View of beachfront homes at the Crystal Coast.

3 Crystal Coast Getaways

Pick your perfect off-season retreat: Spend a weekend shopping, shelling, and dining; go offshore fishing and discover waterman traditions; or explore the aquarium and Fort Macon State Park with the whole family.

Gems found at North Carolina mines

All That Glitters

In and around Franklin and other parts of western North Carolina, gem mines draw tourists and serious rock hounds alike for the chance of spotting a deep purple sapphire or rich red ruby sparkling in sifting trays full of mud.