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If you’re planning a road trip through North Carolina, you won’t want to miss some of the state’s quirky and unique roadside attractions. From giant chairs to metal men riding pig dogs, North Carolina has something for everyone. These offbeat attractions are perfect for adding a little excitement to your journey or breaking up a long drive.
One of the most famous roadside attractions in North Carolina is the World’s Largest Chest of Drawers in High Point. This giant dresser stands at 36 feet tall and was built in 1926 as a symbol of the city’s furniture industry. Another must-see attraction is the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park in Wilson, which features dozens of colorful and whimsical wind-powered sculptures created by local artist Vollis Simpson.
If you’re looking for something a little more unusual, check out the Backyard School Bell Collection in Angier. This 30-foot structure was built by Mr. Robert Coats and features over 200 school bells from around the world.
Or, visit the American Museum of the House Cat in Sylva, which boasts over 10,000 cat-related artifacts and exhibits. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just looking for something different, North Carolina’s roadside attractions are sure to delight and surprise you.
Historical Roadside Attractions
If you’re interested in history, North Carolina has plenty of roadside attractions that will take you back in time. Here are some of the best historical attractions that you won’t want to miss.
Battleship North Carolina
Battleship North Carolina is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in military history. Located in Wilmington, this World War II battleship is now a museum that offers visitors a glimpse into what life was like for the sailors who served on board. You can explore the ship’s decks, gun turrets, and engine rooms, and learn about the battles it fought in during the war.
Biltmore Estate
The Biltmore Estate is a stunning mansion that was built in the late 1800s by George Vanderbilt. Located in Asheville, the estate is now a museum that offers visitors a glimpse into what life was like for the wealthy elite during the Gilded Age.
You can take a tour of the mansion, which features 250 rooms, including a banquet hall, a library, and a bowling alley. The estate also has beautiful gardens and a winery that you can explore.
Wright Brothers National Memorial
The Wright Brothers National Memorial is located in Kill Devil Hills and is dedicated to the Wright Brothers, who made the first powered flight in 1903. The memorial includes a museum that features exhibits on the history of flight and the Wright Brothers’ achievements. You can also explore the grounds, which include a replica of the Wright Brothers’ plane and a monument to their achievement.
North Carolina has a rich history, and these roadside attractions are a great way to learn more about it. Whether you’re interested in military history, architecture, or aviation, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Unusual Roadside Attractions
If you’re looking for something a little out of the ordinary, North Carolina has plenty of unusual roadside attractions to pique your interest.
Acid Park
Located in Wilson, Acid Park is a unique sculpture garden that features a series of large, colorful concrete structures. The park was created by artist Vollis Simpson, who used salvaged materials to create the whimsical sculptures. The park is open to the public and is a great spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
World’s Largest Chest of Drawers
High Point is home to the World’s Largest Chest of Drawers, a towering 36-foot-tall dresser that was built in 1926. The dresser was originally built to attract visitors to the city’s furniture showrooms, and it has since become a beloved landmark. The dresser is located on Main Street and is a popular spot for tourists to snap a photo.
Shell-shaped Gas Station
If you find yourself in Winston-Salem, be sure to check out the Shell-shaped Gas Station. This unique gas station was built in 1930 and is shaped like a giant shell. The station is still in operation and is a popular spot for tourists to fill up their tanks and take a few photos.
Whether you’re a fan of quirky art installations or just looking for a fun photo op, North Carolina’s unusual roadside attractions are sure to delight.
Natural Roadside Attractions
North Carolina is home to some of the most breathtaking natural roadside attractions in the United States. Here are some of the must-see spots that you should add to your itinerary.
Chimney Rock State Park
Chimney Rock State Park is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The park is home to a 315-foot granite monolith known as Chimney Rock, which offers stunning views of Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. The park also features several hiking trails, including the Hickory Nut Falls Trail, which leads to a 404-foot waterfall.
Linville Gorge
Linville Gorge is often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the East” due to its stunning natural beauty. The gorge is located in Pisgah National Forest and is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, white-tailed deer, and peregrine falcons. Visitors can hike the Linville Gorge Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the gorge and its surrounding mountains.
Jockey’s Ridge State Park
Jockey’s Ridge State Park is home to the tallest natural sand dune system in the eastern United States. The park is located in Nags Head and offers visitors the opportunity to hike the dunes, fly kites, and even hang glide. The park also features a visitor center with exhibits on the history and ecology of the area.
Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a scenic drive, North Carolina’s natural roadside attractions are not to be missed. So pack your hiking boots, grab your camera, and hit the road to explore these stunning natural wonders.
Cultural Roadside Attractions
North Carolina is home to many cultural roadside attractions that offer a glimpse into the state’s rich history and diverse culture. Here are two must-see cultural roadside attractions in North Carolina:
Asheville’s Urban Trail
Asheville’s Urban Trail is a 1.7-mile walking tour that takes you through the heart of downtown Asheville. The trail features 30 stops that highlight the city’s history, architecture, and culture. Each stop is marked with a bronze plaque that provides information about the site.
Some of the highlights of the Urban Trail include the Vance Monument, which honors Zebulon Vance, a former North Carolina governor and U.S. senator, and the Basilica of St. Lawrence, a stunning Spanish Renaissance-style church that was completed in 1909.
The Urban Trail is a great way to explore Asheville’s vibrant downtown area and learn about the city’s rich history and culture.
Seagrove Pottery
Seagrove is a small town in central North Carolina that is home to more than 100 potters. The town has a long history of pottery making, dating back to the 18th century, and is known for its distinctive style of pottery.
Visitors to Seagrove can take a self-guided tour of the town’s many pottery studios and shops. Each studio offers a unique selection of pottery, ranging from traditional to contemporary styles.
Some of the most popular pottery studios in Seagrove include Ben Owen Pottery, which has been producing pottery for more than 60 years, and Jugtown Pottery, which specializes in traditional North Carolina pottery.
Whether you’re a pottery enthusiast or just looking for a unique cultural experience, Seagrove is a must-visit destination in North Carolina.
Final Thoughts
You have now explored some of the best roadside attractions in North Carolina. From the world’s largest bureau in Highpoint to the bewildering menagerie of stuffed animals, antique tools, and barbed wire at the Belhaven Memorial Museum, North Carolina has a lot to offer.
Whether you are on a road trip or vacationing in Charlotte, Raleigh, or Asheville, these must-see places are great additions to your travel itinerary or route. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to see the giant novelty architecture objects such as the giant coffee pot, the giant milk carton, and the giant chicken that are scattered throughout North Carolina.
Remember to keep an eye out for the unexpected gems that you may find along the way. The state is teeming with them, and you never know what you might stumble upon. If you are looking for more suggestions, check out the recommendations from our readers and the tried-and-true stops from Roadside America.
North Carolina is a state that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. The roadside attractions are just a small part of what makes this state so special. Take the time to explore and discover all that North Carolina has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some unique roadside attractions in North Carolina?
North Carolina is home to many unique roadside attractions that are worth seeing. Some of the most popular ones include the World’s Largest Chest of Drawers in High Point, the House of Mugs in Collettsville, and the American Museum of the House Cat in Sylva. You can also find the World’s Largest Duncan Phyfe Chair in Thomasville and the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park in Wilson.
What are the top tourist attractions in North Carolina?
North Carolina has many top tourist attractions that are worth visiting. Some of the most popular ones include the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Outer Banks, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You can also visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte and the USS North Carolina Battleship in Wilmington.
What are some of the world’s largest things in North Carolina?
North Carolina is home to some of the world’s largest things, including the World’s Largest Chest of Drawers in High Point, the World’s Largest Duncan Phyfe Chair in Thomasville, and the World’s Largest Ten Commandments in Murphy. You can also find the World’s Largest Frying Pan in Rose Hill and the World’s Largest Strawberry in Ellerbe.
What is the most visited city in North Carolina?
The most visited city in North Carolina is Asheville, which is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and natural beauty. Other popular cities in North Carolina include Charlotte, Raleigh, and Wilmington.
Why were roadside attractions popular in the past?
Roadside attractions were popular in the past because they provided a unique and entertaining experience for travelers. They were often designed to be eye-catching and unusual, and they offered a break from the monotony of long road trips. Many roadside attractions also had historical or cultural significance, making them educational as well as entertaining.
What are some interesting curiosities to see in North Carolina?
North Carolina is full of interesting curiosities to see, including the Devil’s Tramping Ground in Bear Creek, the Mystery Hill in Blowing Rock, and the Brown Mountain Lights in Morganton. You can also visit the Land of Oz theme park in Beech Mountain and the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum in Hatteras.