NORTH CAROLINA

Charlotte: The Queen City of the South
As the largest city in North Carolina, Charlotte is a thriving hub of business, culture, and entertainment. Known as a major banking center, Charlotte also offers visitors a blend of Southern charm and modern attractions. Sports enthusiasts can catch a Charlotte Hornets basketball game or a Carolina Panthers football game. For those looking to explore the city’s cultural side, the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and the Mint Museum offer impressive collections. NASCAR fans should not miss the NASCAR Hall of Fame, while the lively Uptown area is perfect for shopping, dining, and enjoying the city’s nightlife.

Winston-Salem: Where History Meets Innovation
Winston-Salem, known as the City of Arts and Innovation, is a charming town that blends history with a vibrant modern scene. Originally a hub for tobacco production, today the city is a cultural hotspot with a growing food scene and a commitment to the arts. Visit the Reynolda House Museum of American Art and the Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art for a taste of the region’s artistic talent.

Winston-Salem is also home to Old Salem Museums & Gardens, where you can step back in time and experience life in the 18th century, exploring restored buildings and interactive exhibits. The city’s Moravian roots are still felt today, especially around the holidays when the town is known for its beautiful celebrations. For food lovers, Winston-Salem has become a center for innovative Southern cuisine, offering everything from upscale dining to casual, homey meals.

The Outer Banks: A Coastal Paradise
The Outer Banks (OBX) is North Carolina’s iconic coastal destination, a chain of barrier islands that stretches over 100 miles along the Atlantic coast. It’s a place where the natural beauty of dunes, beaches, and lighthouses meets adventure and history. One of the most famous sites on the Outer Banks is the Wright Brothers National Memorial, where the first powered flight took place. History buffs will also love visiting the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the tallest brick lighthouse in the U.S., or exploring the Lost Colony historical site in Manteo.

For nature lovers, the Cape Hatteras National Seashore offers miles of pristine beaches, perfect for swimming, fishing, and kiteboarding. The Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge is also a great spot for wildlife enthusiasts looking to spot birds, alligators, and other native species. The Outer Banks also has a laid-back vibe, with charming towns like Nags Head and Kitty Hawk, offering cozy beach cottages, fresh seafood, and local shops.

If you’re seeking adventure, OBX has activities like hang gliding, kite surfing, and sailing, or you can simply relax on the beach and enjoy the coastal serenity. The area is a fantastic destination for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to enjoy a slower pace of life by the sea.

Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit: April to October for warm weather and outdoor activities; spring and fall are ideal for fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures
Getting Around: A car is essential for getting around in Charlotte and Winston-Salem, while the Outer Banks is best explored by car as well, especially to access the different islands and beaches.
Pro Tip: In the Outer Banks, be prepared for sudden changes in weather—bring layers and be sure to check local conditions, as coastal winds can change quickly.