First in Flight
Visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk to see where aviation began.
North Carolina is a captivating state in the southeastern United States, defined by its dramatic geographical transition from the Appalachian Mountains in the west to the Atlantic coastal plain in the east. Visitors can summit Mount Mitchell, the highest point in the eastern U.S., or explore the windswept dunes of Kitty Hawk where the Wright brothers first took flight. The state's urban landscape is equally compelling, featuring Charlotte’s high-energy banking district and the academic innovation of the Research Triangle near Raleigh. With a history spanning from early Native American tribes to the first formal calls for American independence, North Carolina offers a rich tapestry of cultural and natural experiences for every traveler.
North Carolina is a captivating state in the southeastern United States, defined by its dramatic geographical transition from the Appalachian Mountains in the west to the Atlantic coastal plain in the east. Visitors can summit Mount Mitchell, the highest point in the eastern U.S., or explore the windswept dunes of Kitty Hawk where the Wright brothers first took flight. The state's urban landscape is equally compelling, featuring Charlotte’s high-energy banking district and the academic innovation of the Research Triangle near Raleigh. With a history spanning from early Native American tribes to the first formal calls for American independence, North Carolina offers a rich tapestry of cultural and natural experiences for every traveler.
Mount Mitchell, the highest peak in the eastern United States.
The Outer Banks, famous for the Wright brothers' first flight.
Vibrant urban centers like Charlotte and the Research Triangle.
A diverse landscape spanning from mountains to the Atlantic coast.
Rich historical sites dating back to the colonial era.
Diverse climate ranges from humid subtropical plains to cooler mountain highlands.
The state is the 9th most populous in the US, meaning major cities can be quite busy.
Geographic variety requires significant travel time between the mountains and the coast.
Rich historical significance includes both Revolutionary and Civil War sites.
Visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk to see where aviation began.
Head to the western part of the state to hike Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Black Hills.
Outdoor adventurers, history enthusiasts, and road trippers.
USD $
English
Spend time in Charlotte for a big-city feel and major banking history, or Raleigh for a mix of government and research culture.
Explore the Outer Banks for unique coastal landscapes and historic lighthouses.
April-June, September-November
Spring is mild and ideal for exploring botanical gardens and hiking in the Piedmont.
Summers are hot and humid, making it the perfect time for beach trips to the Atlantic coast.
Fall is the best time to visit the Appalachian Mountains for stunning autumn foliage.
Winters are mild in the east, while the western mountains offer opportunities for winter sports.