Hit the Road: NC is the Perfect Summer Road Trip Destination

Looking for some weekend getaway ideas before summer is over? We’ve got some great options for you in nearby North Carolina.

NC Road Trip Ideas

According to a recent survey by The Vacationer, over 75% of American adults intend to take a road trip this summer. For Atlantans, a road trip to North Carolina is a great choice.

Deemed “America’s Favorite Drive,” cruising along the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway makes for a slow-paced, relaxing adventure unlike any other. Offering quiet, laid-back mountain vibes alongside trendy downtown scenes, destinations like Boone and Asheville make perfect backdrops for a spontaneous group getaway.

Think: Instagrammable glamping, eco-conscious outdoor adventure, eclectic food and drink and more. Here’s what you need to know to plan your next trip!

Boone, NC

Distance from Atlanta: 5 hours

Boone, North Carolina, is a charming town located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The town is home to Appalachian State University, and its vibrant community offers plenty of things to do — from hiking and camping to shopping, and dining.

• Play: Try an awe-inspiring adventure like biking, fishing, zip-lining, kayaking, rafting or tubing. Stroll through a street festival, shop cool finds from local artisans and vintage/thrift shops or listen to live music on the front lawn of an historic house. Hike Grandfather Mountain or relax at a wellness retreat. Boone has it all!

• Stay: Delight in the unique flair of a recently reimagined drive-up motor inn at Rhode’s Motor Lodge, or discover a solar-powered A-frame built by one of The History Channel’s “Mountain Men.” Or, opt for boutique luxury in the heart of downtown (plus a rooftop lounge!) at The Horton. 

• Eat and Drink: Craft coffee is available at a number of local roasters, like Bald Guy Brew. Expect elegantly executed New American cuisine prepared using the fresh local ingredients at Vidalia, a rotating wild game burger at The Cardinal and the town’s biggest burritos at Black Cat Burrito. Don’t forget to hit the Boone Saloon (recognized as a top seller of Pabst Blue Ribbon worldwide!) or the Boone Area Wine Trail!

Asheville, NC

Distance from Atlanta: 3.5 hours

Asheville, NC, is full of things to do, outdoor adventures, special events, amazing restaurants, the Biltmore Resort, and so much more!

• Play:  Enjoy the great outdoors by tapping into the area’s best mountain biking trails, spending a relaxing day floating down the river with Zen Tubing or hitting The Glamping Collective’s private hiking trails. Explore Asheville’s River Arts District, the nearby Biltmore Estate and more. Time up the trip with live performances at AVL Fest! 

• Stay: Glamp at Asheville River Cabins, boasting a new collection of sleek cabins and a sauna with panoramic views of the French Broad river – or kick back at The Glamping Collective, a one-of-a-kind mountain retreat inviting its guests to indulge in thoughtfully designed geodesic domes and luxury amenities.  Read more about Asheville’s amazing glamping opportunities HERE.

• Eat and Drink: If you’re looking for one of the best brunch spots in the city, Early Girl Eatery is it. Find bold Caribbean flavors and a wide array of vegetarian options at Nine Mile. Love sour beer? Visit Wicked Weed’s Funkatorium, the south’s first-ever sour beer-dedicated taproom. Try The Crow and Quill’s elevated cocktails and seasonally curated menu – unlike anything you’ve ever tasted.