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Share a delightful drink with a friend – human, llama or canine. Imbibe in unusual surroundings, like a distillery that was first a barrel mill or a restored movie house from the 1940s. You can also keep things low proof with some of the coolest mocktails in the country. Cheers to trying something new!
Showstopping Sips
Lights. Camera. Drink! With surroundings both calm and cool, these spirited spots are ready for their close-ups.
1 Along a Canal
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1 Along a Canal
Weldon Mills Distillery in WeldonSee on map
Follow history along the Roanoke Canal Trail while savoring the artistry of spirits produced at adjacent Weldon Mills Distillery. Sample Soldier’s Cut bourbon and rhubarb gin inside an 1892 corn mill before hitching a trolley ride to the production facility for a tour. Bonus: Furry friends are welcome inside or on the patio here, and adjacent walking trails along the Roanoke River provide ample space for strolls and sniffs.
2 In the Mountains
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2 In the Mountains
Stone Ashe Vineyards in HendersonvilleSee on mapThe rich, rolling terroir of the Hendersonville area lends itself to well-balanced vintages and serene vistas at Stone Ashe Vineyards. Plan your visit around a live music event, best enjoyed with a glass of estate-grown Riesling, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and others.
3 In a Theater
3 In a Theater
Mars Theatre Brewing Co. in Mars HillSee on mapOriginally a 1940s-era movie house, Mars Theatre Brewing Co. earns a PG rating (pretty glorious) for its crowd-pleasing pub fare (nachos smothered in beer cheese) and craft beer lineup.
4 In a Former Pharmacy
4 In a Former Pharmacy
The Old Pinnix in New BernSee on mapOnce a community drugstore, The Old Pinnix now soothes with gourmet toast instead of Tylenol. Locals arrive for their shot of caffeine in the mornings. At night, chat over cocktails – such as the Cherry Rosemary Old Fashioned. It’s guaranteed to cure your ills.
5 On a Llama Farm
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5 On a Llama Farm
Divine Llama Vineyards in East BendSee on mapCome for the vino and stay for the furry friendships at Divine Llama Vineyards. For fun photo ops, try a llama trek along 2 miles of pastoral hiking trails that wind through the farm.
Marvelous Mocktails
Crafted with care and creativity, these zero- and low-proof cocktails use the finest ingredients, ensuring a flavorful journey with every sip.
6 Merle’s
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6 Merle’s
WilkesboroSee on mapA 154-year-old cottage is home to this cozy, chic bar. Their garden-inspired, zero-proof cocktails are deceptively complex. Take the Smoking Citrus, a blend of juices served in a smoking bell and garnished with a rim of lime, smoked salt and poblano pepper powder.
7 Kindred
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7 Kindred
DavidsonSee on mapYou’ll never go wrong with the barkeeper’s choice at the nationally recognized restaurant of Joe and Katy Kindred, famed for their milk bread. Discuss your preferences and savor a custom drink, which comes with a keepsake handwritten recipe.
8 Il Cigno Italiano
8 Il Cigno Italiano
SwansboroSee on mapRenowned for its meatballs and manicotti, this traditional Italian restaurant boasts a whimsical mocktail menu. The standout is Swan Juice, where muddled raspberries and blackberries dance with orange and strawberry juices. It’s all crowned with a splash of lemon-lime soda.
9 Lantern
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9 Lantern
Chapel HillSee on mapUnder the stewardship of chef and owner Andrea Reusing, this decades-old restaurant has garnered national acclaim for its innovative fusion of Asian flavors. Dive into their spirit-free Yuzu Verjus Spritz, a blend of verjus blanc (white grape juice), yuzu citrus, cucumber and tonic.
10 The Velvet Hippo
10 The Velvet Hippo
DurhamSee on mapOn the rooftop or at an indoor tabletop, the Tomorrow-Friendly menu highlights low- and no-alcohol options. Get sweet with She Is the Moment (NA gin, lemon and muddled blackberries). It goes down easy after shared plates of Cuban sliders, Tajin-dusted elote dip and cheeses served with fig jam.
Check out The Official 2025 North Carolina Travel Guide for more wonderful venues to whet your whistle.
