Travel and Tourism

Nothing's finer
than ​fall in North Carolina

Tucked in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is home to history, adventure, world-class cuisine and breathtaking views, all of which are best when dressed in autumn’s bright colors.

10 perfect places to watch
​the sun rise in North Carolina

Rise and shine. There’s much to do in North Carolina. Start your adventure early at one of these 10 spots, each perfect for taking in a beautiful sunrise. Plus, several of these coveted vantage points are located inside our state and national parks, which are celebrating their 100th anniversaries throughout 2016.

Five family friendly fishing spots within a few hours drive of Erie

Ask any angler what season is best, and the answer almost always is fall. And why wouldn’t it be? Summer’s heat and pleasure boats are gone, leaving quiet waters, brilliant leaves and mornings that require an extra layer. Fall fires up fish, too. Cooling water puts them on the feed in preparation for winter. And nearly every species is in season, if you want to turn a few into a meal. Better yet, some of the world-class fishing spots within a few hours drive of Erie also offer activities and attractions off the water. They can expand a fishing trip into a family adventure. Here are five of them.

Land of the fun, home of the adventure in Fayetteville

The Fayetteville area is home to the U.S. Army’s most populous base, Fort Bragg. The community wears this distinction proudly, and shows its appreciation by actively pursuing the freedoms that those soldiers protect. During your visit, experience the area like a local – from parks and museums to breweries and zip lines – and relish in the excitement that’s found around every turn.

Festivals, ghost tours and
​gem mining in the mountains

In the heart of the Nantahala National Forest is the North Carolina mountain town of Franklin. It’s a colorful destination, especially in autumn, when the birches, oaks and other deciduous trees on surrounding hills turn vibrant hues. But those aren’t the only things you’ll uncover in the Gem Capital of the World.

​Get away to Rumbling Bald Resort, beautiful mountains

Visitors come to the North Carolina mountains year-round for their many outdoor adventures and chances to unwind. Unforgettable experiences are within easy reach when you make Rumbling Bald Resort ​the centerpiece of your vacation.

Get away to Chimney Rock, Lake Lure and towns in the Foothills

Located midway between Asheville and Charlotte, Rutherford County has been a gem since its settlers searched for gold, becoming the birthplace of America’s first one-dollar gold coin. You can discover its history, which includes connections to movies, and lay claim to top-notch cuisine, accommodations and adventures during a three-day trip.

Explore North Carolina in the birthplace of independence

The Halifax County Visitor’s Center, on Interstate 95 in North Carolina, offers a chance to stretch your legs, let your dogs off the leash at the center's Dog Run, and peruse racks of colorful brochures. The pubs describe destinations that represent what’s great about the state – cuisine, history, adventure and nature. But you don’t have to travel from Murphy to Manteo (opposite ends of North Carolina) to sample them. There’s a taste of each right there, in Halifax County.

Follow the Blue Ridge Parkway to a Donald Ross golf trip

​​Donald Ross left his legendary signature on the more than 400 golf courses he designed around the world, including Pinehurst No. 2 and about 40 others that are still played across North Carolina. His bunkers and fairways, for example, reflect the land, often looking like Mother Nature created them herself. That’s especially true in the dramatic topography of North Carolina’s mountains, where you can choose from five courses to assemble a Ross-inspired golf trip.