Patio season is officially upon us and everyone is trying to decide where to take their meal (or drink) outside. Whether they provide sweeping city views or extend over the ocean, these 10 outdoor patios will take your summer to the next level.

1. The Oceanic, Wrightsville Beach

Situated on a pier that extends out over the Ocean, The Oceanic offers ocean views like no other. Read more about it here.

2. The Restaurant at Gideon Ridge

Just in time for summer, dine high up in the Blue Ridge at one of the most beautiful and scenic restaurants in the state. The patio extends you right out into breathtaking mountain scenery. So pretty! Gideon Ridge also operates as a unique, cozy inn. Read all about it

here.

3. Fahrenheit, Charlotte

The rooftop restaurant has no shortage of views, but the outdoor patio featuring linear fire pits, comfy chairs and couches for lounging, a 'social pool,' and herb garden is one of the hottest spots in Charlotte for sunsets and pre-dinner cocktails. Read all about it

here.

4. Captain Ratty's Seafood, New Bern

Captain Ratty's blends seamlessly with the quaint, historic New Bern, yet the rooftop dining doesn't get more coastal than this with a low country broil or shrimp n' grits.

5. City Lights, Charlotte

City Lights came on the scene with both Instagrammable views and "King of Pops" poptail. Combine those two and you're reeling in the chic vibes and likes all summer long.

6. The Ocean Grill and Tiki Bar, Carolina Beach

Located on a pier overlooking Carolina Beach, The Tiki Bar is the perfect place to pop in for a cocktail, beer, snack or full meal. If you take a trip to Carolina Beach - you're destined to end up here at some point.

7. Sharky's, Ocean Isle Beach

Putting a whole new meaning to the term 'dinner with a view,' Sharky's offers some delicious, authentic seafood plus quintessential intracoastal views. Even just lounging on the patio and sipping a cocktail takes relaxation to the next level.

8. Clouds Brewing, Raleigh

Sure, it looks like a normal, green and nice little patio, but what makes it so special? Clouds Brewing offers 'The Downpour,' one of North Carolina's only self-serve beer walls. Seems we'll be staying on this patio for more reasons than one.

9. Sunset Terrace, Omni Grove Park Inn, Asheville

From grabbing a five-star meal with Blue Ridge views to simply sipping a cocktail, the Sunset Terrace is a great excuse to adorn a swanky dress and do some 'patio lounging.'

10. Fish Heads Bar & Grill, Nags Head

Located right on the Outer Banks Fishing Pier, Fish Heads features open-deck dining along with happy hour daily and live music. For the fare - it's traditional like steamed shrimp and veggies, burgers, fries and some great fish tacos.

What beautiful places. I know there's SO many more too! Did any of your favorites make the list? Which ones would you add?