Blue mountain ranges. Colorful foliage. Cool waterfalls. Serene beaches. A little slice of heaven awaits you in North Carolina, also known as the Land of the Sky. Visit the towns throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains, a million-acre mountain range that boasts breathtaking views of forestry and waterfalls year-round. Seek live music and fantastic food in Asheville. Soak in antebellum history in Wilmington, before heading to the Carolina Beach Boardwalk for fireworks and fun. Visit the over 200 shops and restaurants at Black Mountain, a bonanza of local businesses

Not sure where to start? Check out the best destinations in the state for mountain climbers, history buffs, and local business supporters—there’s something for everyone in North Carolina.

1. Venture through the vast Blue Ridge Mountains.With more than a million acres of wilderness to explore, the Blue Ridge Mountains are a perfect escape for hiking, biking, and taking in all of the beautiful foliage year-round. Although the mountain range also extends through much of the east coast, North Carolina is home to its peak, Mount Mitchell.
2. Visit the country’s largest private home in Asheville.North Carolina is home to the Biltmore Estate, the 1895 home of George and Edith Vanderbilt. The Biltmore Estate boasts four acres of floor space, including 35 bedrooms and 43 bathrooms. Visitors can tour the home and even watch live music on its South Terrace during the summer.
3. Take a horse-drawn trolley ride down Wilmington’s past.Go back in time to the days of the antebellum period in style, on a horse-drawn trolley provided by Springbrook Farms Trolley. Ride through the most historic parts of town and ogle at the beautiful homes of yester-year. The horses who lead you through town have been rescued from abuse and neglect, so you’re also supporting a good cause.
4. Watch the weekly fireworks display at the Carolina Beach Boardwalk.Voted one of the Top 10 Boardwalks in the Nation by Food and Wine Magazine, the Carolina Beach Boardwalk is one of the last vintage boardwalks around. It’s home to numerous shops, tons of restaurants, rides, and nightlife. There’s also an arcade, ice cream shop, amusement rides, and seasonal live music. The boardwalk hosts events year-round, including the Carolina Beach Music Festival in the summer and Christmas by the Sea and the Island of Lights Festival in the winter.
5. Shop at the 200+ businesses in Black Mountain.Just 15 miles east of Asheville, the town of Black Mountain boasts spectacular mountain views and a passion for entrepreneurship. Designated as a “Entrepreneurial Friendly Community,” Black Mountain’s charming town square is home to 200 businesses, including restaurants, bed and breakfasts, specialty shops, and four breweries. On top of its stellar shopping selection, Black Mountain also offers strolling around Lake Tomahawk, trout fishing, and hiking and biking.