Unique attractions in North Carolina

The Cradle of Forestry Overlook, located on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Canton, North Carolina, is a landmark and tourist attraction that offers a glimpse into the history of forest conservation in the United States. Once owned by George Vanderbilt, the land now part of Pisgah National Forest was instrumental in the development of forestry practices by Gifford Pinchot and Dr. Carl Schenck. The Biltmore Forestry School, founded by Vanderbilt and Schenck, is now part of an outdoor museum run by the U.S. Forest Service at the Cradle of Forestry. Visitors can enjoy views of the surrounding forest and Looking Glass Rock from the L-shaped overlook, offering a unique perspective on the area's natural beauty. With panoramic views and a rich history, the Cradle of Forestry Overlook is a must-see destination on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

The Bonsai Exhibition Garden is a serene and beautiful park located at 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way in Asheville, North Carolina. This unique institution showcases a stunning collection of meticulously cultivated bonsai trees, creating a peaceful and meditative atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. Stroll through the garden and admire the intricate designs and delicate beauty of these miniature masterpieces. Whether you are a bonsai enthusiast or simply looking for a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the Bonsai Exhibition Garden is a must-visit destination in Asheville.

The Pines Country Inn is a hidden gem nestled in the Western North Carolina mountains, located at 178 Tomfoolery Lane in Pisgah Forest, North Carolina. This charming institution offers a peaceful retreat for guests looking to relax and recharge. With lush green surroundings and breathtaking mountain views, The Pines Country Inn is the perfect getaway for nature lovers. Start your day with a freshly brewed cup of locally roasted coffee and a delicious made-from-scratch country-style breakfast. The inn caters to outdoor enthusiasts, offering easy access to hiking trails, biking paths, and nearby waterfalls. Guests can also enjoy the sight of wildlife roaming freely on the grounds, as well as visit the barn with farm animals.

Looking Glass Rock is a stunning natural landmark located in Brevard, North Carolina, United States. This iconic rock formation is a popular tourist attraction and a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can marvel at the breathtaking views from the top of the rock, or explore the surrounding hiking trails and scenic overlooks. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a peaceful retreat in nature, Looking Glass Rock offers a unique and unforgettable experience for all who visit.

The Lake Lure Flowering Bridge is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 3070 Memorial Highway in Lake Lure, North Carolina, United States. This unique institution features a beautiful display of flowering plants and trees that create a colorful and vibrant atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. The bridge is a popular spot for nature lovers, photographers, and tourists looking to relax and take in the scenic beauty of the surrounding area. Whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll or a picturesque backdrop for your vacation photos, the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge is a must-visit destination in North Carolina.

The Wilson Lick Historic Site Ranger Station is a charming park located on National Forest Road in Franklin, North Carolina, United States. This historic site offers visitors a glimpse into the past, with a ranger station that dates back to a bygone era. Explore the beautiful surroundings, learn about the history of the area, and enjoy a peaceful retreat in nature at this unique park. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a relaxing day out, the Wilson Lick Historic Site Ranger Station is a must-visit destination.

Port City Guest House is a charming lodging institution located at 1511 Market Street in Wilmington, North Carolina. This beautiful home is situated in the historic mansion district of old Wilmington, where colonial history meets modern comfort. Guests can pamper themselves in one of the four well-appointed guest rooms, each offering a unique and cozy atmosphere. Guests rave about the delicious meals served every morning, prepared to perfection by the wonderful host, Sophie. The convenient location of the guest house allows easy access to downtown attractions, making it an ideal choice for visitors looking to explore all that Wilmington has to offer.

The Southport Oak Island Chamber of Commerce-Welcome Center is a hub for visitors to explore the beautiful Southport-Oak Island community in North Carolina. Located at 4433 Long Beach Road Southeast, this center provides information on the 28 miles of beaches along Caswell Beach, Oak Island, and Bald Head Island. The waterfront in Southport is stunning year-round, offering picturesque views in every season. Visitors can enjoy tours of the iconic Oak Island Lighthouse and experience the unique opportunity to witness both a sunrise and sunset over the ocean on the southern facing beaches. In addition to providing information on local attractions and events, the Welcome Center offers services such as self-storage units, legal assistance, mortgage brokerage, and dining options including a full-service restaurant, food truck, and catering services. The center also hosts special events like the SPT OKI Referral Fest and the Coastal Health, Fitness & Beauty Showcase.

Birdie & Blades is a charming store located at 1736 Dickerson Boulevard in Monroe, North Carolina. This unique establishment specializes in all things related to birds and gardening tools, offering a wide selection of bird feeders, birdhouses, seeds, plants, and gardening equipment. Whether you are a bird enthusiast looking to attract more feathered friends to your backyard or a gardening aficionado in need of high-quality tools, Birdie & Blades has everything you need to create a beautiful outdoor oasis. Visit us today and let us help you bring nature closer to home.

The Tryon Theatre is a historic movie theater located at 45 South Trade Street in Tryon, North Carolina. Established in 1938, this charming venue offers a unique movie-watching experience with its classic architecture and cozy atmosphere. Patrons can enjoy a variety of films, from Hollywood blockbusters to independent gems, in the heart of downtown Tryon. With its friendly staff and affordable ticket prices, the Tryon Theatre is a beloved destination for film enthusiasts of all ages. Come and experience the magic of the movies at this iconic institution in North Carolina.

Grasshopper Farms is a charming and unique institution located at 8004 Poole Road in Knightdale, North Carolina. As a food and grocery store, it offers a wide variety of fresh produce, locally sourced goods, and artisanal products. Visitors can explore the shelves filled with delicious treats and specialty items, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. With its welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff, Grasshopper Farms is not only a store but also a popular tourist attraction in the area. Come and experience the farm-to-table goodness at Grasshopper Farms today!

The House of Flags Museum, located at 33 Gibson Street in Columbus, North Carolina, is a captivating tourist attraction that showcases a stunning collection of flags from around the world. This unique museum offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the history and symbolism of flags, as well as their cultural significance. With informative exhibits and interactive displays, the House of Flags Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the art of flag design and the stories they tell. Come explore the rich tapestry of flags at this one-of-a-kind institution in the heart of Columbus.

Welcome to Hawkesdene – a unique 70-acre private estate nestled in the serene and picturesque mountain country of Western North Carolina. Located at 381 Phillips Creek Road, Andrews, NC, this exclusive retreat offers a luxurious escape where you can enjoy an extended stay with your loved ones, attended only by our dedicated and professional Hawkesdene service team. At Hawkesdene, immerse yourself in an extraordinary experience featuring gourmet meals for up to 125 guests, beautifully appointed guest rooms and cottages accommodating up to 122 guests, and meticulously landscaped grounds. The soothing sounds of Phillip’s Creek and breathtaking mountain vistas provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and celebration. Whether you're planning a destination wedding or a special event, Hawkesdene promises a celebration of a lifetime.

The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, located at 11 West Jones Street in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a captivating museum and popular tourist attraction. With a diverse range of exhibits and interactive displays, visitors can explore the natural world and learn about the fascinating ecosystems of North Carolina. From dinosaur fossils to live animal encounters, this museum offers a unique and educational experience for all ages. With its prime location in the heart of Raleigh, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the wonders of the natural world.

Located at 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way in Asheville, North Carolina, The North Carolina Arboretum is a must-visit park and tourist attraction in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. With acres of cultivated gardens and miles of trails, visitors can explore some of the most diverse and beautiful plants in the region. One of the highlights at the Arboretum is the annual orchid show, where world-class growers and regional orchid societies come together to showcase hundreds of orchids in stunning displays. Additionally, visitors can explore the Nature's Blueprints exhibit, which showcases how forms and patterns found in nature inspire art and design, from clothing to skyscrapers.

Hot Springs Treehouse Cabins is a unique lodging option located in the picturesque town of Hot Springs, North Carolina. Our hand-built private cabins are designed to provide a serene and romantic getaway for guests looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Situated on 13 acres bordering Pisgah National Forest and Spring Creek, our cabins offer a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. Each of our four cabins is equipped with modern amenities such as high-speed internet, comfortable mattresses, gas grills, hot tubs, indoor fireplaces, Roku TV, and board games. Guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including fishing, rafting, hiking, biking, and horseback riding in the nearby area.

Blue Deer on King is a charming bakery, cafe, and food store located at 352 West King Street in Boone, North Carolina. Founded in May 2018, Blue Deer Cookies aims to provide a unique dessert experience for the residents and visitors of Boone and Blowing Rock. The main attraction is a vintage camper, lovingly restored and serving up a variety of homemade cookies and Homeland Creamery ice cream. Customers can enjoy a delicious ice cream cookie sandwich or opt for cookies and ice cream separately. In addition to the camper location, Blue Deer on King in downtown Boone and Blue Deer on Main in downtown Blowing Rock offer the same tasty treats along with full espresso bars. With a selection of cookie flavors and ice cream options, patrons can create their own custom ice cream cookie sandwich. Visit one of our locations to indulge in this delightful sweet treat experience. Follow us on social media and use #bluedeercookies to share your experience with us!

Located at 715 Haywood Road in Asheville, North Carolina, Jargon is not just a bar, food, and restaurant - it's an experience. With an innovative and ever-changing menu of modern American plates, creative cocktails, and an award-winning wine list, Jargon offers a unique and fabulous setting for guests to enjoy. We take pride in sourcing our food products from local growers, showcasing seasonal offerings and unique ingredients in every dish. Our wine list has been recognized with the Award of Excellence by Wine Spectator for its variety of selections, menu appropriateness, and appeal to a wide range of wine lovers.

Simply NC is a charming cafe, food, and store located at 100 East Main Street in Clinton, North Carolina. This institution offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere where customers can enjoy delicious food and browse through a variety of locally sourced goods. From freshly brewed coffee and baked goods to unique gifts and artisanal products, Simply NC is the perfect place to relax, shop, and support the community. Come visit us and experience the best of North Carolina in one convenient location.

The Billy Graham Library, located at 4330 Westmont Drive in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a unique institution that offers a combination of a book store, cafe, food, library, museum, store, and tourist attraction all in one. Visitors can explore Christ-centered messages, interactive elements, and more, all aimed at sharing the love of God through the teachings of Billy Graham. The library also offers downloadable graphics with Scripture and encouraging quotes from Will Graham, perfect for your home, social media, or smartphone background. Additionally, the institution commemorates special events such as the Anniversary of the Greater London Crusade at Harringay Arena.

5506' is a unique institution located at the top of Beech Mountain Resort in North Carolina, United States. This one-of-a-kind amenity pays tribute to the elevation of the resort, standing at 5506 feet above sea level, making it the highest ski area in eastern America. The structure features a 2800 square foot deck with Adirondack chairs and picnic tables, as well as a glass roundhouse with a bar, bar stools, and tables. During the summer season, 5506' is accessible by lift ride only, with no parking or drop-off at the summit. In the winter months, it is only accessible to skiers and snowboarders with valid lift tickets. The institution offers a Sunset Dinner series with renowned chefs and a unique heavy hors d'oeuvres style format, accompanied by live music and a scenic chairlift ride.

Darnell Farms is a charming family-owned institution located at 2300 Governors Island Road in Bryson City, North Carolina. This unique destination offers a delightful mix of a food market, grocery store, and tourist attraction all in one. Visitors can enjoy browsing through a wide selection of fresh produce, locally-made goods, and specialty items. The farm also features fun activities such as pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and hayrides, making it a perfect spot for families and tourists alike to experience the beauty of North Carolina's countryside. Whether you're looking for delicious treats or a fun day out, Darnell Farms has something for everyone to enjoy.

Oak Island Pier is a charming store and popular tourist attraction located at 705 Ocean Drive in Oak Island, North Carolina, United States. The pier offers visitors a unique shopping experience with a variety of souvenirs, gifts, and beach essentials. In addition to shopping, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and take leisurely strolls along the pier. Whether you're looking for a memorable keepsake or simply want to soak in the beauty of the coast, Oak Island Pier is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the area.

Pounding Mill Overlook, located on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Canton, North Carolina, is a popular tourist attraction offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. With a rating of 4 out of 5, this overlook provides two different viewpoints for visitors to enjoy. The south end of the parking lot offers a similar view to the nearby Cradle of Forestry Overlook, with sights of the majestic Looking Glass Rock and its sheer cliffs. On the north side of the parking lot, visitors can admire the winding Blue Ridge Parkway as it meanders through the distant mountains. This unique perspective allows for picturesque photo opportunities, especially when the sun is shining just right. With no trails or picnic tables available, Pounding Mill Overlook is the perfect spot to pull over, take in the breathtaking scenery, and capture memories of the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway.

Southern Distilling Company is a must-visit destination located in Statesville, North Carolina. This unique institution is a combination of a bar and a tourist attraction, offering visitors the opportunity to learn about the art of distilling spirits while enjoying handcrafted cocktails made with the finest ingredients. Located at 211 Jennings Road, Southern Distilling Company is a true gem in the heart of North Carolina. Come experience the rich history and exceptional craftsmanship that sets this establishment apart from the rest.

Cornerstone Cabins of Banner Elk is a premier real estate and travel agency located at 64 Cornerstone Circle in the charming town of Banner Elk, North Carolina, United States. Specializing in luxury cabin rentals, our agency offers a unique and personalized experience for those looking to escape to the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether you are seeking a romantic getaway, family vacation, or outdoor adventure, our team is dedicated to helping you find the perfect cabin to suit your needs. With stunning views, top-notch amenities, and a convenient location near all the best attractions, Cornerstone Cabins of Banner Elk is your go-to destination for a memorable and relaxing retreat. Contact us today to start planning your dream vacation!

Mysterium Escape Adventure is located at 737 West King Street in Boone, North Carolina. This engaging and interactive experience challenges all of your senses as you navigate through themed escape rooms with fully immersive elements. Perfect for a group of friends, a date night, corporate team building, or a family-friendly activity, Mysterium offers a live-action adventure like no other. With 60 minutes on the clock, your team must search for clues and solve puzzles in order to achieve your goal and escape the room. Choose Mysterium for a unique and exciting experience in downtown Boone.

The Alleghany Zoo is a charming wildlife sanctuary located at 1547 Prathers Creek Church Road in Laurel Springs, North Carolina. This family-friendly institution is home to a diverse array of animals from around the world, offering visitors the opportunity to observe and learn about these fascinating creatures up close. From majestic lions and playful monkeys to exotic birds and reptiles, the Alleghany Zoo provides a unique and educational experience for animal lovers of all ages. Come explore the wonders of the natural world at this beloved North Carolina attraction.

Reynolda Gardens-Wake Forest is a historic institution located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Established over a century ago as part of the original Reynolda estate, the Gardens now span 134 acres and are open to the public year-round. Visitors can explore lush gardens, scenic walking trails, and a beautiful waterfall. The institution's landscape was designed by renowned landscape engineers Louis L. Miller and Horatio R. Buckenham, with additional plantings by Thomas W. Sears. The historic greenhouse is currently undergoing restoration and will reopen in 2024 as the new Brown Family Conservatory. The Gardens offer educational programs, such as photography classes and guided birding walks. The annual Spring Plant Sale is a popular event, featuring a variety of specialty plants. Visitors can also shop at Reynolda Village, which offers unique annuals, perennials, and tropical plants. With its rich history and stunning natural beauty, Reynolda Gardens-Wake Forest is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts.

The Bare Dark Sky Observatory is a premier tourist attraction located at 66 Energy Exchange Dr in Burnsville, North Carolina, United States. Visitors can experience the beauty of the night sky in its purest form at this observatory, which is dedicated to providing a clear view of the stars and planets without light pollution. With state-of-the-art telescopes and knowledgeable staff, guests can explore the wonders of the universe and learn more about astronomy in a unique and unforgettable setting. Whether you're a seasoned stargazer or a curious beginner, the Bare Dark Sky Observatory offers an immersive and educational experience for all ages.