North Carolina
Discover the Outer Banks and the Great Smoky Mountains
482 kilometers of shoreline in North Carolina and the highest mountain peaks in the Eastern USA converge here, providing seemingly limitless views, unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Numerous lakes, rivers, and streams ideal for outdoor activities may be found across the state, along with four national forests and hundreds of waterfalls. Take a trip full of firsts to discover why the Blue Ridge Parkway is known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” go hang gliding a short distance from the location of the first powered flight, or spend time with loved ones in one of the many energetic cities where you can indulge in artisan spirits, locally brewed beer, and world-class barbecue.
A Universe of Scenic Exploration
North Carolina boasts almost 140,000 square kilometers of breathtaking scenery that stretches from the Atlantic Ocean coast to the Great Smoky Mountains. After hiking, camping, rafting, or zip-lining across the stunning highland vistas, retire to a comfortable mountain cabin. Engage in water sports along the coast, like stand-up paddling, kayaking, surfing, and kiteboarding. Climb historic lighthouses, such as the tallest in the nation, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse; board the striking Battleship North Carolina; or visit Cape Lookout National Seashore to witness both sunrise and sunset.
You’ll find it simple to embark on fascinating and ecologically sustainable trips, regardless of the mode of exploration you pick. The state is dedicated to protecting its breathtaking views for future generations: After relaxing in eco-friendly hotels and dining at farm-to-table restaurants, visit green attractions like Swamp Park’s reptile sanctuary. Keep a safe distance while you take in the variety of native wildlife, which includes over 475 different kinds of birds in statewide parks, forests, and nature preserves, as well as wild horses on the banks of the Crystal Coast.
Urban Charm & Delights in the City
Save time to explore North Carolina’s vibrant cities and unique college towns despite everything there is to do on land and in the water. Hundreds of vineyards and valleys, world-class golf courses, stock car racetrack, historic buildings, an abundance of shopping, and inviting eateries that uphold the state’s unique culinary heritage coexist with the dynamic natural landscape. Gourmets can savor delicacies from award-winning chefs, beer experts, vintners, BBQ pitmasters, and even Moravian cookie makers. The oyster farmers in North Carolina use environmentally friendly methods to protect the region’s natural biodiversity and develop a vibrant ocean-to-table culinary scene. Together with seeing the action up close, boat cruises along the North Carolina Oyster Trail offer the opportunity to sample fresh oysters from the water. Cosmopolitan neighborhoods pulsating with the pulse of the city await those seeking nightlife. Vibrant hub cities like Raleigh and Charlotte provide vibrant music scenes, busy breweries, and endless entertainment.