North Carolina
10 Prettiest Towns to Visit in North Carolina
North Carolina’s prettiest small towns are a delightful blend of historic communities, forested retreats, and tranquil fishing villages. The state’s beauty is rooted in its diverse cultural heritage and well-preserved architecture that invites you to step back in time. From the historic allure of Bath, where tales of settlers and pirates linger, to the rugged, mountainous charm of Banner Elk, these picturesque towns showcase North Carolina’s rich history and natural beauty, making them ideal destinations for scenic trips or peaceful overnight escapes.
Beaufort
The small town of Beaufort consistently ranks on almost every list of the best small towns to visit in North Carolina and is best recognized among locals as a historic fishing village. It was one of the locations famous early pirates of the area used as a base, thanks to its strategic location along the Atlantic waters. The beauty of Beaufort extends from its sailboat docks to its boardwalk and verdant streets lined with 18th-century architecture. Visitors to Beaufort can experience the best of both worlds, with a lively community scene and easy access to nearby natural preserves for those seeking adventure. Popular attractions include the Rachel Carson Reserve, Fort Macon State Park, and the beautiful coastal landscapes along Beaufort’s sandy shores. The town also offers family-friendly activities and unique opportunities such as diving, parasailing, horseback riding, and more, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and excitement. Top-rated tours for a memorable trip to Beaufort include Shackleford Banks Shelling & Wild Horse Expedition, Beaufort Pirate’s Revenge, and Beaufort Parasail on Front Street.
Blowing Rock
Blowing Rock is one of the most scenic escapes for those looking for a balanced natural and community-centric escape. Named after the unique rock and adventure hiking paths like the Grandfather Mountain Bridge, they attract hikers from all over. The variety of small family-owned businesses that are often disguised as old residential buildings is also a significant part of the community experience in Blowing Rock. Iconic businesses like Take Heart gift shop on Main St and The Village Cafe. A visit to the scenic town of Blowing Rock can be spent staying in the town’s many cabin options or more historic stays like Chetola Resort or the Victorian Inn. Panoramic natural vistas are also a must-see when exploring the town’s beauty, with one of the most notable scenic spots being the Yadkin Valley Overlook.
Bath
Bath, renowned for its rich history and museums, is a must-visit small town that exemplifies the beauty of historical significance. As one of the most popular towns in North Carolina, Bath holds the distinction of being the oldest European settlement in the state, founded in 1705. History enthusiasts and those eager to delve into America’s early days will find a wealth of experiences in Bath. The town is home to the Palmer-Marsh House, a well-preserved residence filled with artifacts and memorials from the colonial period, and the Bonner House, which dates back to 1830 and offers a glimpse into 19th-century life. Visitors can further immerse themselves in Bath’s history by taking a self-guided tour through its historic downtown, which features notable stops like North Carolina’s first port, the state’s first library, and St. Thomas Episcopal Church, one of the earliest-built structures in the area, dating back to 1734. Whether exploring the town’s roots or enjoying its charming ambiance, Bath provides a deeply enriching historical experience enhanced by its serene waterfront setting.
New Bern
New Bern stands out as one of North Carolina’s culturally diverse small towns, celebrated for its preservation of the values, architectural designs, and culture of its early settlers. First discovered by Swiss and German explorers, New Bern also boasts a rich history serving as the state capital from 1770 to 1792. The town is home to well-preserved homes and government buildings, including Tryon Palace, which served as North Carolina’s first Capitol, and the castle-like Blades House, each reflecting the beauty and diverse European influence that shapes this historic town. Adding to New Bern’s beauty is a collection of over 50 bear statues that dot the town, making for an exciting self-guided exploration of the town. A visit to New Bern is particularly heartwarming due to its blend of natural beauty and community charm, enhanced by small businesses, statues, and floral decor that dot the town’s central streets during warmer seasons.
Southport
The beauty of Southport is in its experiential element, adorned with Victorian homes, historic attractions, and a peaceful waterfront setting. Nicknamed “The Happiest Seaside Town,” Southport’s charm is known worldwide, having been the filming location for several Hollywood movies, including scenes from the romantic film Safe Haven and the 1986 drama Crimes of the Heart. Southport is a charming coastal town known for its historic waterfront and picturesque streets. The town’s idyllic setting at the mouth of the Cape Fear River provides stunning views of the water, making it the perfect overnight, scenic, romantic escape enhanced with a vibrant culinary scene. Some of the most popular dining spots in town include Oliver’s on the Cape Fear, Edgewater 122, and Eric’s Grille near Smithville District Park. For a well-rounded experience in Southport, visitors can stay in some of the town’s oldest iconic stays like Captain Newton’s Inn and LaPolena Bed & Breakfast.
Edenton
Edenton is one of the prettiest towns, offering a peaceful, natural escape from bustling cities and crowds. This charming small town draws adventurers with its abundance of water recreation and outdoor activities, including camping, picnicking, and more. Visitors can explore picturesque spots like the 18th-century Barker House, take a leisurely stroll along the Edenton Bay waterfront, or enjoy a peaceful picnic at Colonial Park. For history buffs, the Edenton Historic District showcases beautifully preserved colonial homes and structures that offer a fascinating glimpse into the past. Edenton’s quaint charm and historical significance make it a must-visit destination. Some of the town’s most scenic camping spots include Rocky Hock Campground and Pembroke Creek Park, a local favorite for fishing and family-friendly outdoor fun. Visitors can also enjoy a historically immersive stay in town, with top-rated lodging options such as Captain’s Quarters Inn and the 1904-built Inner Banks Inn. The best time to visit Edenton is during its annual events, including the lively Edenton Music and Water Festival, the Chowan County Regional Fair, and the festive Christmas Extravaganza and Flotilla.
Banner Elk
Banner Elk adds an upscale twist to the typical North Carolina getaway with world-class dining and cozy cabin rentals, making it one of the state’s most romantic destinations. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the town comes alive during the winter ski season, offering a lively atmosphere with unique art displays and charming small businesses. While its small-town charm and eclectic dining are part of the allure, Banner Elk also boasts a peaceful countryside vibe, with highlights such as self-guided wine tours and family-friendly farm visits. Top-rated art spots like the Art Cellar Gallery and It’s All About the Art add to the town’s beauty, while popular tasting rooms and vineyards, including Grandfather Vineyard and Eagles Nest Winery, offer delightful experiences. No visit to Banner Elk is complete without indulging in its extensive variety of dining options. From the elevated Southern cuisine at Artisanal Restaurant to fine American BBQ at The Pedalin’ Pig, the town’s culinary scene offers something for every palate. Visiting during annual events enhances any trip to Banner Elk, with notable community gatherings like the Art on the Greene festival, which showcases local talent, or enjoying live music surrounded by nature at the Eagles Nest Amphitheater.
Tryon
Tryon is a charming town celebrated for its scenic beauty, equestrian heritage, and agricultural roots, offering a peaceful escape into North Carolina’s countryside life. Known for its slow-paced lifestyle, Tryon combines a thriving business community with distinctive attractions like the Tryon International Equestrian Center, which attracts horse enthusiasts from all over the state. Situated near the South Carolina border, Tryon’s natural appeal is complimented by a walkable central shopping district, with family-owned shops like The Nest Artisan Market lining Trade Street, providing a tranquil experience far from the hustle and bustle of city life. For adventure seekers, Mountain Brook Vineyards offers breathtaking panoramic views, while a hike to Pearson’s Falls, a stunning 90-foot waterfall, rewards explorers and nature lovers with a jaw-dropping sight. Tryon also hosts vibrant events that bring the community together, such as the Block House Steeplechase in April and the Summer Tracks concert series from June to August at Roger Park’s Amphitheater.
Hillsborough
Hillsborough is a beautiful town known for its historic charm, with over 100 homes listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s also a small community perfect for a quick countryside escape, offering U-pick farms like Eno River Farm with its strawberry patches. Visitors can also discover quirky local attractions such as Ayr Mount, once considered one of North Carolina’s finest residential structures. Unique experiences in Hillsborough are highlighted by natural attractions like The Great Indian Trading Path and the site of the Occaneechi farming village, excavated by UNC in the 1980s and now featured along the scenic Riverwalk. Whether wandering through the town’s historic streets and admiring its architecture or enjoying the agricultural offerings, visitors are recommended to complete their experience by stopping at some of the town’s top dining spots. Notable options include the Wooden Nickel and Saratoga Grill, both offering a traditional taste of the local dining scene.
Hot Springs
Finally, Hot Springs ranks as one of the prettiest small towns in North Carolina for being a natural wellness retreat and relaxing small-town getaway. Home to some of the state’s best natural attractions, this hidden gem offers breathtaking views, including the famous Lover’s Leap, renowned for its panoramic vistas of downtown and the surrounding landscape. During the warmer months, visitors can enjoy water activities such as whitewater rafting, fishing, and more, while the warm mineral water springs remain a year-round draw. The relaxing Hot Springs Resort & Spa attracts thousands of visitors from across the state annually. Beyond the spas and wellness centers, the town’s natural beauty extends into lush forests and parks, such as Pisgah National Forest and the nearby Rich Laurel Wildlife Area, offering outdoor enthusiasts both scenic beauty and challenging adventures.
Ultimately, the prettiest small towns in North Carolina are a blend of historic communities, wellness retreats, and secluded natural escapes. Whether you’re looking to lose yourself in the untouched beauty of the mountains, soak in the rich history of the state’s oldest settlements, or enjoy the vibrant charm of quaint waterfront villages, plan your visit to the lesser-known but culturally rich, pretty small towns in North Carolina for an unforgettable small town trip.
ELLERBE, N.C.. (AP) — Andre The Giant, a towering menace in the wrestling ring but a gentle giant on the movie screen, is being honored with a roadside marker in his beloved adopted small town in North Carolina.
Officials plan to unveil the marker Thursday in Ellerbe, North Carolina, a community of about 1,000 people where the wrestler born Andre Rene Roussimoff lived on a ranch just outside town.
Andre was billed at 7-foot-4 (2.24 meters) and 520 pounds (236 kilograms) during his time wrestling for the WWE in the 1970s and 1980s.
A larger than life villain, Roussimoff was touted as unbeatable until he faced Hulk Hogan in a match in 1987 at WrestleMania III that launched the once regional wrestling company into a nationwide entertainment force.
Later that year, Roussimoff appeared on film as the giant Fezzik in “The Princess Bride.” Fezzik was the gentle-hearted muscle for the antagonist and needed rhymes to remember his instructions.
Roussimoff was born in France. But as he wrestled around the U.S. South he fell in love with the region, buying his North Carolina ranch and raising cattle on his land about 60 miles (97 kilometers) east of Charlotte.
He became a critical part of the Ellerbe community. In 1990, he taped TV and radio spots against a possible low-level radioactive landfill nearby. A pair of his size-26 cowboy boots are kept at a museum.
Roussimoff died in 1993 at age 46 in France where he was visiting for his father’s funeral. They had a service for him there, but his body was cremated and his ashes spread at his beloved ranch.
The Richmond County marker at NC Highway 72 and Old NC Highway 220 simply says “Andre The Giant. 1946-1993. Actor and professional wrestler. Was born Andre Roussimoff. Known for role in The Princess Bride in 1987. Lived nearby.”
North Carolina
NC State’s 2026 Atlantic hurricane forecast calls for an average season with 12 to 15 named storms
North Carolina State University is calling for a fairly average 2026 Atlantic hurricane season similar to recent years.
Researchers predict:
- 12 to 15 named storms (the average between 1994 to 2025 is 15 storms)
- 6 to 9 hurricanes (the average between 1994 to 2025 is 7 storms)
- 2 to 3 major hurricanes (the average between 1994 to 2025 is 4 storms)
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to Nov. 30. Look for WRAL’s hurricane season outlook airing May 18.
NC State’s forecast was released on Wednesday by Lian Xie, a professor of marine, earth and atmospheric sciences.
Xie and researchers are calling for 1-3 named storms and 1-2 hurricanes in the Caribbean Sea (slightly below recent averages) and 2-5 named storms and 1-2 hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico (near recent averages).
Researchers at Colorado State University released their Atlantic hurricane season outlook earlier this month, pointing to a slightly below-normal year ahead and calling for 13 named storms, six hurricanes and two major hurricanes.
A top North Carolina lawmaker who suffered a stunning upset in his primary election last month spoke publicly about the result Tuesday, blaming the loss on political opponents across the aisle.
North Carolina Senate leader Phil Berger — who has led the chamber since 2011 — lost the Republican primary for his seat to Rockingham County Sheriff Sam Page by 23 votes, one of the closest elections in state history. Berger conceded defeat in a March 24 statement after a machine recount and partial hand recount yielded no change in Page’s lead.
Berger discussed the experience with reporters Tuesday after lawmakers convened for a short legislative session in Raleigh. Asked what message voters sent him in the primary, Berger said: “Democrats like to vote in some Republican primaries. That’s the message.”
Berger didn’t elaborate on his explanation. Registered Democrats are only allowed to take Democratic ballots in primary elections. But unaffiliated voters are allowed to participate in a party primary of their choice. Berger didn’t suggest changes to that law, but he mentioned possible examination of other election laws.
He said lawmakers should reconsider the number of days North Carolina allows for early voting in primaries. In-person early voting started on Feb. 12 and ended Feb. 28.
“Seventeen days of early voting just seemed pretty excessive and it really stresses the local boards of elections,” Berger said. Some county election boards struggle to find daily staffing for all of their voting sites in the early voting period, he said.
Minority Leader Sydney Batch, D-Wake, called Berger’s comments “an insult to his district and an affront to our democracy.”
“The voters sent him a clear message,” Batch said. “It’s time he accept it and get back to work to finish the job he still has, while he still has it. Pass a budget.”
State lawmakers haven’t adopted a comprehensive state budget since 2023. They were expected to do so last year, but Berger and Republican House Speaker Destin Hall have been at odds over a range of issues, including tax policy, Medicaid funding, and other line items affecting billions of dollars in state funding.
Berger said Tuesday that he and Hall were on the verge of a spending agreement for Medicaid, the government-funded health insurer for people who are young, impoverished or disabled. Republican legislators plan to approve Democratic Gov. Josh Stein’s $319 Medicaid request, while adding guardrails and oversight measures to prevent fraud and waste.
To strike the deal, Berger said Tuesday that he had agreed to postpone discussions about funding for a massive new children’s hospital. The 2023 budget authorized about $320 million over three fiscal years for North Carolina Children’s Health — a partnership between UNC Health and Duke Health — to open in Apex in 2032. About $216 million has already been spent. Hall has said his caucus wants to reconsider the final installment of funds, about $103 million, while Berger has called on House leaders to release the money.
“We’ve agreed to move the discussion of whether or not the House is going to honor the agreement they made in 2023 to the full budget discussion,” Berger said Tuesday.
Earlier Tuesday, Hall told reporters that progress had been made on negotiating children’s hospital funding.
“It’s not resolved yet,” Hall said. “I think there’s some questions about how much more money it’s going to need exactly in order to be a viable project. And so, you know, those discussions continue.”
Those budget negotiations are ongoing, but Berger said recent conversations have given him reason to be optimistic. “We’re having conversations,” he said. “They are substantive. They haven’t gotten us to an agreement yet, but we are continuing to talk, continuing to exchange ideas,” Berger said.
Hall described budget talks similarly: “The trajectory is good [enough] to where we’re very likely to get a budget done, hopefully sooner rather than later.”
Berger said that, in the final months of his term, he wants to focus on policies that make North Carolina a top destination for businesses.
“I’d like to continue the progress that we’ve made over the years in making North Carolina number one state for business and making North Carolina a competitive state in terms of our tax climate and our regulatory climate,” Berger said, adding that he wants to boost education funding as well.
Addressing property taxes
House and Senate Republicans are also offering separate proposals for limiting property taxes in North Carolina.
House Republicans are pursuing a constitutional amendment that would give the state more control over how much cities and counties can raise property taxes. On Tuesday, Berger said he doesn’t think there’s a consensus on the proposed amendment and noted that it would take several months to enact into law. Voters must approve constitutional amendments at the polls in order for them to become law.
“It’s a start that we can look at,” Berger said of the proposed constitutional amendment. “But that, by itself, would not actually go into effect until after the voters approve it, if they approve it, and then the legislature actually passes some sort of legislation.”
Berger said he plans to introduce a bill that freezes municipal property tax revaluations for 12 months while legislators study the issue further.
“We’ve got to do something,” Berger said. “I just don’t know that there’s consensus as to what that something is.
“The best thing that we can do at this point is just call a timeout and give the legislature an opportunity to try to review whatever proposals might be out there.”
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