Visit NC Director of Tourism Marketing Scott Peacock is looking forward to his favorite summer activities: hiking in the mountains, enjoying cold beer at dive bars and discovering local tips from other travelers.

NC Insider Dana Grimstead is a project manager at Visit NC, a mother and an artist who loves spring in NC for the chance to get outside, connect with nature and wear her favorite color, hot pink!

NC Insider Veda Gilbert, a PR team member at Visit NC, is an Aussie native and NC resident who loves Southport, both the Tar Heels and Wolfpack, and spending spring outside.

Feel free to build your vacation around these no-cost museums, historical sites, parks, gardens, wildlife exhibits and festivals. The memories you’ll make are priceless.

Dodge the crowds and revel in the spaces that come alive as the mercury dips. Slice a new path through untouched powder or a rambling river, and remember your binoculars for wildlife spotting. No matter where the season takes you, prepare to be awestruck by the views.

With 20 miles of windswept and remote seascapes, The Northern Outer Banks offers plenty of options for adventure, water activities, nature bathing, shelling or simply relaxing in the sun with a good book. What does your perfect beach getaway look like?

These often-overlooked scenic drives in NC pop with color in fall — and delight with hidden treasures year-round.

Trailborn Surf & Sound's (formerly Blockade Runner) location on Wrightsville Beach in southeastern NC is about as perfect as it gets: nestled between the energy of the ocean and the calm waters of the sound. But after a stay here, you’ll quickly realize it's more than just a place to sleep after a relaxing day at the beach. From opportunities to try new watersports to its coastal boho vibe, here are six ways to enjoy a coastal vacation without ever leaving the resort.

From mountain peaks and starry skies to scenic squares and local charms, here are 10 ways to spark smiles in Burnsville.

NC author Leigh Ann Henion wrote about chasing natural phenomena around the globe in her memoir "Phenomenal: A Hesitant Adventurer’s Search for Wonder in the Natural World." Since then, she’s discovered world-class natural wonders much closer to home.