Are you looking for NC summer destinations? If so, I have fun-filled suggestions for you!
Summertime in North Carolina offers endless adventures! I’ve asked some of my travel expert friends to share their favorite NC summer destinations.
Keep reading top picks from travel experts worldwide.
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Imagine yourself exploring vast sand dunes, hiking cool mountain trails, and cruising scenic parkways. Picture the excitement of jet skiing, the beauty of blooming gardens, and savoring the farm-to-table delights of vibrant local food scenes.
Keep reading to find NC summer destinations from this expert-approved journey through the Tar Heel State and use this table of contents to help you find what you want to see, faster!
1) Nags Head
Recommended by: Rachel, Oahu Travel Secrets
Nags Head North Carolina is filled with 200 miles of large sand dunes, blue waters, history and big waves.
The best part of Nags Head is no matter your age or preferences, there’s genuinely something for everyone.
Things to do in Nags Head
Families can head to First Flight Adventure Park while groups of friends head to the Sand Dunes for some fun photo ops.
Where to Eat in Nags Head
When you’re not hanging out on the beach, there are great boutique shops to spend your days searching through, local owned shops to grab breakfast (Duck Donuts is a popular first spot on our trips), and delicious bars and restaurants to spend the evenings.
You can grab fresh seafood at the Sugar Shack or my favorite – Loaded Cheesy Chips from Barefoot Bernies for the non-seafood lovers.
Just north of Nags Head you’ll find the Wright Brothers National Memorial, an absolute must-visit if it’s your first time in town. This is where the Wright Brothers took off for their first successful flight!
Along with some cool history, Nags Head has some of the best beaches on the east coast. If you’re looking for a great fun-for-all-ages NC summer destination, it’s one of the best!
2) Boone
Recommended by Lanie at Make More Adventures
Photo by Lanie at Make More Adventures.com
Boone, North Carolina is a great NC summer destination as it is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains and generally has cooler temperatures plus plenty of fun things to do nearby.
A short drive will get you to Grandfather Mountain, but get there early to escape the crowds. A variety of hikes are available for avid hikers as well as beginners. Mile High Bridge, named for being a mile above ground, is a good place to start.
Things to Do in Boone
A few wineries are located in or near Boone, including Grandfather Winery which offers outdoor seating near a stream.
For those who prefer to stay in town, Downtown Boone has many nice shops and restaurants on West King Street including:
and
If you are looking for a delicious local restaurant, check out:
and
✅ Vidalia
For a hearty family meal, try Daniel Boone Inn where everyone is served southern favorites family-style.
While Appalachian State University isn’t full during the summer, it is still a nice campus to walk around. As most students aren’t there in the summer, parking is easier. Metered parking is available in downtown Boone daily and is free on Sundays.
During the summer, Boone hosts a variety of music and arts events including the nation’s largest-running outdoor Revolutionary War drama.
3) Blue Ridge Parkway
Recommended by UprootedTraveler.com
While the Blue Ridge Parkway is, perhaps, most famous for its fall foliage, it’s also an excellent NC summer destination.
This 469-mile road, known as “America’s Favorite Drive”, runs from Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park, all the way to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Cherokee, North Carolina, through the Appalachian Mountains.
Guided Tours On The Blue Ridge Parkway
Because of its high elevation, the Blue Ridge Parkway is often ten to fifteen degrees cooler than the surrounding lowlands in North Carolina, making the waterfalls and hiking trails along the road popular getaways in the summertime for locals and tourists alike that are looking to escape the heat and humidity.
Photo Courtesy of Uprooted Traveler
For example, one of the most popular hikes along the Blue Ridge Parkway is the stunning Crabtree Falls Trail, which leads you through a hardwood forest, full of blooming rhododendrons in the summertime, to the base of a 70 foot waterfall.
Another popular stop along the roadway is Mount Mitchell State Park, which is home to the tallest mountain east of the Mississippi in the United States.
If you want to enjoy the Blue Ridge Parkway at its most beautiful, be sure to cruise it at sunset—the views of the layers upon layers of surrounding mountains is nothing short of spectacular.
4) Corolla
Recommended by Directionally Challenged Traveler.com
Photo Courtesy of The Directionally Challenged Traveler.com
One of the best things to do in Corolla is to take a jet ski tour. These tours allow you to explore the waters of the Outer Banks up close, offering a mix of excitement and the opportunity to see local wildlife.
You’ll also learn about the history of the town. History enthusiasts should visit the Whalehead, a beautifully restored 1920s Art Nouveau-style mansion. It offers guided tours that transport you back in time, providing insights into the opulent lifestyle of its original owners.
One of the best NC summer destinations is the quaint town of Corolla. At the north end of the Outer Banks, Corolla is more than just another beautiful beach.
Nearby, the iconic Corolla Lighthouse stands tall, you can climb its 220 steps for breathtaking panoramic views of the Outer Banks and the ocean.
Other Things to do In or Near Corolla
At the end of the day, head to The Oceanfront Grille at Corolla Light for a delicious meal with a view. This casual restaurant offers a range of seafood dishes, perfect for a beach side dining experience.
Parking In Corolla
Parking is convenient in Corolla, with ample spaces available at the Historic Corolla Park and Corolla Light Town Center, making it easy to explore the area without hassle.
The laid-back vibe of Corolla, coupled with its picturesque landscapes, makes it an ideal destination for those looking to unwind and make lasting summer memories.
Photo Courtesy of Expedia.com
5) Gardens at Biltmore Estate
Recommended by Tina of The Southern Travelista.com
When the weather is warm and the trees blossom, a trip to the Gardens at Biltmore Estate makes for the perfect summer getaway! Situated right outside of Asheville, the Biltmore Estate is 8,000 acres of beautiful gardens, walking trails, and gorgeous views.
Photo Courtesy of Tina at The Southern Travelista
The Biltmore Estate boasts both outdoor and indoor garden areas that travelers are able to visit at their leisure with the cost of admission.
You can spend time on self-guided tours of the rose gardens where every color imaginable fills the space.
Or pop into the Conservatory where you will be delighted with a huge variety of horticulture from all over the world!
And if you want to learn tips and tricks to take home with you for your own gardens, the Biltmore Estate offers free gardening seminars at the Gardener’s Place for guests to partake in.
No day at the Biltmore is complete without touring the extravagant home that anchors the estate.
The self-guided audio tour of the Biltmore House takes just over an hour to complete.
It is important to note that visitors have to reserve a time slot in advance. Morning slots typically fill up quickly, so make sure you reserve your visit several weeks in advance.
After taking in the gardens and house, you can enjoy a meal at one of several restaurants on the estate or visit the Antler Hill Village and Winery area of the estate located about 3 miles from the main house and gardens.
If you are looking for fantastic NC summer destinations, the Gardens at Biltmore Estate will not disappoint!
Do you need a place to stay when visiting Biltmore? Stay on the Estate at the Inn on Biltmore or the Village Hotel or stay in a neighboring area like the River Arts District, Downtown or ⬇ ⬇ Biltmore Village. ⬇ ⬇
Need Help Planning Your Trip to Biltmore Estate? Sign up for a FREE Biltmore Planning Guide
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6) Food Foraging in Asheville
Recommended by Chef Denise
If you a foodie traveling to the Tar Heel State, you’re going to want to eat all of the famous foods of North Carolina, and the best place for that is the city of Asheville.
The Asheville food scene is known for its farm-to-table fare and emphasis on sustainability. Appalachian traditions like foraging, canning, and pickling take a prominent role in the city’s gastronomy.
Other Food & Beverage Tours in Asheville
Summer is a great time to take a foraging tour as you’ll find mushrooms, sassafras, fairy pickles, and mountain mint. It is also a great time to eat at the local restaurants that focus on seasonal produce.
✅ Enjoy a breakfast of house-made biscuits fresh summer berries at Biscuit Head.
✅ Lunchtime is a great time to checkout one of the local breweries where you can wash down some southern specialties like fried chicken and Mac n’ cheese down with a craft beer.
For dinner, you cannot go wrong at:
✅ or The Market Place
Watch This Video Review of No Taste Like Home Food Foraging Tour in Asheville, NC
Do you need a place to stay while visiting Asheville?
Where are The Best Place to Stay in Asheville?
Happily 4 Evers After
7) Chimney Rock
Recommended by: Christa from The Spirited Explorer
For anyone who wants to enjoy scenic hikes, afternoons at the lake, and characteristic inns within walking distances to eateries, trails, and activities, Chimney Rock is one of the best NC summer destinations.
It’s located just 40 minutes outside of Asheville and it’s a charming village with stunning nature views from its hiking paths at the Chimney Rock State Park.
Follow the Exclamation Point and Skyline Trail for the absolute best views of Chimney Rock’s mountainous landscapes and beautiful Lake Lure.
The area is also home to some of the coolest vineyards in North Carolina.
Chimney Rock itself has the Burntshirt Vineyards Tasting Room and Bistro, which is a great place to sample local wine and enjoy some more upscale dishes.
However, for an actual vineyard experience, check out the nearby Stone Ashe Vineyards. It has lush vineyard views, live music, and tasty wines.
What Else Is There to Do In or Around Chimney Rock?
Parking is easy and free at Chimney Rock and if you’re staying at one of the local inns, you won’t have to fret about finding a parking space during the busy summer months.
Do you need a place to stay while visiting Chimney Rock? Check out some great hotels, cabins and rentals by clicking ⬇ ⬇ the button below. ⬇ ⬇
8) Carolina Beach
Recommended by Annick, The Common Traveler
Photo by The Common Traveler
If you’re looking for a great beach destination, add Carolina Beach to your list of the best NC summer destinations!
This town of about 6,000 people will surely make you feel welcome!
Carolina Beach is known for its amazing boardwalk, a beach you can drive on, and a magnificent pier.
Summertime is when Carolina Beach really shines.
People drive from miles around to enjoy a glazed donut at Britt’s on the boardwalk. *But get there early because they frequently sell out in the morning!
Carolina Beach is one of the few areas in the United States where the Venus flytrap grows naturally. To learn more about this protected species, you can take a guided nature walk most weekends at Carolina Beach State Park.
Other Things to Do In or Around Carolina Beach
Whether you want to . . .
✅ work on your tan
✅ admire cool murals
✅ taste fantastic cuisine
✅ or relax at a brewery
Carolina Beach has something for every traveler!
Photo Courtesy of Expedia.com
Where Should You Stay When Visiting Carolina Beach? Click On the Button Below to Explore Hotel & Rental Options
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9) Bryson City
A Smoky Mountain Summer Escape ☀️🏔️🚣♂️
If you’re looking for mountain views, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm, Bryson City is the perfect summer destination in North Carolina. Nestled in the Smokies, this hidden gem offers scenic train rides, waterfall hikes, and endless water activities.
Ride the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad 🚂
A summer trip to Bryson City isn’t complete without a ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. The Nantahala Gorge Excursion takes you along rivers, over bridges, and into the heart of the mountains. Upgrade to First Class for a luxury ride with a meal or choose an open-air gondola for the best views.
Hike to Waterfalls & Scenic Views 🥾
Bryson City is surrounded by trails perfect for all skill levels.
- Deep Creek Loop (Easy, 2.4 miles) – Features three waterfalls in one short hike.
- Clingmans Dome (Moderate, 1.2 miles) – The highest peak in the Smokies with breathtaking 360-degree views.
- The Road to Nowhere – A scenic drive ending in a mysterious abandoned tunnel leading to great hiking trails.
Cool Off in the Water 🚣♂️
Summer in Bryson City means river and lake adventures:
- Tubing at Deep Creek – A fun, family-friendly float down the river.
- Kayaking on Fontana Lake – Crystal-clear waters with unreal mountain backdrops.
- Rafting the Nantahala River – Thrill-seekers will love this whitewater adventure.
- Fishing in the Tuckasegee River – A top spot for trout fishing.
Don’t Miss the Sunset 🌅
End your day at Waterrock Knob or Clingmans Dome for a stunning Smoky Mountain sunset.
🚗 Whether you’re here for adventure or relaxation, Bryson City is one of the best places to visit in NC this summer!
North Carolina is a summer haven for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike.
Whether you’re scaling the majestic dunes of Nags Head, hiking the serene trails around Boone, or meandering along the breathtaking Blue Ridge Parkway, each NC summer destination promises unforgettable experiences.
Which destinations will you check off your NC bucket list?
The charming town of Corolla beckons with its wild horses and pristine beaches, while the Gardens at Biltmore Estate in Asheville offer a peaceful retreat amidst blooming beauty.
For a unique culinary adventure, try food foraging in Asheville, or take in the stunning vistas from Chimney Rock.
These NC summer destinations, curated by travel experts, highlight the diverse wonders waiting for you in the Tar Heel State. Pack your bags and get ready for an epic summer journey through North Carolina!
Some of My Favorite NC Summer Destinations:
✅ Go wild at A Zoo or Animal Rescue in NC
✅ Keep cool at one of our NC Aquariums
✅ Discover other amazing NC beaches
✅ Explore a North Carolina Museum
✅ Visit a North Carolina Lighthouse
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