Summer Fun | NC DNCR

Summer is perfect for back-road wanderings and new adventures. Whether your plans include a staycation or a vacation, we’ve got you covered with uniquely North Carolina events and attractions in all 100 counties.

In the links below we've listed more than 500 ways to have some summertime fun in North Carolina, but with all there is to see and do in N.C., we clearly haven't included everything. If your favorite summertime destination or event is missing from our list, let us know.

Select your county to see what's near you.

Interactive Map

Text Version | Export Map Data

Discover Summer at the Coast

Everyone's favorite summer destination -- you'll find great aquariums, museums and state parks up and down the North Carolina coast.

Discover Summer in the Inner Coastal Plain

The Inner Coastal Plain of N.C. offers museums, parks, historic sites, festivals and more for your summer getaway.

Discover Summer in the Piedmont

There's no shortage of summer fun in the Piedmont -- take your pick of amazing museums, scenic lakes and state parks, minor league baseball and so much more.

Discover Summer in the Mountains

Summer in the N.C. mountains is prime time for traditional music festivals, hiking and camping at state parks, or just escaping to the (slightly) cooler weather.

Summer Fun at the Coast

Take a break from the beach by exploring one of more than a dozen state parks, historic sites, aquariums, and museums.

Summer Reading

Dive into adventure and expand your horizons this summer by joining a summer reading program at the local library!

Column Paragraph

Camping at NC State Parks

Whether you're looking to setup a tent steps from the beach, relax in the comfort of an RV or cabin, or paddle-in to your campsite, chances are you'll find what you're looking for at one of North Carolina's 41 state parks or recreation areas.

Find camping sites near you

Nothing says summer quite like attending one the many outdoor movies and concerts that you'll find across North Carolina. We've called out a few our favorites below.

Summer Concerts at Festival Park

Discover the 2024 concert lineup at Roanoke Island Festival Park this summer!

Summer Movies at NCMA

See recent Oscar winners, timeless classics and family favorites under the stars in the N.C. Museum of Art's park.

NC Symphony UNC Health Summerfest

Pack your picnic, lawn chairs, and blankets and enjoy great music under the stars!

Discover Summer Across North Carolina