockwell Painting

Hendersonville, North Carolina, offers over 50 holiday events during its annual Home for the Holidays celebration, creating a festive atmosphere reminiscent of a Norman Rockwell painting.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Dec 1
Santa Claus waves from his sleigh, surrounded by reindeer and festive gifts at a holiday parade.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The Best Fried Chicken In North Carolina Actually Comes From A Small-Town Gas Station

B&B Royal in Hildebran, North Carolina, serves the best fried chicken in the state, along with a variety of sides and desserts.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Feb 9
A display case filled with golden-brown fried chicken and crispy potato wedges on aluminum foil.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

The Charming Small Town In North Carolina Where You Can Still Experience An Old-Fashioned Christmas

Downtown Roanoke Rapids transforms into a festive Christmas town with various holiday events and activities.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Nov 18
A city street at night, decorated with festive lights and snowflake ornaments, with blurred car lights in motion.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

Southern Pines, North Carolina, Is One Of America’s Most Walkable Small Towns, And There Are Delights Around Every Corner

Southern Pines, North Carolina, is a historic and walkable small town known for its unique eateries, boutique shopping, and outdoor activities.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Oct 17
Southern Pines Welcome Center building with patriotic bunting and flower planters at the entrance.
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Small Towns

9 Reasons To Visit The Magical Small Town Of Blowing Rock, North Carolina At Christmastime

Blowing Rock, North Carolina, offers a variety of festive activities and attractions that make it one of the best Christmas towns in the US.

by Robin Jarvis
on Nov 4
Two children admire festive holiday lights outside a house, surrounded by decorations and glowing displays.