From the misty peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the breezy shores of the Atlantic Ocean, North Carolina is full of places where history, nature, and Southern hospitality come together. Throughout the Tar Heel State, you will find charming small towns where the magic really comes alive. Whether you are exploring the waterfront town of Southport, where fishing boats and oak-lined trees set the scene, or breathing in the mountain air in Bryson City, each of these nine towns invites you to slow down, explore, and discover the best North Carolina offers.
Highlands
Highlands is in the southwestern part of the state, not far from the borders of Georgia and South Carolina. With an elevation of over 4,100 feet, it is one of the highest towns east of the Mississippi River and has plenty to explore. Outdoor adventurers will love visiting Dry Falls in the Nantahala National Forest. A paved trail leads to the 80-foot waterfall, which curves behind the falls, where you can walk behind it without getting wet. After an early morning hike to the falls, head for brunch at the Blue Bike Cafe. Split a basket of the housemade biscuits, get your sugar fill with a smores pancake, or keep it lighter with avocado toast. Whatever you choose, remember that the restaurant closes at 3:00 pm. Get in touch with your artsy side while in Highlands with a visit to the Bascom Center for the Visual Arts. Sitting on a former horse farm, the venue is part museum, with its rotating artistic exhibitions, and part education center, with classes and workshops, where you can learn skills like drawing and woodturning. The center also hosts a Holiday Market in November and December, where you can shop for locally made goods that make perfect gifts.