5 Beautiful Cities for Cheap Vacations in North Carolina This Winter

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As the snow accumulates and temperatures drop, a winter vacation might sound like the perfect choice. But with their warmer climates and appealing beaches, top destinations like Florida and California can be cost-prohibitive.

North Carolina’s moderate winter climate means it sees less wintertime tourism than some warmer destinations, so prices are lower, especially if you choose a city with cheaper rates for lodging, food and entertainment.

If you’d like to make North Carolina your next vacation destination, here are some of the most affordable cities to explore, based on data from Budget Your Trip.

Asheville

• Average per-person cost: $159 per day to travel, $170 per night for lodging

Not only is Asheville, North Carolina one of the most affordable cities to visit and stay in, but the area also would benefit from tourism as it recovers from the effects of Hurricane Helene.

The Explore Asheville website indicates that as of Nov. 18, Buncombe County, Asheville, Black Mountain and Weaverville are safe for travel, and downtown Asheville was relatively untouched by the hurricane.

Located in Western North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville has a vibrant arts culture and boasts numerous galleries and museums. According to Visit NC, Asheville’s winter weather averages 49 degrees Fahrenheit, so you can take advantage of the numerous hiking opportunities available in the area. The city also features plenty of breweries, wineries and restaurants.

Winston-Salem

• Average per-person cost: $181 per day to travel, $127 per night for lodging

In Winston-Salem, you’ll enjoy a small-town feel but no shortage of activities and entertainment options. According to Visit Winston-Salem, the city hosts numerous events and festivals, including winter events like the Tanglewood Festival of Lights and the Christmas at Reynolda, a celebration held at the historic Reynolda House Museum of American Art.

Hotels and inns accommodate various budgets, and the Downtown Arts District features attractions like the North Carolina Museum of Art.

Greensboro

• Average per-person cost: $197 per day to travel, $118 per night for lodging

Greensboro’s convenient location gives you easy access to numerous activities. It’s a short jaunt to major cities, or you can easily access the Blue Ridge Mountains for hiking.

According to Visit Greensboro, the city has plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy. Home to more than 500 restaurants, Greensboro offers extensive dining choices, and you’re sure to find lodging within your budget at one off the 98 accommodations in the city. Other highlights include numerous museums and art galleries, a trampoline park, theaters, antiques retailers, and more.

Durham

• Average per-person cost: $195 per day to travel, $127 per night for lodging

While in Durham, you can explore the historic sites, enjoy the rich culinary scene and visit museums and galleries. According to Discover Durham, the city has a vibrant nightlife scene.

If you’d like to enjoy time outside, the city’s winter hike program explores the trails along Eno River. On colder days, you can also enjoy zipline, ropes courses and rock climbing indoors.

Durham features numerous restaurants and plenty of local jazz musicians who perform live. The city is also home to hotels and short-term rentals for lodging flexibility.

Wilmington

• Average per-person cost: $245 per day to travel, $155 per night for lodging

In the North Carolina port city Wilmington, you can enjoy plenty of ocean views while participating in many other activities, too. According to Wilmington N.C., the city has a rich history that’s evident in its National Register Historic District.

You can stroll along Carolina Beach, Kure Beach and Wrightsville beach, then explore the city’s boutiques, restaurants and nightlife. Each winter, you can listen to some of the best jazz musicians during the North Carolina Jazz Festival, and there are many golf courses, gardens and outdoor spaces to explore.

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