There an incredible amount of things to do in North Carolina, from great outdoor attractions along the coast, to inland hiking trips and overnight camping stays. Attractions in North Carolina can also include some of the best golfing in the country, as well as a nice range of indoor North Carolina attractions to satisfy museum and history lovers.

Appalachian Mountains

Whether you choose to hike along the many Appalachian hiking trails or camp at any of the various locations throughout the area, the Appalachian Mountains are one of the most popular things to do in North Carolina. This is particularly one of the most popular attractions in North Carolina during the summer and the fall, when the weather is best for outdoor activities.

Skiing

Skiing is another of the best things to do in North Carolina. The Appalachian Ski Mountain resort is one of the busiest mountains for skiing, although there are other resorts, including Sugar Mountain Resort and the Hawksnest Golf and Ski Resort. Wherever you go, be sure to dress warmly; weather during the winter in the Appalachians can be extreme and very windy.

Golfing

Golfing is one of the most popular North Carolina attractions in large part because of the number of world-class golf courses and golf resorts in the state. Pinehurst is the place to go for most of the best courses in North Carolina.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most popular attractions in North Carolina for travelers who love the outdoors. There is no entrance fee to use the park, and visitors can take advantage of the numerous hiking trails and fishing spots throughout the park, which is open during daylight hours (excluding campsites).

Outer Banks

The Outer Banks are one of the most well known North Carolina attractions and draw thousands of visitors each year. The Outer Banks refer to a long stretch of beaches along the North Carolina coast which are open to the public for swimming, fishing and camping. Vacation rentals in Kill Devil Hills, a town on the coast, are also one of the more popular attractions in North Carolina.

Discovery Place

This is one of the most popular attractions in Charlotte and one of the best science museums in the United States. This is a great place for families, as children are encouraged to interact with museum exhibits. The museum is open most days of the year and is also available for private events.

North Carolina Museum of Art

Located in Raleigh, the North Carolina Museum of Art is the premier art museum in North Carolina, along with the Mint Museum of Art in Charlotte. The North Carolina Museum of Art has one of the largest collections of art in the south and specializes in excellent domestic and modern art.

Wineries

Wine tasting is gaining attention as a great way to spend a day or a week in North Carolina. The Appalachian Valley is filled with excellent wineries, and tasting at most of them is free. There are also a number of wineries which also have their own restaurants on site open for late lunches and dinner.