North Carolina, nicknamed the “Tar heel state” is one of the most beautiful states in the shadow of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Breathtaking views of the mountains, sandy barrier islands in the east, the beautiful and family friendly beaches and the historical attractions in the city draw a lot of visitors to this state.
The capital of North Carolina is Raleigh. It was in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina that the Wright brothers first succeeded on their fledgling air flight.
The state has a wide range of elevations including costal plains, mountains and the seashore (Atlantic Ocean). The southern coastal plain is influenced by the Ocean and has mile winters and moderate summers. This part of the stat gets very little rainfall yearly. The central Piedmont area usually gets hotter summers and colder winters. The Raleigh area gets about 5 inches or snowfall every year. In the mountains, the winters are harsh and often produce 14-20 inches of snow. Because of the coastal areas, many hurricanes and tornadoes usually make their visits every year. April through October is a good time to visit this state.
Raleigh
Visitors arrive through the Raleigh-Durham International Airport. Taxis are available all the time and most of the hotels have shuttles waiting for their customers. Renting a car is the best way to see the beauty of North Carolina. Another option is to book a guided tour that will take you through all the highlights of this beautiful state.While in Raleigh, checkout the marble statue of George Washington at North Carolina State Capitol, built according to Greek Revival Architecture. The North Carolina Museum of Art has numerous galleries devoted to American artists as well as Claude Monet, Sandro Botticelli, Peter Rubens, etc. Other places to visit are the North Carolina Museum of History, Oak view County Park, Pullen Park, JC Raulston Arboretum and Jordan Lake Recreation Area for family fun and picnics on a sunny day.
Asheville
Do not miss the Biltmore Estate, set among mountain ranges in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Asheville, with is awe-inspiring beauty. Breathtaking gardens, an interesting winery and the GRAND Biltmore house with its 16th century tapestries, Napoleon’s chess set, 65 fireplaces, library with over 10,000 books, indoor pool and priceless antiques including original art from Renoir. (Phone 1-800-411-3812)
For those interested in the outdoors, North Carolina offers hundreds of activities in the majestic Mountains, state parks and also along the beautiful beaches.
For more information, contact the N.C. Division of Parks & Recreation • 1615 MSC • Raleigh N.C. 27699-1615 (919) 733-4181
Check out the Grandfather Mountain where visitors can marvel at the panoramic views from the highest peak of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Cross the Mile High Swinging Bridge and enjoy the day at this International Biosphere Reserve. You may also enjoy the Chimney Rock State park, Hanging Rock state park, Hammocks Beach State Park, Jordan Lake State park and many of the beautiful areas in this state.
Of course, there are mile and miles of beaches that stretch around the coast of North Carolina including around the city of Wilmington. At this port, you will be able to walk the decks of the ship North Carolina which was used in the Pacific during WWII.
