North Carolina

From the mighty mountains in the west to the ethereal islands lining the Atlantic coast, North Carolina has limitless opportunities for outdoor adventures, matched with the dynamic cities of Raleigh, Charlotte, Durham and Asheville.

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Erica Jackson Curran | Sep 15, 2026
How to Drive All of the Blue Ridge Parkway in 5 Days
Caroline Eubanks | Jan 28, 2026
13 Best Places to Visit in North Carolina
Caroline Eubanks | Sep 2, 2025
North Carolina’s 7 Best Hikes for Waterfalls, Fall Foliage and Mountain Views
Lonely Planet Editors | Apr 16, 2025
See the Best of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and More on This Road Trip

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Top places to visit in North Carolina

Discover the best attractions in North Carolina from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.

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Attraction in Asheville
Biltmore Estate
Attraction in Charlotte
Sullenberger Aviation Museum
Attraction in Asheville
Asheville Art Museum
Attraction in North Carolina
North Carolina Museum of Art
Attraction in North Carolina
Chimney Rock Park
Attraction in North Carolina
Duke Lemur Center
Attraction in North Carolina
Lifeguarded Beach
Attraction in Charlotte
Mint Museum Randolph

Travel Guides

North Carolina travel tips from Lonely Planet experts

Find practical guidance from our team of contributors around the world who bring their decades of first-hand travel experience to your next trip.

Best Things to Do

From edgy street art to quiet strolls at the Tanger Family Bicentennial Garden, Greensboro, North Carolina offers a slew of fun activities for everyone.

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Free Things to Do

Exploring the gorgeous state of North Carolina doesn't have to break the bank. Here are out favorite free activities, from the mountains to the coast.

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Best Road Trips

While it’s possible to explore by bus or train, there’s nothing quite like navigating the Tar Heel State's curving roads from behind the wheel of a car.

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