Linn Cove Viaduct Blue Ridge Parkway in autumn

Cars travel on the Linn Cove Viaduct highway road on the Grandfather Mountain along the Blue Ridge Parkway in autumn North Carolina USA

North Carolina USA

From the mighty mountains in the west to the ethereal islands lining the Atlantic coast, North Carolina has limitless opportunities for outdoor adventures, matched with the dynamic cities of Raleigh, Charlotte, Durham and Asheville.

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Free Things to Do
Best Road Trips

Free Things to Do
Exploring the gorgeous state of North Carolina doesn't have to break the bank. Here are out favorite free activities, from the mountains to the coast.
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Best Road Trips
While it’s possible to explore by bus or train, there’s nothing quite like navigating the Tar Heel State's curving roads from behind the wheel of a car.
Read article

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Capt. Chesley Sullenberger, stands in front of the US Airways flight 1549 fuselage at the Carolinas Aviation Museum where he and other crew members met with passengers to recall their memorable water landing in the Hudson River and to celebrate the plane's arrival at the museum.

Museums

North Carolina aviation museum renamed for Captain Sullenberger

Jan 12, 2023 • 3 Min read

Named after Capt. Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger, the new title salutes the pilot and the entire crew who safely landed U.S. Airways flight 1549.

Hiking
The best national parks in North Carolina span mountains, beaches and battlegrounds
Dec 30, 2022 • 5 Min read
North Carolina is blessed with national parks in every corner of the state, preserving everything from mountains to beaches. Here's our guide to the best.
Destination Practicalities
The best time to visit North Carolina
Oct 30, 2022 • 10 Min read
Whether you want to hit the beach, catch the autumn foliage or enjoy a spectrum of outdoorsy activities, here are the best times to visit North Carolina.
Activities
North Carolina’s 5 best road trips from the mountains to the coast
Jul 10, 2022 • 5 Min read
While it’s possible to explore by bus or train, there’s nothing quite like navigating the Tar Heel State's curving roads from behind the wheel of a car.
Activities
Top 12 things to do in North Carolina: from mountain escapes to the Outer Banks and grand castles
Jun 19, 2022 • 6 Min read
From mountains to beaches, zoos to glamping, there are countless adventures to experience in North Carolina.
Hiking
North Carolina’s 7 best hikes for waterfalls, fall foliage and mountain views
Jun 12, 2022 • 5 Min read
Though the hikes of North Carolina can be intimidating, there are trails throughout the state that appeal to all experience levels.
Activities
Top 11 things to do in Fayetteville, North Carolina, for couples, families and history buffs
Jun 9, 2022 • 6 Min read
If you’re looking for fun and unique things to do in Fayetteville, North Carolina, start with these 11 places.
Activities
The 8 best free things to do in North Carolina, from scenic drives to colorful local festivals
May 27, 2022 • 5 Min read
Exploring the gorgeous state of North Carolina doesn't have to break the bank. Here are out favorite free activities, from the mountains to the coast.
Activities
Top 12 things to do in Durham, North Carolina from lemurs to baseball games
May 21, 2022 • 6 Min read
If you’re looking to visit the top attractions for couples, solo travelers and families in Durham, North Carolina, start with these 12 places.
Destination Practicalities
A first-timer’s guide to the Brunswick Islands
May 10, 2022 • 10 Min read
Beaches, lagoons, lighthouses, islands and the seafood capital of the world: 10 coastal North Carolina communities to explore this summer.