3 Family-Friendly NC Destinations for Memorial Day Weekend
As travelers gear up for Memorial Day weekend, these three scenic, drivable destinations blend beach relaxation, mountain air, and plenty of small-town charm.
The Crystal Coast is an 85-mile stretch of beaches that encompasses Beaufort, Atlantic Beach, Pine Knoll Shores, Emerald Isle, Morehead City, and Cape Lookout, and it’s roughly five and a half hours from Charlotte by car. Book a luxury beachfront rental with Emerald Isle Realty’s colorful luxury “Sand Castle” homes, or Bluewater Realty’s vacation home rentals, complete with private pools, game rooms and beachfront views. Take the adventurous route with UTV rides around Cape Lookout National Seashore, or jet skiing and kiteboarding with local outfitters, AB Watersport Adventures and Kitty Hawk Kites. Families can cool off at the Salty Pirate Water Park, which opens for the season over Memorial Day weekend.
This year’s lineup of events kicks off on May 22 with the “Night of the Enchanted Gardens Fantasy Ball” at Carolina Home and Garden, a whimsical black-tie evening filled with live performances, DJ sets and immersive decor. On May 23, Fort Macon State Park hosts a sunset “Concert at the Fort with the Carteret Community Sunshine Band,” and earlier that day, families and nature lovers can attend a special World Turtle Day program led by natural science curator Keith Rittmaster, highlighting the sea turtles of North Carolina and ongoing conservation efforts. On May 24, the park comes alive again with Cannon Day, featuring live artillery demonstrations and historical programming. The weekend wraps with the high-energy “Memorial Day Classic at Carteret County Speedway” on May 25.
Cape Lookout
ELIZABETH CITY, NORTH CAROLINA
Located just an hour from the Outer Banks—and about five hours from Charlotte—Elizabeth City is known for its warm hospitality and laid-back vibe. The waterfront town has charming bed & breakfasts like Culpepper Inn and The Pond House Inn. For a more family-friendly option, there’s a Hampton Inn and a Fairfield Inn & Suites. For more unique accommodations, head to the waterfront and spend a few nights on your own private houseboat. Book all local bed & breakfasts and houseboats through Airbnb.
Dive into the region’s heritage at the Museum of the Albemarle or explore galleries featuring local artists and enjoy live performances in theater, music and dance at the Arts of Albemarle. For outdoor adventure, nearby Merchants Millpond State Park and Dismal Swamp State Park provide opportunities to hike, bike, kayak, and birdwatch, while Harbor Town Cruises offers guided tours to explore the scenic waterways and spot local wildlife. After a day of exploring, savor coastal flavors at local favorites like Hoppin’ Johnz and SAGOS on the River before grabbing a craft brew at AVDET Brewing or enjoying a cocktail at Juniper.
Elizabeth City
HAYWOOD COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
At just under three hours from Charlotte—and about 30 minutes west of Asheville—Haywood County is situated in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. The area was heavily impacted by the flooding caused by Tropical Storm Helene, and thanks to recovery efforts, most of the local businesses are eager to welcome visitors back. Book a stay at Cataloochee Ranch, a picturesque 700-acre property along the southeastern border of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Spend a few days hiking, horseback riding, and fishing—or just kick back in a hammock with a good book and a glass of sweet tea. Bring the family to a Memorial Day BBQ on May 26 for a lunch buffet and live music by Darren Nicholson Band.
Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which reopened portions of Cataloochee Valley just in time for Memorial Day travel. Journey up the parkway by car, on a motorcycle or even in a three-wheel slingshot vehicle and stop at scenic overlooks such as Waterrock Knob and Richland Balsam Overlook, which is the highest point along the Blue Ridge Parkway at 6,410 feet. Fly fishing enthusiasts can check out the Maggie Valley Fly Fishing Festival from May 23-24 and take part in casting clinics, contests, fly-tying demonstrations, and educational seminars with local vendors and guides.
Cataloochee Ranch
