Of all the states to explore through four wheels, North Carolina is perhaps one of the most varied, interesting, and eye-opening, from its rugged mountains to its gorgeous coastlines, lively cities, small towns, and those little small town stops in between. Here, we’re going to look at some of the appeals of NC you should make a priority when planning a road trip through it, be it via car, campervan, or RV.
Asheville
North Carolina has no shortage of great cities, but perhaps the easiest to recommend as a road trip stop is the mountain views, artsy personality, and independent charm of Asheville. It has some of the best views of the horizon, with mountains perfectly within reach for adventures, alongside a thriving cultural scene, best explored with a stroll through the River Arts District. If you like independent shops, locally-run breweries, and seeing creative energies in full flow, this is the place to go.
The Blue Ridge Mountains
Aside from dominating the skyline for much of the state, the Blue Ridge Mountains offer one of the most iconic drives in the whole of the United States. The Blue Ridge Parkway winds through mountain scenery, overlooks, tunnels, forests, and more, with plenty of reasons to pull over and whip out the camera along the way. Nearby RV parks can serve as the perfect base to explore not just the mountains themselves, but towns like Charlotte and Boone, as well. It’s also a spot that even rewards repeat visits throughout the year, as in the fall, the foliage can be spectacular, while spring and summer bring greenery and wildflowers.
The Outer Banks
The coastal scenery is just as important a part of the identity of North Carolina as the mountains, of course. The Outer Banks are one of the most attractive features of that coast, a chain of barrier islands that offer a wide range of beaches, lighthouses, dunes, and wildlife areas to explore, alongside plenty of charming coastal villages. There’s plenty to do in the water, such as boat tours, kayaking, and diving to see some of the colorful aquatic plant and animal life that makes this region their home.
Wine Country
The thriving wine region of North Carolina might not be one of its most widely advertised selling points, but it’s definitely worth exploring all the same. The Yadkin Valley, located in the heart of the state, offers rolling countryside, vineyard views, and dozens of wineries that make for an enjoyable day of exploring. It’s the perfect region to explore via scenic drives, stopping for a relaxed tasting experience, as well as to explore the charming small towns that dot the valley. Even if wine isn’t the main draw for you, the countryside itself is worth taking the time to explore.
A road trip through North Carolina is best explored with the flexibility to stop and make your place for the night at will, with its sheer depth of natural beauty and state parks. Hopefully, the tips above help you make the best of your time in the Old North State.