In the late 1800s, a simple, powerful slogan lured newcomers to the sublime beauty of Buncombe County. More than a century later, the Asheville skyline still beckons.
blue ridge parkway
Destination NC
An advertising campaign in the mid-20th century touted North Carolina as a vacationer’s paradise — no matter what types of destinations and activities travelers sought.
Hidden Treasures of Autumn in the North Carolina Mountains
We know you’re heading west to see stunning fall color, but look beyond the Blue Ridge Parkway overlooks and you’ll discover more incredible ways to experience the season.
From Ranch to Retreat in Burnsville
A big-city photographer had a vision to transform a storied Burnsville property into a space for contemplation and reflection — a healing place.
Our State Knows Best: Leaf Peeping
We talked to three biologists about how and when to plan a trip to see peak fall color in North Carolina, their favorite hikes and overlooks, and why our mountains are one of the best places in the country to see stunning autumn leaves.
NC Icons: Mountain Primer
Find out what makes our ancient Appalachian Mountains so magnificent in this primer on our peaks.
Wineries, Wildflowers, & Waterfalls at the First Peak of the Blue Ridge
Take a trip to three historic mountain towns, where you’ll marvel at rushing water and nature’s beauty, then settle in and sip a glass of wine.
The Blowing Rock: A Love Story
At more than a billion years old, this ancient outcrop captured human imagination, inspired a legend, and became one of the state’s earliest travel attraction. Our fascination with The Blowing Rock endures — and keeps drawing us west.
Dawn’s Early Light
On New Year’s Day and each frosty morning after, dawn breaks clear and bright across our state, from coastal whitecaps to mountain snowcaps. In North Carolina, the brilliance of a winter sunrise brings the promise of fresh possibilities.
