North Carolina is a beautiful place. Incredible hikes, gorgeous waterfalls, and awesome museums are around every corner. In fact, if you are planning a trip here, you might find yourself feeling a little bit overwhelmed by all of the things to do. It can help to make a North Carolina bucket list.
In this article, we’ll share ideas for a North Carolina bucket list. You can add your own to plan the perfect trip!
Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a gorgeous drive through the mountains. It features many outlooks and views and is especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves are changing.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore
No trip to North Carolina would be complete without a visit to the beach, and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a great stop. You can hike, check out the lighthouse, go fishing, and much more.
Cape Lookout National Seashore
Cape Lookout National Seashore features wild horses, plenty of beautiful birds, opportunities for shelling, and more seaside activities.
Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site
Carl Sandburg provided a popular voice for the American public in the 20th century. Learn about his life and times as you tour the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site.
Fort Raleigh National Historic Site
Fort Raleigh National Historic Site protects parts of the first English settlements on the American continent. Additionally, the park works to preserve the cultural heritage of a number of groups — including Native Americans, African Americans, and European Americans — who have called this island home.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
One of the most beautiful parks on the east side of the country, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-see. Hike through the wilderness or drive through and stop to see the sites. No matter how you choose to enjoy the park, be sure to keep an eye out for bears and other wild animals.
Guilford Courthouse National Military Park
Guilford Courthouse was the site of a 1781 battle that would change the course of the American Revolution. This battle lasted only 2 1/2 hours, but it’s a fascinating point in history.
Moores Creek National Battlefield
Another Revolution-era battle site, Moore’s Creek National Battlefield saw action in 1776. Here, the Patriots of the American Revolution won their first significant victory, but this was far from the end of the war. Learn more about it at this NPS site.
Wright Brothers National Memorial
Visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial to learn about these brothers and leaders in aviation history. You’ll gain an understanding of what they went through in order to reach their goals.
National Trails
There are also a number of awesome national trails that wind their way through the state. Each is worth seeing, and the visitor centers along these trails all offer wonderful information.
The national trails in North Carolina include:
- Trail of Tears National Historic Trail
- Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail
- Appalachian National Scenic Trail
Tour the Biltmore Estate
The largest private estate in the United States, the Biltmore Estate is a marvel of architecture and design. The mansion has 250 rooms and sits on 8,000 acres. Take a tour of the home and learn about its history.
Explore the USS North Carolina
Part of the American fleet during World War II, the USS North Carolina is a grand vessel. It is well armed with 29 guns of all shapes and sizes, although the ship no longer fights today. Instead, it is open for tours so you can see it up close.
Look Up at Morehead Planetarium
Planetariums are always fun to visit, and the Morehead Planetarium is an especially good one. This attraction first opened in 1949. Since then, it has been educating the public through engaging shows and exhibits.
Admire Linville Gorge
One of the deepest gorges in the country, Linville Gorge is a pretty awe-inspiring sight. Here, you can see Linville Falls, created by the Linville River as it cascades down into a great crevice in the earth. This is an ideal photo opportunity, so be sure to bring a camera.
Ride the Chimney Rock Elevator
Chimney Rock State Park is home to an incredible 2,200-foot-high granite rock formation. The towering spire is cool to look at from below, but even more amazing from the top. This is why we recommend riding the elevator that takes guests through the mountain to the top for an awesome view. *Note: The Chimney Rock attraction at the park closed after Hurricane Helene, and there is no word on when it will reopen. Check before you plan to visit.
Hike on Grandfather Mountain
The perfect hiking destination, Grandfather Mountain is a natural area with a huge number of hiking trails. There are short, easygoing options as well as much more difficult paths for the more advanced hiker. Choose one that suits your skill level and get ready for some stunning views.
Dive Deep at North Carolina Aquariums
North Carolina has four aquariums, all operated by the North Carolina Aquariums. All four are well worth checking out – you can even buy a pass that allows you to see all four during your trip.
Walk the North Carolina Zoo
Marine life is great for sure, but if you’re in the mood to see some land animals, we recommend a visit to the North Carolina Zoo. This awesome zoo features a huge number of amazing animal friends. The grounds are lovely to walk, and the zookeepers are informative and happy to help in any way.
Rev Your Engine at the NASCAR Hall of Fame
Visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame to learn about the best racers in history, check out some awesome cars, and have a good time exploring this high-energy museum.
Admire Art at the Contemporary Art Museum Raleigh
The Contemporary Art Museum Raleigh is an art lover’s dream. The museum focuses on contemporary works, and does a fantastic job showcasing these pieces.
Listen to Music at Kings
Hoping for some live music during your North Carolina getaway? Kings in Raleigh is the place for you. Not only will you hear some fantastic music, you’ll also be treated to some great drinks and a taste of life as a local.
Browse the James B. Hunt Jr. Library
Yes, we did add a library to our list, but trust us when we say it has definitely earned its place here. You see, this library has some super advanced technology that comes in the form of its state-of-the-art BookBot book delivery system. Tell the system what you want, and it delivers.
Travel the Raleigh Greenway System
One thing we love about the city of Raleigh is the ability to travel from one place to the next without hopping in your car. The Greenway system is what makes this possible. This trail system puts pedestrians and bicyclists on beautiful paths that criss-cross the city and removes them from the dangers presented by high-traffic roads.
Spend Time in Pullen Park
Pullen Park was the first park ever opened in North Carolina. It features a number of wonderful things to do, including a carousel, boats, a train, tennis courts, ball fields, an art center, and much more,
Learn at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
Those looking for a bit of education will appreciate the wonderful and informative North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. Here, you can learn about natural history via engaging and interactive exhibits, as well as programs presented by the staff. Be sure to see the fossilized dinosaur heart!
Time Travel at Mordecai Historic Park
This amazing park features both the oldest residence in North Carolina and the birthplace of the 17th President of the United States, Andrew Jackson. It is the perfect place to learn about the plantations that once dominated the south and much more.
Attend an Event at the J.S. Dorton Arena
An awesome example of modern architecture, the J.S. Dorton Arena is a pretty cool sight to see. We recommend attending one of the many events held at the arena in order to get a good look at this building that is recognized all over the world.
Get Hands-on at the Marble Kids Museum
This hands-on museum is geared toward the younger crowd, and boy, do those little ones love it. The space includes five amazing interactive galleries as well as two outdoor attractions. Everything in the museum encourages kids to learn through play, and kids just can’t get enough.
Experience Farm Life at Dead Broke Farm
Ever wonder what it might be like to live on a farm? You can get a little taste of farm life at Dead Broke Farm. Here, guests have the opportunity to ride on horseback, take a camping trip, and much more. It’s the simple life so many of us crave after months in the busy city, and it’s all waiting for you.
“Edutain” the Family at Discovery Place Science Center
Looking for hands-on learning fun that will engage the whole family? Discovery Place might be the attraction for you. This place is bright, colorful, and busy, but also incredibly educational. Every exhibit includes some sort of interactive feature, and families can play and learn together as they wander from one space to the next.
Take the Kids to ImaginOn: The Joe and Joan Martin Center
Believe it or not, North Carolina is home to yet another amazing library. This one comes in the form of an enormous children’s library. The design of the place is fun and colorful, and the library hosts special exhibits throughout the year that encourage kids to play and learn. Additionally, the space is home to an awesome little children’s theater.
Get Your Thrills at Carowinds
Finally, we must mention Carowinds, a super fun amusement park that features fun for the whole family. Whether you prefer fear-inducing drops or simple kiddie rides, you’ll find something to enjoy here, and everyone is sure to leave with a smile on their face.
As you can see, there are plenty of incredible options when it comes to building your North Carolina bucket list. The only thing missing? An awesome place to stay! For this, we recommend snagging a North Carolina RV rental so you can travel freely as you explore this amazing state.
Check out our amazing selection of RV rentals, book one that suits you and your needs, and get ready to have an amazing time exploring North Carolina and all it has to offer.
