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North Carolina is home to some impressive architecture and interesting cultural centers. WorldAtlas highlighted eight towns that reminded writers of Europe, including three in Western N.C.
Founded in 1994 by cartographer John Moen and his wife, Chris Woolwine-Moen, WorldAtlas publishes educational materials and articles on geography, sociology, demography, environment, economics, politics and travel.
Previously, the publication has put out lists on eccentric towns, best main streets, unique traditions and more in N.C. alone. A recent list of eight N.C. towns praised the state’s cultural ties to Europe, and made some suggestions for European-inspired travel plans.
“Mountain enclaves with Bavarian echo and coastal hamlets in North Carolina bear the seafaring stamp of their Swiss or English founders,” writers said. “These communities prove that North Carolina’s roots run deeper – and more globally – than you might expect.”
Here’s what WorldAtlas said about their European-inspired WNC picks, plus the full list.
What to do in Blowing Rock
“This scenic village, with its cool mountain climate and views, parallels the charming hill towns of Europe,” writers said on Blowing Rock.
Attractions that reminded writers of Europe included:
- Blowing Rock Art and History Museum, with regional cultural exhibits.
- Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, with trails and the historic Manor House.
- Storie Street Grille, with “refined local cuisine.”
- Six Pence Pub, with a “British-style atmosphere.”
- Blowing Rock’s Main Street, which writers said provided a “European shopping experience right in North Carolina.”
What to do in Highlands
“Highlands, at an elevation of over 4,000 feet in the southern Appalachian Mountains, shares its mountainous terrain with the scenic landscapes often found in the European highlands,” writers said.
Their choices for places to visit in Highlands for a European experience included:
- The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts, for exhibitions and workshops.
- Highlands Playhouse, presenting live performances.
- Madison’s Restaurant and Wine Garden, with locally sourced cuisine.
- Sunset Rock, which writers praised for its panoramic view of the town and its environs, “reminiscent of a Swiss vista.”
- Highlands Biological Station, including its botanical garden showcasing native alpine flora.
What to do in Tryon
“Tryon, situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, has a rich equestrian heritage that echoes the horse-centric cultures of certain European locales,” writers said. “Founded in the late 19th century, this town has become synonymous with horse riding and breeding, drawing comparisons to regions in England and France known for their equestrian pursuits.”
Writers also praised the town’s role in the American arts scene, including its status as a “retreat for notable figures such as F. Scott Fitzgerald.” They suggested visiting:
- Tryon International Equestrian Center, which hosts international competitions and events.
- Huckleberry’s Tryon, for locally sourced American cuisine in “a setting that reflects the town’s cultural blend of Southern hospitality and European influences.”
- Tryon Fine Arts Center, a hub for local and visiting artists, featuring performances and exhibitions that “cultivate the town’s artistic reputation.”
- Lanier Library, established in 1890, which serves as a “historical and cultural resource.”
North Carolina towns that rival Europe’s best
The full list of towns chosen by WorldAtlas writers included:
- New Bern
- Blowing Rock
- Highlands
- Mount Airy
- Beaufort
- Davidson
- Bath
- Tryon
Iris Seaton is the trending news reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at iseaton@citizentimes.com.
