Morganton

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Morganton's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Downtown Morganton
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Afterward, stroll through downtown Morganton, exploring unique shops and historical sites.

afternoon
:

Head to the Morganton Greenway for a scenic walk or bike ride. Pack a lunch to enjoy at one of the nearby parks.

evening
:

Wind down with dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Consider catching a local live music event for some evening entertainment.

day 2
Nature Day at Catawba River
morning
:

Begin with breakfast, then make your way to the Catawba River for some kayaking or paddleboarding. The morning mist on the water is serene and inviting.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch by the river while soaking in the natural surroundings. Explore the trails along the river during the warm afternoon.

evening
:

After a day of adventure, relax with dinner at a lakeside restaurant. Watch the sunset reflect on the water as you eat.

day 3
Art and Culture Tour
morning
:

Kick off with a visit to the Burke Arts Council to view local art exhibits. Engage with artists and learn about their works during your visit.

afternoon
:

Visit the Historic Burke County Courthouse and take a guided tour. Follow it up with lunch at a nearby bistro.

evening
:

Afterward, grab dessert from a nearby bakery and reflect on the day’s artistic inspiration.

day 4
Culinary Adventure
morning
:

Start your day with a local breakfast spot famous for its pancakes. Do some research on the area’s best culinary gems.

afternoon
:

Join a food tour to sample various cuisines around Morganton. Enjoy lunch at a food truck or a casual dining spot.

evening
:

Savor a gourmet dinner at one of the town’s fine dining restaurants. Cap off the night with a dessert crawl at popular sweet shops.

day 5
Camping and Stargazing
morning
:

Pack up and head to nearby camping spots after a good breakfast. Set up your tent and take a short hike to get acquainted with the area.

afternoon
:

Enjoy some outdoor activities like fishing or hiking during the day. Make sure to take in the natural beauty and relax by the campfire for lunch.

evening
:

Prepare a campfire dinner and share stories with fellow campers. End the day with some stargazing, spotting constellations in the clear night sky.

day 6
Adventure Sports Day
morning
:

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast to prepare for an action-packed day. Rent bikes and explore the nearby trails and landscapes.

afternoon
:

Take part in activities like rock climbing or zip-lining at outdoor adventure parks. Break for lunch and enjoy the adrenaline rush.

evening
:

Cool down at a local pub with refreshing drinks and dinner. Share your day's adventures with friends or family.

day 7
Family Fun Day
morning
:

Start with a delicious breakfast at a family-friendly diner. Spend the morning at a local park for some fun in the sun.

afternoon
:

Visit the local science center or a children’s museum for educational fun. Have lunch at a kid-friendly restaurant with a play area.

evening
:

Wrap up with an outdoor movie night at the park or a local drive-in. Enjoy popcorn and treats while watching the film with loved ones.

day 8
Relaxation and Wellness
morning
:

Begin with a refreshing smoothie and healthy breakfast at a local café. Attend a morning yoga session in a serene park setting.

afternoon
:

Treat yourself to a spa appointment for a massage or facial. Enjoy a light, healthy lunch to keep the relaxation going.

evening
:

Finish the day with a leisurely walk through nature to unwind. Enjoy a peaceful dinner at a tranquil setting.

day 9
Historical Journey
morning
:

Have breakfast, then explore the local historical museums to learn about Morganton’s past. Engage with interactive exhibits for a fuller experience.

afternoon
:

Visit historical homes and sites in the area, soaking up the stories of yesteryear. Stop for lunch at a vintage café that reflects the town's history.

evening
:

End your historical day with a dinner at an establishment that has been around for decades. Reflect on the rich heritage you’ve learned about.

day 10
Local Festival Experience
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at the festival grounds if running during a local event. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere as vendors set up.

afternoon
:

Celebrate and explore various booths, food options, and activities happening at the festival. Meet local artisans and gather some souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy live music and performances as the festival winds down. Share a festive dinner at a food stall and soak in the community vibe.

Discover Morganton

Read more in our Morganton 2024 Travel Guide.

Morganton Travel Guide