North Carolina

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.

Caroline Eubanks | Jan 28, 2026
13 best places to visit in North Carolina
Erica Jackson Curran | Nov 26, 2025
How to drive the entire Blue Ridge Parkway in five days
Caroline Eubanks | Sep 2, 2025
North Carolina’s 7 best hikes for waterfalls, fall foliage and mountain views
Lonely Planet Editors | Apr 16, 2025
See the best of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and more on this road trip

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Travel Guides

North Carolina travel tips from Lonely Planet experts

Find practical guidance from our team of contributors around the world who bring their decades of first-hand travel experience to your next trip.

Best Things to Do

From edgy street art to quiet strolls at the Tanger Family Bicentennial Garden, Greensboro, North Carolina offers a slew of fun activities for everyone.

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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.

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