These towns are buoyed by their proximity to water — river, sound, bay — yet they’re far enough from the ocean that you won’t find sand in your shoes. Here, 14 quirky places claim their fame in boats and bears, local characters and history.
Take the 1.5 mile hike on sand to Bird Island’s Kindred Spirit mailbox. Like a message in a bottle, the notes inside the seaside mailbox a contain the stories and secrets of those who seek a spiritual connection.
Live near the coast? Far from it? Either way, Stump Sound oysters are within your reach. Read more about this Carolina delicacy and how to order them from a few local companies.
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The eastern North Carolina community of Kinston has found new life as a culinary mecca, but locals see it — and know it — as so much more. See why we think it’s a must-visit stop on your next coastal tour.
The Sans Souci Ferry is one of the last of its kind, a scavenger hunt of a destination that you’ll find if you’re dedicated. Or a local. Or lost. Read more about one of the only three remaining cable-guided ferries left in North Carolina.
In North Carolina, spring brings the scent of fresh-cut grass and memories of helping Dad mow the lawn.
Nostalgic burger joints are like time machines, delivering something extra special that keeps us coming back.
This tiny city block in downtown Greensboro once had a gigantic reputation. Not so much for its charbroiled beef patties — though they, too, were plentiful — but for its colorful characters and their wild shenanigans.
In the 1950s, as Americans hit freshly paved roads in shiny new cars during the postwar boom, a new kind of restaurant took shape: the drive-in. From those first thin patties to the elaborate gourmet hamburgers of today, North Carolina has spent the past 80 years making burger history.
