Top North Carolina Full-day Tours

Unlike standard sightseeing trips, this tour is carefully curated to showcase a variety of experiences in a single day—from quirky museums to historic landmarks, tranquil lakes, vibrant mountain towns, and some of the most iconic waterfalls in the region. With Magnolia Heritage Tours, guests enjoy the personal touch of a private guide, smaller groups for a more intimate experience, and thoughtfully chosen stops that highlight both the well-known wonders and hidden gems of Western North Carolina. It’s not just a tour of sights—it’s a journey that tells the story of the mountains, blending history, culture, and natural beauty into one unforgettable day. *Please note that in the winter some roads may not be accessible, but your guide will make plans to visit alternate sites if necessary.

Rising above the Blue Ridge Mountains, Mount Mitchell offers a day trip that feels worlds away from the ordinary. With elevations reaching 6,684 feet, it delivers sweeping, mile-high views that stretch across layers of misty ridges-an iconic experience of Western North Carolina. The journey is just as memorable as the destination. Traveling along the Blue Ridge Parkway, you’ll wind through lush forests, breathe in crisp mountain air, and pause at scenic overlooks. A stop at the Craggy Gardens Visitor Center offers a chance to stretch your legs. At Mount Mitchell State Park, a short, paved 5-10 minute walk from the parking area leads you to the summit observation deck. Here, the breathtaking 360° views make every mile of the journey worthwhile. Enjoy a relaxed lunch at the Mount Mitchell Cafe or picnic on the scenic grounds surrounded by nature. This experience is perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville with Shaka Guide's immersive audio tour. Let our audio tour guide lead you through the Appalachian Mountains, sharing captivating stories of the region's history, culture, and natural wonders. With real-time GPS technology that plays audio narration as you drive, you'll never miss a scenic spot or trailhead. Explore at your own pace, enjoy picnics with mountain views, and create unforgettable memories. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, Shaka Guide's Blue Ridge Parkway Asheville Tour promises an unforgettable adventure. Book now and experience the magic of this iconic route! *Download the Shaka Guide app to access your purchased tours.*

Escape the ordinary with a curated day trip to Grandfather Mountain—where winding scenic drives open up to mile-high views and unforgettable moments at every turn. From the iconic Mile High Swinging Bridge to sweeping overlooks along the Blue Ridge Parkway, this experience blends light adventure with the peaceful beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Your day begins with a morning departure from Asheville Visitor Center at 8:00 AM, where you’ll settle in for a scenic drive into the mountains. At Grandfather Mountain State Park you'll walk across the iconic Mile High Swinging Bridge, and take in panoramic views that stretch for miles. You’ll also have time to explore the park’s nature center and wildlife habitats, offering an up-close look at the region’s native species. Midday, enjoy a relaxed lunch at Mildred’s Grill before departing the mountain no later than 2:30 PM.

Embark on a captivating journey from Asheville to Cherokee with this Blue Ridge Parkway self-guided driving tour. As you set out on this scenic drive, our audio tour guide will be your trusty companion, sharing intriguing stories about the region's past and present. The journey from Asheville to Cherokee is more than just a drive; it's a chance to immerse yourself in nature's wonders. Explore the diverse ecosystems of the mountains, take leisurely strolls through vibrant forests, and take in views from scenic overlooks. Feel like stretching your legs? We've got you covered with suggestions for scenic hikes and outdoor activities that cater to all levels of adventurers. So, book your experience now and let us be your compass on this remarkable voyage through the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. Download the app to access your purchased tours.

The 3-vineyard wine tour by NC Wine Gals offers a delightful 6-hour experience that combines local wines with a gourmet lunch in North Carolina's Yadkin Valley. The tour includes visits to three top-rated vineyards, a substantial charcuterie board with a glass of wine, at the first 2 vineyards and a tasting/flight of 6–10 wines at the final vineyard. Transportation is provided in a 15-passenger Ford Transit van, accommodating 4–12 guests.

The 2-vineyard wine tour by NC Wine Gals offers a delightful 4.5-hour experience that combines local wines with a gourmet lunch in North Carolina's Yadkin Valley. The tour includes visits to two top-rated vineyards, a substantial charcuterie board with a glass of wine, and a guided tasting of 6–10 wines at the second vineyard. Transportation is provided in a 15-passenger Ford Transit van, accommodating 4–12 guests.

Kuwohi is a sacred place for the Cherokee people and is the highest point within the traditional Cherokee homeland. Kuwohi is one of the most popular sites in Great Smoky Mountains National Park with more than 650,000 visitors per year. It is the tallest point in Tennessee and the third-highest summit east of the Mississippi River.

Journey through beautiful and stunning North Carolina on this half-day tour from the Asheville metropolitan area. Your private chauffeur will pick up your group from your hotel or private residence anywhere in the Asheville metropolitan area, as well as drop you off at the end of the tour. Your group will visit a couple of amazing vineyards and explore North Carolina with an expert guide who handles all the driving as your private chauffeur, leaving your group free to enjoy wineries, shop and dine in downtown Black Mountain, so sit back and relax, and enjoy the incredible scenery. This tour requires a minimum of 2 and most seating is limited to 6 participants, so you can enjoy a more intimate experience of Georgia’s natural mountain landscapes. 7+ participants will be in multiple vehicles and/or a shuttle van.

Like the “Yellowstone of the East,” Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge is home to incredible wildlife like black bears, the critically endangered red wolf, and more. However, your chances of spotting them aren’t great—unless you travel with a guide. On this biologist-led tour, you’ll search for these majestic creatures deep in this riparian oasis. With lunch provided, it’s a full, immersive day in one of North Carolina’s greatest wildernesses.

For food, culture, and nature enthusiasts it doesn’t get any better than Asheville. On this downtown walking tour, The Guide will show you the best of what Asheville has to offer a curious visitor. Check out the Asheville Art Museum with an art expert and take in the spectacular view from the rooftop café. See some of the city’s architectural gems and learn about the most intriguing personalities from Asheville’s history. Exploring at a relaxed pace, there will be plenty of time to sip and savor local cuisine while enjoying the company of others. No two tours are ever the same, as each small group experience is tailored to whatever is happening in Asheville that day or season.

Journey through beautiful and stunning North Carolina on this half-day tour from the Asheville metropolitan area. Your private chauffeur will pick up your group from your hotel or private residence anywhere in the Asheville metropolitan area, as well as drop you off at the end of the tour. Your group will visit a couple amazing vineyards and explore the small town of Little Switzerland with an expert guide who handles all the driving as your private chauffeur, leaving your group free to enjoy wineries, and shop and dine in Little Switzerland. So sit back and relax, and enjoy the incredible scenery North Carolina has to offer. This tour requires a minimum of 2 and most seating is limited to 6 participants, so you can enjoy a more intimate experience of North Carolina's natural mountain landscapes. 7+ participants will be in multiple vehicles and/or a shuttle van.

Ditch the shore and get out on the water. The Soundside Scenic Cruise is your ultimate summer escape! Cold drinks, warm sunshine, a good coastal breeze, and nothing but good vibes all cruise long. Bring your favorite beverages, cue up your playlist, and let the tiki take care of the rest.

Join the NC Wine Gals on a fun and delicious 2-vineyard wine tour of Western NC vineyards. Enjoy visits to two of our favorite vineyards, plus a charcuterie board and wine.

Travel along the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway, with plenty of stops along the way to check out natural and cultural features, with this private guided tour. You'll check out the Folk Art Center, hike to the summit at Craggy Gardens, and see the cascades at Linville Falls and Roaring Fork Falls with your professional, local guide.