The February 2026 Issue

Find sweet surprises to offset the winter cold with a day trip to Lexington.

A paleontologist uncovers the ancient lives still hidden in North Carolina’s rocks and coastline.

This iconic thoroughfare in the heart of Greensboro has evolved into a modern-day creative hub with a vibrancy maintained by the many people who walk its streets and celebrate its history.

Explore local eateries and reinvented storefronts as you stroll through history along Greensboro’s central corridor.

In 1942, 44 young musicians marched into history as members of the Navy’s first all-Black unit band.

After an award-winning author found her place in the Queen City, she came across the life-changing story of a woman who came to North Carolina, too, in search of opportunity.

Wherever he rambles, our resident traveler finds comfort in a cup of joe.

Coffee shops across the state are steeped in the stories of our land.

In the hush of the off-season, delight in some of our coast’s quieter highlights.

A mother’s vision transformed a Whitsett farm into a place where differences dissolve, friendships flourish, and every life — even a barn cat’s — shines on.

When a chef discovers her grandfather’s old mill, she and her family set out to revive a Southern tradition fueled by grit and grist.

Cover these snappy cookies with a tangy lemon icing for a sunny way to celebrate winter citrus season.

Somewhere between cutting fries and scrubbing the grills at her first restaurant management job, one chef found love. When she and her husband crave familiar flavors, these are the recipes she makes.

Marinate beef tips overnight and then throw together this quick sauté to deliver sizzling flavors in less than an hour.

Set aside a some extra parmesan for a final sprinkle of cheese before you serve this creamy, comforting side dish.

Start these beets a day or two before you plan to serve them for the optimal, tangy flavor.

A North Carolinian’s guide to getting invited back, again and again.

The butlers at Winston-Salem’s Graylyn Estate carry on a tradition established nearly a century ago by a globe-trotting hostess who wanted every guest to feel appreciated.

A Henderson County bed and breakfast saves a special course for last.

For nearly 30 years, the owners of Durham’s Morehead Manor Bed and Breakfast have shared their historic home with travelers they treat like family.

In Cleveland County, the owner of a beloved home has restored its former grandeur and reinstated its tradition of hospitality through afternoon teas.

With each guest she welcomes, a steward of the historic Lovill House honors the home’s legacy — and her own family’s High Country roots.

In the South, a pound cake is an invitation to grab a plate and make yourself at home. One Stokes County baker shared this homemade tradition beyond his kitchen table.

In Elkin, a generous mailman became known for handing off slices of pound cake to individuals along his route. Now, he bakes one daily for a local coffee shop. With his recipe, you can make it for yourself at home.