Gas up the car and call your favorite road trip buddy, because this road trip in North Carolina highlights some of the lesser-known but equally-loved spots around the Tar Heel State. You’ll experience history, hiking, good food, and incredible views along the way that will leave you loving North Carolina even more than you did before. Is that even possible? Let’s find out by exploring some of the best hidden gems in North Carolina.

GoogleMaps
From point to point, you're looking at roughly a 4.5-hour drive. Of course, you'll want to give yourself plenty of time to stop off and enjoy these attractions. Feel free to use this interactive map to guide your way.

1. Dunrovin Country Store

Dunrovin Country Store, 5456 US-1, Vass, NC 28394, USA
Dunrovin Country Store/Google
Jason Lake/Google
You can’t take a countryside North Carolina hidden gems road trip and not stop off at a country store. Dunrovin Country Store is the oldest country store in Moore Country, and it’s packed to the brim with treasures. In addition to baked goods including homemade fudge and old-fashioned candies, you’ll also find everything from artisan soaps to Christmas decor. Once you’ve picked up a few souvenirs, check out the animal sanctuary right behind the store, where you can meet all sorts of cuddly critters and feathered friends! Visit the Dunrovin Country Store website to learn more.

2. Tommy’s Barbecue House and Catering

Tommy's Barbecue House & Catering LLC, 1945, 27 West NC-24, Biscoe, NC 27209, USA
Carter Claiborne/Google
Rutha Mciver/Google
A good road trip needs good food, and Tommy’s Barbecue House is the perfect spot to fuel up as we make our way around the Tar Heel State. From applewood-smoked BBQ to Brunswick Stew, all your favorite southern staples are here waiting for you. Visit the Tommy’s Barbecue House and Catering Facebook page for more information.

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3. Dunn’s Mountain Park

Dunns Mountain Road, Dunns Mountain Rd, Salisbury, NC 28146, USA
Tim Stipe/Google
Dunn’s Mountain Park/Google
Dunn’s Mountain Park is a beautiful 83-acre park located in Salisbury with scenic hiking trails and even a blacksmith shed where you can check out some historic artifacts and get a fun little history lesson while you’re there. The views along the trail are inspirational, and there are long-range binoculars at the summit so you can zoom in on the landscape below. Learn more about Dunn's Mountain Park, one of the most remarkable hidden gems in NC.

Take a look at this video of Dunn's Mountain Park by @yourrowan5320:

4. Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar

Battery Park Book Exchange, 1 Page Ave #101, Asheville, NC 28801, USA
Jim Glaze/Google
Ashley Reinhart/Google
If you thought sitting down with a good book and a cup of coffee was pure bliss, just wait until you experience the Nirvana that is a good book and Champagne. Battery Park Book Exchange not only has thousands of books, but also a wonderful selection of fine wine and champagne to sip on while you find your next book to read. The cafe also offers paninis, salads, and cheese/charcuterie boards, too! Find yourself a cozy corner and settle in for a unique experience. Learn more about Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar, one of the most exciting hidden gems in North Carolina.

Take a look at this video of the Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar by @grovearcade4757:

5. Haw Creek Valley Overlook

Haw Creek Valley Overlook, 3800 Blue Rdg Pkwy, Asheville, NC 28805, USA
Rob Deneshaw/Google
Heather B. Golden/Google
You did it! You made it to one of the most beautiful hidden gem views in North Carolina! The Haw Creek Valley Overlook gives you an endless view of the Haw Creek Valley Community and several mountain peaks including Ball Mountain, Ducker Mountain, Scott Mountain, and Piney Mountain. Grab the book that you just purchased from the Battery Park Book Exchange and find a quiet spot to read for a bit before heading home. Learn more about Haw Creek Valley Overlook on the National Park Service website.

Take a look at this video of Haw Creek Valley Overlook by @anissley123:

Ready for more of the best hidden gems in North Carolina? Check out these incredible road trips in North Carolina and plan your next adventure.

Whether it’s this road trip or another road trip you decide to embark on in North Carolina, preparation is key. Make sure you check out our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List for everything you need and don’t forget the snacks!

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More to Explore

Road Trips And Hidden Gems In North Carolina

Melissa M. | December 10, 2023

What are some of the best hidden gems in North Carolina?

Aside from the ones above, here are more of the best hidden gems in North Carolina:

  • The town of Saluda is located just south of Asheville.
  • Secret Falls in the Nantahala National Forest
  • The Kindred Spirits Mailbox at Sunset Beach
  • Linville Gorge Wilderness in the Pisgah National Forest

Check out more hidden gems in North Carolina.

What other North Carolina road trips should I go on?

If you enjoy taking road trips as much as we love planning them, here are some of the best North Carolina road trips you can take:

  • The Most Beautiful Waterfalls Road Trip In North Carolina
  • The North Carolina Haunted Road Trip
  • The Fall Foliage Road Trip In North Carolina
  • The North Carolina Lighthouse Road Trip
  • The North Carolina BBQ Road Trip

Check out more of the best road trips in North Carolina.

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