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.

How You Can Help
Your visit plays a vital role in supporting local communities and the continued recovery of these historic and natural spaces. Whether you're hiking a scenic trail, exploring a museum exhibit, or discovering the stories of a historic site, every visit makes a difference.

Thank you for your support as we rebuild and restore North Carolina’s natural and cultural treasures!

Know Before You Go
Some attractions may have modified hours, limited access, or ongoing recovery efforts.

Before visiting, we recommend:
Checking individual site websites or social media for the latest updates.
Calling ahead to confirm operating hours and available amenities.
Respecting any temporary closures or restricted areas as recovery efforts continue.

Things to Do

Historic Sites & Museums

Western North Carolina offers a variety of fun and educational activities, including two State Historic Sites, the Thomas Wolfe Memorial in Asheville and the Zebulon B. Vance Birthplace in Weaverville.

State Parks

There are several state parks found throughout Western North Carolina offering incredible views, hiking trails and other outdoor activities, including Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River.

North Carolina Western Regional Archives

The Western Regional Archives (WRA) collects, preserves, and makes available for public use historical and evidential materials relating to western North Carolina. The WRA is administered by the State Archives of North Carolina and carries out its archival mission and programs. The holdings consist primarily of private collections and some microfilmed county records.

Visit the Western Regional Archives