A state of many contrasts, North Carolina is home to beaches and mountains, forests, and fields with conservative towns and liberal-leaning cities tucked away amidst them. With epic outdoor activities on offer, diverse cultures, and communities to explore and, of course, old-time Southern charm and hospitality to enjoy wherever you go; the Tar Heel State really is a fascinating place to visit.
Set in the southeast of the States at the center of the Atlantic Seaboard, it is bordered by Virginia, Georgia, South Carolina, and Tennessee. While its long coastal plain and shoreline is home to lots of secluded beaches, coves, and barrier islands, the Piedmont region, where most its population lives, is made up of rolling hills and fertile farms. In the west are the beautiful Blue Ridge Moutains which boast the highest peaks east of the Mississippi.
Due to its striking scenery, many people come to hike amidst its woods, raft along its rivers or take a scenic trip along the winding Blue Ridge Parkway. While both Hanging Rock and Chimney Rock state park attract lots of outdoor enthusiasts, Great Smoky Mountains is remarkably the most visited national park in the States due to its accessibility, astounding wilderness, and abundance of wildlife.
The other main place that both locals and tourists head to relax and unwind is the Outer Banks – a chain of beautiful barrier islands that line the North Carolina coastline. Here you can lounge on the beach, visit its historic lighthouses, amusement parks, and attractions or simply sit back and watch the wild horses that wander its dunes.
Just as diverse as its landscapes and nature are the Old North State’s cities and towns. The charming mountain city of Asheville, for instance, is known for its lively arts and culture scene and numerous microbreweries with Wilmington on the coast instead boasting a large historic district, beaches, and seafood restaurants. The state capital Raleigh is also worth visiting for its many museums and major performing arts center as is Charlotte, its largest city, for all its family-friendly attractions and pro sports teams.
Map of North Carolina
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