Topics Related to Explore North Carolina

Do you like to find cool stuff off the beaten path? Just 22 miles south of Wilmington, there is a hidden gem to include on your travel itinerary. Brunswick Town / Fort Anderson State Historic Site covers two centuries, including significant colonial, Revolutionary, and Civil War history. The colonial port of Brunswick was razed by British troops in 1776 and never rebuilt.
Nestled in beautiful Nags Head, North Carolina, Jennette’s Pier beckons coastal adventurers with an array of family-friendly activities. Whether you’re an avid angler or just love learning about marine life, this iconic Outer Banks location promises an unforgettable experience! 
For World Ocean Day, we have curated a list of enjoyable experiences awaiting you at various aquariums across North Carolina.
Halifax, North Carolina has seen some of the richest history in the state. Historic Halifax State Historic Site takes you through many eras of American history, specifically highlighting the idea of freedom from different perspectives.
North Carolina is home to some of the most beautiful state parks in the country, and while many are popular destinations for tourists and locals alike, there are a number of lesser-known parks that are just as stunning and worth visiting. These parks are often less crowded and offer a unique and serene experience for visitors. Here are some of the least visited state parks in North Carolina that you should add to your must-visit list.
North Carolina is home to a plethora of breathtaking state parks, each offering unique landscapes, diverse wildlife, and exciting outdoor activities. As we celebrate Great Outdoors Month, there's no better time to explore these natural wonders. From hiking to water sports, here are 11 exhilarating activities you can enjoy in North Carolina state parks.
Day 1:Morning:Start your day early and head to South Mountains State Park, which is about a 30-minute drive from Morganton.Once there, take the Hemlock Nature Trail, a 0.8-mile loop that winds through a dense forest and crosses over sparkling streams.After your walk, have a picnic breakfast at one of the park's picnic areas.Afternoon:Head to Catawba Falls, which is about a 20-
Day 1:Morning:Start your day early and head to Jones Lake State Park, which is about 20 minutes away from Elizabethtown.Once there, take a leisurely stroll on the 0.8-mile Jones Lake Trail that circles the lake.
Located in Gates County 10 miles south of North Carolina's northeastern border with Virginia, Merchants Millpond State Park centers on a 760-acre millpond more than 190 years old. Hiking the surrounding trails or paddling the placid, shallow waters of the pond offer a great way to explore this wetland environment. Old-growth cypress trees adorned with Spanish moss create an "enchanted forest," particularly at Lassiter Swamp.
*Updated 6/19/2025There’s no better place for a day at the beach than North Carolina's barrier islands. A must-visit beach for the adventurers among us is the beach at Bear Island, the crown jewel of Hammocks Beach State Park.