If you need an inspirational getaway and want some suggestions on where to go, we naturally recommend North Carolina. Home to iconic towns, healing outdoors, and very restful resorts and hotels, this is an obvious choice for your next vacation.  

 

Cool Counties 

There are lots of cool places to hang out in North Carolina, where you can take a casual bike ride or enjoy some exciting attractions. 

 

Cherokee County  

The westernmost county in the state, Cherokee County is the perfect balance of rest and adventure. Drive down one of the many scenic roads and surround yourself in the beauty of Cherokee County’s Wine Country. Get your adrenaline pumping while white water rafting the Ocoee or Nantahala Rivers, or mountain biking through the Nantahala National Forest. Take a stroll through Downtown Murphy, known as the City of Flowers, and wander past restored historic buildings and step into delightful local shops. Stop by the Valley River Brewery and Eatery for a refreshing craft brew and an irresistible wood fired pizza.
visitcherokeecountync.com 

 

Transylvania County  

Explore the Land of Waterfalls in Brevard, North Carolina. Known as the entrance to Pisgah National Forest, this Transylvania County community is an unforgettable vacation full of rich mountain heritage. Explore the 33-room colonial mansion of the Silvermont Mansion, an eight acre county park in the heart of downtown Brevard. With 250 waterfalls, a vibrant arts community, and an extraordinary downtown, it is always beautiful in Brevard.
explorebrevard.com  

 

Buncombe County 

Just south of Asheville, near the Blue Ridge Parkway, lies a diverse biological escape in the beautifully cultivated gardens of the North Carolina Arboretum. Over 430 acres of natural wonder, the Arboretum invites guests to roam, breathe, and wander within the Pisgah National Forest. Nestled into the Southern Appalachian Mountains and known for its rugged mountain, Buncombe County is the perfect embodiment of its nickname, “Land of the Sky”.
exploreasheville.com  

 

Cumberland County 

Come visit Cumberland County and be charmed by nature and history. See what is in bloom at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden. Learn about the Gaelic heritage of the area’s original settlers and the 400 years since at the Museum of Cape Fear Historical Complex. Discover the treasures that await you on Greater Fayetteville’s Antique Trail.  A destination for those looking to enjoy America’s classic hometown atmosphere, Fayetteville is home to over a dozen antique shops, featuring vintage furniture, historic war memorabilia, and waiting to be worn jewelry and gemstones.
visitfayettevillenc.com  

 

Outstanding Outdoors  

Healing comes from immersing yourself in the beautiful nature of North Carolina, from the inspiring Chimney Rock to a gentle canoe trip. 

 

Chimney Rock 

Hike the 499-step Outcroppings trail o the 315-foot Chimney Rock and see amazing views of Hickory Nut Gorge, Lake Lure and beyond. Along the way, be sure to visit the Grotto, Subway and Pulpit Rock, which offer incredible views you won’t see anywhere else in the Park. With several unique hiking trails, the park has something for everyone from the family-friendly Great Woodland Adventure Trail to the more adventurous Four Seasons Trail which climbs more than 400 feet.
chimneyrockpark.com  

 

Boone 

From challenging mountain sports to cozy mountain cabins, from festivals and art galleries to Tweetsie Railroad Theme Park, Boone is where adrenaline junkies and leisure seekers alike flock for the perfect getaway any time of year. Break away from your daily routine and dive into your perfect adventure. Try fly fishing and canoeing, to zip lining and skiing in the winter! Boone is the perfect outdoors escape.
exploreboone.com  

 

Hanging Rock 

Plan your next Mountain or River Adventure at Hanging Rock in beautiful Stokes County, North Carolina. An outdoor adventure destination like no other, having a mountain chain that rises and falls within its borders, Hanging Rock State Park in its center and the Dan River flowing for 58 miles through its heart, opportunities are endless. Experience hiking trails, waterfalls, rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, fishing and more. Plan your adventure, find local accommodations, and come hang around the rock
hangingrock.com  

Hoppin’ Hotspots 

Relaxation is great, but sometimes you want some thrills - and these are the places to find them! 

 

Sierra Nevada Brewing Company 

Sierra Nevada Brewing Company's East Coast brewing, bottling and distribution operation in Mills River is located 10 miles from downtown Hendersonville. Head over for a variety of tours and see first-hand how they make their flavorful beers. Or, simply sit down and enjoy one of more than 20 beers on tap. They also offer a variety of wines and delicious foods. Both indoor and outdoor seating available, and kids are welcome as well.
sierranevada.com  

 

Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park 

This one of a kind art park in the heart of historic downtown Wilson provides fascinating artistic, educational, and recreational opportunities at the intersection of art and science. Vollis Simpson used cast-off items and wind to create three dimensional jigsaw puzzles of spray-painted whirligigs and flashing reflectors that all move and chime with the wind. These whimsical metal sculptures of color and art are a sight worth seeing in person.
wilsonwhirligigpark.org  

 

The Birthplace of Pepsi 

The Birthplace of Pepsi, located in historic New Bern, is the actual site where Pepsi-Cola was first invented by Caleb Bradham in his pharmacy in 1898. The store is owned and operated by the Minges Bottling Group and first opened its doors on the 100th Anniversary of Pepsi-Cola in 1998. Visit the store to step back in time and learn more about the history of its inventor and the early days of one of the world's favorite soft drinks.
pepsistore.com  

 

Southport 

Steeped in history and picturesque beauty, there is little wonder why Coastal Living Magazine named Southport "America's Happiest Seaside Town."  Stroll through the friendly streets and stop in the boutique shops and local art galleries or wander around the docks and have a crab cake sandwich. Southport's charm has also attracted the eye of the movie industry and was used for popular films and TV shows such as Safe Haven, A Walk to Remember, and Under The Dome.
ncbrunswick.com  

 

Sensational Stays 

After you have explored all day, you’re going to want to take a mental (and physical) break at these fantastic hotels and resorts.  

 

Grand Bohemian Hotel 

Just steps away from the gates of the famous Biltmore lies the beautiful and rustic Grand Bohemian Hotel in Asheville. This Tudor inspired boutique hotel is filled with original art and music. Set in the quaint Historic Biltmore Village, the Grand Bohemian is within walking distance of charming shops, museums and other attractions. Only minutes from downtown Asheville, you’ll be sure to find everything you need during your stay. 
kesslercollection.com/bohemian-asheville  

 

Fearrington House Inn 

Built on a historic dairy farm, The Fearrington House Inn combines the charm of the South with the luxury and service of a five-star hotel. Each room is decorated with antiques, original artwork and fresh flowers. Step outside of your room and you’ll find winding brick paths and picturesque garden views. Each stay includes a gourmet breakfast at The Fearrington House Restaurant. Located less than an hour outside of Raleigh, you have convenient access to the city while staying in a quiet and quaint village.
fearrington.com  

 

Great Wolf Lodge 

Want to enjoy family fun without ever leaving your hotel? Great Wolf Lodge in Concord features the largest indoor water park in the Carolinas, kept at a comfortable 84 degrees and reserved exclusively for resort guests. Perfect for all ages, the whole family can spend the day riding thrilling water slides as well as fun shows and appearances by Wiley the Wolf. The Lodge also features a dazzling arcade, 12 hole mini golf, and a 3D theater, all within steps of your room.
greatwolf.com  

 

Sugar Ski & Country Club  

Embrace the appeal of the High Country, with pristine nature and activities that immerse you in the wild beauty of the mountains. Sugar Ski & Country Club is close to many Sugar Mountain activities. Offering four seasons of enjoyment, the Autumn color is simply awe inspiring! Sugar Mountain’s hiking and mountain biking trails are right outside your door. Choose from a cozy efficiency unit for two, a great view loft, a convenient one bedroom or our spacious two bedroom, two bath units that sleep up to six comfortably. 

The resort’s clubhouse opened in May 2021 and features an indoor heated swimming pool, sauna and hot tub, along with a fitness room.
sugarmountain.com  

 

Biltmore Estate 

Discover the wonders of Biltmore in Asheville. Begin with the breathtaking beauty of the 250-room Biltmore House – America's largest private home – and century old gardens. Explore the 8,000-acre backyard through a variety of activities from horseback riding to rafting. Experience Antler Hill Village, which connects the estate's present and past, providing a relaxing place for dining, shopping, and new ways to enjoy Biltmore's hospitality. Finally, savor the long lasting benefits of a luxurious getaway at the four star inn, Inn on Biltmore Estate.
biltmore.com