The Tar Heel State has a wide range of destinations perfect for a weekend trip.

Read on for the best weekend getaways in North Carolina, according to Griffin and other locals.

For small city mountain charm, he recommendsAsheville.

Landscape shot of aerial view of Lake Norman in the vicinity of Ramsey Creek Park, trees and community in background during daytime

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The so-called Land of the Sky has its own regional airport and plenty ofexcellent hotelsto choose from.

Weinstein suggests staying at theGrand Bohemian Hotel, near the famed Biltmore Estate, and eating atCurate.

It has the mountain vibes without the crowds.

Downtown Asheville

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For a particularly romantic trip, book a suite atOld Edwards Inn & Spa.

Or surround yourself with nature at the cozyHighlander Mountain HouseorSkyline Lodge.

Weinstein recommends having a meal at Italian stapleRistorante Paoletti(note that the restaurant typically closes in winter).

People walking around a small business park in Black Mountain, NC

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Kure Beach,Airlie Gardens, and theNorth Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisherprovide entertainment for travelers of all ages.

Griffin suggests taking aBlack history tour.

The area particularly suits travelers seeking peace and quiet.

Toddler in blue shirt examining a polar bear through the glass at the North Carolina Zoo exhibit.

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Those looking for adventure will find world-class kitesurfing, deep-sea fishing, and surfing.

Durham

Durham is a culinary hot spot with plenty of history.

Griffin recommendsSaltbox Seafood Joint, the coffee atCocoa Cinnamon, andPincho Locofor ice cream andpaletas.

Angled Landscape of Downtown Highlands Main Street Storefronts with focus on Celebrity Collections store to far left. People shopping and walking dog in background. Taken in daytime under cloudy sky.

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Don’t missRose’s Noodles, Dumplings & Sweets, which she calls Durham’s best bakery.

In between meals, Griffin suggests venturing beyond the city center.

For family-friendly activities, head toDuke Gardens, theNasher Museum of Art, and theMuseum of Life and Science.

A family walks the Wilmington Riverwalk closest to the old J.W. Brooks Wholesale Grocer building.

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Lake Norman

Spending a weekend lakeside is often the antidote to a stressful workweek and everyday life.

Weinstein recommends exploring via theGreat Smoky Mountains Railroad, which offers steam-powered tours of the region.

Pinehurst

For a weekend of golfing, Pinehursthome to the legendaryPinehurst No.

Aerial Shot of the “Breezy Cottage,” one of the many vacation rentals from Emerald Isle Realty. Emerald Isle Realty features some of the most beautiful oceanfront, pet friendly, villas and homes on the Crystal Coast.

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2 courseis the place to go.

The Pinehurst area has about 40 golf courses, but leave time for a bit of exploring, too.

Stay atThe Jefferson Inn, a charming 15-room property in the downtown historic district of neighboring Southern Pines.

Aerial shot of downtown Durham with Durham Bulls Athletic Park in view during sunset.

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Beaufort

Dont confuse Beaufort for theSouth Carolina town of the same name.

Walking the historic streets of Beaufort is like stepping back in time, according to Wax.

At night, the coffee shop becomes a lively wine bar."

Landscape shot of whitewater rafting at Nantahala Outdoor Center. Two rafts on left side of picture with blue water in foreground and green trees in background. Spring or summer season.

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There are hiking trails and campsites galore, and he says the area is particularly great for stargazing.

If you prefer hotels to tents, consider staying at the all-inclusive resortSnowbird Mountain Lodge.

The waterfront offers a front-row seat to the arrival of deep-sea charter fishing boats, she says.

Aerial view of the No. 8 hole at Pinehurst Golf Course Resort at dusk with lake near top of frame.

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Youll see sun-kissed, contented fishermen displaying their days catch with pride as they pull up to the docks.

If that doesnt convince you to come for the weekend, the food might.

Its not just a meal; its a culinary journey thatll make your taste buds dance with pure delight.

People walking through the LeBauer Park. LeBauer Park is a park located in downtown Greensboro. Downtown Greensboro is a booming city with countless free events and spunky restaurants and shops.

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Family Walking along Beach at Goose Creek State Park

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Two Banker Ponies grazing. Shackleford Banks is an 8.5 mile long island that is part of the Cape Lookout National Seashore and is known for the “Banker Ponies” feral horses.

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Huckleberry Knob, elevation 5560 on the Cherohala Skyway

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Landscape of Mo, the first dog travel agent, and family looking at water from pier at Jack’s Waterfront Grill during sunset. Taken from behind focal on chairs in foreground and water and foliage in background.

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