Travel Guide To North Carolina State Map

Introduction

North Carolina State Map is a beautiful and diverse state that offers something for everyone. From the mountains to the beaches, there are endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and historical landmarks. In this travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and much more. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the Tar Heel State.

Top Attractions

Asheville

Asheville is a vibrant city nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is known for its eclectic art scene, craft breweries, and stunning architecture. Some of the top attractions in Asheville include the Biltmore Estate, the River Arts District, and the historic Grove Park Inn.

Outer Banks

The Outer Banks is a 200-mile stretch of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina. It is a popular destination for beachgoers, surfers, and history buffs. Some of the top attractions in the Outer Banks include the Wright Brothers National Memorial, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, and the Jockey’s Ridge State Park.

Hidden Gems

Chimney Rock State Park

Chimney Rock State Park is a hidden gem located in the western part of the state. It offers stunning views of the Hickory Nut Gorge and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can hike to the top of Chimney Rock, explore the Hickory Nut Falls, and learn about the local wildlife at the park’s nature center.

Linville Gorge

Linville Gorge is known as the “Grand Canyon of the East.” It is a rugged and remote area that offers some of the best hiking and rock climbing in the state. Visitors can explore the Linville Falls, hike the Linville Gorge Trail, and camp at one of the many backcountry campsites.

Food Scene

Barbecue

North Carolina is famous for its barbecue. There are two styles of barbecue in the state: Eastern and Lexington. Eastern-style barbecue is made with a whole hog and a vinegar-based sauce. Lexington-style barbecue is made with pork shoulder and a tomato-based sauce. Some of the top barbecue joints in the state include Skylight Inn in Ayden and Lexington Barbecue in Lexington.

Seafood

North Carolina is also known for its seafood. The state has a long coastline and a rich fishing tradition. Some of the top seafood dishes in the state include shrimp and grits, fried oysters, and clam chowder. Some of the top seafood restaurants in the state include The Oyster Bar in Asheville and The Fish House in Wilmington.

Budget-Friendly Tips

State Parks

North Carolina has over 40 state parks that offer free or low-cost activities. Visitors can hike, fish, camp, and picnic at these parks. Some of the top state parks in the state include Hanging Rock State Park, Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, and Umstead State Park.

Museums

Many of the museums in North Carolina offer free admission or discounted admission on certain days. Some of the top museums in the state include the North Carolina Museum of Art, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, and the North Carolina Museum of History.

Outdoor Adventures

Hiking

North Carolina has some of the best hiking in the country. The state has over 1,000 miles of hiking trails that range from easy to strenuous. Some of the top hiking destinations in the state include the Appalachian Trail, the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Water Sports

North Carolina has a long coastline and many inland lakes and rivers. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports, including kayaking, fishing, and surfing. Some of the top water sports destinations in the state include the Outer Banks, Lake Norman, and the French Broad River.

Family-Friendly Activities

Discovery Place

Discovery Place is a science museum located in Charlotte. It offers hands-on exhibits and interactive displays that are fun for the whole family. Some of the top exhibits at Discovery Place include the rainforest exhibit, the dinosaur exhibit, and the physics exhibit.

North Carolina Zoo

The North Carolina Zoo is located in Asheboro and is one of the largest zoos in the world. It is home to over 1,600 animals from around the world. Visitors can see lions, tigers, elephants, and many other animals up close.

Natural Wonders

Great Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located in western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee. It is known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Visitors can hike to the top of Clingmans Dome, explore the Cades Cove historic district, and see the synchronous fireflies in the summer.

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile scenic drive that runs through the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is known for its stunning views and diverse wildlife. Visitors can hike to waterfalls, see the fall foliage, and visit historic sites along the parkway.

Vibrant Nightlife

Downtown Raleigh

Downtown Raleigh has a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars, clubs, and music venues. Some of the top spots in downtown Raleigh include the Raleigh Beer Garden, the Lincoln Theatre, and the Pour House Music Hall.

Asheville

Asheville is also known for its vibrant nightlife. The city has a variety of craft breweries, live music venues, and rooftop bars. Some of the top spots in Asheville include the Asheville Brewing Company, the Orange Peel, and the Sky Bar.

Local Markets

Asheville City Market

The Asheville City Market is a farmers’ market that is open on Saturdays from April to December. It features a variety of local produce, baked goods, and crafts. Visitors can also enjoy live music and food trucks.

State Farmers Market

The State Farmers Market is located in Raleigh and is open seven days a week. It features a variety of local produce, flowers, and crafts. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of food vendors and restaurants.

Beaches and Mountains

Outer Banks

The Outer Banks is a popular beach destination in North Carolina. It is known for its wide beaches, lighthouses, and historic sites. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, surfing, and kayaking in the ocean.

Blue Ridge Mountains

The Blue Ridge Mountains offer some of the best mountain scenery in the country. Visitors can hike to waterfalls, see the fall foliage, and explore historic sites along the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Cultural Immersion

Cherokee Indian Reservation

The Cherokee Indian Reservation is located in western North Carolina and is home to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Visitors can learn about Cherokee history and culture at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian and the Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual.

North Carolina Folk Festival

The North Carolina Folk Festival is an annual event that showcases the music, dance, and food of North Carolina’s diverse cultures. It is held in downtown Greensboro and features over 300 performers on multiple stages.

Art and Music Scene

Bechtler Museum of Modern Art

The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art is located in Charlotte and features a collection of mid-20th-century modern art. The museum also hosts a variety of events, including lectures, films, and concerts.

Cat’s Cradle

Cat’s Cradle is a music venue located in Carrboro. It has hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Nirvana, R.E.M., and Pearl Jam. Visitors can enjoy a variety of live music performances throughout the year.

Walking Tours

Wilmington Walks

Wilmington Walks is a series of walking tours that explore the history and culture of Wilmington. Visitors can choose from a variety of tours, including the Historic Downtown tour, the African American Heritage tour, and the Hollywood Location tour.

Asheville by Foot

Asheville by Foot is a walking tour company that explores the history and architecture of Asheville. Visitors can choose from a variety of tours, including the Historic Downtown tour, the Montford Historic District tour, and the Riverside Cemetery tour.

Architectural Marvels

Biltmore Estate

The Biltmore Estate is a stunning mansion located in Asheville. It was built by George Vanderbilt in the late 19th century and is one of the largest private homes in the country. Visitors can tour the mansion, gardens, and winery.