4 Star Places To Visit in North Carolina, United States (50)

1. 4.5 Biltmore (27.4k reviews)
   - Not Just a Mansion; It's an Immense Estate with Something for Everyone
   Spent More than 3 hours Historic Sites • History Museums
   
   
   This historic country estate in Asheville spans 8,000 acres and is centered on America's largest private home, the Biltmore House. Besides touring the lavish Châteauesque-style mansion and admiring its architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens, you can also book a stay at the estate's hotel, inn or cottages. Start the morning with a massage at the estate’s spa, go shopping at Antler Hill Village, tackle a hiking trail, and wind down with a meal and a glass of red at the restaurant and winery. If you’re visiting during the holiday season, the Candlelight Christmas tour is one of Biltmore’s must-dos. – Tripadvisor See more..
   
2. 4.5 Wright Brothers National Memorial (4.361 reviews)
   - Beautiful day for a walk in history
   Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • History Museums
   
   
   Park where visitors can see a replica of the Wright Brothers' plane and receive an entertaining history of flight. See more..
   
3. 4.0 Casino at Harrah’s Cherokee (4.035 reviews)
   - Blackjack conditions at the Casino
   Casinos
   
   
   A popular all-video gambling center. See more..
   
4. 4.5 Battleship North Carolina (3.571 reviews)
   - A time machine into the life of WWII in the USN
   Saturday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Ships
   
   
   As you walk the decks of the NORTH CAROLINA, imagine yourself in the South Pacific during WWII searching the sky for enemy aircraft, anticipating what may happen next. Step aboard the most decorated US Battleship of WWII! Explore nine decks, crew's quarters, gun turrets, and much more. Discover where history comes alive. Located at the junctions of highways 17, 76, 74, 421 on the Cape Fear River across from historic downtown Wilmington. Open every day! See more..
   
5. 4.0 Carowinds (3.448 reviews)
   - Day at the Park
   Saturday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Amusement & Theme Parks
   
   
   A mecca of family fun, this 105-acre theme/water park features rides that thrill and live entertainment. See more..
   
6. 4.5 The North Carolina Arboretum (2.762 reviews)
   - Wonderful day
   Saturday: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours National Parks • Gardens
   
   
   Nestled in the Southern Appalachian Mountains just south of Asheville, The North Carolina Arboretum offers acres of cultivated gardens and groomed trails featuring some of the most beautiful, botanically-diverse plants in the region. See more..
   
7. 4.5 Cape Hatteras Lighthouse (2.613 reviews)
   - Great history on the Outer Banks
   Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • Lighthouses
   
   
   The nation's tallest lighthouse was moved to a different location to preserve it. See more..
   
8. 4.5 Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park (2.601 reviews)
   - Great place to visit along with seeing Lake Lure
   Saturday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas • Lookouts • Hiking Trails
   
   
   Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park is an international outdoor destination in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western NC, attracting visitors from around the world. Highlights include:- 75-mile panoramic views overlooking Lake Lure- 404-foot waterfall, one of the highest of its kind east of the Mississippi River- The Last of the Mohicans scenes were filmed here- ancient geologic formations- 198-foot tunnel & elevator inside the mountain- six scenic hiking trails- guided rock climbing & more The Park's modernized elevator offers a handicap-accessible 35-sec. ride to the iconic Chimney, an alternative to "nature's Ultimate Stairmaster," the Outcroppings trail. Chimney Rock has something for everyone from the family-friendly Great Woodland Adventure trail to the stunning Skyline trail to Exclamation Point. Recognized as one of the Southeast’s most iconic outdoor attractions, Chimney Rock is located 25 miles southeast of Asheville on Highway 64/74A in Chimney Rock, NC See more..
   
9. 4.5 NASCAR Hall of Fame (2.454 reviews)
   - Vroom, Vroom…
   Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums
   
   
   The NASCAR Hall of Fame is where legends live on. Where fun lives on. Where the race lives on. Enjoy amazing artifacts, interactive exhibits, simulator rides and special events at the High Octane Theater. Plus, you can grab a bite to eat in the NASCAR Hall of Fame Café or at the Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant. You also can take home a souvenir at the gift shop to help you remember it all. See more..
   
10. 4.5 North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences (2.318 reviews)
    - A treasure
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Natural History Museums • Science Museums
    
    
    The Southeast's largest natural history museum features dinosaurs, whale skeletons, live animals, walk-through dioramas, special exhibits, hands-on science education and accessible scientists. IMLS National Medal Finalist, 2014. See more..
    
11. 4.5 Jockey's Ridge State Park (2.303 reviews)
    - Highlight of our trip!
    Saturday: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM State Parks • Parks • Geologic Formations
    
    
    Two of the highest sand dunes on the East Coast are located here, providing excellent take-off points for hang gliders. See more..
    
12. 4.5 Currituck Beach Lighthouse (2.249 reviews)
    - Currituck Lighthouse is a Great Climb
    Closed now - 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality Museums • Lighthouses
    
    
    Open daily for climbing 9a-5pm, weather permitting through December 1. Climb the 220 steps to the top for a breathtaking view while learning from docents, brochures, and exhibits about shipwrecks, the lives of lighthouse keepers, the history and national significance of the tower (it filled the last remaining dark space on the east coast in 1875) and the tower's original 1st order Fresnel lens. The beacon continues to be an active aid to navigation (3 seconds on, 17 off). The station is preservation effort of the Outer Banks Conservationists along with the State of NC and the USCG through the NHLHP Act of 2000. $12/person (card or cash); admission paid at tower. No online or advance reservations available. Climbers ages 4 welcome. Dogs on leashes welcome on grounds. Drones and drone operators must stay outside fenceline. See more..
    
13. 4.5 Grandfather Mountain (2.203 reviews)
    - Mile High Views
    Mountains • Nature & Wildlife Areas
    
    
    Grandfather Mountain’s pristine scenery and sweeping vistas rejuvenate mind and spirit. At an elevation of 5,946 feet, Grandfather is recognized as one of the world’s most diverse nature preserves. Be exhilarated by the altitude and panoramic views from the Mile High Swinging Bridge; stand eye-to-eye with bears, cougars and otters in natural habitats. Dine in the restaurant or find a scenic picnic spot, browse the nature museum, wander the trails, go behind the scenes of the animal habitats, visit with knowledgeable naturalists, and stop for a treat at the fudge shop. Fill your day with family memories at place where wonders never cease. See more..
    
14. 4.5 Bodie Island Lighthouse (2.153 reviews)
    - Plan ahead because this can’t be missed.
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM Lighthouses
    
    
    An interesting and still important lighthouse that can be visited but not climbed. (NOTE: The lighthouse is currently under construction, and is expected to re-open in summer 2013, with the ability to be climbed for the first time) See more..
    
15. 4.5 North Carolina Museum of Art (1.827 reviews)
    - Really worth visiting!
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Art Museums
    
    
    One of the leading art museums in the American South, the North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA) recently completed a major, three-year expansion that places it in the front ranks of museums nationwide. The NCMA offers a permanent collection spanning more than 5,000 years, a variety of celebrated exhibitions and public programs, an amphitheater for outdoor performances, and the nation’s largest museum park—164 acres of trails and parkland containing major works of art. See more..
    
16. 4.5 North Carolina Zoo (1.670 reviews)
    - Great zoo!
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Zoos
    
    
    We are excited to welcome you to the Zoo! Tickets can be purchased at the gate on the day of your visit. Face coverings and social distancing are recommended for individuals who are not fully vaccinated. Face coverings are required at the Acacia Station Giraffe Deck. At the North Carolina Zoo, we seek to inspire a lifelong curiosity about wildlife and a passion for protecting it. As the world’s largest natural habitat zoo, the North Carolina Zoo and its dedicated staff of experts provide expansive spaces and world-class care for the more than 1,700 animals here giving our guests the chance to witness the majesty of the wild in the heart of North Carolina. At the same time, our animal experts work tirelessly in the Zoo and around the world to ensure the protection of the world’s most amazing creatures and the places they call home. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. See more..
    
17. 4.5 Museum of the Cherokee Indian (1.563 reviews) from $12.31
    - Room to grow but lovely
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums
    
    
    Tells the history and culture of the Cherokee Indians through displays and modern computer images. Make sure to see our current changing exhibit. See more..
    
18. 4.5 North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island (1.541 reviews)
    - Another gem
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Aquariums
    
    
    The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island was originally founded in 1976 as the North Carolina Marine Resources Center, along with our sister facilities at Pine Knoll Shores and Fort Fisher. In 1986, the three facilities were renamed Aquariums, and we were joined by Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head in 2011. The state of North Carolina owns the Aquariums and Pier, which are administered by the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (NCDNCR). Located on the Outer Banks, three miles north of Manteo on Roanoke Island, the Aquarium is an educational attraction focused on “inspiring appreciation and conservation of our aquatic environments.” The Aquarium is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). See more..
    
19. 4.5 Jennette's Pier (1.496 reviews)
    - Good father/son morning
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Piers & Boardwalks
    
    
    Owned and operated by the North Carolina Aquariums, Jennette's Pier offers ocean fishing, educational programs with camps and fabulous facility rentals in Oceanview Hall. The 1,000-foot long pier is open year-round but hours vary with the seasons. All fishing customers are covered by a blanket fishing license while on the pier. Pick up ice, bait, tackle, drinks, T-shirts, hats, toys and more at the Pier Shop. Large public beach access complete with free parking, bath house and outdoor showers. Help us keep it "clean and green." See more..
    
20. 4.5 Discovery Place Science (1.480 reviews)
    - Don't skip this place!
    Saturday: 10:30 AM - 4:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Speciality Museums • Science Museums • Children's Museums
    
    
    This hands-on science Museum in Uptown Charlotte features exciting interactive exhibitions, the Carolinas' largest IMAX screen and one-of-a-kind Accenture IMAX Dome Theatre and educational programs. And don't forget: We offer summer camps and birthday parties so take advantage of both options before these spaces fill up completely! See more..
    
21. 4.5 Riverwalk (1.437 reviews)
    - Nice Walk on a Nice Fall Day
    Points of Interest & Landmarks
    
    
    Riverwalk is 1.75 miles long. Only about 1/4 mile of it went to the right from our hotel, so we went left. Birds, boats, the old city, views of the battleship USS North Carolina, restaurants and more are what you see on this pleasant stroll along the Cape Fear River. Try not to miss it if you are in Wilmington. See more..
    
22. 4.5 The Folk Art Center (Southern Highland Craft Guild) (1.410 reviews)
    - Remarkable
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Libraries
    
    
    Traditional and contemporary Southern Appalachian crafts, including century-old pieces, are displayed in this Folk Art Center, which also houses the first craft shop of the U.S. See more..
    
23. 4.5 North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher (1.371 reviews)
    - Well worth the visit
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Aquariums
    
    
    Visitors to the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, located in Kure Beach (a short drive from Wilmington), enjoy an exploration of “The Waters of the Cape Fear.” Journey down the Cape Fear River – from freshwater streams and swamps, to coastline habitats, reefs and the open ocean - discovering unique habitats and aquatic wildlife. Meet a rare albino alligator named Luna. Get eye-to-eye with a loggerhead sea turtle. Talk to a SCUBA diver swimming with sharks rays and eels. Compare teeth with a megalodon. Touch sea stars, horseshoe crabs and even sharks! Play outside in the Adventure Reef play area. Feed free-flying tropical birds. Free daily programs include dive presentations, animal feedings and encounters. Explore more with behind-the-scenes tours, outdoor adventures, classes, camps and more. Open 363 days a year, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Days). Tickets available at the door and online. See more..
    
24. 4.0 River Arts District (1.307 reviews)
    - Creativity abounds!
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Art Galleries • Neighborhoods
    
    
    If you like art, buy art, or create art, this district is definitely a must see. Take a day to wander through artists and craftsmen open studios as they create. Many artists took the time to stop their work to talk about it and answer questions about the district. Very genuine and authentic! Make sure to support these artists and buy while you’re there for gifts and yourself. A bonus is the breweries and restaurants close by. See more..
    
25. 4.5 Greensboro Science Center (1.300 reviews)
    - A Good Visit to The Greensboro Science Center
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Science Museums
    
    
    Experience the wonders of an aquarium, science museum, zoological park, and immersive 3D theater all in one attraction! See sharks, penguins, otters, stingrays, a fishing cat and other amazing animals from around the world in the Wiseman Aquarium. Get eye-to-eye with tigers, meerkats, gibbons, lemurs and other unique animals in the Animal Discovery Zoo. Walk among dinosaurs in Prehistoric Passages, experience extreme weather, and have fun in SciPlay Bay in the Museum. Watch amazing 3-D shows that make science come alive in the OmniSphere Theater. See more..
    
26. 4.5 Pullen Park (1.289 reviews)
    - Great oasis in the city
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Parks
    
    
    Richard Stanhope Pullen founded Pullen Park on March 22, 1887. Once farmland, Mr. Pullen donated the land as a gift to the City of Raleigh to be used as parkland. He characterized it as on old cow pasture, red and rocky. He intended this land to be used for the recreation use and pleasure of the inhabitants and the visitors to the City of Raleigh. Through his visions, Pullen Park became the first public park in North Carolina. See more..
    
27. 4.5 Old Salem Museums & Gardens (1.282 reviews)
    - Southern charm
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Historic Sites
    
    
    Old Salem Museums & Gardens is a historic site and museum combating food insecurity and exploring the stories of people, including Moravian, Black, and Indigenous peoples, in the American South. As one of America’s most comprehensive history attractions, our museums—the Historic Town of Salem, the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA), and the Gardens at Old Salem—engage visitors in an educational and memorable historical experience. The Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA) contains the finest collection of its kind in the nation, featuring architecture, furniture, ceramics, metalwork, needlework, paintings, prints, and other decorative arts made and used in the early American South. See more..
    
28. 4.5 Tail of the Dragon (1.238 reviews)
    - Great Drive
    Saturday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks • Scenic Drives • Off-Road & ATV Trails
    
    
    See more..
    
29. 4.5 Basilica of Saint Lawrence (1.217 reviews)
    - Awe inspiring no matter if religious or not. A must see!
    Churches & Cathedrals
    
    
    No matter your religious belief, this is a must see when in Ashville. The architecture and history will amaze you. I am Baptist and felt an enormous sense of awe while there. The "tour guide" was exceptionally knowledgeable. We learned a lot today. It is free, but please leave a donation. They need $15million to repair water damage and leaks. Not an easy task. No one is pressuring you for $ there, but a little tidbit I know. This is history and architecture worth saving. See more..
    
30. 4.5 Mingo Falls (1.211 reviews)
    - Great short hike to beautiful falls
    Waterfalls
    
    
    This is a wonderful hike especially during the fall. We followed the signs as Apple Maps tried to take us in the back narrow road so the signs pointing us in the better direction on the road was a better option. The hike itself is very short and doable for all ages as long as stairs and walking over roots aren’t an issue. Parking was limited, but plenty of places to park along the side of the road. They also have port-a-potties in the parking area. These falls are absolutely stunning and well worth the short venture up to see them. It was decently crowded on Tuesday at 1pm in October, but not so bad it was uncomfortable. We were able to get plenty of photos and stand on the viewing platform at a safe distance from others. Highly recommend stopping by if passing through. See more..
    
31. 4.5 Airlie Gardens (1.122 reviews)
    - Lots of Birds
    Historic Sites
    
    
    I'm a bird watcher. At home I participate in something called Feeder Watch each winter. So this place was for me. I was able to photograph several species I had not seen before. The gardens are large and most of the trails are paved. For our visit, they also were decorated for their Christmas night-time light shows, but tickets - at least for the weekend we were there - were all sold out. As a military retiree me it cost only $5.00 each for not only me, but also my wife. Regular adult admission is $10.00. The only restrooms are at the gift shop/cashier, so beware if you intend to be there for several hours. They are clean. See more..
    
32. 4.5 Marbles Kids Museum (1.112 reviews)
    - What a great find!
    Science Museums • Children's Museums • History Museums
    
    
    Marbles Kids Museum is a hands-on, interactive destination that inspires children to be creative thinkers, active learners and confident individuals in today's world. With five galleries and two outdoor escapes, there is no shortage of activity for kids birth to 12 and their families. The campus also features the Wachovia IMAX Theatre at Marbles Kids Museum. This 267-seat giant-screen experience is the only 3D capable IMAX theatre in North Carolina. See more..
    
33. 4.5 Topsail Island (1.097 reviews)
    - Always Amazing but careful where you book your stay!
    Islands
    
    
    Excellent place to vacation, we go at least once a year and sometimes more! We’ve always enjoyed our stay in an oceanfront home with our entire family and had a wonderful time. Unfortunately we booked (4346 Island Dr) with Treasure Realty in Sneade’s Ferry and the home was in extremely poor condition and unclean. Treasure Realty and its agents minimized our concerns and did not address the unclean condition of our vacation property during our week’s stay and only offered a discount after we filed a complaint with BBB. We chose to refuse their $200 and reserve the right to review the property. Our view was magnificent but you’ll see from the pictures of the property why we chose to spend the majority of our time outside even after all 9 of us thoroughly cleaned what we were able. We’ll definitely go back but won’t use Treasure Realty or book 4346 Isalnd Dr. See more..
    
34. 4.5 Wrightsville Beach (1.079 reviews)
    - Excellent high end well maintained and beautiful NC beach with clear warm water, lots of surfers and lots of families
    Spent More than 3 hours Beaches
    
    
    I got here while staying in Wilmington NC on business from NYC. The beach seems like a very popular place among locals and for many good reasons. It’s very well maintained, cleaned, with lifeguards and piers. The weather was beautiful and I sincerely enjoyed the water as well as all the premium multimillion dollar real wastage beachfront homes around here along South Lumina avenue. A great place to surf or stay at the beach with a family. Highly recommend this place! See more..
    
35. 4.5 Historic District (1.053 reviews)
    - Interesting walk into historic downtown
    Neighborhoods
    
    
    One of the largest districts listed with the National Register of Historical Places. See more..
    
36. 4.5 The Andy Griffith Museum (1.044 reviews)
    - Small but informative
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums
    
    
    Andy Griffith's hometown of Mount Airy, North Carolina is home to the new Andy Griffith Museum. Come see the largest collection of Andy Griffith memorabilia collected by his friend Emmett Forrest. The collection features hundreds of items from the life and career of Andy Griffith in movies, television, and music as well as a variety of memorabilia. There are even actual props from The Andy Griffith Show and Matlock given by Andy Griffith himself. The collection also includes items donated by cast members and actors from The Andy Griffith Show, as well as a special exhibit on the career of actress and current Mount Airy resident Betty Lynn who played Thelma Lou. Admission to the Andy Griffith Museum also includes an exhibit on the Siamese Twins; a photography exhibit "Mount Airy to Mayberry," and the Old-Time Music Heritage Hall at the Historic Earle Theatre, all within walking distance of the museum. The Andy Griffith Museum is open 7 days a week. Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas. See more..
    
37. 4.5 North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores (1.041 reviews)
    - Great experience
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Aquariums
    
    
    Dive into adventure. Take a tour of North Carolina’s aquatic life “from the mountains to the sea.” Talk with divers as they swim with sharks in the Living Shipwreck, featuring a WW II German U-boat replica. Laugh at the antics of playful river otters, touch a stingray or enjoy programs free with admission. Field trips and other activities are available for additional fees. On-site snack bar and gift shop. See more..
    
38. 4.5 The Bank of America Stadium (1.037 reviews)
    - Jet game
    Arenas & Stadiums
    
    
    We came to Charlotte for a long weekend for the Jet game. I liked this stadium. Easy walk from most hotels and the streets are closed off for everyone walking. Very organized and quick easy entrance as long as you have the clear bag meeting NFL standards. We sat in the 300 section club level. While no food/drink is included the climate controlled inside was welcome. It was so hot you needed an escape for a little bit. The food choices though were not a huge variety. Basically Bojangles and burgers and other grab and go items. One thing I remarked on when I saw it was the bottomless soda cup for $8.99, it thought it was ridiculous BUT after sweating in 90 degree heat for a quarter I got it ( instead of paying 5 dollars for a bottle of water) and filled it up four times. (You just go and fill it yourself) Think I would have passed out without it. See more..
    
39. 4.5 Oconaluftee Indian Village (1.015 reviews)
    - Insight into Native American heritage
    Saturday: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Historic Sites
    
    
    A guided tour of the Oconaluftee Indian Village; a replica of a 1750s Cherokee Village. See Cherokees making traditional trades using centuries old techniques. The Village Square Grounds is a place of ceremony where you will learn about traditional songs and dance, our clan system and beliefs. Inside the Village Council House you will learn of our government, family and structure. We welcome you to our home. See more..
    
40. 4.5 Charlotte Motor Speedway (981 reviews)
    - Speedway tour
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Auto Racing Tracks
    
    
    For more than 50 years, Charlotte Motor Speedway has set the standard for motorsports entertainment for fans of all ages.Charlotte Motor Speedway is the only race vacation destination where fans can immerse themselves in the heart of NASCAR country. Visitors can attend one-of-a-kind race spectacles such as the Coca-Cola 600, NASCAR Sprint All- Star Race and Bank of America 500; take behind-the-scenes speedway and race shop tours; explore the new NASCAR Hall of Fame; and drive an 800-horsepower stock car.Charlotte Motor Speedway, zMAX Dragway and The Dirt Track at Charlotte host international NASCAR, NHRA and World of Outlaw events; gigantic AutoFairs, grassroots Legend Car and street legal drag racing, Monster Trucks and one of the world’s largest drive-through holiday light shows, Carolina Christmas. There’s entertainment for every thrill-seeker!Through every event and every decade, Charlotte Motor Speedway puts FANS FIRST with a never-ending commitment to enhance the fan experience. That tradition continues with unmatched value through affordable season tickets, the debut of the world’s largest high-definition television screen and more opportunities for you to see your favorite drivers. Make memories with us at The Greatest Place to See the Race! See more..
    
41. 4.5 Lexington Glassworks (976 reviews)
    - Love watching the process
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Art Galleries
    
    
    Lexington Glassworks, located in the heart of downtown Asheville, NC, was born out of the desire to create timeless and innovative hand-blown glass. Each piece is skillfully crafted using century old techniques and locally sourced material with the singular goal of creating top-notch work. The gallery features high quality custom lighting and handmade glass for any budget. Lexington Glassworks is a makers studio where the public is invited to view the artists at work. While here take the unique opportunity to enjoy a locally crafted beer, this is truly an Asheville experience. Note: We do not blow glass on Tuesdays. See more..
    
42. 4.5 Durham Bulls Athletic Park (965 reviews)
    - Lots of Fun!!
    Saturday: Arenas & Stadiums
    
    
    This was my first visit, loved it. The stadium is built right in the downtown Durham. My family really enjoyed "The worlds greatest mascot" he was none stop in between innings, pay him well. Good game and atmosphere overall, great job Bulls. See more..
    
43. 4.5 North Carolina History Center - Tryon Palace (942 reviews)
    - Nice reconstruction, But the Highlight is the Gardening
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • History Museums
    
    
    Colonial Governors ruled, legislators debated, patriots gathered and George Washington danced. At Tryon Palace, where British rule once flourished, American independence took root and the state of North Carolina was born. Here you can still experience the adventure of North Carolina’s earliest beginnings and a living history like no other. Guided tours, live re-enactments and conversations with costumed interpreters from centuries past bring history to life in vivid detail at the Governor’s Palace, Gardens and Historic Homes. And, at the new high-tech North Carolina History Center, interactive games and hands-on exhibits delight visitors young and old. Whether you’re exploring one of our riverside gardens or sharpening your skills as a quilter, printer, ship’s captain or blacksmith, there are endless opportunities for making cherished family memories at Tryon Palace. See more..
    
44. 4.5 The Lost Colony (942 reviews)
    - A really good version of the Lost Colony.
    Saturday: Spent 2-3 hours Theaters
    
    
    The Lost Colony is a cultural treasure and the best family entertainment on the Outer Banks! The 2023 season runs June 2-Agust 26, Monday - Saturday at 8:00 PM in our Waterside Theatre on Roanoke Island. In 1587, 117 English men, women and children came ashore on Roanoke Island to establish a permanent English settlement in the New World. Just three years later in 1590, when English ships returned to bring supplies, they found the island deserted with no sign of the colonists. After nearly 450 years, the mystery of what happened to the colonists remains unsolved. The Lost Colony, is performed each summer on the same site where these actual events occurred. A company of over 100 actors, dancers, singers and technicians create a magical evening for your whole family. New music compositions, authentic Native American dances, elegant costume design and more are part of the 86th season of The Lost Colony. Enjoy a night under the stars at Waterside Theatre! See more..
    
45. 4.5 Asheville Pinball Museum (928 reviews)
    - Great way to spend the afternoon!
    Speciality Museums
    
    
    This was a really fun stop in Asheville, especially on a stormy afternoon. We arrived at about 1:45pm on a Friday afternoon in July and there were already about 20 people in line. Note they let in 70 people and then you go onto a waiting list. Prior to the opening at 2pm, we were given information and instructions by the owner and then proceeded inside and to pay (there were two lines - one for credit card and one for cash). We then received a wristband and were entitled to free play on nearly all machines. Note you can leave and come back later in the day and you are moved to the top of the wait list which is pretty neat. Admittedly this stop was more on the list for my husband, but I had such a blast too! Playing all the old machines and even the more recent ones were a total blast. Since there is a cap on people allowed we never had to wait for a machine. This was a really well-run experience and one we'd highly recommend! See more..
    
46. 4.5 North Carolina Museum of History (927 reviews)
    - Excellent museum
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums
    
    
    Explore more than 14,000 years of North Carolina history, from the state's earliest inhabitants through the 20th century. The major exhibition The Story of North Carolina features fascinating artifacts, multimedia presentations, and an interactive format for all ages. Other exhibits highlight the state's military history, sports heroes, decorative arts and more. Monthly programs include children's programs, craft demonstrations and family events. The Museum Shop, featuring North Carolina crafts, and the on-site restaurant Pharaoh's at the Museum are open daily. Admission is free, although some special exhibits require a fee. Free parking is available on weekends in the Jones/Edenton Street lot. Museum hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. See more..
    
47. 4.5 Sliding Rock (919 reviews)
    - An Amazing Natural Water Slide
    Geologic Formations • Waterfalls
    
    
    Waterfall slide, sending 11,000 gallons of water down a huge rock each minute. See more..
    
48. 4.5 Looking Glass Falls (903 reviews)
    - Gorgeous. Perfect for seniors and small children.
    Waterfalls
    
    
    This waterfall is about a 45 minute drive or so from Asheville. My 7 year old daughter and took a break from the city to go check it out. It's just as beautiful as it was over 10 years ago when I last visited. Absolutely stunning with great volume in a tranquil setting. There's a platform above where those who are disabled, elderly, or very young can enjoy a great view just a short walk away from their vehicle. 2 sets of stairs links the upper viewing platform with the lower. You can also brave the rocks from down there but caution must be exercised. I saw multiple people slip. It was a warm day in early October so there was a pretty good crowd out. Definitely recommend this as an entry level "hike" where the payoff far exceeds the effort. Just be careful as the stairs can be slippery. Some people hiked a little bit downstream but the view doesn't change much unless you're doing photography. See more..
    
49. 4.5 Moses H. Cone Memorial Park (901 reviews)
    - Gorgeous Location
    Historic Sites • Equestrian Trails
    
    
    The home and grounds of textile manufacturer Moses Cone. See more..
    
50. 4.5 North Carolina Maritime Museum (887 reviews)
    - I was looking for Blackbeard and I found him
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums
    
    
    Premier museum that has a large collection of boats, models, decoys and dioramas about life in coastal North Carolina. See more..