Regional Information

The Mountains

North Carolina is a vacationers paradise! From the majestic Blue Ridge mountains to the sparkling blue sea, there is beauty and activity for everyone to enjoy! The famous Blue Ridge Parkway winds through mountain peaks with names like Blowing Rock and Sugar Mountain, and will take you to waterfalls and whitewater rivers. There is much history to be found in museums that bring the make the heritage of Native Americans of our state come alive. The Biltmore Estate, "America's Castle," is an opulent chateau of 250 rooms. Tour the mansion, its gardens, winery, shops and restaurants. Hiking, skiing, white water rafting, shopping, visiting museums and historic sites are just a few of the many activities in the western portion of the state. This beautiful landscape will stay in your heart long after your visit.

The Heartland

The Piedmont or heartland of North Carolina is known for diversities like fine furniture factories and outlets; brilliant green golf courses; lakes and recreation areas and the sparkling cities of Charlotte, and our state's capitol, Raleigh. Activities and attractions abound for visitors: Winston Cup racing, forests, zoos, museums, camping, golf, shopping, country inns, parks, historical sites and much more. As you cross the great state of North Carolina, you are sure to find people, places and activities that you will enjoy.

The Coast

The North Carolina Coast is a ribbon of sand reaching out into the Atlantic Ocean. The miles of soft white sand beaches are guarded by a legion of historic lighthouses. Sunning, fishing, surfing and sailing are just a few ways to while away the hours on the state's beautiful beaches. The Outer Banks, barrier islands separated by the large sounds of Northeastern North Carolina are rich in the history of flight, of pirates, of shipwrecks and hurricanes. Nature and wildlife preserves, natural forests by the sea and a large estuarine area provide stunning natural beauty and respite for the soul. The southern coast offers more history along with its Southern hospitality and is home to the port city of Wilmington. Small towns and villages, supported by an economy built on farming and fishing, dot the eastern part of the state. Coastal towns continue to grow and prosper, fueled by tourism and the allure of its beaches and water sports. North Carolina has one of the largest operational ferry systems which will carry you down the coast via its many waterways. Once you make your footprints in the sand, you may never want to leave this coastal ocean paradise.