North Carolina’s unique character is always within reach, whether you’re in the state for a business trip, a short getaway or week-long vacation. Journey through epic scenery, past rugged mountains or across nearly 500 kilometres of shimmering shoreline.
Blue Ridge Mountains
The iconic mountains of North Carolina are a great place to soak up stunning views. The Pisgah National Forest is a vast wilderness where rugged mountains meet crystal clear lakes and waterfalls. The hiking ground here is second-to-none, with the famous Grandfather Mountain trail worth seeking out.
The mountains are home to impressive lookout points. Many incredible locations are dotted along the Blue Ridge Parkway, which winds past Linville Falls, Stony Fork and the cascading waters at Log Hollow Falls.
This road is a ribbon of treasures leading right through the heart of Cherokee lands. Inside the reservation, you’ll find museums, artisan stores and theatres dedicated to preserving Cherokee history and culture. Head to traditional mills, try fishing in the Tuckasegee waters or experience horseback riding at Smokemont.
Outer Banks
North Carolina’s famous Crystal Coast is peppered with beautiful resorts and shimmering beaches and every part of the Outer Banks is lined with coastal treasures.
Emerald Isle is a favourite on the Crystal Coast shoreline, where a lush, natural environment creates the perfect place for exploration. Harkers Island is a special spot where wild horses roam free on the Shackleford Banks, surrounded by water on each side.
Rodanthe is among the best local towns, where you can visit top museums from the idyllic Outer Bank shores. Learn about the history of maritime rescue at Chicamacomico Life-Saving Station Historic and rent some boards and head out into the surf.
Pamlico Sound is the lagoon framed by the Outer Banks, and its shallow, still waters create the perfect watersports playground. There are also plenty of angling opportunities in the open Atlantic. Avon Fishing Pier is a rustic 1963 construction, famous for record giant Red Drum catches.
City Exploration
Charlotte is North Carolina’s Queen City, where the bright lights of commerce meet sparkling attractions.
The Carowinds theme park is a top destination for families and thrill-seekers alike. This sprawling park is home to Fury 325, ranking amongst the most extreme giga coasters in the world for height, length and speed.
Charlotte also has top spots to try white water rafting, plus museums dedicated to the state’s scientific finesse. The NASCAR Hall of Fame is packed with exhibits dedicated to racing heroes.
Away from the state’s capital, there are plenty more city sights to explore. Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill make up the state’s research triangle, but there’s a lot more to see besides colleges and business. This trinity of learning is home to the North Carolina Museum of Natural History, the interactive Museum of Life and Science and a full-dome Planetarium.
Biltmore Estate
One of North Carolina’s most beloved attractions, the Biltmore Estate is regal and enchanting. Not only is this the largest private residence in the USA, it’s also packed with activities for a magical vacation.
The stately building boasts a grand banquet hall, swimming pools and a 23,000-book library. This fairy tale destination is located between Charlotte and the state’s western mountains on an 8,000-acre estate complete with a winery, farm, stables and lush gardens.
Taste the high life when you dine on artisan cuisine or take a candlelit tour for sunset romance. During the holiday season, the house comes alive with Christmas wonders.
Hertz car rental in North Carolina allows you to unlock the best of the state and see it all at your own pace.
