Home for the Holidays: 10 Best Places to Visit with Guests

There’s no place like home for the holidays! It’s a time for gathering with loved ones, sharing traditions, and making memories that last a lifetime. If you’re hosting family for the holidays, we have the perfect list of 10 places showcasing our state’s history, beauty, and culture.

1. North Wilkesboro Speedway: Located at the top of a hill in Wilkes County, North Wilkesboro Speedway is a unique short track with a deep history in moonshine and stock car racing. One stop of 17 on the Moonshine and Motorsports Trail, the speedway hosted some of the most legendary NASCAR drivers of all time, including Richard Petty, Dale Earnhardt, and Jeff Gordon. This track remains a cherished location due to its rich history and its recent revival in 2022, after being closed since 1996.
2.  Vance Birthplace State Historic Site: Located in Buncombe County, Vance Birthplace is home to one of  North Carolina's Governors and the 18 enslaved people who lived and worked on the Vance farm.  After sustaining storm damage from Hurricane Helene Vance Birthplace just recently opened its doors to the public again.  As they continue to remove trees and repair damaged structures, they will not be offering guided tours and the Vance Cemetery Trail will remain closed! However, there is still plenty to explore and learn about. We encourage you to read Explore Asheville's recommendations for help planning a thoughtful, responsible trip in the wake of Helene.
3.  Thomas Wolf Memorial State Historic Site:  Located in Buncombe County, Thomas Wolfe Memorial is the childhood home of novelist, Thomas Wolfe. Also known as the “Old Kentucky Home,” visitors can visit the 29-room house with over 85% original furnishings and artifacts. Also on the premise, there is a visitor center featuring an exhibit hall that depicts Wolfe’s life and literature. This historic site is also a stop on Asheville’s Urban Trail. Thomas Wolfe Memorial is one of the many places affected by Hurricane Helene and recently reopened their doors. They’re excited to welcome visitors back!

4. Historic Edenton State Historic Site: Located in Chowan County, Historic Edenton is our state’s second-oldest town. During the 18th and 19th centuries, Edenton stood as a key political, cultural, and commercial hub for the young nation. Today, it boasts a rich historic district showcasing architectural styles that span over 250 years.There’s so much to experience in a small town! Check out our recommendations for the perfect day trip.

   

5.  Jockey's Ridge State Park:  Located in Dare County, Jockey’s Ridge State Park is home to the tallest living sand dune system on the Atlantic coast. This unique landmark owes its preservation to the passionate efforts of Carolista Baum, who championed its protection.  It’s ideal for flying kites, hang gliding, and watching sunsets. Visitors can swim, paddle, kiteboard, and windsurf on the Roanoke Sound at a second access area. 
6.  Roanoke Island Festival Park: Located in Dare County, Roanoke Island Festival Park provides first-hand experiences on what life was like for the first English settlers in 1585.  From the American Indian Town and the Settlement Site to the replica ship Elizabeth II, it provides an immersive experience that guests of all ages will enjoy.

7. North Carolina Zoo: Located in Randolph County, the North Carolina Zoo is the world’s largest natural habitat zoo with 2,800 acres, large natural habitats and more than 1,700 animals in its care. Make your visit as smooth as possible with these holiday tips. Recently, a furry little friend—a native white deer—has been spotted outside the Zoo property and along the hiking trails. Skip the zoo and hike the Purgatory Mountain Trails! With 2024 marking the Zoo's 50th anniversary, it’s the perfect time for a one-of-a-kind trip, whether on the trails or inside the Zoo!

   

8.  Occoneechee Speedway: Located in Orange County, Occoneechee Speedway is just one stop along the Moonshine and Motorsports Trail. Many well-known NASCAR figures, such as Richard Petty, Lee Petty, and Louise Smith, made their mark at this speedway. As one of the first two NASCAR tracks to open, this track remains in a similar condition to how it looked before it closed in 1986, offering visitors an authentic experience with every step they take. (If you close your eyes, you can almost hear the cheering!)

9.  Historic Stagville: Located in Durham County, Historic Stagville includes the remnants of the one of the largest plantations in North Carolina. As you explore this historic site, you'll gain insight into the lives, culture, and labor of enslaved African Americans. By the end of your guided or self-guided tour, we hope you'll feel inspired to honor and remember the enslaved and emancipated individuals who shaped Stagville and North Carolina. Until January 25th, explore "Maya Freelon: Whippersnappers", an immersive exhibit featuring archival photographs, paintings, and collages that transform the former plantation.

   

10.  State Library of North Carolina: Located in Wake County, the State Library of North Carolina’s Government & Heritage Library is an ideal place to begin family history research while spending quality time with your family.  Located in downtown Raleigh, it offers valuable resources for genealogy enthusiasts and those interested in North Carolina culture. While you are there, check out the rotating book displays. Currently on display are books from the Old State Library Collection and those highlighting holidays celebrated around the world. 

    Whether your visitors are history buffs, outdoor adventurers, or simply looking to learn more about North Carolina, this guide has something for everyone. Let's show our friends and loved ones what makes North Carolina so great!