We may be biased, but we think the Carolinas are an amazing place to visit (and live!) with a wealth of things to see and do. If you’re local or visiting Lake Norman but looking for a new adventure, here are 5 day trips worth checking out. Depending on your preferences and how far you want to drive, we have a variety of activities to consider.
Get a Taste of North Carolina Wine Tasting
Did you know that we have dozens of wineries within a short distance of Lake Norman? You may choose to charter a car or bus to take you to several different locales and spend the day in style. Or, if you prefer to do it yourself, you can visit these three charming vineyards – all within a few minutes drive of each other:
Castello Barone Vineyards and Winery
Explore a NC State Park
North Carolina is known for its natural beauty and offers over 40 state parks to explore. Here are just a few of our favorites featuring spectacular views within 2 hours’ drive of the Charlotte area:
Visit Outdoorsy Asheville, NC
With mountain views in all directions, an outdoor enthusiast culture, plus a vibrant, artistic downtown, Asheville is the perfect destination for a day trip. It may, however, be difficult to squeeze everything you want to do into just one day! Here are just a few places you may want to stop:
French Broad Adventures – ziplining, rafting, canyoneering
Discover Charming Greenville, SC
Greenville’s welcoming city center is an ideal destination for tourists and locals alike. It is built around an expansive urban park and sculptural bridge over the Reedy River, making the area’s natural beauty a focal point. Public art, delightful shops and unique restaurants are all plentiful in the picturesque, walkable downtown.
Experience Small Towns Boone and Blowing Rock, NC
North Carolina’s mountain towns are enchanting. In Boone, visit the Appalachian State University campus and all the entertainment that goes along with an energetic college town. In nearby Blowing Rock, you’ll find high-end art galleries and boutiques as you stroll through this quaint and peaceful village. Among and between the two, you’ll find plenty of places to venture off and take a hike in nature, surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
Coming Home to Lake Norman, NC
When your exploration is complete, your StayLakeNorman rental will be ready for you to rest and indulge in the beauty of your surroundings. There’s no place like home.
