day trips in nc

These 12 Unique Day Trips In North Carolina Are Ideal For When You Have Nothing To Do

OnlyInYourState Staff

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One of the best parts about living in North Carolina is the opportunity to explore a variety of landscapes without having to ever leave the state. The Tar Heel State is blessed with an abundance of mountains, beaches, and rivers just waiting to be discovered. Or, if you’re seeking something else entirely — a cultural exhibit, historic site, or something off the beaten path — we’ve got that too! There’s truly no shortage of unique day trips in North Carolina , and we’ve got just the list to prove it. So without further ado, here are 12 unique days trips in North Carolina that are perfect in just about any season.

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What are your thoughts on these unique day trips in North Carolina? Have you enjoyed any of them before? We’d love to hear all about your memories and experiences in the comments below!

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What are the best little-known attractions in North Carolina?

Some of the best little-known attractions in North Carolina like a fountain of youth, swinging bridges, and much more can be found on our list of 10 places only locals know .

North Carolina is positively brimming with little-known attractions just waiting to be discovered. In addition to the unique day trips in North Carolina that we've outlined above, there are several others that belong on any explorer's itinerary. For example, did you realize that North Carolina has its own Fountain of Youth? How about a swinging bridge that will give you a jarring and incredible perspective of a waterfall?

What are the most well-known parks in North Carolina?

• The Great Smoky Mountains
• Goose Creek State Park
• Morrow Mountain State Park
• Signal Mountain

The most well-known park in North Carolina is undoubtedly Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Situated on the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. In fact, it's one of the most popular parks in the United States. With abundant wildlife, verdant foliage, and its iconic mist-covered mountains, this park is perfect for camping enthusiasts, hikers, and those with an appreciation for natural beauty. If you're curious to explore the most well-known state parks in North Carolina, you might start with Goose Creek State Park, Morrow Mountain State Park, or Signal Mountain State Park.

What are the oldest attractions in North Carolina?

• Alexander Long Plantation House
• Salem Tavern
• St. Phillips Moravian Church

It comes as no surprise that a state as historic as North Carolina has an impressive array of historic attractions. Some of the oldest buildings include the Alexander Long Plantation Hosue, Salem Tavern, and St. Philips Moravian Church. Of course, the towns of North Carolina are also incredibly historic. Here's a list of the 11 oldest towns in the state.

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Explore North Carolina

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NC Day Trips

25 Best Day Trips in North Carolina

From the beaches of the Outer Banks to the tallest mountains of the Blue Ridge range, North Carolina contains endless opportunities for sightseeing and activities.

25 Best Day Trips from Raleigh, North Carolina

Take a drive to the beaches of the outer banks, explore the peaks of the Sauratown Mountains, or enjoy the North Carolina wine country to the northwest.

22 Best Day Trips from Charlotte, NC

In addition to spending time learning about the history which shaped the modern-day Carolinas, you can schedule several day trips to visit outdoor recreational areas where the whole family can have fun.

Where to Travel Now

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Buxton is an unincorporated community on Hatteras Island near Cape Hatteras in Dare County, North Carolina.

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Banner Elk is notable for its sweeping panoramas and hiking trails, beautiful vineyards and wineries, and an abundance of family-friendly dining options.

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