© Pgiam / Getty
North Carolina USA
The rural, conservative Old South and the urban, liberal-leaning New South jostle for precedence in the fast-growing Tar Heel State, home to hipsters, hog farmers and high-tech wunderkinds. From the mighty mountains in the west to the ethereal islands lining the Atlantic coast, all kinds of cultures and communities manage to coexist.
Start planning your trip
Top Sights & Places
Unmissable sights for your itinerary
Planning Toolkit
Expert guidance to help you plan your trip
Articles
Latest stories from North Carolina
Filter by interest:
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.
