Top New Attractions in North Carolina for 2025: What's New and Exciting?

Introduction

North Carolina is buzzing with new attractions in 2025, offering fresh reasons to explore the state. From thrilling family rides at Carowinds to groundbreaking sports facilities in Raleigh, these developments promise excitement for locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, sports enthusiast, or culture lover, there’s something new to discover. Pair your adventures with delicious meals at nearby restaurants to make your visit unforgettable. This guide highlights five of the top new attractions opening or expanding in 2025, with tips on what to do and where to eat. We also spotlight a trending Charlotte hotspot, Zodiac Bar & Grill, perfect for post-adventure dining. Get ready to experience North Carolina’s latest offerings!

1. Carowinds’ New Family Rides

Straddling the North Carolina-South Carolina border, Carowinds is a premier amusement park known for its thrilling coasters and family-friendly attractions. In 2025, Carowinds expands its Camp Snoopy area with two new rides: Snoopy’s Racing Railway, a family launch coaster accelerating from 0 to 31 mph in seconds, and Charlie Brown’s River Raft Blast, an interactive water ride where guests can splash each other. These additions enhance the park’s appeal for families, complementing its 60+ rides, including the record-breaking Fury 325. Located at 300 Carowinds Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28273, Carowinds expects to draw millions in 2025 with these exciting updates.

Top Things to Do: Experience the adrenaline of Snoopy’s Racing Railway, perfect for kids and adults seeking mild thrills. Cool off on Charlie Brown’s River Raft Blast, a fun, splash-filled adventure. Meet Snoopy and friends in Camp Snoopy’s interactive areas, and tackle other park favorites like Fury 325 or the Carolina Cyclone. In 2025, look for special events like Spring Break Days (March-April) and Viva La Fiesta (May), offering live entertainment and themed food. Check the park’s website for seasonal hours and ticket prices, starting at around $40 online.

Where to Eat Near Carowinds

• Wing King Cafe (13209 Carowinds Blvd, Charlotte, NC): Casual spot for wings and burgers, perfect for quick bites post-ride.
• Steak 48 (4425 Sharon Rd, Charlotte, NC): Upscale steaks and seafood, ideal for a celebratory dinner.
• Zodiac Bar & Grill (200 W Woodlawn Rd Suite G, Charlotte, NC): Trendy American fare with burgers and seafood, a short drive away. Call (980) 215-0247 or visit zodiacbargrill.com.
• Copper Vine (4625 Piedmont Row Dr, Charlotte, NC): Wine bar with small plates, great for a relaxed meal.

2. Swing Racquet + Paddle in Raleigh

Raleigh is set to welcome the world’s largest racquet sports complex, Swing Racquet + Paddle, in Brier Creek by late 2026, with construction starting in 2025. This $125 million facility will feature 80 courts for tennis, pickleball, padel, squash, and ping pong, including indoor and outdoor options, plus a 2,500-seat championship court. Located at 9601 Brier Creek Pkwy, Raleigh, NC 27617, it aims to attract over 1 million visitors annually, offering leagues, tournaments, and casual play. This cutting-edge complex will redefine sports tourism in North Carolina, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts in 2025.

Top Things to Do: Play tennis on state-of-the-art indoor/outdoor courts, try pickleball for a fun, social game, or explore padel, a unique blend of tennis and squash. Enjoy ping pong in dedicated lounges, perfect for all ages. In 2025, expect construction tours and early access events to preview the facility. Check the official website for updates on opening dates and membership options, with day passes likely available for casual visitors. Bring your own equipment or rent on-site for convenience.

Where to Eat Near Brier Creek

• Il Falò (10410 Moncreiffe Rd, Raleigh, NC): Italian wood-fired dishes, perfect for a post-game meal.
• Epic Chophouse (10410 Moncreiffe Rd, Raleigh, NC): Upscale steaks and seafood in a sophisticated setting.
• Aladdin’s Eatery (8202 Renaissance Pkwy, Durham, NC): Mediterranean cuisine with healthy options, great for groups.
• Another Broken Egg Cafe (1121 Market Center Dr, Morrisville, NC): Brunch spot with creative dishes, ideal for morning visits.

3. PinPoint Facility in Raleigh

Opened in October 2024, the PinPoint Facility at 2201 S Wilmington Street Suite 145, Raleigh, NC 27603, is North Carolina’s largest indoor pickleball and golf venue. Spanning 55,000 square feet, it features 16 CushionX pickleball courts, 8 Trackman golf simulators, an 8,000 sq ft chipping and putting area, and a full-service bar. Designed for year-round play, PinPoint caters to both beginners and pros, offering lessons, leagues, and social events. Its modern amenities and central location make it a hot new attraction for 2025.

Top Things to Do: Play pickleball on professional-grade courts, perfect for casual or competitive matches. Practice your swing on advanced golf simulators, ideal for all skill levels. Hone your skills in the chipping and putting area, or relax at the bar with craft drinks. In 2025, expect new tournaments, coaching programs, and community events. Check pinpointraleigh.com for pricing (around $20-$40/hour for courts) and event schedules.

Where to Eat in Raleigh

• Sushi Suyu (3019 S Wilmington St, Raleigh, NC): High-quality sushi with great reviews, perfect for a quick meal.
• Peri Peri Bistro (2801 Ward Blvd, Wilson, NC): Portuguese and African-inspired dishes, a unique dining experience.
• Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar (111 Seaboard Ave, Raleigh, NC): Creative burgers and craft beer, great for families.
• The Mill Raleigh (109 E Martin St, Raleigh, NC): Southern comfort food, ideal post-game.

4. New Developments in Raleigh

Raleigh, a hub of innovation, is seeing a surge of new developments in 2025, from restaurants and retail to entertainment venues. The city’s growth as part of the Research Triangle continues to attract visitors, with new dining options, pop-up markets, and cultural spaces enhancing its appeal. Downtown Raleigh and areas like North Hills are buzzing with fresh additions, making it a dynamic destination for travelers seeking modern experiences. While specific new venues for 2025 are still emerging, the city’s ongoing expansion promises exciting opportunities.

Top Things to Do: Explore new restaurants opening in downtown Raleigh, visit pop-up markets for local crafts and food, and check out emerging entertainment spots like live music venues. Stroll through North Hills for shopping and dining, or attend new cultural events like art walks. In 2025, keep an eye on visitraleigh.com for updates on openings and events. Bring comfortable shoes for walking and check event schedules for ticketed activities.

Where to Eat in Raleigh

• Beasley’s Chicken + Honey (237 S Wilmington St): Southern comfort food with fried chicken and waffles.
• Crawford and Son (618 N Person St): New American cuisine with seasonal ingredients.
• Raleigh Times (14 E Hargett St): Modern American with local beers, great for casual dining.
• Irregardless Cafe (901 W Morgan St): Vegetarian and vegan options in a cozy setting.

5. Asheville’s Latest Additions

Asheville, a cultural gem in the Blue Ridge Mountains, continues to evolve with new hotels, restaurants, and events in 2025. Known for its vibrant arts scene and farm-to-table dining, the city is adding boutique accommodations, pop-up galleries, and food festivals to its roster. Areas like the River Arts District and downtown are hubs for these fresh additions, making Asheville a must-visit for travelers seeking creativity and flavor. While specific new attractions are still being announced, Asheville’s growth ensures a dynamic experience.

Top Things to Do: Visit new art galleries in the River Arts District, dine at recently opened restaurants, attend 2025 food and arts festivals, and explore boutique hotels for a unique stay. Check exploreasheville.com for event calendars and new openings. Bring a camera for the vibrant street art and plan for festival tickets, which may range from free to $50 depending on the event.

Where to Eat in Asheville

• Cúrate (13 Biltmore Ave): Spanish tapas with a Southern twist, perfect for a lively dinner.
• Chai Pani (22 Battery Park Ave): Award-winning Indian street food, vibrant and affordable.
• 12 Bones Smokehouse (5 Foundy St): Smoky ribs and pulled pork, a local favorite.
• Jargon (715 Haywood Rd): Modern American cuisine in a cozy, artsy setting.

Conclusion

North Carolina’s new attractions for 2025, from Carowinds’ family-friendly rides to Raleigh’s cutting-edge sports facilities, offer fresh reasons to visit the state. Whether you’re racing down Snoopy’s Railway, playing pickleball at PinPoint, or exploring Asheville’s latest galleries, these developments promise excitement. Pair your adventures with dining at top spots like Wing King Cafe, Il Falò, or Zodiac Bar & Grill for a complete experience. Plan your 2025 North Carolina trip now and discover the state’s newest thrills and flavors!