Spring Experiences

Gray historic building in the background with a formal flower garden in the foreground

NC State Historic Sites

Spring into History

Celebrate the wild and wonderful side of North Carolina this spring with America 250 NC. From blooming trails to untold stories, the road to 250 is full of beauty, history, and adventure!

Discover America 250 NC

From the resilient west to the sunny coast, North Carolina’s rich natural history is Wild & Wonderful.

From North Carolina State Parks and trails to museums and more, the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources offers opportunities to travel and engage with the outdoors this Spring. Whether you're a longtime Tar Heel or planning your first visit to North Carolina, find events, travel itineraries, and more opportunities to get out and explore the beauty of North Carolina!

Experience Western North Carolina

Many of North Carolina’s beloved parks, museums, and historic sites in the western region are open and ready to welcome visitors. While some locations are still recovering, there are plenty of opportunities to explore and support these special places.

Things to Know Before You Go

Find Wonderful Experiences Near You

You'll find state historic sites, museums, aquariums, cultural events, and other attractions all over the state. Explore to discover wonder across the state.

Spring Powwows Across the State

Visit the American Indian Heritage Commission online for information on events all month.

people gather and socialize at tables outside NCMA Winston-salem

Spring into Art at NCMA Winston-Salem

Don’t miss two colorful exhibitions, House Hangs, Nite School programs, and the return of outdoor concerts — at NCMA Winston-Salem.

Cultural Tourism & Trails

Authentic North Carolina adventures are at your fingertips with the N.C. Arts Council's arts tourism trails!

An Elephant With a Cracked Toenail

North Carolina Zoo

Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at the North Carolina Zoo? Here’s your chance to find out! The North Carolina Zoo is featured in the eight-part Nat Geo WILD series, SECRETS OF THE ZOO: NORTH CAROLINA.

Plan your visit to North Carolina Zoo now!

Ways to celebrate Earth Day

Party for the Planet

Choose your team and take the pledge to make sustainable choices during Party for the Planet (April 22-June 8)!

Earth Fair OBX

Celebrate Earth Day at the Jockey’s Ridge State Park. Share your love for the natural world and check out our fun and informative exhibits and activities for kids. Tue, Apr 22 2025, 1 - 4pm

Race for the planet

The 2025 Race for the Planet welcomes racers of all skill levels for a fun race through picturesque Fort Fisher — healthy for participants and for the planet. Sunday, April 27, 2025 at 8 a.m. Tue, Apr 22 2025, 1 - 4pm

Explore State Parks

The North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation manages over 250,000 acres of iconic landscape across our state in our parks, recreation areas, and natural areas, with a mission dedicated to conservation, recreation, and education.

Find a State Park

Conservation of the North Carolina Wilds

By gathering and sharing information about rare species and natural communities, North Carolina’s Natural Heritage Program ensures public access to information that is needed to weigh the ecological significance of natural areas and to evaluate potential ecological impacts of conservation and development projects.

View State Parks Archival Photos

Get inspired to explore some of our many State Parks this spring by exploring photos of wildlife, scenery and more from the State Archives' free Digital Collection.

Historic building in the background with a sign in the foreground that says Underground Railroad Trail. An arrow under the words points to the left.

Halifax Resolves Days

Halifax Resolves Days commemorate April 12, 1776, the day the Fourth Provincial Congress recorded their intent to sever ties with Britain.

Wild & Wonder: Spring Experiences in North Carolina