Plan the perfect group tour with our top five picks for the Coast, Piedmont and Mountains, from Outer Banks beaches to Blue Ridge vistas to Piedmont thrills
By Dave Bodle
Some states have a coast. Some have mountains. North Carolina has both, and everything in between. From windswept beaches and barrier islands to bustling Piedmont cities and mist-shrouded peaks, this is a state that was practically designed for group travel. Here, every region tells its own story, one shaped by history, culture, and the kind of natural beauty that sticks with you long after the trip is over.
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Whether your group craves coastlines or culture, trails or tasting rooms, North Carolina delivers it all, with easy logistics, diverse attractions, and a welcoming spirit that makes every itinerary feel personal.
Top 5 Coastal Adventures
- Stretching along North Carolina’s coast, the Outer Banks offer a blend of history, charm and natural beauty. Groups can stand where flight began at the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills, then explore the region’s iconic lighthouses, from towering Cape Hatteras to picturesque Bodie Island, each guiding mariners for generations. Pristine beaches, wild horses, and seaside villages make the Outer Banks a timeless coastal treasure. outerbanks.org
- The Crystal Coast shimmers with history and natural beauty. Groups can watch wild horses roam freely on Shackleford Banks, explore Civil War–era Fort Macon, and stroll the charming waterfront of Beaufort. At the North Carolina Maritime Museum, discover artifacts from the notorious pirate Blackbeard’s ship, Queen Anne’s Revenge, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s coastal heritage and seafaring past. crystalcoastnc.org
- Holden Beach, a serene barrier island on North Carolina’s southern coast, is cherished for its peaceful atmosphere. Visitors enjoy boating along the Intracoastal Waterway, surf fishing from the shore, or simply strolling the island’s wide, uncrowded beaches. With its relaxed pace, gentle seabreezes, and beautiful sunsets, Holden Beach offers a true escape, perfect for groups seeking a quiet coastal retreat and simple seaside pleasures. holdenbeachnc.com
- Wilmington and its island beaches blend coastal charm with rich history. Stroll the scenic Riverwalk overlooking the Cape Fear River, where the mighty Battleship North Carolina stands as a proud World War II memorial and museum. Wrightsville, Carolina, and Kure beaches invite relaxation and adventure. Known as “Hollywood East,” the Set-Jet 3-day itinerary covers the iconic film locations. From historic downtown to oceanfront escapes, Wilmington & Beaches offer the perfect mix of culture, history, and seaside beauty. wilmingtonandbeaches.com
- Eastern North Carolina offers more than 2,500 miles of calm, scenic flat water perfect for kayaking adventures. Paddle through the tea-colored Scuppernong River, explore the wildlife-rich Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge, and glide along Queen Anne Creek near Edenton. Dillard Creek Trail invites quiet exploration surrounded by cypress trees, songbirds, and unspoiled coastal beauty. visitnc.com/itinerary/flatwater-paddling-eastern-north-carolina
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Top 5 Piedmont Experiences
- The U.S. National Whitewater Center in Charlotte is a 1,000-acre outdoor adventure destination with over 40 miles of trails, river recreation, rock climbing, ziplines, and rope courses. It hosts frequent festivals like TuckFest (a weekend of races, paddle sports, live music, and outdoor demos) and GreenRiver Revival (a St. Patrick’s Day celebration with river-dyeing, live music, runs, rafting). For group rafting, they offer guided rafting trips down their world’s largest artificial whitewater river, with options for group-friendly rafting (gentler rapids) or more intense adventure raftingclasses. whitewater.org/whitewater-center/
- The NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte celebrates NASCAR’s heritage through dynamic exhibits and interactive experiences. Its Class of 2026 inductees, to be officially inducted in January, are Kurt Busch, Harry Gant, and Ray Hendrick. Recently on display is the “Five Generations of Earnhardt Racing” exhibit, which curates racing artifacts spanning five generations of the Earnhardt family—including 17 firesuits, a crew shirt, memorabilia and rare items. nascarhall.com
- The North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro is a sprawling natural-habitat park, home to over 1,700 animals of more than 250 species across more than 500developed acres. In 2026, the zoo will open its Asia Continent, a new 12-acre expansion featuring tigers, Komodo dragons, gibbons, Asian small-clawed otters, king cobras, vultures, Visayan warty pigs, Chinese alligators, and more. nczoo.org
- Chapel Hill and Carrboro offer flavorful food tours that showcase the area’s vibrant culinary scene. Visitors can stroll historic Franklin Street and downtown Carrboro, sampling Southern classics, inventive farm-to-table dishes, and local brews. Guided tastings for smaller groups highlight celebrated chefs, hidden gems, and seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms, reflecting the community’s creative spirit and commitment to sustainable, locally inspired cuisine in these charming college-town settings. visitchapelhill.org
- Winston-Salem blends history and innovation with its deep Moravian roots and thriving arts scene. Visitors can explore Old Salem Museums & Gardens, a meticulously preserved 18th-century community where costumed interpreters, traditional crafts, and restored buildings bring early American life to vivid detail. Beyond history, the city boasts a lively downtown, acclaimed restaurants, craft breweries, and the dynamic Innovation Quarter—a hub for culture, creativity, and technology. visitwinstonsalem.com
Top 5 Mountain Highlights
- The Blue Ridge Parkway winds 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks. Renowned for its stunning scenic vistas, the route offers overlooks of rolling mountains, vibrant fall foliage, and misty valleys. Visitors can enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, and picnicking along the way. The parkway’s historic structures, tunnels, and visitor centers add charm, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers and photographers seeking unforgettable panoramic views. blueridgeparkway.org
- The Biltmore Estate in Asheville is America’s largest private home, built by George Vanderbilt in 1895. This 250-room mansion showcases stunning architecture, art, and antiques. Its expansive grounds feature formal gardens, woodlands, and the renowned Conservatory. Groups can explore walking trails, wine tastings at the estate’s winery, and seasonal events. The estate offers a blend of history, horticulture, and Southern charm, making it a must-see destination for all. biltmore.com
- Transylvania County, known as the “Land of Waterfalls,” offers more than 250 stunning cascades. Highlights include the iconic 60-foot Looking Glass Falls, easily accessible from U.S. 276, and the 125-foot Rainbow Falls in Gorges State Park, renowned for its misty rainbows. For a serene experience, the 50-foot Moore Cove Falls features a rock overhang you can walk behind. Nearby, Log Hollow Falls offers a secluded 30-foot cascade. These trails cater to all skill levels, making them ideal for nature enthusiasts. visitnc.com/
- Grandfather Mountain is a must-visit natural wonder, famed for its rugged peaks and scenic vistas. Adventure seekers can cross the iconic Mile-High Swinging Bridge, offering breathtaking panoramic views. The mountain is also home to diverse wildlife habitats, including black bears, cougars, and native birds. Visitors can explore hiking trails, nature preserves, and environmental exhibits, making it a perfect destination for outdoors enthusiasts, photographers, and groups seeking both adventure and education. grandfather.com
- In western North Carolina, groups can immerse themselves in Cherokee cultural experiences, from exploring the Museum of the Cherokee People to witnessing traditional crafts, storytelling, and seasonal festivals. The nearby Oconaluftee Indian Village offers interactive demonstrations of historic Cherokee life. For entertainment and gaming, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort provides a modern contrast with slot machines, table games, live shows, and fine dining. Together, these attractions blend heritage, culture, and leisure for a memorable visit.
Discover group travel inspiration in our December Issue. Stay ahead with expert tips—subscribe now to never miss an edition!
