North Carolina is actually one of my most traveled states, especially when I was growing up. I have family in the Wilmington area and used to go almost every summer. Despite dozens of trips to North Carolina, I still haven’t visited many places outside the coastal regions, including Charlotte and much of the western part of the state. Since I’ve made it to places like North Korea, Sudan, and Antarctica, I don’t really have a good excuse for not seeing more of my southern neighbor. Hopefully I’ll continue exploring more of the state on future trips!
Explore Raleigh
Raleigh is the capital of North Carolina and part of one of the state’s largest metropolitan areas. With several nearby cities and major universities, Raleigh offers plenty to do. Downtown and the surrounding neighborhoods have a range of restaurants and nightlife, while the area also offers museums, historic sites, parks, and college sports.
Explore the Outer Banks
The Outer Banks are a long chain of barrier islands known for their beaches, sand dunes, wildlife, and history. Roanoke Island was the site of England’s famous Lost Colony in the late 1500s, while more than 300 years later the Wright brothers made their historic first powered flight near Kitty Hawk. Today the Outer Banks are great for swimming, hiking, biking, camping, fishing, and simply enjoying the coastline.
Explore Wilmington
One of the most historic cities in North Carolina, Wilmington traces its roots to the colonial period and was founded in the 1700s. The city played roles in both the Revolutionary War and Civil War, while today its historic downtown and riverfront preserve much of its older character. Wilmington is also close to several beaches, making it a good combination of history and the coast.
Explore the Great Smoky Mountains
The Great Smoky Mountains are one of the best places for outdoor adventures in the eastern United States. With mountains rising above 6,000 feet (1,800 meters), the region offers hiking, camping, waterfalls, mountain views, and extensive forests. The mountains are also full of wildlife, including black bears, deer, and even elk, which are relatively rare in the Southeast.
