North Carolina
Explore the Great Smoky Mountains to the Outer Banks

A World of Scenic Discovery
In North Carolina, naturally beautiful landscapes stretch from the coast to the Great Smoky Mountains, providing nearly 900 kilometers of scenic bliss. Explore the breathtaking views the range offers 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, stand-up paddle boarding or kayaking. 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 here.
Urban Delights and Local Charm
With all there is to do on land and by sea, save time for North Carolina’s vibrant cities and eclectic college towns. Here, the dynamic natural landscape gives way to more than 400 vineyards and valleys, premier golf courses, stock car tracks, historic sites, plentiful shopping and restaurants that carry on the state’s distinct 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

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.

A pirate’s life: The shallow inlets of North Carolina’s Outer Banks attracted many pirates in the 17th and 18th centuries, the most infamous being Blackbeard, who called the town of Bath home.
Ask a Local


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

Experience North Carolina

Explore trips
Official North Carolina Travel Site
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Experience
Abandoned Henry River Mill Village

Experience
McGill Rose Garden

Experience
Sweet Escape: USA Chocolate Tour

Experience
Barbecue: An American Culinary Art Form

Experience
Ask a Local About North Carolina

Experience
8 Fun Summer Food Festivals in the USA

Destination
Asheville

Destination
Outer Banks

Destination
Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Experience
7 Great Beach Towns To Visit In The USA

State
Travel South USA

Experience
5 Days Along the Blue Ridge Parkway

Destination