Your Ultimate Guide To Spring Attractions And Activities In North Carolina
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Jasmine Vieau
Author
As the winter chill fades away, the Tar Heel State blossoms into a colorful paradise with the arrival of spring. From the Blue Ridge Mountains and Great Smoky Mountains to the sandy Outer Banks, North Carolina boasts diverse spring attractions – catering to all interests. With the first daffodils of the season blooming, it’s the perfect time to explore the best things to do in North Carolina this spring.
Flower Blooms In North Carolina
Get ready to be surrounded by a burst of colors in North Carolina as springtime hits full swing! I’ve got three must-visit spots for flower lovers – Biltmore Blooms, Sarah P. Duke Gardens, and The Gardens of Tryon Palace. Explore Biltmore’s grandeur, Duke Gardens’ charm, and Tryon Palace’s historical vibes, each offering its unique floral magic. So, grab your shades and stroll through these blooming havens because springtime is calling!
1. Biltmore Blooms
Biltmore, 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803, USA
Are you on spring break visiting Asheville in the valley of the North Carolina mountains? Do you need a break from all the breweries and craft beer brews? Then Check out the Biltmore! Spring at Biltmore is a breathtaking experience, revealing the estate at its most enchanting. The Blue Ridge Mountains create a stunning backdrop for the vibrant blooms that transform the gardens, grounds, and Biltmore House.
The formal and informal gardens at Biltmore, crafted by the renowned Frederick Law Olmsted, are a testament to his genius, seamlessly echoing the iconic landscapes he designed at Central Park and the U.S. Capitol.
Biltmore Blooms highlights the Azalea Garden, boasting over 20,000 plants with vivid blooms in various hues. Beyond the gardens, Antler Hill Village offers shops, restaurants, the award-winning Winery, and nature trails, making Biltmore an ideal springtime escape to the Blue Ridge Mountains.
2. Sarah P. Duke Gardens
Sarah P. Duke Gardens, 420 Anderson St, Durham, NC 27708, USA
If you're looking for free things to do in North Carolina in spring, you might want to check out Sarah P. Duke Gardens in Durham. This 55-acre botanical garden is a true oasis, showcasing more than 2,500 plant species and welcoming over 600,000 visitors annually.
Located on Duke University's West Campus, the garden features four distinct areas to explore: the Historic Gardens, H.L. Blomquist Garden of Native Plants, W.L. Culberson Asiatic Arboretum, and the Doris Duke Center & Gardens.
Visitors can enjoy vibrant flowers, picturesque pathways, and beautiful highlights such as the Rose Garden's iconic Roney Fountain, the Terrace Gardens' pergola and fish pool, and the Japanese-inspired Pine Clouds Mountain Stream in the Asiatic Arboretum. The gardens also offer educational programs, making it a serene yet enriching destination for nature enthusiasts of all ages.
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3. The Gardens of Tryon Palace
Tryon Palace, 529 S Front St, New Bern, NC 28562, USA
If you're a flower lover looking for romantic things to do in North Carolina, you have to take a stroll through Tryon Palace's gardens! Experience the charm of Tryon Palace, a replica of the 1760s Royal Governor's mansion, surrounded by 16 acres of enchanting gardens. Designed by landscape architect Morley Jeffers Williams in the 1950s, these gardens evoke the formal style of 18th-century Britain.
From the meticulously patterned Maude Moore Latham and Gertrude Carraway Gardens to the Colonial-inspired Kellenberger Garden, filled with marigolds and celosia, each garden offers a glimpse into different historical periods. The Etteinne Mitchell Riverside Garden not only adds to the beauty of native plants but also plays a vital role in the ecosystem. Explore Tryon Palace's gardens and step back in time amidst the blooming heritage.
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Botanical Gardens In North Carolina
Let’s explore the vibrant wonders of North Carolina – the best botanical gardens in the state include Cape Fear Botanical Garden, Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, and the North Carolina Botanical Garden. Whether you enjoy meandering through whimsical paths, exploring exotic plants, or reveling in beautiful seasonal blooms, these gardens have it all.
4. Cape Fear Botanical Garden
Cape Fear Botanical Garden, 536 N Eastern Blvd, Fayetteville, NC 28301, USA
Founded in 1989, Cape Fear Botanical Garden, situated on 80 acres near downtown Fayetteville, offers a diverse and serene experience. Featuring nature trails, a natural amphitheater, and riparian terrain, Cape Fear Botanical Garden serves as a picturesque backdrop for a variety of engaging cultural events and educational activities.
Explore old-growth forests and vibrant flora at the confluence of the Cape Fear and Cross Creek Rivers. The Garden Gift Shop adds to the charm with its unique selection of garden accents, nature-related items, books, artwork, jewelry, and hand-crafted gifts. It's a perfect haven for both nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
5. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S New Hope Rd, Belmont, NC 28012, USA
Tucked away in Belmont, just 30 minutes outside of Charlotte, you'll find the enchanting Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, sprawling across 380 acres of lush greenery, woodlands, and scenic lakefront views. The garden burst onto the scene in 1999, earning its stripes as one of the nation's "20 Great Gardens" (thanks, HGTV!) and a top 10 spot for fall frolics (as per USA Today).
And there's more to come! Plans for the future include everything from a home demonstration garden to a rose garden and even an Asian garden. But let's not forget the Orchid Conservatory, where you can bask in tropical splendor and learn a thing or two about exotic flora. With its year-round programs and breathtaking displays, Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden isn't just a garden—it's a whole experience waiting to be explored and enjoyed.
6. North Carolina Botanical Garden
North Carolina Botanical Garden, 100 Old Mason Farm Rd, Chapel Hill, NC 27517, USA
Have you ever been to the North Carolina Botanical Garden? It's a beautiful place operated by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (just 30 minutes outside the Raleigh/Durham area). It's hard to believe that it spans 700 acres with an additional 210 acres of nature preserves! It was founded in 1903 by Professor William Chambers Coker and has since evolved into one of the largest native plant botanical gardens in the Southeastern United States.
The garden has 14 collections and display gardens, including the Coker Arboretum, the Fern Collection, and the Mason Farm Biological Reserve. Did you know that it is home to the LEED Platinum-certified James and Delight Allen Education Center? And it's not just about native plants (like the rare Piedmont wildflowers) - the garden also actively promotes art programs. They even host exhibitions like Sculpture in the Garden and offer botanical art courses. It's worth a visit if you're ever in the area!
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Parks To Visit In North Carolina This Spring
Experience North Carolina’s spring charm at Jockey’s Ridge State Park, boasting sand dunes and coastal wildflowers, and Gorges State Park, featuring waterfalls and colorful blooms. These parks promise a perfect seasonal getaway in the heart of nature.
7. Jockey's Ridge State Park
Jockey's Ridge State Park, 300 W Carolista Dr, Nags Head, NC 27959, USA
Are you in the Outer Banks during Memorial Day weekend, soaking up the last days of spring and awaiting the first days of summer? Then venture over to Jockey's Ridge State Park in Nags Head for a fun day out.
When you think of Jockey's Ridge, you probably picture massive sand dunes, the East Coast's biggest. But guess what? It's not just about sand - it's a sweet spot for checking out coastal wildflowers! You've got everything from yellow bur marigolds to the trumpet honeysuckle - it's like a floral surprise amid the sand.
For the best wildflower vibes, hit up the Soundside Nature Trail and enjoy the blossoms against those iconic dunes. It's not just sand; it's a wildflower party at Jockey’s Ridge!
8. Gorges State Park
Gorges State Park, 976 Grassy Ridge Rd, Sapphire, NC 28774, USA
Nestled near the tripoint where North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia converge, Gorges State Park is a captivating destination during springtime. This natural haven boasts plunging waterfalls, rugged river gorges, and sheer rock precipices, offering backcountry-style recreation spanning over 8,000 acres of temperate rainforest. With 26 waterfalls, the northern boundary of Lake Jocassee, and a segment of the 70-mile Foothills Trail, the park showcases extraordinary biodiversity.
For a vibrant spring adventure, embark on the Rainbow Falls Trail, where a 150-foot waterfall serves as a stunning backdrop to a carpet of bright pink, purple, yellow, and blue wildflowers. This biodiverse landscape, labeled a temperate rainforest, creates a captivating experience for those exploring Gorges State Park in their spring itineraries.
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Spring Hikes In North Carolina
Venture into an adventure through the best spring hikes in North Carolina, featuring Elk Knob State Park’s Summit Trail and Doughton Park’s Bluff Mountain Trail. As the season unfolds, these trails offer blooming wildflowers, stunning views, and a dash of challenge, encapsulating the essence of springtime exploration in the Tar Heel State.
9. Elk Knob State Park's Summit Trail
Elk Knob State Park, 5564 Meat Camp Rd, Todd, NC 28684, USA
Have you heard of Elk Knob State Park in North Carolina? It's a stunning destination, just 20 minutes from Boone, that's well-known for its breathtaking mountain views and for being home to some of the most beautiful bluet wildflower patches in the region. If you're up for a moderate hiking challenge, you should check out the park's Summit Trail. This 3.9-mile out-and-back journey takes about two hours and eight minutes to complete, and it's a popular choice among nature enthusiasts.
As you hike along the trail, you'll have the chance to see the delicate bluets in all their glory. These native North American wildflowers bloom from May to August, and their beautiful four-petal flowers come in shades ranging from light to dark blue. So, if you're looking for a perfect blend of wildflower wonders and panoramic mountain vistas, Elk Knob State Park is worth checking out!
10. Doughton Park's Bluff Mountain Trail
Doughton Park NPS Visitor Center, 45356 Blue Rdg Pkwy, Sparta, NC 28675, USA
Have you been to Doughton Park? It's a fantastic park often considered the Blue Ridge Parkway's best-kept secret. It offers breathtaking long-range views, a campground for those who want to spend the night, and a restaurant called The Bluffs where you can grab some great food. One of the best things about the park is its massive picnic area, perfect for a lovely afternoon with family and friends.
If you're a hiker and want to explore more, you should check out the Bluff Mountain Trail. It's a 7.5-mile trek through shady forests and wildflowers like Solomon Seal and Trillium. As you keep going, you'll reach sunny grassy fields adorned with beautiful azaleas. The trail also offers highland meadows, scenic overlooks, and even an old homestead in the valley, making it one of the most beautiful and diverse hiking trails.
Discover a fascinating fact about this park – it's the largest recreation area managed by the National Park Service along the Blue Ridge Parkway. This expansive park, nestled between mile markers 238.5 and 244.7, is an absolute must-visit for those looking for North Carolina spring activities.
Spring Picnic Spots In North Carolina
In NC, two premier destinations stand out for outdoor adventures and picnics: Grandfather Mountain and Airlie Gardens. Grandfather Mountain promises panoramic vistas and varied picnic spots. Airlie Gardens in Wilmington provides a scenic backdrop for a perfect picnic with its beautiful botanical wonders and themed landscapes. Now, let’s dive into these top-notch picnic spots!
11. Grandfather Mountain's Picnic Areas
Grandfather Mountain, North Carolina 28646, USA
If you're looking for some family things to do in North Carolina in spring, enjoying a picnic is a fantastic family fun option. As spring graces Grandfather Mountain (the highest peak on the eastern escarpment of the Blue Ridge Mountains, a prominent range within the Appalachian Mountains) with blossoms and vibrant wildlife, it's the perfect time for a scenic picnic.
Celebrate the late spring blooms, especially the rhododendron, with the annual Rhododendron Rambles. Pack a picnic, reserve your spot online, and explore over a dozen designated areas, including Woods Walk, MacRae Meadows, and Half Moon Overlook. Whether you choose Sphinx Rock, Split Rock, or the Forrest Gump Picnic Area, each spot offers a unique setting, from shaded forests to dramatic mountain views. Cliffside Picnic Area boasts vistas of Mount Mitchell, while Switchback Picnic Area, at the park's highest point, provides breathtaking panoramas.
Experience the joy of outdoor dining amid Grandfather Mountain's natural beauty – an unforgettable part of your mountain adventure.
12. Airlie Gardens
Airlie Gardens, 300 Airlie Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403, USA
Airlie Gardens, a floral gem in Wilmington, invites you to embrace spring's beauty on its 67 acres of botanical delight. Towering moss-draped trees, including the historic Airlie Oak dating back to 1545, set the scene for themed gardens like the Pergola Garden, Tranquility Garden, and the unique Bottle Chapel. With over 100,000 azaleas and countless camellia cultivars in full bloom, it's a springtime spectacle. Grab a blanket for a picnic on the lawn, or use the limited available tables on a first-come, first-served basis – a perfect way to savor the season amid vibrant flowers at Airlie Gardens.
While in the area and looking for more fun things to do, check out the New Hanover County Arboretum, featuring diverse themed gardens where picnics are encouraged. Additionally, visit Carolina Beach State Park, renowned for its exclusive Venus flytrap collection. Enjoy a relaxing family picnic amidst the scenic beauty, with various picnic grounds offering amenities like tables, barbecue pits, and picturesque views of the marina. It's the perfect city for a day trip or weekend getaway!
Do you think these spots are some of the best things to do in North Carolina in spring? Let me know your thoughts – I’d love to hear from you!
As an Asheville local, I hold a Biltmore pass and often explore during Biltmore Blooms. It is worth the hype – you have to go! Another spot I recommend in Asheville is The North Carolina Arboretum – the perfect place to view colorful flowers.
If you’re looking for more outdoor activities, these Wildflowers Have Already Started Blooming In North Carolina, And These Are The 9 Best Places To See Them. Additionally, if you’re taking a road trip to visit any of the spots, check out these cozy vacation rentals!
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