As schools settle into summer break and the pace of life slows down, there's no better time for North Carolina's educators to unwind, explore, and reconnect with the people and places that bring joy and inspiration. That's why the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Education and Outreach Team has put together a Summer Bucket List—filled with some of our favorite DNCR sites across the state! Whether you're trekking through mountain trails or dipping your paddle into coastal waters, these educator-tested favorites offer the perfect mix of fun, reflection, and discovery.
Rediscover the Unforgettable
As Western North Carolina continues on its road to recovery, we hope that you might find your summer plans take you to some beautiful mountain destinations like the recently reopened Chimney Rock State Park. Though some locations are operating a little bit different than past years, Visit NC has created a website to help you plan where to go and what you need to know to prepare for your visit.
Visit Western North Carolina
Mountain Magic: Hanging Rock
Christie Norris, Director of Education
Beautiful views from the Hanging Rock hike? Check. Swim lake? Check. Fantasy Island-like waterfalls? Checkity check. Hanging Rock State Park has about everything you could ask for if you are looking to let the stress of the school year go and get your mind vibing with restoration and rejuvenation this summer. Christie's favorite is the Lower Cascades, where water rushes down into a pool surrounded by gorgeous rock formations. Pro tip: The area surrounding Lower Cascades is mostly rock, so take a padded chair for sitting (like you use for camping or at the stadium), a book, and some snacks, and we bet you can last half the day. It can get crowded in the summer. But the crowds come and go throughout the day – and a teacher on summer vacation can last forever.
Coastal Calm: Hammocks Beach State Park
Karen Ipock, Associate Director of Education
Looking for peace and salty breezes? Karen recommends kayaking the waterways of Hammocks Beach State Park. Rent a kayak or paddleboard, join a guided tour, and meander through a quieter world of the marshes. Feeling adventurous? Reserve a campsite and spend the night under the stars! While in the area, Tryon Palace, Fort Macon State Park, and the NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores are all within an hour's drive from the park to pack in even more summer memories!
History & Nature Meet: Horne Creek Farm & Pilot Mountain
Sonya Davis, K-12 PD & Education Manager
Sonya's summer go-to is a "several-for-one deal." She and her family love visiting Horne Creek Farm to explore early 20th-century farm life, then hike the shaded trails of Pilot Mountain's Bean Shoals Access to see remnants of an 1820s canal project. The cherry on top? A cool-down stop at Christie's favorite spot mentioned above is just a short distance away! Dip our toes in the cool waters and practice "leave no trace" while enjoying a picnic lunch. These three DNCR sites are among the greatest treasures of the Triad, where you can experience history and nature simultaneously!
Quiet Inspiration in the City: Government & Heritage Library & NC Freedom Park
Chris Munster, Education Program Assistant
Chris recommends a different kind of summer getaway—one rooted in reflection and discovery. Dive into state history and genealogy at the State Library of North Carolina's Government & Heritage Library, and maybe find some inspiration for a summer read on your vacation. While at the library, be sure to take a short walk to see the inspiring North Carolina Freedom Park, a tribute to the contributions of Black North Carolinians to freedom and justice.
Hometown Favorite: Falls Lake State Park
Michaela Howell, Education Program Assistant
For Michaela, summer memories start at Falls Lake in Granville County—her favorite spot from childhood and now as an adult. Whether swimming, hiking, or hosting cookouts under the shelters, it's a place to gather, relax, and enjoy the outdoors. She also recommends beating the summer heat at one of DNCR's many museums across the state. The short drive to Raleigh to visit the NC Museum of Natural Sciences or the NC Museum of Art is a must for her family!
Living History: House in the Horseshoe
Rebecca Barefoot, Field Trip Fund Manager
If you don't mind a little sweat and a few musket booms, Rebecca recommends the annual Tory and Whig Skirmish at House in the Horseshoe on July 26th. It's a blend of history, STEM, and summertime excitement—and a great way to preview a future field trip, which Rebecca can help you plan when you're ready!
Bonus Picks Along the Road:
Are you planning a long road trip across the state this summer? Many DNCR sites are conveniently located just a short distance off popular travel routes. Look for brown highway signs—they're your invitation to take a break, explore something new, and enjoy a spontaneous mini-adventure! Whatever DNCR fun you get into this summer, be sure to tag us online! #NCLearningHappensHere