10 Exciting Places to See and Things to Do in North Carolina

10 Exciting Places to See and Things to Do in North Carolina

 

10 Exciting Places to See and Things to Do in North Carolina

North Carolina boasts a rich history that will delight and mesmerize. With diverse landscapes, natural beauty, pristine beaches, and quaint towns brimming with culture and outdoor activities, North Carolina is a study in contrasts.

Home to so much natural beauty, exploring North Carolina, should be at the top of your bucket list.

Exciting Things to Do in North Carolina

1. See the Famous Blue Ghost Fireflies

For a truly unique experience, visit DuPont State Forest or the area around Asheville in mid-May to early June to witness a rare phenomenon that is only visible briefly in this area.

The fireflies flash blue and white, and the flash can last up to a minute. The best time to view them is right after sunset.

2. Visit The Biltmore in Asheville

One of the most popular North Carolina vacation spots is Asheville. Home to the Vanderbilt mansion, The Biltmore. Built in 1890, this 170,000-square-foot French Renaissance Castle boasts 250 rooms.

The gardens are spectacular, and the town of Asheville is an eclectic mix of great eateries,, breweries, art, and hiking--lots of fun activities for the whole family. Make sure to check ahead of time to see if there are any great exhibits going on while you're there!

3. Ride the Tail of the Dragon

While in the area, this thrilling ride is called the Tail of the Dragon. Drive the 11-mile stretch through the mountains near Deal's Gap. 318 curves in 11 miles. A truly exhilarating experience!

4. Visit DuPont Forest

DuPont Forest is a 10,000-acre forest that boasts waterfalls, spectacular hiking, and a beautiful nature experience for the whole family. You can also drive the 3-mile circle to take in the stunning waterfalls.

Explore North Carolina Sights

All that sightseeing calls for a picnic along North Carolina's scenic coastline. Pick up one of our Classic Gourmet Wine Gift Tins, or our Reid's Beer Box, for a picnic and snacks on your adventure.

5. Ocracoke Island

Take the ferry to this remote island to visit one of the North Carolina vacation spots that is famous for its wild ponies. Pristine beaches and a charming village make this a great day trip.

6. Walk in Bluebeard's footsteps

In Atlantic Beach, Beaufort Inlet is where Bluebeard's wreck lies in 20 feet of water. Three hundred years ago, his final stand ended in Ocracoke. You can visit his home and explore the places he frequented for a fun pirate adventure.

7. Nascar Hall of Fame

This fantastic interactive attraction is not to be missed. A must-see of all the North Carolina vacation spots. Memorabilia, high-tech simulations, and a truly expansive history of NASCAR racing, an exciting trip for adults and kids alike.

8. Grandfather Mountain Swinging Bridge

One of the highest peaks in the Blue Ridge Range is 70 miles from Asheville. This swinging bridge is for every thrill seeker to experience--spectacular 360-degree views. Pair it with one of the many beautiful hikes in this area along with lunch in town and enjoy a perfect day in the North Carolina Moutains.

9. Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Beautiful lakes, forests, and scenic shorelines are also home to a beautiful part of the Blue Ridge Parkway, one of the best drives in the country. This National Park straddles the Tennessee and North Carolina border right near Asheville. Five entrances are within 70 miles from downtown Asheville: Cataloochee Valley, Oconaluftee, Road to Nowhere, Balsam Mountain, and Big Creek. We recommend checking out the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad, Nantahala Outdoor Center, Newfound Gap Road along with all of the other scenes and attractions to explore. You won't be disappointed!

10. Reed Gold Mine

Pan for gold at the place where the first documented gold find in the United States occurred. Start at the State Historic Site at the Visitor Center where exhibits showcase gold and historical mining equipment, and more. Follow it up with a tour of the restored portions of the underground mine tunnels including the restored ore-crushing stamp mill. Enjoy walking trails and the picnic area, and be sure to try your hand at panning for gold! Kids will love this!

After all the fun, commemorate your trip with one of our North Carolina Gift baskets. We also have a variety of Southern gift baskets, to enjoy along the way.

Reid's, is all about Southern hospitality: Charlotte's hometown specialty food store and favorite culinary destination.