Iconic North Carolina landmarks are found from border to border. In the west, there are entire mountains that are considered landmarks. And then, all the way over to the east, you will find some of the best man-made landmarks in North Carolina. There’s no better way to see the state’s landmarks than a road trip. Don’t worry, though. We’ve already mapped out the route. So, when you are ready, grab your keys, gas up the car, take a look at our Road Trip Essentials Packing List and Guide, and prepare for one of the best road trips in North Carolina!
If you have all day, here's a road trip along the coast that travels from the northern border to the southern border with stops in between. In total, the one-way drive is right at seven hours. You might want to make a weekend of it and spend the night. Or...
If you start at the northern border and want to cut this trip back to under three hours each way, just skip the last two (the southern landmarks) and save them for another day. To customize the route, simply check out this interactive map to landmarks in North Carolina. Let's get started, shall we?
1. Currituck Beach Lighthouse (Corolla)
Currituck Beach Lighthouse, 1101 Corolla Village Rd, Corolla, NC 27927, USA
The only unpainted lighthouse still standing in the Tar Heel State was first fired up in 1875. The construction of the Currituck Light used more than a million bricks. You can still climb this tower (seasonally), which makes it all the more fun to visit!
No visit to this part of the state would be complete without paying tribute to the Wright Brothers. This daring duo has their own national monument high atop a knoll in Kill Devil Hills. It's worth a stop — and a great big THANK YOU to those two for inventing the airplane and opening the doors to travel on a whole new scale.
The largest living sand dune on the east coast is enormous. It's always changing with the winds but is usually in the neighborhood of 3.5 miles long and 100 feet high. Walking around on this huge dune feels a bit like exploring the Sahara Desert on foot.
To learn more about this landmark in North Carolina, check out our full article on Jockeys Ridge State Park.
Can you believe that North Carolina has had a total of more than 23 lighthouses over the years? Today, only seven remain standing. Bodie Island Light is a must-see among the spectacular lights still in operation. If you haven't visited in recent years, then you'll be happy to hear it's been renovated in recent years (2013) and visitors can climb the 217 stairs to the top for a view like no other. (The lighthouse is only open seasonally, so make sure to check the operating hours prior to visiting.)
Learn more about this historic site by reading our full article on the Bodie Island Light.
5. Roanoke River Lighthouse (Edenton)
Roanoke River Lighthouse, 7 Dock St, Edenton, NC 27932, USA
The history of the only remaining screw pile lighthouse in the state is quite interesting. Firstly, this isn't the first one. And secondly, this isn't this light's original location. It was originally built in the mouth of the Roanoke River, where it proceeded to burn. The replacement then proceeded to fall into the Sound after two of the pilings broke due to ice in the water. The third structure was eventually moved to the shoreline here in Edenton.
You don't have to be former military or have a family member who served in the armed forces to appreciate a visit to this former battleship. Be sure to set aside a few hours (or more!) to see and do it all here.
Want to know more about this historic site? Check out our full article on the Battleship North Carolina.
7. Kindred Spirit Mailbox (Sunset Beach)
Kindred Spirit Mailbox, Sunset Beach, NC 28468, USA
After exploring the Battleship, head over to Sunset Beach and take a little walk to discover the Kindred Spirit Mailbox firmly planted in the sand in the middle of nowhere along the beach. Some people bring letters to those who are long lost and leave them in the box. The hike down the beach from the parking area is a little shy of two miles (each way).
For more information on this landmark in North Carolina, check out our past article on Kindred Spirit Mailbox.
The coast is such a wonderful place to spend time and relax! So, what do you think? Does this list answer the question, “What are some popular landmarks in North Carolina?” Have you already discovered any of these coastal landmarks in North Carolina? If so, which ones and what’d you think? Did we miss your favorite North Carolina landmarks? Whatever it is, tell us!
Looking for more ways to enjoy the state? You’re in luck! Road-tripping to the best North Carolina landmarks isn’t the only fun journey you can take in the state. There are lots of options for exploring the state, including these amazing North Carolina road trips.
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North Carolina Landmarks
Daniella DiRienzo|December 05, 2022
Are there any other landmarks in North Carolina?
There are quite a few North Carolina landmarks worthy of a visit, including:
