North Carolina is a beautiful state filled with scenic routes and hidden gems waiting to be explored. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking mountain views, charming small towns, or picturesque beaches, North Carolina has something to offer for every type of road tripper. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best road trip destinations in North Carolina that you won’t want to miss.
- The Blue Ridge Parkway. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile scenic drive that winds through the stunning Appalachian Mountains. The route offers breathtaking views of rolling hills, deep valleys, and cascading waterfalls. Along the way, there are plenty of hiking trails, picnic spots, and charming towns to explore. The fall foliage is especially spectacular in October.
- Asheville. Asheville is a vibrant city located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s known for its thriving arts scene, craft breweries, and farm-to-table restaurants. While in Asheville, be sure to visit the Biltmore Estate, a stunning mansion built by the Vanderbilt family in the late 1800s.
- Outer Banks. The Outer Banks is a 200-mile stretch of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina. It’s known for its wide, sandy beaches, lighthouses, and historic sites. Visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial to learn about the history of flight, climb the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, or take a ferry to Ocracoke Island for some of the best seafood in the state.
- Wilmington. Wilmington is a charming coastal city located on the Cape Fear River. It’s known for its historic downtown, scenic riverwalk, and nearby beaches. Visit the USS North Carolina Battleship Memorial or take a walking tour of the city’s many historic homes and buildings.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a stunning natural wonder located on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. It’s home to some of the highest peaks in the eastern United States, as well as abundant wildlife and stunning waterfalls. There are plenty of hiking trails and scenic drives to explore, as well as nearby towns like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
Tips for a Successful Road Trip in North Carolina:
- Plan your route ahead of time and allow for plenty of time to explore
- Pack plenty of snacks, water, and sunscreen
- Consider renting a comfortable, fuel-efficient vehicle
- Take breaks often and stretch your legs
- Keep a map or GPS handy in case you get lost
- Be aware of weather conditions and adjust your plans accordingly
Conclusion
North Carolina is a road tripper’s paradise with a diverse array of scenic routes and attractions. Whether you’re looking for mountains, beaches, or small towns, North Carolina has something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and explore all that this beautiful state has to offer!
Patrick M. is Editorial Director for the always expanding DriveSafe Online library of courses. With over two decades of experience developing award-winning training, he now focuses on innovating online driver safety training. Pulling from his background in journalism, he steers the wheel behind the creation of top-tier content that promotes a better journey—whether on the digital highway of learning or the real roads we travel every day.