A Storied Past & Vibrant Culture: North Carolina is a state steeped in history, from its earliest settlers in the 16th century to pivotal moments in the Civil War and Civil Rights Movement. Visitors can delve into the past with visits to the Wright Brothers National Memorial, the majestic USS North Carolina Battleship Memorial, and the grandiose Biltmore Estate. The state is also home to a rich culture, with music, crafts, and folklore that are truly one of a kind.
Beaches to Bask On: North Carolina is home to some of the finest beaches on the Eastern Seaboard, with destinations such as the Outer Banks, Wilmington, and Emerald Isle offering plenty of opportunities for soaking up the sun, swimming, trying one’s hand at water sports, fishing or boating.
Mountains with Majestic Views: North Carolina is equally famous for its beautiful mountain ranges, including the majestic Great Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether you’re a hiker, camper, or just love a scenic drive, the mountains have something for everyone – and for winter sports enthusiasts, there’s skiing and snowboarding aplenty.
A Smorgasbord of Outdoor Activities: North Carolina offers a diverse range of outdoor pursuits, from hiking and camping to skiing, snowboarding, fishing, hunting, bird watching and more. For those who prefer being on the water, there are ample opportunities for swimming, boating and kayaking.
A Golfer’s Paradise: North Carolina is the epitome of a golfer’s paradise, with over 400 golf courses and some of the best golf resorts in the country. Whether you’re looking to test your skills on challenging championship courses or simply unwind on more relaxed resort courses, there’s something for every type of golfer.
Cuisine to Delight the Tastebuds: North Carolina is renowned for its delicious cuisine, which features traditional Southern dishes such as mouth-watering barbecue, succulent fried chicken, and hearty collard greens. Seafood lovers can also delight in the fresh catch from the coast, while those who crave variety can enjoy a range of international cuisines.
Friendly Faces Everywhere: North Carolinians are famous for their hospitality and friendliness. Visitors can expect to be warmly welcomed and greeted with open arms, with the locals more than willing to help out with any questions or concerns.
Sunsets to Remember: North Carolina is blessed with some of the most beautiful sunsets in the country. Whether you’re watching the sun dip below the horizon from the beach, the mountains, or any of the state’s many scenic vistas, these sunsets are truly unforgettable.
Festivals & Fun for All: North Carolina plays host to a diverse range of festivals and events throughout the year, from music and art festivals to food-filled extravaganzas. With live music, delicious food, and unique crafts and art on offer, there’s truly something for everyone.
Unrivalled shopping and dining choices: North Carolina presents a diverse range of shopping and dining options, ranging from luxurious boutiques and department stores to charming local shops and markets. Visitors can indulge in a variety of dining experiences, from casual eateries to haute cuisine.
Vibrant arts community: North Carolina boasts a thriving arts community, encompassing a broad spectrum of museums, galleries, and performing arts organizations, such as symphony orchestras, operatic companies, and ballet troupes. Visitors can relish in a spectrum of performances, exhibitions, and classes.
Within touching distance of metropolises: North Carolina is conveniently situated near major cities such as Charlotte, Raleigh, and Greensboro, which offer a wealth of shopping, dining, and entertainment prospects.
Splendid hiking and camping prospects: North Carolina affords a variety of hiking and camping opportunities, from leisurely nature trails to strenuous backcountry hikes. Visitors can take advantage of camping in state and national parks, as well as designated wilderness areas.
Soothing spa experiences: North Carolina offers an array of spa experiences, from opulent resorts to day spas, where visitors can unwind and revitalize with massages, facials, and other treatments.
Staggering waterfalls: North Carolina is blessed with some of the most magnificent waterfalls in the country. Visitors can embark on hikes to behold these breathtaking waterfalls and the surrounding natural beauty.
Fantastic fishing and hunting: North Carolina boasts superb fishing and hunting prospects, with a wide range of fish and game species available, such as bass, catfish, trout, and deer. Visitors can indulge in freshwater, saltwater fishing, and hunting in designated areas.
Splendid state and national parks: North Carolina is home to an array of state and national parks, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. These parks offer an array of recreational activities and breathtaking natural beauty.
Peculiar and fascinating museums: North Carolina houses several unique and fascinating museums, such as the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, the North Carolina Museum of History, and the International Civil Rights Center & Museum in Greensboro. Visitors can gain insight into the state’s rich history, culture, and natural wonders.
Mild and temperate climes: North Carolina boasts a generally moderate climate, with balmy summers and temperate winters. This makes it a prime location for a holiday at any time of the year, offering ample opportunities for outdoor activities in all seasons.
Racing excellence: North Carolina is the proud host of several racetracks for the popular motorsport, NASCAR. Visitors are given the chance to witness races and delve into the sport’s rich history.
Affordable holiday options: North Carolina presents a wealth of cost-effective holiday options, from modest lodgings to low-priced or gratis activities. Tourists can revel in a fantastic vacation without breaking the bank.
Breathtaking botanical gardens: North Carolina is home to numerous stunning gardens and arboreta, including the impressive Biltmore Estate, the beautiful Sarah P. Duke Gardens and the North Carolina Botanical Garden. Tourists can bask in the beauty of nature and gain knowledge about horticulture and gardening.
Extensive lodgings: North Carolina provides an extensive array of accommodations, from opulent resorts and hotels to budget-friendly motels and campsites. Visitors can choose from a range of options that align with their needs and preferences.
Rich history of the Civil War: North Carolina played a seminal role in the American Civil War and is rich with historical sites related to this period. This includes the Bentonville Battlefield, the USS North Carolina Battleship Memorial, and the Fort Fisher State Historic Site. Tourists can educate themselves on the state’s crucial involvement in this momentous period of American history.
Thrilling aquatic activities: North Carolina presents a vast selection of water-based activities, including sailing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and jet skiing. Visitors can bask in the splendor of the state’s waterways, as well as engage in fishing and swimming.
Ideal for families: North Carolina is an ideal destination for families, with a broad spectrum of attractions and activities that appeal to all ages. There is something for everyone, from theme parks and water parks to museums and zoos. The state’s state and national parks also offer family-friendly activities, such as hiking and camping.
Perfect for romantic escapes: North Carolina is a picturesque location for a romantic getaway, offering a multitude of options for couples. From breathtaking beaches and awe-inspiring mountain ranges to luxurious resorts and quaint bed and breakfasts, the state offers a range of options for a romantic retreat. The state’s vineyards and wineries also provide an ideal setting for couples to unwind and savor a glass of wine together.
Verdant Botanical Gardens: North Carolina is proud to boast a collection of stunning botanical gardens, including the Sarah P. Duke Gardens, the North Carolina Botanical Garden, and the grand Biltmore Estate. These verdant spaces offer visitors the chance to bask in the beauty of various species of flora and to gain a deeper understanding of horticulture and gardening.
A Memorial to the Wright Brothers: The Wright Brothers National Memorial, situated in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, serves as a commemoration of the location where the Wright brothers accomplished the first powered flight in 1903. Tourists can view replicas of the Wright brothers’ aircraft, immerse themselves in the history of aviation, and pay a visit to the Wright Brothers Visitor Center.
Theme Parks Abound: North Carolina is home to a host of thrilling theme parks, including Carowinds, Tweetsie Railroad, and Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe. These theme parks provide a range of rides and attractions that will captivate visitors of all ages.
Ideal for History Enthusiasts: North Carolina boasts a rich history, replete with historical sites and monuments pertaining to the state’s role in the Civil War, the Revolutionary War, and the dawn of aviation. Furthermore, visitors can gain insight into the state’s Native American heritage, its place in the Civil Rights Movement, and its broader contribution to American history.
The Ultimate Destination for Nature Lovers: North Carolina is a veritable treasure trove of natural wonders, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Enthusiasts of the great outdoors can enjoy activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and bird-watching in these magnificent landscapes.
The Grand Biltmore Estate: The Biltmore Estate, located in Asheville, North Carolina, is a magnificent historic house and garden. The estate was built by George Vanderbilt towards the close of the 19th century, and offers visitors the opportunity to admire an outstanding example of Gilded Age architecture and to bask in the beauty of the estate’s gardens and winery.
The Scenic Blue Ridge Parkway: The Blue Ridge Parkway is a picturesque drive that runs through the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina and Virginia. The parkway presents breathtaking views of the mountains and affords opportunities for hiking and camping.
Ideal for Outdoor Adventurers: North Carolina provides a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, skiing, and water sports. Visitors can also participate in rock climbing, horseback riding, and hot air ballooning. With its many national and state parks and diverse landscapes, North Carolina is the perfect destination for outdoor adventurers.
A Smorgasbord of Unique Tours: North Carolina offers a vast array of tours, allowing visitors to explore the state’s history, culture, and natural beauty. Popular tour options include brewery, ghost, and historical tours, as well as guided tours of the state’s national and state parks, beaches, and cities.
The Smoky Spectacle: The Great Smoky Mountains, spanning North Carolina and Tennessee, are a picturesque range offering the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. Take a hike, pitch a tent or cast a line – there’s something for everyone amidst the rolling hills and abundant wildlife.
A Drive Down Memory Lane: North Carolina offers an array of drives to take in its breathtaking views, including the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Cherohala Skyway, and the Tail of the Dragon. So buckle up and get ready for scenic vistas of rolling mountains, sandy beaches, and idyllic countryside.
The Outer Banks – A Barrier to Boredom: A chain of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina, the Outer Banks is the perfect place to soak up the sun. Swim, fish, or sunbathe to your heart’s content, or take a ferry to visit the famous lighthouse and the Wright Brothers National Memorial – just don’t forget the sun cream!
A Feathered Frenzy: North Carolina is a veritable bird-watcher’s paradise, boasting a diverse range of avian species. So grab your binoculars and head to the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge, Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, or Jockey’s Ridge State Park for a chance to spot some of nature’s finest feathered friends.
AQUA-licious Adventure: With several aquariums dotted around the state, North Carolina is the place to be for underwater excitement. Visit the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores or the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher to admire the marine life, from dazzling tropical fish to awe-inspiring sharks and rays.
The Linville Lairs: The Linville Caverns, a limestone cave in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offer a subterranean tour like no other. Join a guided tour and marvel at underground waterfalls, rock formations, and streams – you’ll never think of caves the same way again.
Chimney Rock – A Peak Experience: In the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Chimney Rock State Park is a must-visit. Take the elevator to the top for panoramic views or hike to the peak for a truly invigorating experience. Guided tours are also available for those seeking a more in-depth look at the park.
White Water Wipeout: The U.S. National Whitewater Center in Charlotte is the place for outdoor thrills. Get your adrenaline pumping with whitewater rafting, kayaking, or rock climbing. With classes and clinics for all skill levels, there’s something for everyone – unless you’re afraid of a bit of water, that is!
Jockeys Ridge – A Dune with a View: Located in the Outer Banks, Jockeys Ridge State Park boasts towering sand dunes perfect for sandboarding, hang gliding, and kite flying. With plenty of hiking trails, picnic areas, and a visitors center filled with fascinating exhibits, this park is the ultimate day trip destination.
The North Carolina Arboretum: This 434-acre public garden in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Asheville is a true feast for the eyes. Visitors can wander through 65 acres of stunningly cultivated gardens, take a leisurely stroll on the 10 miles of hiking and biking trails, admire the nationally renowned bonsai exhibition, and learn about the rich history of forestry in the region with interactive exhibits.
The North Carolina Transportation Museum: This museum located in Spencer is the perfect destination for train enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Explore a collection of beautifully restored and fully operational railway and transportation vehicles, including steam locomotives, luxurious passenger cars, and charming streetcars. And don’t forget to keep an eye out for the museum’s special events and train rides throughout the year.
The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences: If you’re a fan of all things natural, this museum in Raleigh is the place for you! With a plethora of exhibits showcasing the state’s rich natural history, including fossils, live creatures, and interactive displays, you’re sure to have a grand time. And if you’re feeling particularly educational, why not join one of the museum’s many programs or special events.
The North Carolina Museum of History: This museum in Raleigh is a treasure trove of the state’s rich and fascinating history. Explore a range of exhibits, from artifacts and documents to photographs, and gain a greater appreciation for North Carolina’s past. And if you’re looking to expand your horizons even further, why not join one of the museum’s educational programs or special events.
The North Carolina Symphony: This professional orchestra, based in Raleigh, is a musical delight. With a wide range of classical music on offer, as well as special programs for families and children, there’s something for everyone. And if you’re looking to brush up on your musical skills, why not sign up for one of the Symphony’s many educational programs for students and adults.
The North Carolina Shakespeare Festival: This professional theater company, based in High Point, is a true gem. With a season of productions by Shakespeare and other playwrights, as well as educational programs for students and adults, the festival is a hub of cultural activity. And for actors, directors, and designers, it’s a fantastic opportunity to hone their craft and bring the magic of the stage to life.
