From the enigmatic mountains in the west to the sandy barrier islands on the coast where pirates used to hide out, North Carolina is an exciting mix of landscapes, people and cultures. Trendy and progressive youngsters making craft beers mingle with more traditional farmers and the conservative Old South to create an unusual brew that gives the state its unique character. Experience true Appalachian culture up close in the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains, kite surf your way around the Outer Banks of the barrier islands or simply hang out on the beach and soak up some sun.
Top North Carolina Hotel Locations
Mountains - Some of the biggest mountains in the eastern half of the US can be found here. Visit the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway to get the full mountain experience during your stay.
Piedmont - This is where you’ll find Charlotte, the home of NASCAR, and technological and financial hub of the South. The region is overflowing with Southern Charm and with a number of high profile colleges, it’s a young and vibrant place to be and a great place to book a hotel.
North Carolina Coastline - Vast stretches of unspoiled and deserted beaches line the Outer Banks of the coast and barrier islands. At Kitty Hawk the Wright Brothers first manned powered flight and the historic city of Wilmington is also worth a visit.
Raleigh - The state capital and location of a number of the major tourist attractions and cultural institutions. It’s also where you’ll find the state’s largest university, so book a hotel in Raleigh for a bit of a party.
How to Make the Most of Your Hotel in North Carolina
The Great Smoky Mountains and Blue Ridge Mountains are home to a distinct culture and music all of their own, providing an enigmatic backdrop for walking and exploring. The Blue Ridge Parkway is an especially pretty 470 mile route through beautiful landscapes. Visit the place mankind first achieved powered flight at Kitty Hawk and take in the state’s biggest and best cities at Charlotte and Raleigh. The Pisgah National Forest is a must see destination in the western half of the state, with great places to swim and hike in the summer months. The Georgian mansions and traditional architecture scattered around the state at places like New Bern are also well worth seeing.
Make the most of the state’s beautiful rural spaces and unspoiled landscapes, with the best way being on foot. There’s some great hiking terrain and walking to be enjoyed in the mountains of the western half of the state. You can also climb Mount Mitchell, which is the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. The college towns of North Carolina are busy and bustling places with plenty of sports action to enjoy. Piedmont in particular is home to some legendary college teams so go take in a game. Sample some of the state’s famous BBQ eating options or take a boat out to explore the barrier islands, once home to pirate communities hiding from the royal fleets.