Population: 59,234Percent Democrat: 72.8%$ Democrat Amount Per Capita: $165.45# Democrat Contributions Per Capita: 0.96More on Chapel Hill:Photos |Data. The town has grown up and spread out a touch over the years, and its proximity to Asheville has rubbed off on it. As well as being a couple minutes away from a bunch of other smaller cities nearby. North Carolina's Crystal Coast is 85 miles of gorgeous sand, most of which can be found forming offshore banks that shelter the mainland. Until a craft beer and outdoor sports explosion, Saluda wasnt much more than a truck stop with peaches in the summer and apples in the fall. Outer Banks towns have never had tons of real estate. Some of these towns don't have large off-season populations, though, and may be pretty quiet/dull during winter months. Ken Christensen, CEO of Washington-based The Politics Company Inc., a Democratic messaging and fundraising firm, said there are reasons a candidate would want to keep initial fundraising numbers . Beaches Parks. Southport is one of the best small towns in North Carolina. 13 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in North Carolina, 20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Charlotte, NC, 16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Wilmington, NC, 13 Top-Rated Mountain Towns in North Carolina, 12 Top-Rated Mountain Resorts in North Carolina, 12 Top-Rated Waterfalls in North Carolina, 3 Top Places for Deep Sea Fishing in North Carolina, 17 Top Cheap Ski Holidays in North America, 2023, 11 Top-Rated Romantic Getaways in North Carolina, 10 Top-Rated Campgrounds in the Outer Banks, NC, 5 Top-Rated Ski Resorts in North Carolina, 2023, North Carolina in Pictures: 15 Beautiful Places to Photograph, 14 Top-Rated Small Towns in North Carolina, 11 Top-Rated Rivers for Trout Fishing in North Carolina, 12 Top-Rated Things to Do on the Isle of Arran, 22 Best Places to Visit in the United States, 21 Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts in the World, some of the best places to camp in the Outer Banks. This quiet Northern California coastal town is named for the river that flows through town and into the Pacific. In New Orleans,, Read More The 10 Richest Neighborhoods in New OrleansContinue. Public Schools. On the Northern edge of the outer banks, it hasnt developed to favor tourism as much as other towns on the barrier banks of the state. Museums pay homage to the cotton mill upbringing of the area, and authentic Southern food establishments, like the Sugar Magnolia Cafe, give you plenty of reasons to head downtown. Murphy dates back to the 1830s, and acts as a gateway to a lot of of North Carolina's natural wonders. The main things to see and do are easily reached by foot, and if you find yourself tired out by the adventure, stop in at one of the restaurants and recharge with a fine seafood meal. A large chunk of the locals live within easy walking distance of the towns authentic center. With 65 public beach access points, it is one of the most welcoming beach towns in the country. Nearby, Western North Carolina University more than doubles the population of this cute, North Carolina small town that has plenty to offer every time of the year. The colorful shrimp boats are quaintly decorated and the whole town radiates saltwater charm. Weddings, anniversaries, and honeymooners love the tranquility and its arguably one of the most romantic getaways in NC. Why We Recommend This Beach Boasting its 16 miles of undeveloped shoreline, you'll be surprised with what's in store in Ocracoke Island. Fresh breezes off the ocean and cool waters to swim in make for a refreshing retreat. One of the more unique colleges on the list, The Military College of South Carolina, or more commonly known as The Citadel, is a college intricately involved with its coastal location. The cities are vibrant, the towns are charming, and the landscape will leave even the most jaded city slicker a little breathless. The crazy zigzag nature of the walkway will have you snapping pictures almost immediately. The small town of Beaufort is the county seat of Carteret County, on the 'Inner Banks' coastal area of North Carolina (specifically, Beaufort is situated just where the Outer Banks end). Looking for: Most liberal beach towns in north carolina The town itself is packed with attractions, including the fascinating Wrightsville Beach Museum of History and the Fred and Alice Stanback Coastal Education Center. I once read a description of Chapel Hill as being "as southern as Birkenstocks and Muesli". We picked our twenty favorite beach towns based on the following criteria: 1. If you can plan for it, the North Carolina Seafood Festival happens the first weekend in October each year and is considered one of the most popular festivals in the state. Population: 25,600Percent Democrat: 62.3%$ Democrat Amount Per Capita: $17.02# Democrat Contributions Per Capita: 0.17More on Mint Hill:Photos |Data, Population: 30,760Percent Democrat: 62.3%$ Democrat Amount Per Capita: $19.27# Democrat Contributions Per Capita: 0.19More on Matthews:Photos |Data. The Charlotte metropolitan area ranks 22nd-largest in the U.S., and had a 2016 population of 2,474,314. Despite lying only two miles off the North Carolina coast and due south of Wilmington, this three-by-one-mile barrier island feels like a secret hideout from a Robert Louis Stevenson story. Beaufort is full of history and is North Carolina's third oldest town. If you are looking for easy access to the Smoky Mountains, it doesnt get much better than here. By Cranean. Ocracoke Island. Located at the tail end of the Outer Banks on Hatteras Island, these twin towns sort of meld right into one another. A world-class golf course at nearby Pinehurst resort has defined the town as the golf capital of a state rich in opportunities for a tee time. Trapped near two industrial college towns, Durham and Chapel Hill, Carrboro is the free-spirited little sister of its larger neighbors. Head to Semora if youre looking for solitude. Durham County was even more lopsided - Clinton won 78-18. Carolina Beach is perfect for families, with the ocean in front and fun and games behind. Carolina Beach is known as one of North Carolina's top surfing destinations. Here, you'll find people fishing, strolling hand in hand, or just hanging out gazing out at the ocean. There are plenty of outdoor activities to do in this small town, and has a, Sylva is a special little destination of the North Carolina mountain towns and one of the best places to visit in North Carolina, if you like outdoor activities and fresh, The tiny town nestled in the foothills of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains is called Mount Airy. Just south of town you'll find the impressive Wright Brothers National Memorial. Beaches. This is the oldest of all the Black resort towns in America. While the channel is no longer in use, the town has erected a museum and accompanying trail that allows you to glimpse the areas industrial beginnings. The native Pomos used to call the area "q-ahwala-li", which roughly translates to "coming down water place", which the river does indeed do at Robinson's Gulch right in town. Asheville, North Carolina. Winston-Salem. With two fishing piers, a miniature golf course, and a clutch of ice cream parlors to its name, its a paradise for nostalgia lovers. Book a stay at one of the charming old bed and breakfasts and spend a leisurely day exploring the town. Set on Albemarle Sound, Edenton is a peaceful escape from the stress of everyday life. You will need to follow the boardwalk just past the visitor center until the very end and then walk another 10 minutes to the base of the dunes. Nowadays, locals have their fair share of high-quality coffee shops, local goods, and fresh eats to share with any visitors who want a low-key weekend away. The 17 Most Romantic Hotels in the U.S. 3. In 2012, Budget Travel Magazine named it Americas Coolest Small Town. Within two minutes of arrival, youll understand why. It is the county seat of Edgecombe County. With low property taxes, low home prices, and a delectably high standard of living, this beachy paradise offers a little something for everyone. An ideal way to begin your tours is to view a 15-minute video at the tourist information office at the top end of South Broad Street. There are so many reasons to escape from this place--not the least of which is the harsh winters, snow shoveling, etc. North Carolinas middle section is full of flat plainland, perfect for growing strawberries, and playing golf. It is listed as a gamma-minus global city by the Globalization and World Cities Research Network. 3. Those who need a beach in their life will find tiny Town Beach a quick fix, and the broad strands of Atlantic Beach aren't far away. One of the town's major musical events is the Duck Jazz Festival. Oak Island is one of the best family beach towns in North Carolina. Cn Gp Th Nail Cho Tim ng Khch In Liberal, KS. It's located at the northern end of town not far from Jockey's Ridge State Park. Wrightsville Beach (Pop. If you dont fancy getting your feet wet, the Riverwalk is a great place to take a stroll, particularly at sunset. Activities just outside of town include golfing, dolphin cruises, and deep-sea fishing. Oak Island is also a dog lover's dream: Four legged friends are allowed on the beaches year-round, and they can be off the leash from October 15-March 15. 1/13. Camping in the Outer Banks: Staying in coastal towns is a great way to enjoy summer in North Carolina. The 10 Most liberal Places In North Carolina For 2019 1. Population: 88,728. You can choose to stay in one of the local hotels or vacation homes, but many people prefer to camp. This impressive concrete structure extends 1,000 feet out into the Atlantic Ocean. No matter which of our favorites you choose, you'll feel restored by an escape to small-town life at the beach. The island is 4 miles long and offers vast and unspoiled beaches, and water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing are popular. Domenica, Seaworthy, Chophouse New Orleans, Naked Crab, Luke, and Maypop are just some of the award-winning restaurants that will be worth your while. Kitty Hawk is located just north of Kill Devil Hills, and if you are driving along the highway 158, with its big box stores and shops, you could be forgiven for not noticing that you are in a new town. Sail on the Neuse River. Interestingly enough, most landlords are aware of this, but that doesnt necessarily mean that they convey the laws properly to, Read More Landlord Tenant Act: What are Your Rights as a Renter?Continue, The real estate market fluctuates and shifts constantly. Official Website. Stop by Ms. Sils for a famous cream pie. Corolla - Best North Carolina Beaches. Chapel Hill is a town in Orange and Durham counties in the U.S. state of North Carolina. Duck is unique from many of the towns in the Outer Banks. Stroll along the picturesque docks on the Calabash River or join a deep-sea fishing tour to catch your own dinner. The village that has developed around this outdoor sport attracts anyone keen to rummage through authentic local wares. Driving on the beach is allowed here (with a permit), and there is plenty of public water access and parks. Just a short distance north of Avon brings you to the tri-cities of Waves, Rodanthe, and Salvo. Wrightsville Beach is just a short drive from Wilmington, so getting here is easy and quick; parking is in well-marked lots, and you can pay by the hour and recharge your time via your phone. This town is a great base camp for exploring Mount Mitchell, the largest mountain on the East side of the Mississippi. The beach is wide, clean, and the perfect place to kick back and relax in the sand. Most of the main attractions are within walking distance of one another, and many are free to enter. On the days the waves are large, keep an eye out for surfers doing their thing beside the pier. It's at this point that the hard work begins. The workout is on the beach facing the ocean, with views of dolphins and pelicans while you sweat. The town, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is wonderfully restored to its original glory, and over 40 movies and television shows have been shot here. Head over the bridge to Atlantic Beach for a little sun and sand. North Carolina is chock-full of great beach towns, but one of the most popular is Wrightsville Beach. Best North Carolina Beaches. Its not hard to see whats bought them to the conclusion. With Rodanthe as a base camp, you can head either north or south along the Outer Banks and find a great way to spend the afternoon. Cameron grew up in Charlotte and spent his childhood traveling around this great region. Black Mountain has chilled dining options and a walkable downtown area to provide a great stop on your next vacation. Waynesville has plenty of mountain spirit. All rights reserved. Ascend the sand dune step after sliding step to the top, where you are rewarded with commanding views out over the surrounding area and the Atlantic Ocean. Similar in nature to Nags Head, most of the services are along the main highway. Nearby, the Rachel Carson Reserve has wild horses, birdlife, and turtles among other wildlife. It is the county seat of Mecklenburg County. At first, Rick Scot was hesitant to trade in West Hollywood for a new home in North Carolina. The trees you see growing in the water are bald cypress trees, ranging in age from 500 to 2,000 years old. Gualala. This article may contain affiliate links. The 20 Most Populated Cities in the World in 2019, The 10 Richest Neighborhoods in Denver, CO, The 10 Richest Neighborhoods in New Orleans, How Bebe Rexha Achieved a Net Worth of $10 Million, The 20 Worst Cities for Human Trafficking in the World, How Simu Liu Achieved a Net Worth of $4 Million, The 20 Best Chevy Muscle Cars of All-Time, How Lizzo Achieved a Net Worth of $40 Million. Bright white cottages with red roofs, stately sea captains' homes, two lighthouses, local shops, and water in seemingly every direction (what with the confluence of the river and the Intracoastal Waterway) create vistas at every bend in the road. Bryson City. Our Top Valentine's Day Gift Ideas. Here are some of the world's best beaches for partying. Corolla retains wild horses and enough identity to be one of the best small beach towns in the state. Asheville. Of course you can lounge on the beach all day, but some of the best things to do in Carolina Beach are play disc golf, enjoy a beer at one of the best Wilmington breweries, or take a kayak out to Zekes island. Whatever youre seeking in a small town, North Carolina can likely deliver! If you prefer a hotel room, there are a few places just south of town in Buxton. If you are looking for a romantic getaway, Edenton is the perfect place. The last town before the Nantahala National Forest and Parks, Bryson City pops up out of nowhere in a valley between some of North Carolinas most incredible outdoor spaces and stunning waterfalls. Learn how your comment data is processed. 19. A tiny town located near the outskirts of Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach is known and loved for its wide beaches, soft white sand, and picturesque stilt houses situated right on the water, many of which . Over the past several decades there have been significant changes in the population of the world. Topsail Island was not even accessible by car until WWII; the Missiles and More Museum shares the island's history as the former home of a secret missile operation. This small island is also the name of the southern-most town of the outer banks. Albino squirrels dance along the open campus of Brevard College, which intermingles with the town center. The town makes a somewhat outrageous claim as the "Seafood Capital of the World," but there is some substance to the statement. Some of the attractions around town are the Wrightsville Beach Museum of History and the Fred and Alice Stanback Coastal Education Center. What to Do on Bald Head Island. We love the Carolinas and think they are one of the most special areas in the world. Where to stay: "To the Moon and Back" home on VRBO. Waterfront Seafood Shack in Calabash on North Carolina's Brunswick Islands. Average Annual Salary: $52,970. The beach here is wide, and the sand is soft. The heart of Hyco Lake, one of North Carolinas most beautiful lakes, has one gas station that doubles as the areas only restaurant and boat launch. The population was 27,198 according to the 2010 Census. Also known as the Prairie State, Illinois borders the Mississippi River and Indiana. They have plenty of sites to explore, whether you're a pirate fanatic, intrigued by early colonial history, excited by sea turtles, or anxious to see herds of wild horses. Its title as 'America's Coolest Small Town' seems to be down to a combination of 300-years of history - complete with small historic district . It's located in the municipal grounds near the town hall. No matter which part of town you head to, youll see Black Mountain watching over you in the background. The population was 19,582 at the 2010 census. Read More The 20 Most Populated Cities in the World in 2019Continue. Here you get beach town vibe mixed with southern historic town charm. The town sits on the edge of the Haw River, close enough to major cities like Raleigh for ample accessible day trip opportunities. Its population was 57,233 in the 2010 census, making Chapel Hill the 15th-largest city in the state. Now that were starting up the election swing to decide not only our next President, but many other local statewide initiatives, its important to put into context the types of decisions that will be made in the coming years. It is the third-fastest growing major city in the United States. Asheville may be the best-known destination in the mountains of North Carolina, but Hendersonville is a wonderful small-town alternative. The experience begins while traveling to the quirky village, as there is no road leading onto the island. You can camp right on the sand or right on the sea; every side is waterfront. The community is friendly, close-knit, and just as welcoming as you could wish for. Morrisville is one of my favorite cities in the Triangle Area of North Carolina. Brad Styron/Courtesy of Crystal Coast TDA, Photo: Michael DeFreitas/robertharding/Getty, 12 Lesser-Known Southern Destinations Our Editors Can't Wait To Visit In 2023, The Prettiest Beach Town in Every Beachy State, Emerald Isle Is the Tiny North Carolina Beach Town That Inspires a Slowdown, Duck Is the Tiny Outer Banks Town You Have to Visit Now, Affordable Florida Beach Towns Perfect For Your Next Vacation, The Under-The-Radar Florida Beach Town You Need To Visit, The 10 Best Beaches In Texas To Visit, From State Parks To Small Towns, South Carolina town of the same name (and pronounced differently). It Americas Coolest small town, North Carolina is chock-full of great beach towns, but one of the.! Age from 500 to 2,000 years old stress of everyday life back and relax in the of! To camp feet out into the Atlantic ocean the Moon and back & quot ; on... 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