There are several things to do in North Carolina that a four-day trip will prove to be insufficient for you to enjoy all the adventures you can do. Nevertheless, if four days is all you have to spend in this amazing state, make sure that you make the most out of it. This article lists down some of the coolest things that you can do on your four-day trip to North Carolina.
Museum of Natural Sciences
During your four-day trip to North Carolina, make sure to visit its capital state Raleigh, because this is where you will find the most popular attraction, which is the Museum of Natural Sciences. This is one of the most awesome things to do in Raleigh because you get to enjoy not only fascinating and educational exhibits, but also get to indulge in a menu of delectable culinary goodies. When you do visit this museum, it is better if you get a guided tour to ensure that you don’t miss out on its awe-inspiring exhibits. From this museum, you can then take a 15-minute drive to head to the William B. Umstead State Park where you will get to enjoy some outdoor fun and recreation.
Mount Mitchell State Park
Mount Mitchell is the highest point in America east of the Mississippi, spanning 6,684 feet in elevation at its summit. The park surrounding the region of this mountain can be considered to be one of the most spectacular ones. To reach the state park, you can drive to the summit via the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. You only need to follow the mountain road to the observation deck. When you reach the deck, you will get to enjoy a spectacular 360-degree view of the park and surrounding peaks in the area. There is also the option for you to hike to the summit instead, choosing from different treks with varying lengths and difficulties.
Great Smoky Mountain National Park
In case you are fond of the natural beauty of the outdoors, then include a visit to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park in your itinerary when you go to North Carolina. In the entire United States, this national park is one of the most popular ones. Perhaps this can be attributed to the lush green trees, abundant wildlife, and truly majestic mountains that you can find there. Thereby, if you want to see some of the most captivating scenery in the country, then prepare yourself for some hiking adventure in this park.
Chimney Rock
There are plenty of shops, hotels, restaurants, and bars in the small quirky town of Chimney Rock Village. The best attraction in this town though is the Chimney Rock State Park which is pretty easy to find because it is located right on Main Street in the village’s town. In this state park, you will get to enjoy an awesome view of amazing rock formations. You can also try rock climbing or even hiking to the top of Chimney Rock where you will have a good view of nearby Lake Lure and the surrounding area. In case you are not much of a hiker though, you can still enjoy the same view by riding a lift located inside the mountain.
Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill is one of the most popular destinations for tourists in North Carolina and there is no reason for you to pass up visiting this place. It has everything that you need, from restaurants to family activities, as well as the music scene, parks, and museums. For instance, you can visit the Ackland Art Museum and appreciate a collection of art pieces from all over the world. You can also visit the North Carolina Botanical Garden where you will be able to find luscious and fragrant roses. A day trip to Chapel Hill will not be complete without a visit to the Weaver Street Market where you are not limited to shopping, but your gastric cravings will be fulfilled as well.
Atlantic Beach
Located on the barrier island of Bogue Banks in North Carolina’s Outer Banks, the Atlantic Beach is nationally recognized as one of the best in the region. Apart from spending a relaxing time at the shore, you also have a multitude of activities to choose from in this area. For instance, you can go exploring various state parks and attractions that will allow you to indulge in scenic views that offer a combination of history, nature, fun, and adventure. In this case, you can try to take a boat ride to Cape Lookout National Seashore where you will get to visit a lighthouse. From there, you can watch wild horses on the beaches.
The places listed above are only some of the best ones that you should not miss out on during your four-day trip or weekend getaway in North Carolina. There are other places that you need to check out such as Asheville, which is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, as well as Carolina Beach where you can get to enjoy some of the coolest beach activities, particularly during the summer. You can also make day trips to New Bern which is located near the coast of North Carolina or go to Fayetteville, which is near the military base of Fort Bragg. The key is in planning you’re itinerary accordingly and in case you miss doing some other amazing things in this state, there is always the option for you to go back.
Bryson City
If you are an outdoor enthusiast, then make sure to include a visit to Bryson City in your itinerary. Here, you will find lots of options for hiking mountains or swimming in the ocean. This city is just hours away from Asheville and it is worth taking a day trip for, particularly if you love to kayak or use a raft to navigate the rapids of the Nantahala River. You can even head to the famous Tsali trails if you want to experience horseback riding, biking, or simply hiking. There is also the option for you to spend a peaceful and quiet time fishing on Fontana Lake.