NC Tripping's guide to

The Best Small Towns of North Carolina

Including hidden gems from Western, Central, and Eastern North Carolina

Western 

North Carolina small towns

Morganton

Make Morganton your base for exploring the Linville Gorge Wilderness! Plus  downtown has our favorite decadent ice cream shop! 

Black Mountain

Adorable small town with great shops, a Cuban bakery, and friendly people

Cherokee

Learn about Native American heritage in Cherokee at the Oconaluftee Indian Village or the Museum of the Cherokee Indian. There’s also Mingo Falls near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 

central

North Carolina small towns

Mooresville

Quaint downtown with a thriving downtown community. Best for those looking to explore Lake Norman

Asheboro

Asheboro brings in tons of people for the North Carolina Zoo but there’s even more to this town that sits in the heart of our state.

Southern Pines

Great breweries, food, and perfect for those seeking to fall in love with the longleaf pines!

Eastern

North Carolina small towns

Rocky Mount

Stay in the tiny homes at Rocky Mount Mills and enjoy the beer incubators and breweries! 

Kinston

Kinston is worth exploring at least for a meal at Vivian Howard’s famed Chef & the Farmer, but don’t forget about the other restaurants in and around town.

Edenton

See the beautiful Roanoke River Lighthouse and learn about Edenton being first permanent European settlement of North Carolina

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Head to NC Tripping for 80+ Amazing Small Towns in North Carolina