The state of North Carolina is one of many contrasts. It has a long history of being torn between the North and the South, which resulted in fierce combat during the American Civil War. Naturally, North Carolina is a mixed bag; it tapers inland, with borders at the enormous roots of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and has one side firmly planted near the Atlantic Ocean, complete with an unfathomably complicated coastline, including the famed Outer Banks area.
With everything from huge stately estates and hotels for America's first New Money to religious structures and modest cottages, North Carolina's most picturesque communities are without a doubt built on a wealth of history and legacy.
Additionally, the villages offer access to the most breathtaking and serene natural areas that this exciting mountainous coastal state has to offer, as well as rugged and breathtaking landscapes.
1. Boone
 |
| 5 Most Charming Small Towns in North Carolina |
This lovely village, named after the illustrious explorer and pioneer Daniel Boone, comes in first place on our list of North Carolina's cutest tiny towns. Boone's history includes the play Horn In The West, which has been presented in the town every summer since 1952, in addition to several structures that are listed on the US National Register for Historic Places.
The Blue Ridge Mountains, which are tantalizingly close to this charming small metropolitan enclave in northwest North Carolina, are located nearby. This is where the expansive Grandfather Mountain, which is climbed by the daring, is located. There is also the adjacent Elk Knob State Park to visit. In this picture-perfect town, leaving for spectacular natural settings is simple.
2. Beaufort
 |
| 5 Most Charming Small Towns in North Carolina |
On North Carolina's 'Inner Banks' (more specifically, Beaufort is located right where the Outer Banks end), Carteret County's small town of Beaufort serves as the county seat. Its reputation as "America's Coolest Small Town" appears to be a result of the town's 300-year history, which includes a compact historic area, and a bustling, practical downtown today.
Additionally, the harbor area is very attractive. Visitors may take boat tours from here to see the surrounding Outer Banks or go fishing. After an enjoyable day excursion to one of these scenic locales, it seems like the ideal treatment would be some seafood.
3. Hillsborough
 |
| 5 Most Charming Small Towns in North Carolina |
Another beautiful old town with historical structures is Hillsborough. From the opulent Eagle Lodge and Ayr Mount plantation homes from the Federal era to the renowned Old Orange County Courthouse's Greek Revival structure. Hillsborough, a tiny town, is booming, with a bustling downtown and a burgeoning restaurant scene.
Furthermore, if you want to explore the nearby natural beauty, Hillsborough, which is undeniably charming, is a good place to start. Numerous camping, canoeing, and fishing opportunities are available at Eno River State Park, and the nearby Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area offers a gorgeous setting for hiking.
4. Bath
 |
| 5 Most Charming Small Towns in North Carolina |
The oldest European colonial settlement in North Carolina is now in sight: Bath. Its foundations were laid in the 1690s as European immigrants started building residences close to the Pamlico River, and the colony's first town was established there in 1705. Bath has a historic area with attractive history buildings since it is situated in Beaufort County on the eastern coast.
Visitors may engage in fishing, one of the town's most well-known pastimes, after touring the ancient homes and structures of the area. Given that this area is coastal, fishing is a natural option, and visitors will adore the calm waters. A wonderfully stunning site, Bath Creek's rocky beach is in a picturesque setting.
5. Asheville
 |
| 5 Most Charming Small Towns in North Carolina |
Asheville, a sizable town, is home to several noteworthy instances of old construction. Asheville City Hall, an impressive specimen of Art Deco architecture, and the breathtaking Biltmore House and Estate, a palace designed in the château style, are both worth seeing. Visitors may take tours of this enormous privately owned home to learn more about this wonderful monument.
Visit the Downtown Asheville Historic District for more examples of the historical relics that make Asheville such a charming part of North Carolina. Here, you can marvel at 279 historic structures, including the stunning Basilica of St. Lawrence from the early 20th century and the Buncombe County Courthouse, a skyscraper from the 1920s.