Spring Experiences in North Carolina
Gorgeous Gorges in Sapphire, North Carolina
Gorges State Park is set in the midst of plunging waterfalls, rugged river gorges, sheer rock walls and a high concentration of rare species, and exploration of this unique environment often begins at the expansive visitor center.
Learn MoreIf you live in the Triangle, nothing says summer quite like an outdoor movie at the N.C. Museum of Art or a Summerfest concert performed by the North Carolina Symphony. If you're near Charlotte, you probably have panning for gold at Reed Gold Mine on your agenda. If the mountains are more your thing, you know it's the prime season for traditional music or a hike at a state park, and if you're headed to the beach, you know you'll find great aquariums, historic sites and museums up and down the coast.
And regardless of where you are, you know you'll be picking up a book and doing some summer reading.
Whether you're a longtime Tar Heel or planning your first visit to North Carolina, we've curated some of the best ways for you to experience authentic North Carolina arts. history and culture this summer. This page is you jumping off point. Happy exploring!
Spring Experiences in Western North Carolina
North Carolina's western region is home to a host of state parks, historic sites, museums, and our award-winning zoo.
Explore authentic Tar Heel history and heritage, get up close and personal with aquatic animals or explore some of North Carolina's pristine places, all just a stone's throw from your favorite Western North Carolina destinations.
Summer Concerts and Movie Series
Nothing says summer quite like attending one the many outdoor movies and concerts that you'll find across North Carolina. We've called out a few our favorites below.
Historical Adventures Near Asheville
Experience 18th century life in the mountains of North Carolina at the Zebulon B. Vance Birthplace. Only a short distance away from the many attractions of Asheville, Vance Birthplace provides plenty of free, fun, and educational experiences for all ages.
State Park Adventures in the Mountains
Interested in hiking, rock climbing or fishing? The 12 state parks west of Interstate 77 in the North Carolina mountains and foothills offer these activities and more, making them the perfect place for the adventure lover in your family.
Find Fun Near You
You'll find state historic sites, museums, aquariums and other attractions all over the state. Click the tiles below to find fun near selected cities.
Welcome Spring with Vintage State Park Photography
Celebrate six decades of North Carolina State Parks with this wide-ranging collection of photography and documents collected by the North Carolina State Archives. Whether you're into wildlife or simply scenes of the great outdoors, this collection has you covered.
For those who love the waters of our state, there's even a section dedicated to North Carolina's many beautiful lakes.
