North Carolina
Explore the Great Smoky Mountains to the Outer Banks

A World of Scenic Discovery
Naturally beautiful landscapes stretch from the Atlantic Ocean coast to the Great Smoky Mountains, providing nearly 140,000 square kilometers of scenic bliss. Explore breathtaking mountaintop views while hiking, camping, rafting or zip lining, then nestle into a cozy mountain cottage. Along the coast, dive into water sports such as kiteboarding, surfing, kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. Climb historic lighthouses, including the nation’s tallest; board a historic battleship; or take in both a sunrise and sunset from the very same beach. And get your camera ready: Wild horses roam the sands of two separate banks.
Urban Delights and Local Charm
With all there is to do on land and by sea, save time for North Carolina’s spirited cities and eclectic college towns. The dynamic natural landscape gives way to hundreds of vineyards and valleys, premier golf courses, stock car tracks, historic sites, plentiful shopping and enticing restaurants that carry on the state’s distinctive culinary tradition. Foodies can indulge in delights from barbecue pit masters, award-winning chefs, brewmasters, vintners and even Moravian cookie makers. Those looking for nightlife will find the cities filled with booming music scenes, bustling breweries and enough entertainment to last a lifetime. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, mountains or beaches, the rhythm of city life or the tranquility of nature, invigorate all your senses with a trip to North Carolina you’ll remember forever.

Fun Fact

The Qualla Boundary, which stretches across Swain and Haywood counties, is the ancestral home of the Cherokee. It encompasses the Cherokee's mother town, the Museum of the Cherokee Indian and other attractions that highlight this ancient culture.

This state gets bragging rights to First in Flight. The Wright brothers' historic flight took off at Kill Devil Hills in 1903 and successfully ended, 12 seconds later.

Eat your way down the North Carolina Barbecue Society Historic Barbecue Trail, which highlights 24 stops that roast pig the old-fashioned way, slowly over pits of wood or charcoal.
Must see places

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Biltmore Estate

Grandfather Mountain

Raleigh Beer Garden

NASCAR Hall of Fame

Cape Lookout National Seashore

Jockey’s Ridge State Park

Chimney Rock State Park

Mustang Owners Museum

Shackleford Banks
Explore North Carolina destinations

Explore North Carolina destinations
