North Carolina is home to an array of historical landmarks and cultural experiences. Discover opulent living at the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, or visit Tyron Palace to learn about colonial life on the eve of the American Revolution.Paleontologists have recently discovered an astonishing diversity of plants and animals in the Great Smoky Mountains. See how this discovery impacts our modern understanding of nature.
Culinary Experiences
North Carolina offers an abundance of culinary experiences, from pitmasters preserving generations-old barbecue traditions to chefs weaving heritage into their dishes. These local gems are more than just food—they’re a way of life, a shared connection to community, and an expression of Southern pride.Indulge in mouthwatering meals made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Embark on guided tasting experiences, where a passionate local or seasoned food expert guides you through the region’s unique cuisine.Savor barbecue that spans the state, from Lexington-style whole hog to Eastern-style pork shoulder basted with tangy vinegar sauce. Or, taste a bowl of creamy shrimp and grits and steamed blue crabs, complemented by classic Southern sides like coleslaw and collard greens. Coastal seafood highlights the area’s rich maritime tradition, while fresh produce from fertile farmland fills many restaurants’ menus.Pair your meal with a locally crafted beverage. Explore the state’s burgeoning craft beer, spirits, and wine scene, where you can sip and sample celebrated local beverages from award-winning breweries and small-batch distilleries. Finish your adventure with a sweet dessert, such as the irresistible Southern pecan pie or Moravian sugar cake—a cinnamon-spiced pastry that hails from Winston-Salem. Your flavorful journey will leave you with a full belly and a deeper appreciation for the rich culinary culture of North Carolina. Whether you’re a local in search of new favorites or a visitor looking for an insider’s perspective, these experiences will awaken your senses and satisfy your hunger for adventure.
Family-Friendly Attractions
The state’s cities and towns offer plenty of family-friendly attractions, from educational museums to fun and interactive parks. Kids can learn about nature and science at the Greensboro Science Center, climb and create at the Miriam P. And the whole family can enjoy an afternoon of fun and friendly competition at Paradise Golf & Arcade, with bumper cars, arcade games, mini-golf and go-karts.If your kids are fascinated by space and the stars, then you’ll want to visit the Morehead Planetarium & Science Center, with captivating star shows and hands-on exploration of the solar system. Or, they can delve into the state’s rich maritime heritage at the Beaufort Maritime Museum, where the infamous pirate Blackbeard is celebrated alongside tales of the earliest settlers in North Carolina’s Crystal Coast.You’ll also find opportunities to discover the majesty of the mountains at Pilot Mountain State Park, where short, kid-friendly trails, scenic views and shaded picnic areas make this iconic North Carolina peak a great destination for a day of nature-based fun. Or, explore the storied past of one of the region’s most famous historic landmarks at the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Manteo.
Charming Small Towns
When most people think of New York, they picture bustling city streets and skyscrapers that will take their breath away. But the state’s small towns are just as charming and deserve to be discovered. With a slower pace of life and a quaint charm that can’t be bottled or barcoded, there is just something about these gems that make them feel special.Located in Western New York, this picturesque town has a lot to offer. Visitors can enjoy the pristine mountain backdrop while exploring the area’s many outdoor activities or sampling the region’s delicious food and wine. It is also home to several artisan craft shops and boutique hotels that contribute to the town’s charming small-town feel.The town is best known as the inspiration for Washington Irving’s classic novel, “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” and has become a popular attraction around Halloween time when people flock to visit the Headless Horseman statue. The town is also home to a variety of beautiful parks and museums that showcase the region’s rich history.Throughout the series, viewers will be introduced to the natural wonders of North Carolina’s mountains, piedmont and coastal plain. Whether it is learning about the geologic processes that created these natural wonders, finding lost worlds beneath Piedmont clay or discovering why longleaf pines are becoming a scarce species in the state, each episode will be a mini-adventure packed with fascinating information and breathtaking footage.
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