7 Underrated Small Towns to Explore in North Carolina

North Carolina is an under-appreciated gem of a travel destination on the East Coast of the United States. With its lush, mountainous interior to the west of the state to the temperate, beach-lined Atlantic coast to the east, one does not have to stray far to find natural beauty here. On top of that, North Carolina is built up of a collection of cities and towns that are full of a southern charm that you don’t normally find in many coastal areas.

Today, let’s take a deeper look at 7 of the most underrated small towns in the Tar Heel State that will certainly broaden your enjoyment and understanding of this wonderful place and give you some unique ideas for your next road trip here.

Brevard

Brevard is located on the far western side of North Carolina and is regarded as a gateway to the famed Pisgah National Forest, which is known for its lush interior wildlands and numerous waterfalls. The nearby Looking Glass Falls, for example, is a popular spot for visitors looking for beautiful landscape photos and a refreshing dip on a hot day.

Brevard’s downtown area, although small, has all the amenities one may need on a stop here. One popular spot is the Oskar Blues Brewery, a fun locale to grab a cold, locally-produced, beverage in. For more entertainment, the Brevard Music Center is a scenic venue to catch an outdoor show. Historical landmarks like the Transylvania County Courthouse and the many historic homes along Main Street give a detailed look into the town’s past.

The annual White Squirrel Festival, celebrating the town’s unique albino squirrels, is a whimsical event to take part in for those on the lookout for an obscure cultural outing.

Statesville

Looking for a quiet town to retreat to outside of Charlotte? Located less than an hour north of the city, Statesville might be just the place for you. With a modest population of less than 30,000 residents, this underrated town has much to see and do in and around it, with a number of museums and other landmarks downtown and the picturesque Lake Norman located nearby.

The Academy Hill Historic District is well-known for its Victorian-era architecture, among many other historic buildings that are registered on the National Register of Historic Sites. Furthermore, the Iredell Museums, located right in the center of town, regularly showcases exhibits based on local interests and artists from the region.

If you’re in the area during the winter holidays, definitely stop by to check out the annual Statesville Christmas Parade, where the entire dowtown area dresses up to match the spirit of the season.

Elkin

Elkin, situated in the Yadkin Valley, is an ideal town to stop in in North Carolina’s underrated wine country. This town’s location along the Yadkin River also makes it a sought-after destination for outdoor adventures, with its abundant fishing, kayaking, and hiking spots. Nearby, the Stone Mountain State Park also features extensive hiking trails many including rewarding viewpoints looking over the surrounding area.

The local wineries and vineyards, including the Elkin Creek Vineyard, exemplify this ideal grape-growing region. This family-owned winery is celebrated for its beautiful countryside setting and more importantly, its fine wines. Other popular nearby wineries include Piccione Vineyards and Grassy Creek Vineyard & Winery.

Be sure to pay a visit to the historic Reeves Theater, a beautifully restored venue that regularly hosts film screenings and live performances.

Southport

Southport sits on the southeastern coast and is conveniently located near the city of Wilmington. This charming beach town sits on the banks of the Cape Fear River and is in close proximity to a good selection of parks and other natural reserves.

Southport’s waterfront is often the main point of interest. Visitors can enjoy walks along the docks, where several eateries serving fresh seafood can also be found. Oliver’s on the Cape Fear and Provision Company are highly rated choices, with options closer to the heart of dowtown including Moore Street Oyster Bar and Blue Cow Grille.

Southport is also home to several historic sites, including the Fort Johnston Museum, which explores the area’s military and maritime significance dating back to the town’s founding in 1792.

The neighboring Oak Island offers additional ways to explore the coast with its beautiful beaches and the Oak Island Lighthouse, another notable landmark from the past.

Mount Airy

Mount Airy, often recognized as the inspiration for the fictional town of Mayberry on The Andy Griffith Show, is a true window into small-town Americana. Many visitors to Mount Airy opt to explore the Andy Griffith Museum, which celebrates the life and career of the beloved actor and his connection to this town.

Many also come here for its nearby parks and wildlands. The nearby Blue Ridge Mountains, a part of the great Appalachian Mountain range, contain many outdoor activities, such as hiking and camping, and for those who don’t wish to leave the comfort of their car, some of the most scenic drives in the country. Pilot Mountain State Park, a short drive from town, is also renowned for its unique yet wonderful rock formations, each carved by the powers of wind and water over millennia.

Historic sites in and around Mount Airy, like the Old North State Winery (housed in a mercantile from 1890) and the Mount Airy Museum of Regional History (just across the street from the former), will lay out additional info about the area via exhibits and guided tours.

Marion

Marion is another town that gives easy access to the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, a popular natural landmark nearby being the Linville Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the United States.

Marion’s dowtown area is worth at least a bit of exploration too, with several notable historic sites to be found within it. The McDowell County Courthouse, built in 1927, stands as a prominent landmark. The local Marion Historic District is also home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries housed in well-preserved buildings. Marion also hosts the annual Marion Firemen’s Fair, a local tradition that features rides, games, and food, making it a good place to bring the whole family.

The nearby Catawba River is another highlight for outdoor enthusiasts. It is a place where canoeing, riverside picnics, and hiking are popular activities for residents and visitors alike.

New Bern

Founded in 1710 New Bern is one of North Carolina’s oldest towns, on top of being an absolute coastal delight. Situated at the confluence of the Neuse and Trent Rivers, New Bern is well known for its boat docks and access to other water-based activities.

Given its age, this town is full of historic landmarks for you to explore. For one, the Tryon Palace, a reconstruction of the former British Governor’s opulent residence, now contains a museum and regularly scheduled guided tours. Its grounds are also well known for its vast gardens, making it a perfect place for an afternoon walk. The nearby New Bern Firemen’s Museum will provide you with deep insight into the town’s longstanding firefighting department, a spot that certainly appeals to history buffs and families alike.

New Bern is also known as the birthplace of Pepsi-Cola, and visitors can explore the original pharmacy where the famous drink was first created. Grab a cold one this summer!

See another Side of South North Carolina

From sea to summit and everything in between, these underrated small towns in North Carolina make perfect stops for any road trip throughout the state. Whether you seek to hike the vast Blue Ridge Mountains or simply lounge on a beach by the ocean, there are several great options for all interests. Better yet, all the destinations mentioned here are filled with intriguing history and people who continue to preserve traditions that date back to the very founding of the country. Be sure to explore all corners of the welcoming Tar Heel State if you’re in the area!