See 6 western NC destinations that are perfect for a long weekend trip

A whopping six western NC destinations placed on WorldAtlas’ list of best spots for a long weekend. All told, North Carolina landed 12 spots on the list.

A new list from WorldAtlas names 12 North Carolina towns that writers deemed perfect for a long weekend away.

Founded in 1994 by cartographer John Moen and his wife, Chris Woolwine-Moen, WorldAtlas publishes educational materials and articles on geography, sociology, demography, environment, economics, politics, and travel.

Previous Asheville Citizen Times articles have covered numerous mentions of western North Carolina from WorldAtlas, including the publication’s favorite NC towns for 2026 visits, best day trips in the state, “idyllic” and “unpretentious” towns, scenic drives, a favorite downtown area, and more.

Of the 12 options on their latest list, half were located in Western NC. Here’s what WorldAtlas writers suggested checking out in each WNC town on their list, plus the full list of destinations and more.

What to do in Blowing Rock, NC

In past coverage of WNC, WorldAtlas writers called Blowing Rock a “delightful mountain town rich in history, natural scenery, and cultural offerings.” They suggested the following stops during a weekend visit to the area:

• The town’s namesake, Blowing Rock, a cliff-like formation overlooking the Johns River Gorge, is known for its unique updraft that can sometimes blow light objects back upward when thrown over
• Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, featuring trails and a historic 1901 Colonial Revival estate
• Glen Burney and Glen Marie Waterfalls are accessible by trails from Annie Cannon Park, which also offers a small garden area
• Tweetsie Railroad, a Wild West-themed park with two historic steam locomotives, rides, and live shows
• The town’s walkable downtown area, offering a village-like feel with brick sidewalks lined with small shops, art galleries, and restaurants
• Embers Hotel, a rustic lodge-style stay with Blue Ridge Mountain views, within walking distance of shops and restaurants, and featuring an on-site dining option at The Hotel Embers Restaurant

What to do in Banner Elk, NC

WorldAtlas writers called Banner Elk the “Ski Capital of the South,” highlighting its small-town ambiance, restaurants, craft breweries, and four-season appeal. They suggested the following stops during a visit to the area:

• Grandfather Mountain, featuring more than 2,600 acres of protected land, a mile-high swinging bridge, and hiking trails with views of springtime wildflowers and the 5,964-foot Calloway Peak
• Beech Mountain Resort and Sugar Mountain Resort, offering skiing and other outdoor recreation, along with activities like fishing, hiking, and tubing
• Banner Elk Winery, producing a variety of wine varietals and offering tastings alongside scenic vineyard views
• The town’s welcoming atmosphere, with a mix of restaurants and craft breweries, and easy access to nearby Boone, about 17 miles away
• Lodge at Banner Elk, located close to the ski resorts and offering rooms and suites suited for an active weekend, along with amenities like free breakfast and an outdoor heated pool

Clouds blanket the valley below the Blue Ridge Parkway near Black Mountain on Oct. 9, 2025. (USA Today via Reuters)

What to do in Little Switzerland, NC

WorldAtlas writers described Little Switzerland as a seasonal resort village reminiscent of the Swiss Alps, known for its mountain chalets, Swiss-style architecture, and scenic Blue Ridge Parkway setting. They suggested the following stops during a visit to the area:

• Little Switzerland Tunnel, one of the Parkway’s 26 tunnels, is located along this high-elevation stretch overlooking the Black Mountains and Mount Mitchell
• Highway 226A, also known as the Diamondback, is a winding route with switchbacks and hairpin turns, popular with motorcyclists and sports car drivers
• North Carolina Mining Museum at Emerald Village, featuring real mines, including tours through the underground Bon Ami Mine
• The village itself, with small cafes, local bookstores, and Swiss-inspired buildings, opens seasonally from mid-April through October, ideal for spring wildflower and fall foliage viewing
• Switzerland Inn, a historic lodge offering guest rooms, suites, and private houses, along with on-site restaurants, a spa, and a pool

What to do in Bryson City, NC

WorldAtlas writers highlighted Bryson City for its slow pace, rustic scenery, and access to outdoor adventure. They suggested the following stops during a visit to the area:

• The town’s downtown area, lined with shops and local breweries, including Bryson City Brewing
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a nearby destination for outdoor recreation such as whitewater rafting and trout fishing
• Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, offering scenic rides with views of the city, the Nantahala National Forest, and Fontana Lake
• Deep Creek Area, known for its scenic waterfalls and streams that attract hikers
• Lodge at Nantahala, located along the river near the Appalachian Trail, features cabins with kitchenettes, outdoor seating, and fire pits for a rustic mountain stay

Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy Executive Director Carl Silverstein speaks at Deaverview Mountain in Asheville, N.C., on Monday, April 13, 2026. Buncombe County recently closed on the 342-acre property, which is slated to become a public park. (USA Today via Reuters)

What to do in Highlands, NC

WorldAtlas writers highlighted Highlands as one of the highest towns east of the Mississippi, known for its Blue Ridge Plateau setting, abundant rainfall, and relaxed yet upscale atmosphere. They suggested the following stops during a visit to the area:

• The town’s downtown is lined with upscale shops and restaurants, offering an easy place to unwind after outdoor activities
• Nantahala National Forest, home to several waterfalls, including Dry Falls, which can be viewed from behind via a wooden boardwalk
• Cullasaja River, known for rainbow and brook trout fishing
• Whiteside Mountain, featuring hiking trails with dramatic 750-foot cliff views above the tree line and opportunities to spot peregrine falcons
• Old Edwards Inn & Spa, set on a large property with cottages and suites in a neighborhood-style layout, offering rooms with fireplaces, along with a pool and lounge

What to do in Black Mountain, NC

WorldAtlas writers highlighted Black Mountain for its artsy, small-town charm and scenic setting in the Swannanoa Valley near the Blue Ridge Mountains. They suggested the following stops during a visit to the area:

• The town’s walkable downtown is known for its art galleries, cafes, and specialty shops geared toward outdoor activities
• Lake Tomahawk Park, a scenic park with a lakeside trail and a fishing pier
• Swannanoa Valley Museum & History Center, located in a 1941 firehouse, showcases local and cultural history through photographs and artifacts
• Seven Sisters Craft Gallery and Mountain Nest Gallery, featuring handcrafted pottery, woodwork, and paintings
• Black Mountain Inn, originally built as a stagecoach stop in the 1830s, offers modern amenities alongside antique furnishings, hardwood floors, and mountain views, and is located near the River Trail Loop along the Swannanoa River

Best weekend trips in North Carolina

The full list of 12 weekend destinations in NC from WorldAtlas included:

• Manteo
• Beaufort
• Bath
• Pinehurst
• Mount Airy
• Mount Holly
• Blowing Rock
• Banner Elk
• Little Switzerland
• Bryson City
• Highlands
• Black Mountain

Reporting by Iris Seaton, Asheville Citizen Times / Asheville Citizen Times

USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect