North Carolina

Whether you’re coming for barbecue, outdoor fun, or university vibes, North Carolina delivers. The majestic Blue Ridge Mountains beckon hikers while beachgoers head for small coastal towns along the Atlantic. In between are artsy Asheville, whose restaurants have several James Beard Award semi-finalists and nominees, as well as Raleigh, Charlotte, and Durham, where three big research universities mean lots of students and academics and top-notch museums—like the free North Carolina Museum of Art and Morehead Planetarium and Science Center.

The Linn Cove Viaduct, at mile marker 304.4, was one of the most ambitious and technically challenging segments of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

The Blue Ridge Parkway

Photo by Anthony Heflin/Shutterstock

Overview

Planning your trip

Use these articles, resources, and guides to plan and inspire your next trip to North Carolina.

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Resources to help plan your trip
Poet laureate Glenis Redmond reveals the city’s best spots for dancing—and shares her tips on how to enjoy the city’s thriving literary and performing arts scenes.
From one of the biggest Pride parties in North Carolina to a food fest planned by James Beard winners, Asheville delivers a full year of events to plan around.
Go beyond downtown to discover the neighborhoods that give Asheville its vibrant personality.
A chef-restaurateur who loves the city recommends a noteworthy hike, a hole-in-the-wall taqueria, and a honky tonk.
Seriously, how many James Beard winners and finalists are there in Asheville?!
Two lanes, five days, nine tunnels, and endless diversions on this scenic drive through Virginia and North Carolina.
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