The July 2024 Issue

In April 1776, months before founding fathers signed the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia, a group of visionaries gathered in Halifax as the first to formally urge the colonies to declare their independence from British rule.

In the early 20th century, a socialite made a home in the Lake Toxaway area. Now, guests relax in her estate turned inn and learn about the community she loved.

An Alamance County woman attracts hummingbirds by the dozens to her backyard sanctuary, devoting her summer days — and lots of sugar — to the birds she loves.

With a background in chemistry and a penchant for experimentation, a potter in Chatham County mastered the challenging art of creating pieces that appear more like glass than clay.

A beloved sailor spent his life on the waters around Carteret County. Today, a bronze bust pays tribute to his friendly nature and passion for the sea.

In Yancey County, a renowned food writer started a bookstore to keep avid readers satisfied.

A friendly competition between two Columbus County farmers inspired a festival where massive melons earn top honors.

The houses in Kristy Woodson Harvey’s life have always fascinated her. Unable to fully uncover their stories, the award-winning novelist dreamed up her own.

Nearly a century ago, a young man opened a restaurant to feed passengers leaving the old depot in Lexington. Though Southern Railway is no more, people still travel to the family-owned lunch spot for a plate full of comfort food.

Our recipe developer shares memories of working up an appetite at the pool — one that only burgers, fries, and a sweet treat could satisfy.

Serve these cheesy smashburgers with a side of peppery crinkle-cut fries for diner-style flavors enjoyed right at home.

Savor long summer days by the pool with this fruit-filled slushie (we won’t tell if you add a splash of rum).

Rippled with fudge sauce and crunchy peanuts on top, these creamy frozen treats taste like homemade versions of Nutty Buddys.

Decadently dressed clams roast under a blanket of garlic butter, Swiss cheese, and bacon for a sophisticated appetizer requiring minimal time and ingredients.

In Chatham County, Jordan Lake State Recreation Area offers sanctuary to an astonishing number of bald eagles — and a golden opportunity to see our national emblem in flight.

Spend warm summer days splashing in the water, boating around the shore, and pitching a tent in this slice of wilderness spanning Chatham and Wake counties.

For more than 200 years, these farms have been passed down from generation to generation, preserved through hard work, innovation, and commitment. Today, they’re part of a select group with a coveted title: Bicentennial Farm.

Sunscreen. Surf wax. Flip-flops. The beach packing list is a reminder to bring the essentials, of course. But read between the lines: It’s also a family scrapbook, a reminder of all the vacations that came before.

At his seafood market in Jacksonville, a seasoned fisherman shows his customers that when it comes to our coast and the rich bounty it provides, the world is their oyster.

In Wagram, a circa-1860 red-brick hall offers a revealing glimpse into the lives of Scottish immigrants who answered a higher calling.

For a pair of happy campers — perfectly content to rough it in the wilderness — a “glampground” in Watauga County offers all the creature comforts, plus a change of heart.

Stargazing, s’mores, and tomato sandwiches: It’s easy to have a spectacular summer in North Carolina. How many items can you check off our seasonal bucket list?

In Henderson County, a third-generation farmer whose family once grew produce for making baby food now creates fanciful flavors of homemade ice cream.

A writer with a sweet tooth and a fondness for frozen treats returns to her hometown for a story that’s made for her: Hendersonville’s Ice Cream Trail.

From farm stands to strip-mall shops to downtown staples, each of the 13 locations on the Hendersonville Ice Cream Trail offers something unique.

A Flat Rock restaurant pays tribute to the summer camp culture that’s deeply woven into the landscape of western North Carolina, inviting diners to revisit carefree childhood memories.

Around the state, nostalgic treats with modern flair kindle memories of camp.

One writer sets his sights on an ambitious goal, aiming to swim at every YMCA pool in the state. In the water, he finds familiarity, fortitude, and memories of his first and most important coach: his dad.

Motivated by her love of history and early childhood memories of Wrightsville Beach, a former Wilmington teacher became a vintage swimsuit collector.

A pair of Ocracokers find peace and contentment while digging for treasure in Pamlico Sound. Their ingredients for a perfect summer day? Sunshine, crystal-clear water, and a mess of clams.

What began as a musical tradition among generations of servers at The Farm House Inn and Restaurant now celebrates 24 years as a weekly concert series at Broyhill Park.