Discovering North Carolina's Best Kept Secrets: A 2024 Travel Guide
Exploring North Carolina's Hidden Gems
North Carolina offers more than its famous attractions. Adventurous travelers can discover hidden wonders by crafting unique itineraries of lesser-known gems across diverse landscapes. Immerse yourself in charming small towns, scenic drives, and flavors defining North Carolina's heart.
Venturing Just Beyond the Well-Trodden Path
Every state has popular tourist destinations that draw crowds. But North Carolina's true spirit lies in its intimate small towns showcasing history, culture and hospitality. Nestled by the Pamlico River with roots dating back to the early 1700s, Bath lets you walk where pirates once roamed and appreciate preserved colonial buildings. Leisurely drives here meander through vistas transforming travel into memories. Beyond busy cities are natural havens offering escape back to nature.
The Scenery, Barbeque Towns and Sports Betting
While many know of it, few explore lesser-seen stops on the famous Blue Ridge Parkway showcasing Appalachian Highlands. In October, Lexington comes alive for the Barbecue Festival, celebrating its title as the “Barbecue Capital of the World.” Visitors dive into North Carolina’s rich barbecue culture. Keep an eye out on March 11th when North Carolina launches online sports betting allowing bettors to wager on favorite sports teams like the Carolina Panthers while enjoying Lexington's smoky meats. As sports betting launches, take advantage of generous North Carolina sportsbook promos from top operators for free bets during your stay. Wager on March Madness while sampling heavenly barbeque as Lexington hosts hoops fans.
Venturing Off the Beaten Path
Delve into arts and crafts often overshadowed by mainstream attractions. For generations, Seagrove's tight-knit pottery community has shaped clay into exquisite works showing North Carolina’s artistic tradition. Coastal Ocracoke Village, only by ferry, provides an escape with quiet beaches and a historic lighthouse. Dive into cultural history at the Oconaluftee Indian Village and Museum of the Cherokee, experiencing the living heritage of Eastern Cherokee people.
Beyond the Shoreline's Edge
While famed, some beaches remain untouched by tourists, like Ocracoke Island's serene community. Inland, Merchants Millpond State Park trades mountains for primordial cypress swamps and ponds, explored on trails or by canoe. Seek out Moravian cookies' aroma wafting through Old Salem, carrying the history of Moravian settler bakers.
Crafting Your Own Carolina Adventure
Peeling back North Carolina's layers reveals stories from the past thriving today. Visitors become part of the unfolding narrative, whether making pottery, learning Cherokee traditions, or relishing lesser-known eateries.
As you plan your next vacation, consider the promise of North Carolina—not just a trip but an odyssey that stays with you, inviting you back to explore its ever-changing landscapes and hidden gems. With each visit opening up new chapters as effortlessly as turning the pages of a captivating book, North Carolina is eager for your exploration. Amidst its many treasures, the great New Embassy Suites in Asheville Downtown stands ready to welcome you, offering a perfect starting point to experience the vibrant city and its breathtaking natural beauty.
