Just south of the North Carolina border, a Bavarian-style mountain town celebrates Alpine living with artisanal shops, delicious eateries, and plenty of outdoor adventures.
3 Destinations for Memorable Mountain Experiences
From chasing adventures along the trails to settling into a luxurious mountain escape, here’s how to savor the season in Jackson, Transylvania, and Mitchell counties.
North Carolina, Naturally: Painted Buntings
Often spotted in the Southeast’s coastal environments, male painted buntings — with their characteristic rainbow plumage — are one of the most colorful birds in the country. Dr. Eleanor Spicer Rice takes a closer look at these iridescent creatures who migrate to coastal North Carolina each year.
Winged Rainbows
On our coast, painted buntings flash their colors, sing for love, and remind us to stay hopeful.
North Carolina, Naturally: The Fall Line
From Roanoke Rapids to Raven Rock, a natural divide across North Carolina has long-guided water, wildlife, and people. Join Dr. Eleanor Spicer Rice as she explores the town of Weldon, where the cascades from the Roanoke River signify the geological shift where the Piedmont meets the Coastal Plain.
The Fall Line
From Roanoke Rapids past Raven Rock, a natural divide has long guided water, wildlife, and people — and it’s still shaping North Carolina today.
Three Days in Durham
Spend a weekend soaking up history and charm in this vibrant Southern city.
Raleigh’s Garden Wonderland
On the outskirts of our state capital, a gardener turned a lifeless farm field into the lush Juniper Level Botanic Garden.
North Carolina, Naturally: Ocracoke Island
On one remote Outer Banks island, wildlife thrives despite the challenges that come with living on the edge of the continent. Hop aboard a ferry with Dr. Eleanor Spicer Rice and travel to Ocracoke to discover this coastal wonder that holds everyone from humans to humble rodents generously and without judgement.
