North Carolina: Cool Counties
From the oceans to the Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina offers a variety of stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and rich heritage. Search for gold, uncover the history of the Tar Heel State, and embrace the outdoors in North Carolina.
Cherokee County
The westernmost county in the state, Cherokee County is the perfect balance of rest and adventure. Drive down one of the many scenic roads and surround yourself in the beauty of Cherokee County’s Wine Country. Get your adrenaline pumping while white water rafting the Ocoee or Nantahala Rivers, or mountain biking through the Nantahala National Forest. Take a stroll through Downtown Murphy, known as the City of Flowers, and wander past restored historic buildings and step into delightful local shops. Stop by the Valley River Brewery and Eatery for a refreshing craft brew and an irresistible wood-fired pizza.
visitcherokeecountync.com
Rutherford County
Highly sought after, year-round, Rutherford County, North Carolina is the perfect place to spend a vacation. Enjoy a cabin rental or a relaxing retreat at the 1927 Lake Lure Inn and Irongate Spa as you spend the day exploring the panoramic sights of Lake Lure. Established in 1787, discover the history of one of North Carolina’s oldest towns, Rutherfordton. At the Bechtler House Heritage Center, learn about the North Carolina Gold Rush and Rutherfordton’s importance as the headquarters of the North Carolina Gold Trail. One of the largest remaining areas of antebellum homes, Rutherford County is teeming with an extraordinary history and many legendary sights.
visitncsmalltowns.com
Transylvania County
Explore the Land of Waterfalls in Brevard, North Carolina. Known as the entrance to Pisgah National Forest, this Transylvania County community is an unforgettable vacation full of rich mountain heritage. Explore the 33-room colonial mansion of the Silvermont Mansion, an 8-acre county park in the heart of downtown Brevard. With 250 waterfalls, a vibrant arts community, and an extraordinary downtown, it is always beautiful in Brevard.
explorebrevard.com
Buncombe County
Just south of Asheville, near the Blue Ridge Parkway, lies a diverse biological escape in the beautifully cultivated gardens of the North Carolina Arboretum. Over 430 acres of natural wonder, the Arboretum invites guests to roam, breathe, and wander within the Pisgah National Forest. Nestled into the Southern Appalachian Mountains and known for its rugged mountain, Buncombe County is the perfect embodiment of its nickname, “Land of the Sky”.
exploreasheville.com
Cumberland County
Come visit Cumberland County and be charmed by nature and history. See what is in bloom at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden. Learn about the Gaelic heritage of the area’s original settlers and the 400 years since at the Museum of Cape Fear Historical Complex. Discover the treasures that await you on Greater Fayetteville’s Antique Trail. A destination for those looking to enjoy America’s classic hometown atmosphere, Fayetteville is home to over a dozen antique shops, featuring vintage furniture, historic war memorabilia, and waiting-to-be-worn jewelry and gemstones.
visitfayettevillenc.com
Scotland County
Tucked into the Sandhills region of North Carolina, Scotland County is the soul of the Carolinas.
Surrounded by pecan trees and a prime example of Steamboat Gothic architecture, the John Blue House portion of the North Carolina Rural Heritage Center is a glimpse into the life of the self-made man and noted inventor, John Blue. A National Register Historic District, Scotland County’s Laurinburg is an all-American city full of Southern charm. Explore downtown Laurinburg’s bountiful blessing of 50 buildings of specialty shops, delicious dining options, and a vibrant art scene. Full of Southern Hospitality, Scotland County is a comfortable and welcoming community, an ideal place to kick back and relax.
visitnc-soul.com
laurinburg.org
Wake County
Home to the first public park, Pullen Park sits on over 65 acres, in Wake County, just west of Raleigh. America’s fifth oldest operating amusement park, Pullen Park is a time-honored tradition, sure to delight generations young and old. Uncover more incredible history with exhibits, presentations, and two full-size historic houses at the North Carolina Museum of History. A hidden gem of Raleigh, the museum holds more than 150,000 notable artifacts and reveals 14,000 years of history.
visitraleigh.com
Nash County
Nash County is a perfect destination for craft makers, adventure seekers, and vacationers. Located in the heart of Rocky Mount, the historic Stonewall Manor is a unique glimpse into the life of an early 19th-century planter. Build in the 1830s, the late Federal architecture of this riverside mansion transport you to a time without electronics, smartphones, or lawnmowers. Paddle down the Tar River, learn about hometown heroes like Thelonious Monk, or take in a round of golf at the Northgreen Country Club or Peachtree Hills Country Club. Head to Bulluck’s and purchase a vintage rocker or an utterly unique mirror. Whether you enjoy outdoor adventure, a shopping spree, or historical tours – you’ll love exploring Nash County.
explorenashcounty.com
Beaufort County
With a relaxing waterfront, a rich history, and landmark architecture, Beaufort County is a prominent coastal retreat on the Pamlico Sound. Travel along the county’s numerous waterways, creeks, and tributaries, like the Pamlico River, the Pungo River, and Blounts Creek, and enjoy outdoor recreational activities including fishing, boating, canoeing, kayaking, and many more. In Historic Bath, learn about the oldest town in North Carolina and the notorious pirate, Blackbeard. With incredible history, naturally, breathtaking sights, and loads of recreational fun, Beaufort County is the place to be.
co.beaufort.nc.us/tourism
Carteret County
One of the Crystal Coast counties in the southern portion of the Outer Banks, Carteret County is a unique blend of family fun, nautical adventures, and natural wonders. Discover the many facets of the Fort Macon State Park in Carteret County. With a restored Antebellum-era fort and an informative coastal education center, visitors can enjoy a guided tour, learn about the history of Bogue Banks, and watch cannon and musket demonstrations. The Park’s unspoiled shoreline of salt marshes and sand dunes is home to a unique ecosystem and perfect for surf fishing, swimming, and beachcombing.
crystalcoastnc.org
Dare County
Feel lighter than air in Dare County in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. At the Wright Brothers National Memorial, follow in the footsteps of the famous duo, the Wright Brothers, and explore the location of the first successful airplane flight in 1903. Located in the middle of the Northern Beaches of North Carolina, the charming town of Kill Devil Hills offers visitors several exciting things to do, places to eat, and relaxing hotels.
outerbanks.org
Tyrrell County
Tucked into the natural buffer zone between the Outer Banks and the Urban Mainland, Tyrrell County is an unspoiled and uncomplicated section of North Carolina. Home to the Palmetto Peartree Preserve and the 110,000-acre Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, Tyrrell County is a magical place where red wolves howl and bobcats and black bears roam. A fantastic destination for ecotourism, the renewed downtown of Tyrrell County’s Columbia features a shoreline, a wooded area boardwalk, and a Main Street streetscape. Watch bald eagles soar and discover a bright future in this corner of North Carolina.
tyrellnc.com
A journey through North Carolina’s counties leads you through National Forests, river rapids of unmatched quality, counties bursting with eclectic heritage and history, and thriving downtowns. Discover your adventure in North Carolina.
