Only in NC: 5 Unique Finds

Every state has it’s own traditions and lifestyle, but here in North Carolina there are a few things that are unlike anywhere else. Home to many escapes and treasures, we found our top 5 unique finds in NC. We might be biased but as they say, everything is finer in Carolina…

Blue Ridge Mountains
Taking a ride though the Blue Ridge Parkway is basically a North Carolinian rite of passage. Named "America's Favorite Drive," the 469-mile scenic road, offers stunning vistas, hiking and cycling opportunities. The split-rail fences, old farmsteads, mountain meadows, and scenic overlooks make the drive down the Blue Ridge Parkway a must see in NC. The Blue Ridge Parkway has many entrances into Asheville, which will lead you to another great reason we love North Carolina.

Craft Beer
So, after your drive through the mountains, Asheville is the perfect stop. North Carolina is one of the top craft beer producers in the Nation, including breweries Wicked Weed and Green Man in Asheville. But don’t stop your adventure there, local craft breweries are all across NC - from Foothills in Winston Salem, Red Oak in Greensboro, Lonerider in Raleigh, to our local Brewprint Brewery in Apex. So, pick your favorite and plan a trip to your local brewery!

Two different types of BBQ
We have scenic views and great brews, so what’s next? BBQ - Tomato or vinegar based, it’s up to your taste buds, (and location in the state) on which type of delicious BBQ you want to indulge in. We have the best of both worlds in Raleigh - dine at the Pit in downtown, Danny’s for eastern style, or our local Blistered Pig for the style of your choice. Everyone has a side, so are you East or West?

Oh the history..
From Native Americans, the first settlers, to the Civil War - North Carolina history is one of the longest stories still being told. The Lost Colony is the greatest and most historic mystery of all time, which took place here on the NC coast - along with the tale of Blackbeard. Edward Teach, the infamous pirate Blackbeard, sailed the seas and created a rather impressive reputation for himself. Many of our NC beaches, mainly Bath, love sharing the history to tourists. Stories are told of his life and treasures that are said to be hidden along the North Carolina coast. So if you don't know his story ask any local about the legend of Blackbeard.

Biltmore
The largest privately owned estate in America is, yes, in North Carolina. Now open to the public, the Biltmore House has become a tourist attraction drawing in over 1 million visitors a year! Located outside of Asheville, it has been named "America's Castle” and if you’ve had a chance to visit you will understand why. Biltmore could be a day trip or weekend getaway for us in North Carolina, so if you haven’t been add it to your list. It is a must see, especially during Christmas time when the house is decorated for the season. Tour the gardens or the vineyard while you are their to take in and enjoy the beauty around you.

North Carolina seems to have it all - mountains and beachside, great food, craft beer, and scenic views with fascinating history. These are only a few, fun reasons why North Carolina is one of the best places to live. What are the reasons you love calling North Carolina home?

Image Via: www.ourstate.com