Move Over Asheville! Discover North Carolina’s Charming Lesser-Known Hideaway

Say what you need about Asheville, however there is no denying North Carolina’s standard mountain getaway had its hidden gem membership revoked years in the past.

While Asheville might undoubtedly profit from a brand new tourism increase given the pure catastrophe in 2024, that does not imply it’s best to sleep on North Carolina’s third-largest metropolis, which has by some means slipped via the cracks behind Charlotte, the Outer Banks, and aforementioned Asheville.

Throw Cary within the combine and you will rapidly understand there’s a lot to be found within the “Tar Heel State”.

Though one other under-hyped metropolis is probably NC’s best-kept secret, and backed by Southern Living.

We at Travel Off Path are all the time on the prowl for lesser-known getaways good for avoiding crowds and stretching your price range, so we’re comfortable to introduce North Carolina’s subsequent massive factor: the colourful metropolis of Greensboro, tucked away within the scenic Piedmont Triad with its personal airport (GSO) to attenuate journey time.

Discover Down-Harm Charm & Hallowed History

Despite being ‘North’, you are still within the South — and you realize what which means. Southern hospitality is an actual factor and you will really feel it on this metropolis of 302,000 residents with a small city ambiance.

Downtown’s skyline is probably not something to shake a stick at, however floor stage you will discover cozy cafes as your pleasant morning caffeine sellers, lush, inexperienced city parks, quite a few Mom n’ Pop eateries, and a number of the state’s most intriguing museums to deep dive into the previous.

With few towering high-rises, you will be captivated by the rows of brick-stacked buildings and classic character.

Southern Living overestimated Crafted – The Art of the Taco as downtown’s must-eat restaurant regardless of being nowhere close to the border.

If you ask me, I’m salivating over the menu of Dame’s Chicken & Waffles, which positively feels extra apropos for North Carolina delicacies.

As for historical past, you will should activate Siri and inform her to take notes. There’s no scarcity of superior museums and landmarks speckled round city.

For pattern measurement, it’s best to scope out these 3 top-rated Greensboro museums:

You will not wish to skip a photo-op outdoors the Carolina Theater both. This historic efficiency heart dates again almost a century, although it’s growing older like superb wine.

Speaking Of Wine…

While Greensboro is not particularly a wine vacation spot in its personal proper, being a proud cardholder of the gorgeous Piedmont area, you are near an abundance of underrated wine cities, resembling Stokedale, Winston-Salem, and Lexington, amongst others.

Southern Living did not contact on wine of their Greensboro characteristic, however it’s some of the underrated features of visiting the realm.

You will not discover vineyards within the metropolis limits such as you would in Napa, however it’s an incredible gateway to see a extremely neglected component of North Carolina typically.

Though native favourite Rioja Wine Bar in Greensboro is a good start line.

“The Green City”

There is probably not vineyards within the metropolis limits, however immaculate surroundings abounds. Dubbed “The Green City”, Greensboro actually lives as much as the title with gorgeous parks and greenbelts, scenic hikes, and sizable lakes for fishing, kayaking, and boating.

One of the most well-liked locations to go to is Greensboro Arboretum, a 17-acre botanical backyard to get pleasure from seasonal blooms.

Connected to the Arboretum is the Bog Garden at Benjamin Park, a lesser-known slice of serenity amongst pure wetlands boasting an array of wildlife.

Where To Stay & How To Get Here

Anyone else uninterested in chain accommodations?

Sometimes it is good to place your factors apart and e book a traditional keep in an old-timey inn or mattress and breakfast.

Southern Living really helpful Historic Magnolia House, a group staple with a laundry listing of well-known company, together with Jackie Robinson and Louie Armstrong, so you realize you will assume to your self “what a wonderful stay”.

*pats self on again*

Getting right here is simply so simple as discovering a snug keep. GSO serves main hubs resembling Newark, Chicago, Dallas, and even welcomes price range airways Allegiant and Breeze from secondary airports.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based mostly in San Diego has visited 36 nations and written over 1000 articles with a concentrate on sharing his personal journey experiences and shining a lightweight on lesser-known gems.