The Top Five Places to Visit Between Chapel Hill and North Topsail Beach

If you're planning a trip between Chapel Hill and North Topsail Beach, you'll want to make the most of the journey. This route offers plenty of exciting stops along the way, from quaint small towns to gorgeous ocean beaches. Here are the top five places you should definitely visit on your trip!

Faison, NC: Your Midway Point

Faison is the perfect midway point for your journey between Chapel Hill and North Topsail Beach. This charming town is filled with historic sites, shops, and restaurants offering local fare. You can take a stroll around the Faison Depot Museum, a former train station that now houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits showcasing the town's history. If you're looking for a sweet treat, head to Miss Helen's Place, a bakery specializing in homemade pies and cakes. You might also want to check out the annual Faison Farmers Day Festival, taking place in September.

Stop One: Kinston, NC

Kinston is a small town with a big personality, nestled in the heart of eastern North Carolina. It's worth a stop for anyone who appreciates great food and fascinating history. Take a walk through the charming downtown area filled with art galleries, antique shops, and boutiques. You can also visit the CSS Neuse Museum to learn about the Civil War-era ironclad gunboat that sank in the nearby Neuse River. If you're feeling hungry, swing by the Chef & the Farmer, a farm-to-table restaurant run by celebrity chef Vivian Howard. You'll find seasonal dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients and innovative twists on southern classics.

Stop Two: Beaufort, NC

Beaufort is a picturesque coastal town in Carteret County, and it's a popular spot for tourists looking to soak up some sun and surf. The town is known for its stunning waterfront views, historic homes, and fresh seafood. Take a stroll along the Beaufort Historic District, a collection of homes and buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. You can also hop aboard a boat tour to see Cape Lookout National Seashore or Shackleford Banks, home to a herd of wild horses. If you're feeling hungry, stop by Clawson's 1905 Restaurant & Pub, an award-winning eatery known for its extensive wine list and seafood dishes.

Stop Three: Emerald Isle, NC

Emerald Isle is a barrier island situated on the coast of North Carolina. It's a prime destination for beach lovers, with a long stretch of soft sand and crystal-clear water. Take a dip in the ocean and soak up some rays, or rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the nearby marshes and waterways. You can also visit the Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier for a chance to reel in your own catch of the day. And if you're in the mood for some fresh seafood, head to Jordan's House of Seafood, a family-owned restaurant serving up crab cakes, shrimp, and more.

Stop Four: Wilmington, NC

Wilmington is the largest city on our list, and there's no shortage of things to see and do here. It's known for its historic riverfront, thriving arts scene, and bustling beach tourism. Take a walk along the Riverwalk, a scenic path that winds along the Cape Fear River, lined with shops, eateries, and attractions. You can visit the Battleship North Carolina, a former World War II battleship now serving as a museum. And if you're in the mood for some culture, catch a show at the Wilson Center, a state-of-the-art facility for performing arts. And don't forget to sample some of the local seafood while you're here - Dock Street Oyster Bar is a popular spot for fresh catches and craft cocktails.

Conclusion

When you're making the trip from Chapel Hill to North Topsail Beach, it's worth taking your time to explore the many charming towns and beautiful beaches along the way. Whether you're looking for history, culture, or just some fun in the sun, the stops on this list have something for everyone. So plan your route, pack your bags, and get ready for a journey filled with adventure and discovery!