South · NC
North Carolina
The Tar Heel State
Capital
Raleigh
Best Time to Visit
April-June, September-November
01 Must-See Spots
Blue Ridge Parkway
America's Favorite Drive winding through the Appalachians
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
the most visited national park in America
Outer Banks
Cape Hatteras, wild horses, and the Wright Brothers National Memorial
Asheville
craft beer capital, Biltmore Estate, and a vibrant arts scene
02 Hidden Gems
Linville Gorge Wilderness
the Grand Canyon of the East with rugged backcountry hiking
Dry Falls near Highlands
walk behind a 65-foot waterfall without getting wet
Ocracoke Island
a remote Outer Banks village accessible only by ferry
Grandfather Mountain
the Mile High Swinging Bridge with panoramic views
03 National Parks & Sites
04 Insider Tips
Eastern NC BBQ (whole hog, vinegar-based) and Western/Lexington-style (tomato-based) are both must-tries
The Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 300-400 stretch has the most dramatic mountain views
Asheville's South Slope neighborhood is brewery-crawl heaven
The Outer Banks are best in September/October — warm water, fewer crowds, great surf