Four Road Trips You Can Enjoy from Charlotte, North Carolina

Charlotte, North Carolina has so much to offer. Even though I don’t live there anymore, I always discovered new hidden treasures while I called that city my home.

Summer is the perfect season for a road trip, with the windows down to enjoy the breeze and your favorite Spotify playlist blasting. Today, I’ll highlight four underrated destinations within a four-hour drive from Charlotte.

1. Seeking a mountain getaway? Consider Boone, North Carolina

Travel time: Two hours

If you're in search of a mountain retreat, Boone is a fantastic option. Just a quick two-hour drive from Charlotte, it offers everything you could desire for a peaceful weekend escape.

You can enjoy activities like hiking, kayaking, fishing, and zip-lining. I particularly enjoy summer float trips with friends. Boone is also home to Grandfather Mountain and the Mile High Swinging Bridge — the highest suspension footbridge in the United States.

Boone is also a fantastic destination in the fall and winter. As September ends and October begins, the mountains transform into stunning shades of yellow, orange, and red. Being in the Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s an ideal spot for skiers and snowboarders seeking a closer getaway than places like Vail.

2. Looking for a peaceful beach getaway? Consider visiting Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina.

Driving time: Three and a half hours

When you think of beaches in the Carolinas, Myrtle Beach likely comes to mind first. Or, if you’ve binge-watched as much Netflix as I did during the pandemic, you might think of the Outer Banks. While these spots are well-known, I've always preferred Wrightsville Beach. The water is cleaner, the beaches are less crowded than Myrtle, and it's a much shorter drive than the Outer Banks.

There are numerous rentals available right on the beach. However, with Wilmington just a short drive away and plenty of public access points, you can also find accommodations in town without losing access to the beach. History buffs interested in WWII can visit the Battleship North Carolina, which is docked along the Cape Fear River.

Bring along a small cooler filled with fruits, sandwiches, and refreshing drinks, and enjoy a long weekend basking in the sun and riding the waves.

3. Curious about distinctive breweries? Check out Asheville, North Carolina.

Driving time: Two hours and 15 minutes

Did you know? Asheville boasts the highest number of breweries per capita in the U.S. Yet, this mountain town has so much more to offer than just its fantastic beer culture (though if you find yourself in the area, I highly recommend trying a flight at Wicked Weed Brewing — and that’s coming from someone who’s not usually a fan of beer).

Downtown, you'll discover a myriad of unique shops, including one of my favorite independent bookstores, Firestorm Books & Coffee. For art enthusiasts, the River Arts District is filled with artists’ studios housed in old factory buildings, while the downtown area features stunning architecture and numerous galleries. Although there’s now a White Duck Taco Shop in Charlotte, I still strongly recommend visiting the one in downtown Asheville.

Asheville is also home to the Biltmore, the historic estate of the Vanderbilts and the largest home in America. The expansive 8,000-acre estate offers an entire day of enjoyment, complete with a winery, beautiful gardens, historical sites, a spa, and a charming village to wander through.

4. Looking to hit the greens? Head to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.

Travel time: Three hours and 45 minutes

Another coastal escape on this list is Hilton Head Island, which boasts more than two dozen championship golf courses. Whether you're a casual golfer looking to play a round, an amateur wanting to refine your skills in a class, or a PGA enthusiast aiming to catch a tournament, there's something for everyone.

But Hilton Head isn't just about golfing. The island features several family-friendly parks, playgrounds, and beautiful beaches. Renting bikes and kayaks is also a popular way to discover the island and its scenic waterways.

Hilton Head is the most points-friendly destination on this list. You can book stays at either the Marriott Hilton Head or the Westin Hilton Head Resort and Spa using Marriott Bonvoy points. Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort is another option, although finding availability can be challenging.

In summary

Each of these destinations makes for a fantastic nearby getaway if you're based in Charlotte or nearby areas. While I've moved away, I still intend to revisit several of these locations next year when I return to North Carolina.

Thinking of embarking on one of these road trips? Be sure to use a great credit card for gas and maximize your hotel or Airbnb reservations.