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Firsts found here
Whether big or small, shared or solo, it’s our firsts that stay with us. See these real travelers venture to North Carolina to do something they’ve never done before and explore ways find your own Firsts That Last.
Firsts that Last Film Series
We gave 12 filmmakers the opportunity to bring their North Carolina stories to life in a series of short films that celebrates our state and all the firsts that come from a visit here.
Jacob’s First Mandolin
A friendly wager on a family fishing trip to Emerald Isle years ago resulted in one boy’s dream come true. That boy, all grown up, turned his dream come true into a career.
Queen of Pisgah
In her first pro bike race in Pisgah National Forest, Kaysee Armstrong is humbled by the terrain. Four years later and fierce with determination, Kaysee returns for redemption.
Waverider
Growing up, Bryan Harvey’s greatest joy was surfing on the Outer Banks. Today, he knows there’s only one thing that’s better: teaching his daughter that same passion.
Seagrove Pottery
For the visually impaired, art has its limitations – but pottery is a special art form where the sense of touch makes all the difference in the world.
So Far
1,175 miles make up the Mountains-to-Sea Trail in North Carolina. And in 2018, Jeff and Debra Rezeli found more than just stunning scenery on the life-altering trek.
The Road to North Carolina
After a time of uncertainty in his life, Luke Gloeckner was looking for a new place to call home. Thanks to a cross-country road trip, he found a new playground in NC with its inspiring people, places and possibilities.
In the Rearview
As two siblings look back on a road trip with their father 20 years ago, they discover their memories have faded. But the feelings they share when returning to these mountains remain the same.
Ain't No Mountain High Enough
Eternal Polk has watched so many of his daughter’s firsts take place in North Carolina, but a hiking trip to Stone Mountain is one he will never forget.
A Homecoming
In Rick Bryson’s childhood home, an old photograph of the last living elk in NC shaped his future – a future that included helping reintroduce elk to Cataloochee Valley.
Making Waves
Areli Barrera and Leon Grodski Barrera arrived in Durham and turned a bicycle cart into three thriving cafes and an award-winning microroaster. At the heart of it all? Community.
Next Generation
A childhood vacation to the NC coast always stood out to Jonathan Applebaum as magical. Today, Jonathan returns with his family and watches a new generation fall in love with the same coast that shaped him years ago.
Center City
For Trey Edwards, one weekend enjoying craft beer, local food and art in Charlotte left such a memorable first impression he ended up moving there.
Show Us How You #VisitNC
Share your vacation pics and videos on your socials using #VisitNC for your chance to be featured.
