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Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: USD
- Languages: English, Spanish
- Climate: Humid subtropical
- Timezone: America/New_York
- Population: Approximately 10.7 million
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is spring and fall for pleasant weather.
- Visa Requirements Visitors to North Carolina must comply with United States visa regulations. Citizens of visa waiver countries such as those in the EU, UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan can enter the US for tourism without a visa for up to 90 days under the ESTA program. Other nationals typically require a visa obtained prior to travel. US citizens do not need a visa. Visa on arrival is not available. E-visa options are limited to specific visa categories and not for general tourism.
About North Carolina
North Carolina offers a rich blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern attractions that make it a compelling destination for travelers. From the scenic Appalachian Mountains in the west to the sandy beaches of the Outer Banks on the Atlantic coast, the state provides diverse landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore vibrant cities like Charlotte and Raleigh, which feature museums, historic sites, and lively arts scenes. The state is also known for its charming small towns, rich Civil War history, and southern hospitality. North Carolina’s unique appeal lies in its combination of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. Whether you want to hike mountain trails, relax on pristine beaches, or enjoy craft breweries and barbecue, North Carolina has something for every traveler. Its moderate climate and welcoming communities add to the appeal, making it a year-round destination.
Top Attractions
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Renowned for its mist-covered peaks, diverse wildlife, and extensive hiking trails. 2. Biltmore Estate – America’s largest privately-owned home, a historic mansion with beautiful gardens and winery. 3. Outer Banks – A string of barrier islands with pristine beaches, historic lighthouses, and water sports. 4. Blue Ridge Parkway – A scenic drive offering breathtaking mountain views and access to hiking and waterfalls. 5. North Carolina Museum of Art – Located in Raleigh, it features a vast collection of American and European art.
Popular Activities
Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and camping in the Appalachian region, whale watching and kite surfing along the coast, and exploring historic sites and museums in urban centers. Cultural experiences include attending music festivals, visiting craft breweries, and sampling traditional southern barbecue. Recreational options also include golfing, fishing, and boating.
North Carolina Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of USA
- Duration Range: Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and camping in the Appalachian region, whale watching and kite surfing along the coast, and exploring historic sites and museums in urban centers. Cultural experiences include attending music festivals, visiting craft breweries, and sampling traditional southern barbecue. Recreational options also include golfing, fishing, and boating.
- Group Size: Flexible group sizes
- Difficulty Level: Beginner to Advanced
- Recommended For: The best time to visit is spring and fall for pleasant weather. Pack layers for mountain and coastal climates. Respect local customs and southern hospitality. Stay hydrated and use sunscreen outdoors. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases. North Carolina is generally safe, but standard travel precautions apply.
Average Tour Price: $75
Lowest Price Tour: $45
Highest Price Tour: $220
398 Available Tour Excursions in North Carolina
Whether you want to see waterfalls, wildflowers, enjoy a quiet walk on a forested path, or climb a 6,000 foot peak, we will customize these trips based on your desired distance, difficulty, and destination. After booking, our office will contact you to discuss your preferences. Hike will meet our office in downtown Asheville at 8:30am, and will last approximately 4-5 hours including transportation time. Snacks are included, but transportation is not. Transportation between Asheville and the trailhead (including hotel pickup) can be added for an additional fee. Your guide can provide trekking poles upon request at no additional charge. We hike rain or shine! Hikers should arrive prepared for all weather conditions and pack a rain jacket, an extra warm layer, and water. We may cancel or reschedule your hike in the event of severe or dangerous weather conditions. Curious about the other hikes we offer? Check out our website!
Price: $150.00
Duration: 4 hours
The tour is operated by Wilmington Bike & Brew Tours here in Wilmington, NC. Be sure to check out our reviews here on Trip Advisor and also on Google. Search for us on Google Maps to find our reviews. Experience historic Wilmington, NC, and its historic sites by E-Bike while experiencing 3 Wilmington Craft Breweries. Sample some of the best craft beer on the coast! Each E-bike tour will include stops at multiple historic and significant sites throughout downtown. This tour is the perfect balance of sightseeing and craft beer sampling, making it popular with solo travelers, couples, families with teens, and groups alike. Spend the day cruising around town on an electric bike checking out some of Wilmington’s best breweries. Whether you’re just visiting or you’re a local looking for an adventure, our E-Bike Tour to the Craft Breweries of Wilmington is a fun and popular activity for craft beer lovers
Price: $85.00
Duration: 4 hours
Our location at Concord Mills is right by countless eating and retail options, perfect for pairing an escape room with a day or night out. Some of our fave places to eat include On The Border and Razzoo's Cajun Cafe. The Escape Game Concord features 5 unique themes including The Depths, one of our newest escape rooms, and Prison Break, our most challenging game. Each family-friendly option includes multiple rooms and can hold up to 8 players, except for Playground, which can hold up to 12 players. These adventures offer a one-of-a-kind premium experience. Follow clues and solve puzzles to complete your mission together. We offer the best escape rooms and the fastest customer support. Come see why our escape rooms win awards.
Price: $39.58
Duration: 1 hours
We are the only authorized horse and carriage service in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. While you are witnessing the breathtaking views the parkway and Moses H Cone Memorial Park has to offer, experience the historical Manor and carriage trails while riding in comfort on a carriage. Feel free to bring snacks and drinks.
Price: $125.00
Duration: 2 hours
Semi-Private guided tour with certified naturalist kayaking through the city of Asheville on the serene French Broad River. Includes peak-a-boo views of the Biltmore Mansion and Estate.
Price: $75.00
Duration: 2 hours
Enjoy this private, guided paddleboard tour along a scenic section of Asheville's French Broad that borders the Biltmore Estate! Your guide will regale you with local history help spot wildlife like otters, herons, turtles, osprey, and deer. After meeting your guide at Hominy Creek River Park you'll enjoy a shuttle in an air conditioned van to the starting point at Bent Creek, where you'll receive a lesson and expert instruction from your certified paddleboard instructor. Once you feel confident and comfortable on the board you'll follow your guide on a 2.5 hour private paddle down the river. This section of river is beautifully forested and offers views of the Biltmore Estate, which is a Châteauesque-style mansion built by George Washington Vanderbilt II. You'll also learn expert paddleboarding tips and finish back at Hominy Creek River Park within minutes of restaurants and breweries.
Price: $99.00
Duration: 3 hours
Explore Asheville’s Music Scene! Yesterday and Today! We will tell you about Asheville’s connections to members of national and regional Music Halls of Fame. You will learn the local venues for national touring acts, as well as, the spots for our area’s amazing local talent! We will discover Asheville’s historic Grove Arcade, Citizen-Times Building (AKA Citizens Vinyl) and the Flatiron Building. Learn about Asheville’s historic connection to the early days of America’s radio and record industries. After an informative walk around our historic city, the tour will finish at Asheville’s famous Moogseum: A first rate museum to Bob Moog and his historic Moog Synthesizers. Discount tickets will be available to continue your tour with the good folks at the Moogseum. A must see for all serious musicians!
Price: $30.00
Duration: 2-3 hours
All photo tours include hands-on coaching and instruction to help you improve your photos both artistically and technically. Most tours include two guides, a husband and wife team who are skilled, award-winning Nature & Fine Art photographers. You get lots of personal attention and guidance, and tours are customized to the types of photography and natural locations that interest you the most.
Price: $150.00
Duration: 4 hours
Forest Bathing is the simple practice of walking slowly through the forest, connecting with the environment with all senses rather than rushing to a destination. Enjoy the magic along the way! I invite you to breathe deep and pause long enough to notice the gentle breeze on your skin, the sounds of the forest, and your busy mind relaxing its pace. Studies show that time in nature offers physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits that linger even after you've left the trail behind. A guided forest therapy walk is a unique avenue to unlocking these benefits. Hope to see you on the trail soon!
Price: $65.00
Duration: 3 hours
Sightseeing, breweries and live music on LaZoom's original purple bus! With its unique design, the bus doubles as a vibrant venue, complete with a stage for live bands playing throughout the ride. Guests can sip their favorite beer or wine (BYOB) on board, making it a one-of-a-kind experience where the fun never stops, even between brewery visits. It’s a perfect mix of great music, craft beer, and a lively atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else. LaZoom has been operating comedy and beer tours in Asheville NC since 2008 - be one of the first to experience it in Charlotte! Ages 21+ ONLY parties of 16 or more - please call for availability.
Price: $39.00
Duration: 3 hours
The Private Picnic Experience is a great way to unplug, relax, and learn a little about the Queen City. It is the perfect addition to a stay or a wonderful way to explore what's right in your own backyard. We cordially invite you to spend a relaxing afternoon or evening at the park with breathtaking views of Uptown Charlotte while indulging in refreshing beverages. We also provide a variety of couples activities to help you relax and reconnect. This is a private experience. Only guests in your party will participate.
Price: $249.00
Duration: 1 hours
There are a number of beautiful places to visit and things to do while you are in Asheville, but your search is over. When you leave this area our goal is to make This experience the one you remember and enjoyed most! Our licensed LOCAL guides will take you to some of the best locations in the Blue Ridge Mountains and show you what makes this area so special. They live to be outside and love these mountains - and love showing what this great region has to offer. They will talk about the history, the mountains, the wildlife, flora, fauna and so much more. They might even tell some of the local secrets - like where to grab a beer or great food too! Hike will be 3-5 miles depending on the group, including a stop in front of a waterfall and maybe a small lake to see if the Bald Eagles are out. If we do not have at least 2-3 guests booked for the hike we may cancel.
Price: $94.00
Duration: 5 hours
The Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a must see on Hatteras Island. On this kayak tour, we frequently spot ospreys, pelicans, herons, egrets, ibis, terns, rails, skimmers, wrens, and warbles just to name a few. We will tour the salt marsh canals and flat waters of the Pamlico Sound. This tour location also packs a punch with its unreal sunsets!!!! LOCATION: HWY 12 South, Just South of Rodanthe, NC 27968 Great sunset tour area! Search for sea turtles, rays, river otter with a HUGE variety of waterfowl Great sunset tour location! Safe, fun & educational Quality Sit In Kayaks Available all spring, summer & fall 2 Hour Experience
Price: $59.00
Duration: 2 hours
Come visit Triangle Adventures just outside Raleigh, NC! Experience the best local authentic Mexican food The Triangle has to offer. Local fun facts, gorgeous scenery, and history along the way. Delicious lunch and craft margaritas included from a local prohibition-style speakeasy (vegetarian options and non-alcoholic drinks can be substituted.) Enjoy the outdoors on a pedal assisted e-bike, and don't worry about the pedaling, the bike does all the work for you! Google "Triangle Adventures" to check out our reviews.
Price: $119.00
Duration: 3-4 hours
Personalized, one-on-one attention within a group setting can be both nourishing and deeply meaningful. We come to you so there's no need to worry about getting out of the house on time! Note that locations more than 10 miles from downtown Asheville will incur an additional travel fee.
Price: $85.00
Duration: 1 hours
This tour takes guest up The Blue Ridge Parkway, passing breathtaking views, cliffs, waterfalls, historical landmarks. This is the best way to see all The Splendor of the Southern Highlands. Due to Hurricane Helene some sections maybe closed but we do have alternate routes.
Price: $300.00
Duration: 6-8 hours
Otherworldly slimy entities lurking in the sewers, the ghostly shaking sounds of a train crash, long-dead restauranteurs still guiding their business' direction long after their death, and much more. These creepy stories and others await you in the Raleigh Ghost and Urban Legend Walk, where we explore the facts and fiction behind some of Raleigh's creepiest folklore. This tour is hosted by a professional historian, who will guide you through the truth, lies, and strange space in between the two.
Price: $19.99
Duration: 1 hours
Great for families or large groups of friends that want to start their surfing journey together! A fun, healthy, safe way to let go and get closer to people you love!
Price: $110.00
Duration: 2 hours
1. Choose Your Tour
Browse our curated selection of tours and select your perfect adventure.
2. Check Details
Review tour inclusions, duration, and meeting points carefully.
3. Book Online
Complete your booking securely with instant confirmation.
4. Enjoy Your Experience
Join the tour and create unforgettable memories in North Carolina.
Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
North Carolina is famous for its barbecue, particularly the vinegar-based Eastern style and the tomato-based Lexington style. Other local specialties include fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, and sweet potato dishes. The state has a growing craft beer scene and farm-to-table restaurants. Noteworthy dining spots include Lexington Barbecue in Lexington and The Pit in Raleigh.
Getting Around
Major airports serving North Carolina include Charlotte Douglas International Airport and Raleigh-Durham International Airport. Within cities, public transit options include buses and light rail in Charlotte. Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the state, especially for visiting rural and mountainous areas. Taxi services and rideshares like Uber and Lyft are widely available in urban areas. Costs vary but public transit is generally affordable.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is spring and fall for pleasant weather. Pack layers for mountain and coastal climates. Respect local customs and southern hospitality. Stay hydrated and use sunscreen outdoors. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases. North Carolina is generally safe, but standard travel precautions apply.
Culture & Customs
North Carolina culture blends southern traditions with modern influences. Politeness and friendliness are valued social norms. Important festivals include the North Carolina State Fair and the MerleFest music festival. Visitors should be respectful of local customs, such as greeting with a smile and using polite language. Tipping in restaurants is customary at around 15-20%.
