North Carolina’s Premier Fall Destinations

Numerous North Carolina locations beckon in the fall, offering vibrant mountain foliage and delectable locally sourced autumn treats. Let’s look at some of North Carolina’s premier fall destinations for a delightful autumn getaway. 

Banner Elk, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a renowned winter destination with world-class ski resorts. However, Banner Elk offers plenty to see and do during the fall season as well. It ranks among North Carolina’s prime spots for a fall hike, where visitors can truly savor breathtaking autumn scenery. Autumn also brings an abundance of mouthwatering fall flavors to Banner Elk’s numerous acclaimed restaurants, wineries, and breweries.

Winston-Salem is a major urban center in North Carolina. While it is a popular destination throughout the year, fall might be the best time to experience this vibrant community. Winston-Salem’s idyllic location makes it easy for residents and visitors to explore popular attractions, including the Yadkin Valley wine region. Those who visit during the fall can enjoy tours and tastings at the city’s numerous surrounding wineries and seasonal festivals such as the annual Carolina Classic Fair.

Asheville, another celebrated Blue Ridge Mountain community, features spectacular historical architecture set against an exquisite mountainous backdrop, an acclaimed arts scene, and an assortment of delicious food offerings. Leaf peeping along Asheville’s numerous hiking trails creates unforgettable fall memories. For those seeking to cover more ground, scenic drives are also an option. To get in the spirit of the spooky season, Asheville hosts Haunted Asheville tours, Halloween-themed events, and pumpkin picking at patches in and around the city.

Manteo is a gorgeous coastal community on Roanoke Island. Visitors can explore this nature-filled wonderland via waterfront hiking trails and charming maritime forests. Despite its quaint size, it has a delectable food scene, along with breweries and distilleries that serve fall-inspired beverages. Fall brings several unique experiences to the Manteo area, including the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, where you can try tasty locally caught fish. This annual event is scheduled for October 21st this year. And for those who want a seasonal fright, Roanoke Island is closely associated with The Lost Colony, one of the country’s creepiest mysteries. Manteo fully embraces this history, offering haunted walking tours.

Southern Shores, a scenic community on the Outer Banks, is renowned for its coastal charm. While summer is the busiest time to visit, when the weather is ideal for relaxing on its soft-sand beaches, there is still plenty to enjoy in the fall. The area’s crowds dissipate during the autumn season, and visitors can enjoy leisurely beachfront walks and reduced congestion on its roadways. The majority of restaurants and town attractions remain open, making it a naturally beautiful place to enjoy throughout the seasons.

Boone is a stunningly beautiful mountain town that attracts many visitors year-round. A portion of the renowned Blue Ridge Parkway overlooking Boone displays vibrant autumn colors throughout the season. The nearby Grandfather Mountain State Park is another hiking hub, comprising enjoyable trails and magnificent Blue Ridge viewpoints. Boone not only has extraordinary scenery but also a lively atmosphere, with a diverse array of quality restaurants and entertainment venues.