Why the North Carolina Zoo in The North Carolina Zoo is a destination that transcends the ordinary, offering a global safari in the heart of the Southeast. Its naturalistic habitats, diverse animal roster, and unwavering commitment to conservation create an experience that’s equal parts thrilling, educational, and inspiring. From the stealthy glide of an alligator to the towering grace of a giraffe, every animal tells a story of survival and resilience.

Lake Davidson Nature Preserve in Davidson, NC, offers scenic trails and diverse habitats for hiking, birdwatching, and serene lake kayaking.

The Village Green in Cashiers, Davidson is a community park where outdoor concerts, holiday festivities, and civic gatherings create cherished memories.

Discover downtown Davidson, NC, a hub of local boutiques, bookshops, and artisanal eateries.

Davidson Community Players offers exceptional theater productions, educational programs, and workshops.

Discover fresh, local produce and goods at Davidson Farmer's Market near Lake Norman. 35+ vendors, fresh foods, and cooking demos every Saturday.

Explore Fisher Farm Park in Davidson, NC, where scenic trails wind through picturesque landscapes and diverse habitats.

Experience the Davidson College Sculpture Garden, where varied sculptures create a dialogue between art, viewers, and the environment.

Davidson College in Davidson, NC, offers a supportive academic environment with small class sizes and a commitment to teaching excellence.

Roosevelt Wilson Park in Davidson, NC, features a serene lake, accessible walking paths, and family-friendly amenities like playgrounds and open spaces.

Andrew Jackson State Park offers interactive exhibits, a replica schoolhouse, and beautiful nature trails in a historic setting.

Historic Downtown Waxhaw, NC, offers a unique blend of history and modern charm, inviting visitors to explore its boutiques and artisan shops.

Waxhaw Bridge, an architectural marvel and cherished landmark. It is a popular tourist spot in Waxhaw, NC for it's preserved beauty and rustic charm.

Marvin Efird Park features scenic walking trails in Monroe, NC, perfect for enjoying a peaceful day outdoors.

Waxhaw Farmers Market offers farm-to-table treasures and handmade crafts, showcasing local agriculture and artisanal talent every week.

Explore writing's rich history at the JAARS Museum of the Alphabet in Waxhaw, NC, with exhibits on scripts and alphabets from around the world.

Dive into outdoor adventure at Cane Creek Park in Union County, NC, with 1,050 acres of family-friendly fun and a serene 350-acre lake.

Explore Waxhaw's 12 Mile Creek Greenway, offering scenic trails and diverse wildlife habitats, perfect for walks, jogging, and hiking.

Waxhaw Skate Park is a premier destination for skateboarders, featuring a safe and challenging environment that promotes recreation and community.

Discover the museum of Waxhaw's rich history, featuring interactive exhibits and educational programs on Andrew Jackson's legacy.

The Parkway Theater in West Jefferson, NC, showcases independent films and artistic exploration, featuring interactive screenings and filmmaker talks.

See the Saloon Studios in West Jefferson for a glimpse into the Wild West era and a state-of-the-art recording studio.

Learn about orchards, apple varieties, and cider fermentation at Molley Chomper Hard Cider in Lansing, NC.

Discover the thrill and beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains at the Mile High Swinging Bridge in Linville, NC.

Quench your thirst at Beech Mountain Brewing Company in Beech Mountain, NC. Explore the diverse beer selection and unwind in the mountain setting.

Visit Fred's General Mercantile on Beech Mountain, NC: Your one-stop shop for essentials, gifts, and local flavor.

Enjoy golf, tennis, dining, panoramic mountain views, and unparalleled amenities at Beech Mountain Club in Beech Mountain, NC

Hit the slopes at Beech Mountain Ski Resort in NC, offering thrilling skiing and snowboarding opportunities for all skill levels year-round.

Enter the Land of Oz theme park in Beech Mountain, NC. Enjoy live performances and meet beloved characters from the classic story.

Discover indoor sports, fitness, and playrooms for kids at Buckeye Recreation Center in Beech Mountain, NC, perfect for family recreation.

The Emerald Outback at Beech Mountain, NC, is a hiker's paradise with diverse ecosystems, stunning views, and a commitment to conservation.

Lees-McRae College offers diverse undergraduate and graduate programs, fostering critical thinking and practical skills in arts, health sciences, and more.

Enjoy Hawksnest Snow Tubing and Zipline in Seven Devils, NC, offering snow tubing excitement and breathtaking zipline adventures in the mountains.

Discover Elk River Falls, a picturesque waterfall nestled in the Appalachian Mountains near Elk Park, NC.

Experience gem mining at Sugar Creek Gem Mine with all the equipment and expert help you need to uncover North Carolina's geological treasures.

Start your mountain adventure at Sugar Mountain Resort, where pristine slopes, lush forests, and exhilarating activities await in every season.

Flat Top Brewing Company in Banner Elk, NC offers classic styles to seasonal releases. Each brew reflects Appalachian craftsmanship & community spirit.

Explore Linville Caverns, a captivating underground adventure with rare cave life and geological formations, perfect for nature lovers and families.

Grandfather Mountain: Explore pristine forests, rocky peaks, and the thrilling Mile High Swinging Bridge in the Appalachians.

Linville Falls offers hikers of all levels a chance to marvel at its natural splendor and rugged beauty, making it a must-visit on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Indulge in guided wine tastings at Banner Elk Winery, sampling a range of award-winning vintages that reflect the Appalachian region's unique terroir.

Visit Ashe County Cheese, NC's oldest cheese plant, to explore artisan cheese-making and shop local gourmet foods and gifts in West Jefferson, NC.

Visit The Honey Hole in West Jefferson, NC, offering mountain-harvested honey and handmade local crafts that celebrate the region's natural bounty.

Explore Saint Mary's Episcopal Church in West Jefferson, NC, where frescoes enrich the spiritual journey amidst the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Discover fresh seasonal produce, local honey, meats, and handmade crafts at Ashe County Farmers Market in downtown West Jefferson, NC.

Plan your outdoor adventure at New River State Park. Enjoy picnicking, camping, and hiking along the peaceful New River amidst Appalachian scenery.

Explore Ashe County's past at The Museum of Ashe County History, featuring exhibits on pioneers, railroads, and industries that shaped the region.

Explore Mount Jefferson State Natural Area's diverse trails and scenic hikes, offering a sanctuary for rare flora and fauna in the Appalachian landscape.

Doc's Rocks! Gem Mine in Blowing Rock, NC, offers gem mining with authentic equipment, educational exhibits, and fun for the whole family.

Appalachian State University in Boone, NC is a public institution that offers outstanding academics in a close-knit community setting.

Visit The Turchin Center for the Visual Arts in Boone, NC, for a dynamic cultural experience showcasing contemporary art in all its forms and expressions.

Visit Mystery Hill: enjoy optical illusions, natural phenomena, and family-friendly attractions in Blowing Rock, NC.

"Horn in the West" is a historical outdoor drama in Boone, NC, showcasing the settlers' challenges & triumphs in the 18th-century American frontier.

Howard Knob Park in Boone, NC, offers serene trails winding through mountain terrain, perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility and stunning vistas.

Tweetsie Railroad delights with a vintage steam locomotive ride and Wild West adventures, offering family-friendly fun in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Experience the beauty of native flora at the Boone Botanical Gardens in, NC, with over 200 plant species for visitors to view.

Take in the breathtaking views from Currituck Beach Lighthouse in Corolla, NC, illuminated by its original first-order Fresnel lens.

Visit Elizabethan Gardens in Outer Banks, NC, where history meets natural beauty, and enjoy the serene paths amidst nature.

Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge is a sanctuary of natural beauty and biodiversity, ideal for bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Discover the historic Ocracoke Lighthouse in North Carolina, offering scenic views of Ocracoke Island and Pamlico Sound

Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, where exhibits and trails reveal America’s colonial roots in historic reconstructions.

Visit Bodie Island Lighthouse in Cape Hatteras, Outer Banks, and witness its enduring presence in the "Graveyard of the Atlantic."

Jockey's Ridge State Park is a great spot for outdoor activities: sandboarding, hang gliding, and scenic trails in Outer Banks.

Learn about the Wright Brothers' first flight at the National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills, NC. Explore historic locations and original living quarters.

Visit the Cape Hatteras National Seashore in Buxton, NC, where pristine beaches, scenic landscapes, and abundant wildlife await.

See Carolina Beach Lake Park, where the serene freshwater lake and surrounding walking path offer a tranquil retreat.

Experience the wonders of the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Walk through a tunnel and get close to sharks, rays, and more in Kure Beach.

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area in North Carolina blends rich Civil War history with natural coastal beauty.

Create lasting memories at Kure Beach Pier, NC, with fishing, ocean views, and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Dive into the vibrant energy of the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, where you can find street food, amusement rides, and unforgettable festivals.

Enjoy outdoor adventures at Carolina Beach State Park, home to Venus flytraps and scenic trails.

Escape to Carolina Beach, NC, where the iconic boardwalk, scenic state park, & lively festivals offer endless opportunities for fun.

Freeman Park in Carolina Beach, NC: Your destination for beachfront camping and 4x4 exploration on the Outer Banks.

Visit Lawyers Glen Park in Mint Hill, NC, known for its calming walking paths, picnic spots, and serene ambiance amidst the beauty of nature.

Enjoy golf, tennis, and variety of recreational activities for all ages at Pine Lake Country Club, Mint Hill.

Experience history at the Carl J McEwen Historic Village, featuring original homesteads and guided tours in Mint Hill, NC.

Explore your creativity at Mint Hill Arts Center in Mint Hill, NC. Offers diverse exhibits and classes in painting, photography, and pottery.

Whether hiking, biking, or trail running, Clear Creek Park in Glen Alpine, NC, has 5 trails for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.

Discover Park on Wilgrove in Mint Hill, NC, a beloved outdoor retreat with playgrounds, picnic areas, and scenic trails for family fun.

Step back in time at the Carl J. McEwen Historic Village in Mint Hill, NC. Restored buildings and artifacts reveal the area’s rich rural history.

Mint Hill Country Doctor's Museum showcases the evolution of medical practices with exhibits of instruments and personal artifacts from local physicians.

Mint Hill Veterans Memorial Park: A place of tribute and leisure, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Four Mile Creek Greenway in Matthews, NC is a serene pathway winding along the creek with scenic views and educational signage about local wildlife.

Shop at the Windsor Square Shopping Center in Matthews, NC, offering a convenient layout, lively ambiance, and diverse mix of shops and restaurants.

Matthews' Idlewild Road Park features athletic fields, engaging playgrounds, and peaceful picnic spots, ideal for community gatherings.

Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts enriches Matthews, NC, with engaging theatrical performances and arts education programs for all ages.

Enjoy diverse terrain, scenic trails, and the serene lake and picnic spots at Colonel Francis J. Beatty Park in Matthews, NC.

Join Elevation Church in Matthews, NC, known for its community outreach and contemporary worship services.

Stumptown Park is Matthews' beloved green space, with playgrounds, picnic facilities, and open spaces perfect for sports and relaxation.

Visit Matthews' Squirrel Lake Park for winding paths, playgrounds, & picnic shelters, perfect for leisurely strolls, biking, and family-friendly outings.

Discover Matthews Heritage Museum's immersive exhibits and educational programs, celebrating the town's rich history and community,

Visit the Matthews Community Farmers Market every Saturday for fresh goods from local farmers, artisans, and producers in a lively setting.

Visit Fort Dobbs in Statesville, NC, where visitors delve into North Carolina's colonial history and the French and Indian War.

Plan your summer at the Statesville Leisure Pool, where water slides, splash pads, & relaxing lounging areas await.

Stroll through downtown Statesville, NC, featuring historic buildings, local shops, and varied dining.

Don't miss the Carolina BalloonFest, the second oldest hot air balloon festival in the country, happening every October in Statesville, NC.

Signal Hill Mall in Statesville, once a cornerstone of shopping and social life, now a dynamic mixed-use space for the community.

Explore Iredell Museums in Statesville, NC, showcasing the county's rich history and offering interactive exhibits for all ages.

Visit Love Valley Wild West Town authentic streets, shops, and exciting rodeo events, offering a glimpse into the vibrant history of the Wild West.

Step into Statesville’s history at the Historical Collection. Explore exhibits that reveal the city’s economic, social, and cultural heritage.