Are you excited for fall in The Tar Heel State? This guide has all the best things to do in North Carolina in the fall, like visiting pumpkin patches, enjoying festivals, exploring gardens, and checking out downtown areas. Whether you want family-friendly activities, local seasonal crafts, or beautiful outdoor spots to enjoy the cool fall weather, there's something here for everyone to enjoy the season.

North Carolina Fall Foliage: Where To Go In North Carolina For Fall Foliage

We are quite spoiled here in NC in the fall. Everywhere you turn, there's a chance to catch the fall leaves changing colors, so I've narrowed it down for you. Here are some top places to view the best North Carolina fall foliage.

1. Blue Ridge Parkway

Location: There are many different entry points to access the Blue Ridge Parkway. Notable ones include entry points in Deep Gap (Boone/Blowing Rock area), Marion, Asheville, and the Southern Terminus (Cherokee/Maggie Valley area), NC.

Wow Factor: The Linn Cove Viaduct is often hailed as the crown jewel of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Need To Know: Fuel up and prepare for crowds! Autumn is peak season on the Blue Ridge Parkway, so expect more visitors and longer wait times. To avoid the busiest times, plan your visit for weekdays and early mornings. For the best chance to see peak fall foliage, aim for mid to late October.

The Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina is part of America's longest linear park, stretching all the way to Virginia. It is absolutely stunning in the autumn. As a resident of Western North Carolina for over 15 years, I can attest that driving along the Parkway is a MUST during the peak fall foliage season. This scenic roadway winds through the Blue Ridge Mountains, showcasing a brilliant display of fall colors. Every turn in the road reveals more vibrant colors, making it the perfect autumn drive.

There are numerous mileposts to stop at, but you can't miss the opportunity to check out the Linn Cove Viaduct (seen in the photo above). It's an impressive bridge that winds around Grandfather Mountain and Craggy Gardens. Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River, is also an excellent stop strictly for the unrivaled views. If you're staying in Asheville, the Folk Art Center, a museum of Appalachian folk art and crafts, is a great place to start your trip.

2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Location: Straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee.

Wow Factor: Clingmans Dome's 360-degree observation tower has an unforgettable vantage point to take in the autumn landscape, making it a must-visit highlight of the park.

Need To Know: Arrive early for better parking and less crowded trails during the peak fall season, typically from mid-October to early November; plan ahead for accommodations as lodging and campgrounds fill up quickly.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, making it accessible from many areas around the state and across state lines. It is a fall gem renowned for its gorgeous autumn colors. In the North Carolina portion of the park, highlights include Clingmans Dome, the highest peak, which offers panoramic views of vibrant foliage. The Deep Creek area has scenic hikes and picturesque waterfalls like Tom Branch Falls and Juney Whank Falls.

Cataloochee Valley is another must-visit, known for its historic homesteads and elk viewing—a bucket-list adventure that lives up to the hype. With so much to do and see, Great Smoky Mountains National Park truly stands out as one of the best places to visit in North Carolina during the fall. One visit, and you’ll understand why.

3. Pisgah National Forest

Location: Western NC

Wow Factor: Looking Glass Rock is definitely one of the many 'wow factors' of Pisgah National Forest. Another spot worth mentioning is Looking Glass Falls (seen in the photo). It's one of the places I take people visiting the area for its easy access. It's roadside, easily accessible, and free!

Need To Know: For popular destinations, be prepared for crowds and plan to arrive early, preferably in the morning. Peak fall foliage typically occurs from mid to late October.

Pisgah National Forest, located in Western North Carolina, is a top destination to visit in autumn for classic North Carolina fall foliage. You can enjoy expansive views and scenic overlooks along the Blue Ridge Parkway that runs through the forest.

The Cradle of Forestry is a notable place where forest conservation in America began. Make sure you check out the visitor's center and heritage museum, cool early-1900s buildings, and trails. If you love hiking, you shouldn't pass up Looking Glass Rock, which has can't-miss panoramic views of the colorful landscape.

Another highlight is Linville Gorge, often called the "Grand Canyon of the East," which has magnificent scenery and great hiking trails as well.

4. Mount Mitchell State Park

Location: Burnsville, NC

Wow Factor: The views from the summit.

Need To Know: Before you go, check the weather and trail conditions, and make sure you’re prepared with the right clothing and gear for the changing mountain weather. Peak fall foliage usually happens from mid to late October.

Mount Mitchell State Park is located in Western North Carolina near the charming town of Burnsville. The park is home to the highest peak east of the Mississippi River and has some of the best sweeping views of beautiful autumn scenery. At the summit, you can take in the vistas from the observation deck.

The park features a variety of scenic trails, including the challenging Mount Mitchell Trail, which takes you through forests and alpine landscapes. For a shorter and more accessible walk, explore the Balsam Nature Trail, which includes informative signs about the area's natural history.

Tips: If you visit Burnsville, be sure to stop by Homeplace Beer Company for delicious pizza and beer. Another personal favorite near the state park is the Setrock Creek Falls Trail, located at the base of Mount Mitchell in Pisgah National Forest. This easy trail leads to Setrock Creek Falls, providing a rewarding payoff with minimal effort.

Best Pumpkin Patches In North Carolina

As autumn arrives, you may find yourself searching for 'fall activities near me,' and one of the best North Carolina fall activities is pumpkin picking. Check out these best pumpkin patches in North Carolina, where you can pick pumpkins and enjoy exciting activities like corn mazes and hayrides.

5. Hill Ridge Farms

Location: Youngsville, NC

Wow Factor: You can't miss the scenic hayride.

Need To Know: Note that there is an admission fee, which varies by day and includes most activities. Additional fees may apply for gem mining and train rides. Arriving early is recommended to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.

If you're looking for a fun fall outing near Raleigh, you should check out Hill Ridge Farms in Youngsville. It's a great place for families with lots of things to do. You can pick pumpkins, go on a hayride, get lost in a corn maze, and even take a train ride.

There are also fun activities for kids, like a big slide, a jumping pillow, and a chance to feed some farm animals. And you have to check out the gem mining and the country store with tasty treats and festive decorations!

6. Smith’s Nursery & Produce Farm

Location: Benson, NC

Wow Factor: The pumpkin picking experience. Wandering through the pumpkin patch and selecting the perfect pumpkin is a quintessential fall activity.

Need To Know: There may be small fees for activities like the corn maze and hayrides. Check ahead for pricing, hours, and special events. Weekends can be busy, so arriving early is recommended.

Ready to embrace the fall season? Head over to Smith’s Nursery & Produce Farm in Benson for a wonderful autumn experience. This family-friendly farm has something for everyone, from pumpkin picking and a corn maze to hayrides and a playground for the kids.

Don't forget to visit the petting zoo to meet and greet some adorable farm animals. While you're there, you can also pick up some fresh fruits and veggies at the produce stand and maybe even grab some homemade jams and baked treats.

7. Kersey Valley Maize Adventure

Location: Archdale, NC

Wow Factor: The extensive corn maze is a must-try.

Need To Know: There is a general admission fee. It's also a good idea to arrive early, as weekends can be busy.

Kersey Valley Maize Adventure, located in Archdale, is the place to be for fall fun and pumpkin picking. This farm offers a variety of activities that cater to all ages, making it the perfect destination for a large group. You can wander through a corn maze, pick out a pumpkin from their pumpkin patch, and let the kids play on giant jumping pillows, bungee trampolines, and in a treehouse village.

They also have a zip line, gem mining, and a scenic train ride. If you're into spooky stuff, they have a haunted attraction too. It's an awesome place to get into the fall spirit!

8. Howard Family Farm

Location: Harmony, NC

Wow Factor: The giant corn pit! It's a unique and fun experience that allows kids to play and dive into a large pit filled with corn kernels, making it a standout feature of the farm.

Need To Know: Additional activities may have separate costs, so it’s good to confirm details before you go.

Howard Family Farm is located in Harmony, just 40 minutes outside Winston-Salem and an hour from Charlotte, and is a charming destination for fall festivities. They have a big pumpkin patch where you can pick out the perfect pumpkin for decorating or carving. You can also take a fun hayride around the farm.

Kids can enjoy running through a corn maze, riding on a cow train, and playing in the corn pit. There's also a petting zoo with friendly animals. And be sure to check out their store, where you can buy seasonal treats, fresh fruits and veggies, and decorations for fall. It's a lovely spot to have a traditional and fun fall day in North Carolina.

Best Fall Festivals In North Carolina

Celebrate autumn with local crafts, delicious food, live music, and family-friendly activities. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, these festivals showcase the unique culture and festive spirit of NC in the fall.

9. Autumn Leaves Festival

Location: Mt Airy, NC

Wow Factor: Don’t miss out on the delicious food offerings, including ham biscuits, collards and cornbread, barbecue, ground steak, and Amish doughnuts and pretzels.

Need To Know: The Autumn Leaves Festival offers free admission and free parking around the festival area, with some paid options available. Note that pets are not allowed within the festival footprint.

The Autumn Leaves Festival in Mount Airy is a celebration of the fall season that attracts visitors from all over. This festival usually takes place in mid-October in the charming town known for its quaint Main Street.

You can expect a fun and bustling atmosphere with more than 200 booths selling handmade crafts and tasty fall treats. There will be live music and entertainment, including performances by local bands and dance groups. The festival also has tons of family-friendly activities like bouncy houses, face painting, balloon artists, games and prizes, and more.

10. North Carolina State Fair

Location: Raleigh, NC

Wow Factor: The wide variety of unique and creative fair food.

Need To Know: There is a general admission fee. For rides, options include ticket cards, unlimited ride wristbands, and individual ride tickets. It’s a good idea to bring cash for food and games.

In mid-October each year, the North Carolina State Fair takes place in Raleigh and draws thousands of visitors. It’s a major event featuring exciting rides, fun games, and lots of classic fair foods, like fried Oreos and massive turkey legs!

The fair also has live entertainment with musical performances, livestock shows, and agricultural exhibits. Additionally, there are cooking competitions and plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy. The fair is an event everyone in the area looks forward to each year to celebrate the fall season.

11. Carolina BalloonFest

Location: Statesville, NC

Wow Factor: The event you can’t miss at Carolina BalloonFest is the evening balloon glow.

Need To Know: Ticket prices vary depending on the type of ticket and the day. Parking fees may apply, and some activities, such as tethered balloon rides, have additional costs.

The Carolina BalloonFest is a spectacular annual event held in Statesville, typically taking place in mid-October. The festival features colorful hot air balloons that create an epic sight against the fall sky.

Attendees can enjoy balloon launches as well as tethered balloon rides offering panoramic views of the beautiful autumn landscape. The event also includes live music, local food vendors, craft booths, and family-friendly activities. One of the highlights is the evening balloon glow, where balloons are illuminated against the night sky, creating a magical experience.

12. Woolly Worm Festival

Location: Banner Elk, NC

Wow Factor: The woolly worm races! Watching these fuzzy creatures compete for the title of the fastest worm is a hoot.

Need To Know: There is a general admission fee for the festival, and additional costs may apply for some activities and food vendors. Parking is usually free but fills up quickly.

The Woolly Worm Festival takes place in Banner Elk, a popular mountain town near Boone, it's also conveniently located between Sugar Mountain Resort to the south and Beech Mountain Resort to the north, so it's a great place to visit and stay while attending the festival.

Typically held on the third weekend in October, this quirky and fun event centers around woolly worm races, where participants bring their woolly worms to compete for the title of the fastest worm. The winner is believed to predict the severity of the upcoming winter based on its race performance.

Expect a lively vibe with local crafts, food vendors, live music, and tons of engaging activities. Highlights include the main event—the woolly worm races—where excitement builds as the fuzzy creatures inch their way to the finish line. There’s also a variety of entertainment, from face painting to inflatables for kids.

Free & Cheap North Carolina Fall Activities

Looking for affordable and free ways to enjoy the season? From lovely garden strolls to visiting one of the top mountain towns in the country, there are plenty of activities that won't break the bank.

13. Visiting the North Carolina Botanical Garden

Location: Chapel Hill, NC

Wow Factor: The Water Garden is a standout.

Need To Know: Admission to the North Carolina Botanical Garden is free, but donations are appreciated. Some special events and programs may have a small fee.

Are you on the search for a fun and budget-friendly fall activity? Consider visiting the North Carolina Botanical Garden in Chapel Hill. It's a beautiful spot with many colorful native plants and lovely natural scenery, especially in the fall when the leaves change color. And get this - it's free!

You can check out fascinating carnivorous plants and a vibrant butterfly garden and take a peaceful walk along the woodland Piedmont Nature Trails. Plus, they often host free or low-cost events and educational programs. It's the perfect place to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of fall in North Carolina.

14. Exploring Historic Downtown Asheville

Location: Asheville, NC

Wow Factor: Be sure to explore the historic Grove Arcade, where you can browse unique shops and pop into the Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar. Take a leisurely stroll down Wall Street, visit the Woolworth Walk, and check out the eclectic shops along Haywood Street and North Lexington Avenue. For a budget-friendly outing, the Asheville Art Museum is a great choice, offering not only impressive exhibits but also stunning city views from its rooftop café.

Need To Know: Metered street parking is free after 6 p.m. There are also many parking decks throughout downtown.

I might be a bit biased since I live here, but exploring Downtown Asheville is hands down the best budget-friendly fall activity. Located right in the heart of the city, Downtown Asheville is known for its eclectic mix of historic architecture, indie boutiques, art galleries, local breweries, and James Beard-awarded and recognized restaurants.

There’s nothing like strolling through the charming streets, enjoying the crisp autumn air, and sipping a seasonal latte from a local coffee shop. You’ll find plenty of free entertainment, too, from street performers to art galleries and seasonal markets and events. Also, be sure to check out the Asheville Urban Trail for a self-guided tour of the city’s history and art.

If you're in town on a weekend in October, don’t miss Asheville Art in the Park at Pack Square Park, a market featuring unique works by top regional artists. Also, head over to the neighboring River Arts District (RAD) for the River Arts District Second Saturday Art Stroll, where you can visit over 300 artists working in their studios housed in historic warehouses and mills. With so much to do and see in Downtown Asheville, it's not hard to see why I think it's the perfect destination for an autumn outing.

15. Strolling Through Sarah P. Duke Gardens

Location: Durham, NC

Wow Factor: Check out the bamboo and Japanese-style arched bridge in the Culberson Asiatic Arboretum. 

Need To Know: Visiting Duke Gardens is free, but donations are appreciated to help maintain the gardens. Parking is available for a fee.

For a fun and free fall activity, visit Duke Gardens in Durham. Located on the Duke University campus, this stunning 55-acre public garden is a beautiful escape with its brilliant fall foliage and diverse plant collections.

You can explore different gardens, like the Culberson Asiatic Arboretum, which has unique plants and a peaceful setting. Make sure to visit the Terrace Gardens for lovely views and seasonal flowers that bloom throughout the year.

The gardens also have walking trails, koi ponds, and quiet benches perfect for enjoying the crisp fall air. Admission is free, making it an excellent option for a relaxing and cost-effective day out in nature.

NC is definitely one of the best destinations in the country to visit when the leaves are changing. Have you visited any of these festive spots? Share your favorites and insider tips - I’d love to hear from you!

Planning a road trip to explore these festivals and fairs? Don’t forget to pack your essential road trip gear and handy packing list!

Looking for more seasonal activities? Don't miss a trip to the Biltmore. While you're at it, check out these 10 country roads in NC that are pure bliss during the autumn. If apple picking is more your style, be sure to explore these seven charming apple orchards.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/north-carolina/apple-orchards-nc-2017/