North Carolina, a stunning state abundant in treasures, is home to numerous hidden gems. Although renowned for its rich aviation legacy, picturesque mountains, and Southern hospitality, the lesser-known attractions are equally worthy of exploration.
Moreover, North Carolina offers hidden gems that cater to every individual. Nature enthusiasts can discover lesser-known botanical gardens, while those passionate about history can delve into numerous small museums. Even adventure seekers can stumble upon a few unexpected activities to include in their North Carolina bucket lists.
Tag along as we uncover the Old North State’s best-kept secrets.
Black Mountain
Situated in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, Black Mountain is a delightful town brimming with charming shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. It is the perfect getaway for individuals searching for a tranquil escape, providing ample opportunities to explore various hiking trails and admire stunning views.
Black Mountain is an ideal destination for those longing for a serene retreat enveloped in the beauty of nature. Embark on an adventure by lacing up your hiking boots and discovering the nearby trails, where breathtaking vistas await at every twist and turn. As the sun gently descends behind the rolling mountains, casting a radiant golden hue, you will come to understand why this hidden treasure holds a special place in the hearts of those fortunate enough to stumble upon it.
Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden
The Venus Flytrap, a captivating plant, is exclusively found in subtropical wetlands along the East Coast of the United States. These wetlands are specifically located in North Carolina and South Carolina. A notable spot to admire these stunning plants is the Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden in Wilmington, which is part of the Piney Ridge Nature Reserve conserved by the North Carolina Coastal Land Trust.
Exploring this garden is truly a must-do activity in Wilmington! The garden provides accessibility for individuals with disabilities, featuring concrete walking trails and wooden observation decks. This allows visitors to fully appreciate the wetlands and the various plants in the area.
The Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden welcomes visitors seven days a week during daylight hours. As you search for Venus Flytraps within the garden, keep an eye out for Pitcher Plants as well, which are another type of carnivorous plant native to the coastal areas of North Carolina.
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort
If outdoor activities and too much exploration have knocked you for six, unwind, reset, and entertain yourself at one of North Carolina’s most noteworthy casino resorts.
Indulge in a memorable escape at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort. Experience luxurious lodging and facilities, exhilarating casino thrills, renowned dining by celebrity chefs, top-tier golf, electrifying shows and events, shopping, and a plethora of other offerings on the back set of the captivating beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Furthermore, sports fans are in for a treat. Experience the thrill of watching your most beloved sports on a colossal 90ft display at the Sportsbook. Place wagers on various exciting events, encompassing professional and college football, baseball, basketball, boxing, and much more. The recent online casino launch in NC also means you can continue with the best North Carolina sportsbooks once you’ve left the vicinity.
Saluda
Saluda, a charming town with a population of 500, is located 40 miles south of Asheville, not far from the New Hilton Hotel near the New Belgium Brewery. This hidden treasure provides a nostalgic experience that transports you to the past. Explore the local shops, savor delicious meals, and admire the scenic beauty as you walk around historic Saluda. Don’t forget to visit the Train Depot to see an authentic 19th-century caboose. Staying at the new Hilton Hotel offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy the modern comforts close to Saluda’s historic charm and the vibrant New Belgium Brewery.
Cryptozoology and Paranormal Museum
Littleton, North Carolina, is the location of an exceptionally eerie museum in the United States known as the Cryptozoology and Paranormal Museum. This museum is devoted solely to the peculiar entities and occurrences observed in and around the town.
Stephen Barcelo, a local expert in cryptology and the museum’s founder, serves as the initial point of contact for anyone in the town who encounters something supernatural. Barcelo collects and exhibits a wide array of unconventional artifacts and paranormal objects within the museum.
Visitors to the museum will encounter various displays such as casts of Bigfoot footprints, photographic evidence of UFO sightings, and even Mrs. Beasley, the infamous haunted doll. These peculiarities are the main attractions of this museum, which is dedicated to exploring the realm of the inexplicable.
Dolphins at Myrtle Beach
If you’ve had the opportunity to stay in an oceanfront property in Myrtle Beach, chances are you’ve experienced the joy of observing dolphins playing beyond the crashing waves during sunrise or sunset. Enhance your connection with these aquatic companions by embarking on a two-hour dolphin cruise and creating an unforgettable memory.
Summary
In conclusion, North Carolina is a treasure trove of hidden gems, catering to diverse interests. Whether you seek nature’s beauty in Black Mountain, unique plant life in Wilmington, leisure at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort, nostalgia in Saluda, or the mysterious at the Cryptozoology and Paranormal Museum, there’s something for everyone.
And for a touch of magic, don’t miss the dolphins at Myrtle Beach. North Carolina’s best-kept secrets await your exploration, promising memorable experiences and lasting memories.
