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Fun Travels Across the United States

NORTH CAROLINA

NEWS (Note: Cities and Towns Follow After the NEWS

From outdoor recreation and unique lodging to arts and culture and fine dining, the charming small towns and vibrant urban locations of North Carolina offer something for everyone. Explore the highest peaks in the eastern United States and 300 miles of pristine coastline at VisitNC.com or call 1-800 VISIT NC (847-4862).

Cape Lookout Lighthouse Re-opens after Renovation

The National Park Service reopened the lighthouse at Cape Lookout National Seashore on July 15, 2010. The lighthouse received nearly $500,000 last year from the federal government for rehabilitation work. Visitors will again be able to climb the 188 steps to the top of the lighthouse, which closed for renovations in 2008. The lighthouse, which stands 163 feet tall, is equivalent in height to a 12-story building. From the top, visitors can take in expansive views of Shackleford Banks, Cape Lookout Point and miles of open ocean. For more information check web site www.nps.gov/calo; phone 252-728-2250

Tryon Palace Has Opened the North Carolina History Education Center

The North Carolina History Education Center located in downtown New Bern is an addition to the Tryon Palace complex. The new gateway to the Palace is a contemporary museum and welcome center located on a six-acre site on the Trent River, just east of the Palace and gardens. The green-designed 60,000 square-foot museum will feature a regional history museum, a virtual village circa 1835, a performance hall and a gallery. Visitors can also enjoy a riverside café and a museum store. The historic landscape features outdoor exhibits as well as restored wetlands, scenic walkways and native plants along the river's edge. For more informatioin check web site www.tryonpalace.org/historyeducationcenter; phone800-767-1560

NASCAR Hall of Fame Now Open in Charlotte

The 150,000-square-foot, $195 million NASCAR Hall of Fame is an interactive, entertainment attraction honoring the history and heritage of NASCAR. The high-tech, four-level venue, designed to educate and entertain race fans and non-fans alike, includes exhibits and interactive displays, a state-of-the-art theater, a Hall of Honor to commemorate inductees, restaurant, retail outlet, and TV and radio studio. For more information check web site www.nascarhall.com

Blue Ridge Parkway Turns 75, Offers New Visitor Destination Center

“America’s Favorite Drive” celebrates 75 years of Parkway history, Appalachian culture, and spectacular scenic views this year. The year-long anniversary celebration will engage visitors in efforts to sustain the Parkway for future generations . The Parkway recently opened a $9.8 million visitor center near Asheville featuring a 70-seat auditorium with an HD film, and an I-Wall interactive parkway map. The Federal Highway Administration named the Parkway an All-American Road. For more information check web site www.blueridgeparkway.org or 828-298-5330

Civil Rights Takes a Front Seat in Greensboro

The International Civil Rights Center & Museum opened Feb. 1, 2010 in Greensboro in the original F.W. Woolworth’s building where the protest started. The protests, which continued for six months until the luncheonette was desegregated, sparked other protests in cities across the U.S. The original luncheonette and chairs are a focal point of the museum. It features 14 signature exhibits and a changing gallery with artifacts and archival installations on the civil rights movement. This includes an exhibit that allows visitors to experience the conversations of the four young men in the re-created North Carolina A&T dorm, prior to their historic act. For more information check web site www.sitinmovement.org; or phone 336-274-9199

Museum of Art $73 Million Expansion Features Rodin, Rockwell

On April 24, 2010 the NC Museum of Art opened a new 127,000-square-foot, $73 million building designed by New York architect Thomas Phifer. The museum’s new gallery building was commemorated by the unveiling of a Rodin gift to the museum along with other exciting acquisitions. Later in the year, the museum will open a new exhibit, “American Chronicles: The Art of Norman Rockwell.” For more information check web site www.ncartmuseum.org; or phone 919-839-6262

New Bern Celebrates 300

New Bern, North Carolina’s second oldest town, celebrates its 300th Birthday in 2010 and will host a year-long celebration. Throughout the year, New Bern and Craven County will offer a variety of special cultural, educational and historical attractions, tours and recreational opportunities for all. From museums, marinas and parks, to a beautiful palace, there will be plenty to do during the celebration. For more information check web site www.newbern300.com; or call 252-635-1710

Andy Griffith Museum Opens in Real-Life Mayberry

The Andy Griffith Museum opened in Nov. 2009 in Mount Airy, N.C., with the world’s largest collection of Andy Griffith memorabilia. Mount Airy is the boyhood home of Andy Griffith and was the inspiration for Mayberry in the classic ’60s TV show. The museum houses a treasure trove of items collected by Emmett Forrest, a schoolmate and friend of Griffith. Items include the iconic signs from the show’s courthouse doors that read: “Sheriff” and “Justice of the Peace,” and the oversized keys to the jail. The collection also includes items donated by the widow of actor Don Knotts, who played Deputy Barney Fife, and by actress Betty Lynn, who played Thelma Lou. Lynn moved to Mount Airy in 2007 after several visits to the Mayberry Days Festival, which is a large annual celebration that brings thousands of fans and actors to the city. Throughout the year Mount Airy features many attractions based on the show including Floyd’s City Barber Shop, Snappy Lunch, Squad Car Tours, Opie’s Candy Store and the Old City Jail. For more information check web site www.andygriffithmuseum.com; or call 336-786-1604

North Carolina Features Civil War’s Untold Stories

From the largest troop surrender of the war, Confederate ‘mosquito fleet’ and re-created ironclads to the Cherokee’s role in the conflict and the birthplace of the ‘President’ of the Underground Railroad, North Carolina celebrates the untold stories of the Civil War to mark its 150th Anniversary. North Carolina’s Civil War stories are told throughout the state through its Civil War Trail markers. There are 173 markers in 78 counties, including national historic sites, state historic sites and local historic sites. Downloadable brochures are available through VisitNC.com. The N.C. Civil War Trail is part of a five-state trail from Maryland to Tennessee with more than 1,000 sites. Re-enactments are held throughout the state and a host of other activities are planned to mark the anniversary. For mroe information check web site www.visitnc.com/journeys/highlights/civil-war or www.nccivilwar150.com

Biltmore Opens Antler Hill Village, And Suite of Grandest Rooms

During Spring 2010, The Biltmore Estate in Asheville opened Antler Hill Village. Located adjacent to the Winery and River Bend Farm on its grounds, the 15-acre site includes the new Cedric’s Tavern restaurant and pub, the Creamery ice cream shop, plus the Legacy exposition hall, the Traditions retail space and a new entrance into the winery. As part of this project, Biltmore Winery has been enhanced to offer newly designed tour and tasting areas. This follows on the recent opening of a suite of rooms never-before-seen by visitors. The suite includes the Louis XV room, often called the heart of Biltmore, and is considered some of Biltmore’s grandest rooms. The rooms provide a deep and revitalized connection between the two generations born at Biltmore and the visitors who come here to see George Washington Vanderbilt’s 8,000-acre estate, a National Historic Landmark. For more information check web site www.biltmore.com; or call 877-BILTMORE or 828-225-1333

Carowinds Unleashes Southeast’s Tallest, Fastest and Longest Coaster

Carowinds changed the landscape for thrill seekers in 2010 by opening the tallest, fastest and longest roller coaster in the Southeast. The Intimidator, inspired by racing legend Dale Earnhardt, is a $23 million steel coaster that stands 232 feet tall at its highest point and has a first drop of 211 feet at a 74-degree angle. Riders race their way around 5,316 feet of track at speeds up to 80 miles per hour. Adding to the overall ride experience on Intimidator is the use of open-air, stadium-style seating on the trains, which are fashioned to mirror Dale Earnhardt’s No. 3 Chevrolet Monte Carlo. The design gives all riders an unobstructed view of all the thrills and excitement of Intimidator’s seven steep drops — one for each of his NASCAR championships. Intimidator is Carowinds’ 13th coaster.
For more information check web site www.carowinds.com; or call 704-587-9050

N.C. Routes Named National Scenic Byways

The Outer Banks and Forest Heritage scenic byways have been named as national scenic byways in October 2009, the highest designation a route can receive in the United States. The Outer Banks National Scenic Byway begins at Whalebone Junction near the town of Nags Head, runs south along the Atlantic Ocean through Ocracoke Island and into the Down East area near Beaufort in Carteret County. With the help of two ferries, visitors on this byway get to experience the beaches and see the ocean from the barrier islands enjoying old time village communities that haven't lost their maritime culture. The Forest Heritage Scenic Byway begins in Brevard and travels north through the Pisgah National Forest, passing the popular recreation spot of Sliding Rock Falls and the Cradle of Forestry, home to America’s first school of forestry. Visitors view history and beautiful scenery as they drive on old settlement roads past mountain peaks and cascading waterfalls. North Carolina has 54 designated Scenic Byways including two other National Scenic Byways. For more information check web site www.ncdot.org/~scenic

Charlotte’s Wells Fargo Cultural Campus Continues to Rise Skyward

Through collaboration between the Charlotte business and cultural arts communities, the Queen City has added another landmark to its ever-expanding skyline. The Wells Fargo Cultural Campus features a variety of museums and performance space in Uptown Charlotte. The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, an $18 million, 35,000-square-foot museum featuring modern art opened in January 2010. www.bechtler.org; 704-975-8330. The development also includes the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts & Culture which opened in October 2009 with 50,000 square feet with galleries, classrooms and a gift shop. For more information check web site www.aacc-charlotte.org; or call 704-374-1565.

The Mint Museum of Art’s new Center City building will open October 1, 2010. www.mintmuseums.org; 704-337-2000

Whitewater Center Offers Mega Zip, Play All Day

The new 1,100-foot-long zip line at the U.S. National Whitewater Center can accommodate up to four people simultaneously and offers a bird’s eye view of the largest expanse of whitewater at the Center. If you’re craving more adventure, take on the rapids, explore additional high ropes courses and trails, or grab a GPS and take part in the facility’s latest treasure-hunting craze – eco-caching. Now with the Center’s AllSport Pass, guests can buy one Pass and play all day. For details check web site www.usnwc.org; 704-391-3900

N.C. Music Factory Butters up Charlotte

A historic mill in Charlotte’s Uptown Village has been renovated and turned into the N.C. Music Factory. Nightclubs Butter Lounge, the toast of Manhattan, and dance club heavyweight, "Crobar" opened this year in addition to Live Nation’s Fillmore Music Hall in the entertainment complex in uptown Charlotte’s Fourth Ward. The concert promoter also exclusively books the Music Factory’s 5,000-seat outdoor boutique amphitheater as well. In addition to its music venues, the N.C. Music Factory will be home to offices, recording studios, and a host of bars and restaurants. Several have already opened and more are opening this year. www.ncmusicfactory.com; 704-987-0612

Discovery Place Undergoes $31.6 Million Renovation

Charlotte’s Discovery Place has completed it's $31.6 million renovation to provide new science and technology exhibits, interactive displays, better traffic flow, improved infrastructure and the ability to rotate exhibitions frequently and to more regularly host world-class exhibitions such as Body Worlds and The Dead Sea Scrolls. The museum re-opened June 27, 2010. www.discoveryplace.org; 704-372-6261

Paula Deen’s Kitchen Coming to Cherokee

Paula Deen’s Kitchen will open in late 2010 at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino & Hotel as part of its $633 million expansion. A full-service, 404-seat restaurant, Paula Deen’s Kitchen at Harrah’s Cherokee will serve á la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner, and will be reminiscent of the décor and ambiance of her legendary home and kitchen in Savannah. Adjacent to the restaurant will be a 1,800-square-foot Paula Deen retail shop offering Paula’s cookbooks, spices and food items, cookware, logo wear and gifts.
www.harrahscherokee.com; 800-427-7247

Charlotte Opens First LEED-Built Ritz-Carlton

The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte at Bank of America Center, opened in October 2009 in the heart of Uptown, as the first LEED-built hotel Ritz-Carlton and for the city of Charlotte. The contemporary 147-room hotel is set in a sleek 18-story building designed to attain LEED Gold environmental certification from the Green Building Council. Guest rooms at The Ritz-Carlton begin at 506 square feet and offer uniquely upgraded air quality, thanks to a state-of-the-art air transfer system that efficiently circulates large amounts of outside air into rooms and suites. Further energizing its green commitment, the hotel uses a sophisticated Natura Water Purification System, diverting 73,000 plastic bottles from landfills, saving more than 104 barrels of oil, eliminating nearly 49 tons of CO2 emissions and saving almost 605,000,000 BTUs of electricity each year.
www.ritzcarlton.com; 704-547-2244

Asheville Gets Bohemian With New Boutique Hotel

The Grand Bohemian Hotel Asheville opened in April 2009 positioning guests just steps away from the gates of The Biltmore Estate. Old world charm provides a unique atmosphere for the Tudor-inspired boutique hotel where guests have a contemporary Kessler Collection hotel experience. Despite its rustic ambiance, the hotel features modern luxuries, 104 well-appointed guest rooms and suites with a Poseidon Spa and more than 5,700 square feet of event space. www.bohemianhotelasheville.com; 828-505-2949

Harrah's Cherokee Expanding To State’s Largest Property

Harrah's Cherokee Casino & Hotel is constructing a 532-room luxury tower, part of an expansion that will make the property the largest hotel in the state. When completed in 2012, the 37-acre property will have a 3,000-seat events center, entertainment and VIP lounges, a 16,000-square-foot spa, additional restaurant and retail outlets, and hotel and casino parking garages. Harrah's Cherokee is also renovating current casino facilities and doubling the size of its casino floor to 150,000 square feet while increasing video and table game capacity. The facilities will incorporate the Eastern Band of Cherokee's collection of Native American arts. www.harrahscherokee.com; 800-427-7247

Shell Island Suites Undergoes $10 Million Renovation

The Shell Island Oceanfront Suites in Wrightsville Beach sparkles following a recent $10 million renovation of balconies, the hotel entrance, lobby, elevators, public spaces, and indoor/outdoor pool areas. Renovations were completed in June 2009.
www.shellisland.com; 910-256-8696

New Hotels Take North Carolina aloft

If Ikea designed a hotel, this would be it. Now open, aloft is a new brand from the brains behind the ultra-chic W Hotels. North Carolina has several alofts. The state’s first is located in Charlotte Center City’s mixed-use development, The EpiCentre. Watering holes like the W XYZ Bar, the Re:Fuel 24/7 pantry, and the Re:Mix lobby are contemporary and inviting and encourage guests to mingle. As for the rooms, beds are positioned toward oversized windows instead of facing the standard dresser or armoire, and average 325 square feet with nine-foot ceilings. Another aloft opened in February in south Charlotte’s Ballantyne area. Asheville’s aloft opened in February 2010, and Chapel Hill’s aloft opened in May 2010. www.starwoodhotels.com/alofthotels/index.html; 877-GO-ALOFT

Riverfront Wilmington Convention Center Construction Underway

Scheduled to open in September 2010, the Wilmington Convention Center is now under construction and will feature approximately 63,000 square feet of meeting space. The convention center will include green space along the river and a 581-space parking deck. A privately funded full-service hotel will be located adjacent to the center as well as a high-end, full-service marina. The marina will feature 200 slips and is the first phase of a long-range project that will include restaurants, commercial and residential development.
www.businessmadecasual.com; 800-650-9064

Pinehurst Bringing Donald Ross Aesthetic Back To Legendary No. 2

Pinehurst Resort has signed an agreement with the renowned firm of Coore and Crenshaw Inc., to return both natural and strategic character to its championship No. 2 course. Work will be conducted gradually in 2010 without any closure to the course or to individual holes until mid-November. The new project will return a natural aesthetic to No. 2 that is indicative of its native soil and topography and bring back strategic play originally crafted by Donald Ross, but that has been lost over time. The changes include returning sandy waste areas, native wiregrass and natural bunker edges; widening the fairways to play as they did in the era from 1935 to 1960; and reducing the amount of manicured rough. Coore and Crenshaw researched historic photographs at the Tufts Archives, along with documents and drawings of the course’s irrigation plan that mapped the course’s progression from soft fairway lines to the manicured, wall-to-wall grass look synonymous with the modern era. Course work is not expected to impact play on No. 2 until the course closes for the winter off-season, from November 15 until March 2, 2011. When the majority of the work is completed in early 2011, the course will have minimal mowed rough, larger playing areas, and a better fit into the Sandhills landscape that existed during the time of Hogan, Snead, Nelson and Nicklaus.
www.pinehurstresort.com; 800-487-4653

African-American Heritage Music Trail Will Bring Home Legends in Blues and Jazz

North Carolina was home to some legendary historical figures of jazz, blues, and gospel including John Coltrane, Thelonious Monk, Reverend Gary Davis, Blind Boy Fuller, and Elizabeth Cotton, and the upcoming African-American Heritage Music Trail promises to take visitors on an educational journey through the blues and jazz talent that originated in eastern North Carolina. This cultural tourism experience will start in Kinston and stop in eight counties: Lenoir, Greene, Jones, Pitt, Wayne, Wilson, Nash and Edgecombe. The trail is expected to be completed by 2011, and will include interactive videos and audio kiosks of musicians. www.ncculture.com; 919-807-6520

N.C. Aquariums Plan Construction of Educational Ocean Fishing Piers

Beginning in 2010 and extending through 2012, the North Carolina Aquariums plan to build and operate three storm-resistant ocean fishing piers — one near each of the state’s aquariums — Fort Fisher, Pine Knoll Shores and Roanoke Island. The proposed piers will extend 1,000 feet into the Atlantic. The design will employ green building principles and stormwater treatment methods. Among the many programs planned will be fishing conservation workshops, beach walks, sleepovers, science camps, school programs, kayak excursions and surfing classes. www.ncaquariums.org; 800-832-3474

Kings Mountain Gateway Trail

The Kings Mountain Gateway Trail is a greenway designed to connect the City of Kings Mountain to Crowders Mountain State Park, Kings Mountain State Park, Kings Mountain National Military Park, the Overmountain Victory Trail and the Appalachian Trail. This 8 to 10 mile greenway will consist of paved trail, soft-packed gravel trail and single-track mountain biking trails to be opened over the next several years. The first phase consisting of the trail head, picnic area and two miles of trail, part asphalt, part packed gravel opened to the public in November 2009. www.kmgatewaytrails.org; 704-739-4755

History and heritage come together in North Carolina amidst natural scenic beauty. Come here for adventure and relaxation. Go to VisitNC.com or call 1-800-VISIT NC to plan your next getaway.

Ready to stray off the beaten path for something different, unique or downright weird? With gas prices high, you’ll enjoy exploring some of these slightly odd, interesting oddities hidden in North Carolina.

Belhaven Memorial Museum, Belhaven
(50 miles east of Greenville)

Think you’ve seen it all? One visit to the Belhaven Memorial Museum will surely change your mind. This museum is the result of Mrs. Eva Blount Way’s penchant for collecting buttons. When she died in 1962 at age 93, Mrs. Way had amassed some 30,000 buttons in addition to a fascinating array of memorabilia. Among the collection are period clothing, toys and dolls, china, farm tools and some truly “odds” and ends such as a dried flea wedding (visible through a magnifying glass), a two-headed kitten, one-eyed fetal pig and a hare lipped dog. www.beaufort-county.com/Belhaven/museum/(252) 943-6817

The Gourd Museum, Angier
(20 miles south of Raleigh)

Marvin Johnson, long-time president of the Gourd Village Garden Club, founded the Gourd Museum in 1964. He and his wife collected so many gourd crafts from around the world that they decided to build a museum to display them. A master gourd grower, Johnson cultivated more than 200 different kinds of gourds, most of which he crafted and placed on display. Visitors will find giant African gourds and gourds so tiny they look like robins’ eggs. (919) 781-7069

Museum of the Alphabet, Waxhaw
(just south of Charlotte in Union County)

The Museum of the Alphabet fills a small building with various depictions of the world’s alphabets. Exhibits include languages dating from early Egyptian to Turkish, Russian and Greek, to name a few. Many of the displays are hand-painted with amazing attention to detail. www.jaars.org/museum/alphabet/index.htm (704) 843-6066

Whirligigs, near Wilson
(45 miles east of Raleigh)

Located in Wilson County is an amazing collection of “Whirligigs” – large, wooden, wind-driven mechanical windmills – created by local folk artist Volis Simpson. The devices incorporate complex movement and sound and are an integral part of more than 30 works erected on Simpson’s property. His works have been exhibited in several museums, such as the North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh and the High Museum of Art in Atlanta. He has also been featured in several publications, including Sign and Symbol, People and Time. Take advantage of great antiquing and barbecue while you’re there. www.wilson-nc.com/Whirligigs.cfm (252) 243-8440

Country Doctor Museum, Bailey
(35 miles east of Raleigh)

The Country Doctor Museum, founded in 1967, is the only medical museum in the nation dedicated to rural physicians who practiced medicine in the South during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum collects and preserves the medical instruments and tools of pharmacy used by country doctors as well as their diaries, papers and medical books. The museum is housed in two restored 19th-century physicians’ offices. www.countrydoctormuseum.org (252) 235-4165

Love Valley, Love Valley
(60 miles west of Winston-Salem)

If you love westerns, this is the place for you. In 1948, Mayor Andy Barker decided to start his own town in Iredell County’s Brushy Mountains. When you approach Lovevalley, you’ll think you are entering an authentic western town, complete with a dance hall and saloon, tack shop, general store and blacksmith. Cowboys and their horses roam the dirt streets. No vehicles are allowed, so saddle up and ride on in. www.lovevalley.com (704) 878-3480

Real-Life Mayberry, Mount Airy
(35 miles northwest of Winston-Salem)

Fans of the 1960s Andy Griffith Show get a taste of the life depicted in the popular television series when they visit Mount Airy, Griffith’s hometown and the inspiration for the series. Visitors are welcome to take a ride in Barney’s squad car and cruise by Andy’s childhood home and down Main Street past Floyd's Barbershop. The town has dedicated a bronze statue of Andy and TV son Opie, and there’s plenty more to see and do around this small town, from enjoying a pork chop sandwich at Snappy Lunch to sampling the wine and beer made by Old North State Winery. www.visitmayberry.com (336) 789-OPIE

New Wineries Open; Music Concerts, Events Entice Visitors

Almost every North Carolinian now lives at least 100 miles from one of the states 70-plus wineries. New openings are so numerous, it’s hard to mention all of them. For complete listings and a map of the state’s wineries, upcoming events and more, go to www.VisitNCWine.com. We have a “What’s New in NC Wine” release in the works. Call us at 704-953-9408 if you need information immediately.

North Carolina offers arts and culture, unique lodging, charming small towns and vibrant urban locations. Explore the highest peaks east of the Mississippi and 300 miles of pristine coastline at www.VisitNC.com>VisitNC.com or call 1-800 VISIT NC (847-4862)

Go Blue Ridge Card

Take advantage of the “Go Blue Ridge Card” multi-attraction pass featuring one-price admission to more than 20 attractions. The card can be purchased online or at the Asheville Visitor Center. www.goblueridgecard.com

The North Carolina Arts Council has created a Literary Trails of the North Carolina Mountains Guide that connects the lives and work of 170 of North Carolina’s visiting and native writers with destinations across the 25 counties of the state’s mountain region. The guide comprises 18 half-day and one-day tour itineraries that take travelers through the landscapes of Sequoyah, Thomas Wolfe and others. Stay where the writers stayed and eat at cafes that inspired their stories. 919-807-6520; www.ncliterarytrails.org

ASHEBORO

Watani Grasslands Reserve Opens at North Carolina Zoo

The North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro opened an $8.5 million expansion of its elephant and rhinoceros facilities called the Watani Grasslands Reserve. The project was developed in support of a nationwide effort by zoos to improve the captive care and breeding of both species. The zoo is the nation’s largest walk-through natural-habitat zoo. 800-488-0444; www.nczoo.org>www.nczoo.org

ASHVILLE

North Carolina Arboretum

The North Carolina Arboretum is a 434-acre public garden offering 65 acres of cultivated gardens and 10 miles of hiking and biking trails, a greenhouse complex and the finest bonsai collection in the Southeastern U.S. www.ncarboretum.org

Blue Ridge Parkway -- New Destination Center (near Asheville)

•  This 12,800-square-foot, $9.8 million facility opened in April 2008 with exhibits highlighting the natural and cultural diversity and traditions and recreational opportunities found on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The center, built to the latest energy-saving standards, has a 70-seat auditorium with an HD film and classroom space for groups. The Federal Highway Administration recently named the Parkway an All-American Road.

BEAUFORT

BELMONT

Cool Off at the Orchid Conservatory, Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden

The $12.5 million Orchid Conservatory opened in January and is the area’s only public conservatory devoted to the display of tropical plants. An 8,000-square-foot, five-story sparkling, crystalline structure, the Conservatory surrounds patrons in a lush environment of color, fragrance, sound and the world’s finest orchids and tropical plants. At least 200 orchids are always on display, and the conservatory’s computerized environmental system (worth a story on its own) keeps the temperature inside at least 10 degrees cooler than the temperature outdoors through the use of misters, fans, vents and sophisticated air return systems. 704-825-4490; www.dsbg.org

BOONE

Scream Time Zip Line Offers Thrill-Seeking Adventure

High speed adventure meets the High Country at the new Scream Time Zip Line, which opened a few miles northwest of Boone and features nine different zip lines. Scream Time provides the thrill of zipping 60 to 130 feet above the earth in a secure harness attached to an incline cable. The main tour consists of six lines ranging in length from 460 to 800 feet, where riders weave their way down the mountain. The 2,000-foot-long super zip has three parallel lines allowing people to race straight down the mountain at speeds of 60 to 70 miles per hour. www.screamtimezipline.com Also, check out the Zip Line Tours on YouTube: www.youtube.com

CAPE LOOKOUT

CHAPEL HILL

The Carolina Inn

Recognized as one of America's "cultural resources worthy of preservation," The Carolina Inn, located in the heart of the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill campus, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Carolina Inn is architecturally significant, blending elements of antebellum Southern plantation houses with Georgian and neoclassical features. www.carolinainn.com

CHARLOTTE

Come celebrate the taste of over 100 unique, diverse and flavorful wines from 13 Wineries!

Allison Oaks Vineyards, Beny Parsons, Black Wolf Vineyards, Cerminaro Vineyards, Cypress Bemd Vineyards, Dennis Vineyards Winery, J Wesley Vineyards, Woodmill Winery, Old North State Winery, RagApple Lassie Vineyards, Stoney Mountain Vineyards, Uwharrie Vineyards, Hinnant Family Vineyards.

For details check web site www.uncorkthefun.com
Admission
General Tasting Glass: $18 in advance or $20 On-site
includes unlimited wine sampling, all performances, cooking demonstrations and a souvenir wine glass.

$10 Designated Driver Ticket
Includes admission into the event only.

Group Tickets $16 (per ticket) for groups of 15 or more (must order by phone 800-830-3976)

Kids - 12 and Under are FREE!

New EpiCentre Energizes Downtown Charlotte Night Scene

This groundbreaking mixed-use development has launched phase one on Trade Street. Highlights include an open-air 25,000-square-foot rooftop bar called Pavilion (pavilionatepicentre.com) and the upscale, three-level bowling lounge called StrikeCity. The dueling piano bar, Howl at the Moon (www.howlatthemoon.com/charlotte_tonight.) and swanky dance club, Suite (www.suitecharlotte.com), now crank up the night scene. Superstar Dale Earnhardt Jr. recently debuted a bar and live music venue called Whisky River (www.whiskyrivercharlotte.com) complete with a mechanical bull and belt buckle-trimmed bar.

DURHAM

Sarah P. Duke Gardens

Fifty-five acres of landscaped and woodland gardens feature more than 2,000 kinds of plants, five miles of walks and pathways with bridges, courts, lawns, waterfalls, ponds and pavilions. Includes Blomquist Garden of Native Plants and Asiatic Arboretum.

FAYETTEVILLE

Fayetteville"s New Site Offers Self-Driving Trails

Fayetteville’s Convention and Visitors Bureau has created 10 packaged self-driving trails. The trails explore 10 themes including the Civil War, African-American Heritage, American Independence and Religious Freedom. Maps with detailed history, site descriptions and detailed site-to-site driving directions are available on the Cultural Heritage Trails section on the website. Visitors are also able to design custom trails including downloadable audio files. 800-255-8217; www.visitfayettevillenc.com

FORT MACON

GREENSBORO

The Proximity Hotel

Newly opened, this boutique hotel, according to owner Dennis Quaintance, “is arguably the greenest hotel in the United States.” The hotel has applied for five-star LEED certification. See how grace, beauty and sustainable travel and dining come together. Learn why the New York Times and Travel + Leisure are already talking about this new destination. www.proximityhotel.com/tour.htm

HIGHLANDS

Old Edwards Inn and Spa

Old Edwards Inn and Spa is located in the charming, historic mountain town of Highlands. The inn features world-class service that anticipates your every desire in a cozy yet elegant setting. www.oldedwardsinn.com

LINVILLE

Grandfather Mountain’s New Environmentally Friendly Fudge Shop Opens

Grandfather Mountain has launched many initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint. One of the most apparent to visitors will be the new fudge shop, which is powered by solar energy... and almost "off the grid" in terms of traditional energy uses opened July 4th. Other efforts include an on site garden to produce food for animals kept onsite and educational sessions. For the complete list, contact Luke Appling at luke@grandfather.com and 828-737-0833.

OAK ISLAND

More soon!

OCRECOKE ISLAND

Named America's Best Beach, Ocracoke Lifeguarded Beach on Ocracoke Island, North Carolina takes the number one spot on Dr. Beach's annual America's Best Beaches list of 2007.

The island, embraced by the Cape Hatteras National Seashore on North Carolina's Outer Banks, is known for its clean water, sand and unspoiled natural beauty. At 16 miles long and a half-mile wide, Ocracoke is a sun-swept wilderness, once a favorite haunt of Blackbeard the Pirate and the place where he met his demise.

Today also marks the first time a beach outside of Florida or Hawaii has been named to the top position on Dr. Beach's celebrated annual top-ten list."We are proud that Ocracoke Island has been recognized as the home of America's best beach," says North Carolina Gov. Mike Easley. "The unmatched beauty of our coast has for decades been a favorite of visitors who truly wish to get away - to relax among the quiet natural shorelines, explore the native wildlife, meet unique people and hear the compelling stories of the Outer Banks."

Pamlico Sound and the Atlantic Ocean surround Ocracoke Island; it is accessible only by water and air and sits 26 miles from the North Carolina mainland nestled against the Graveyard of the Atlantic (a coastal area famous for the many seagoing vessels that wrecked there years ago because it was difficult to navigate). The island's remote location invites visitors looking for a pristine place to swim, fish, surf and explore. No chain hotels exist on the island.

International beach expert Stephen Leatherman made the #1 designation. Known as "Dr. Beach," he is the nation's foremost authority on beach quality and ratings. He has gained international renown for his annual list of top-ten beaches in America, which he has released since 1991. More than 650 beaches throughout the United States are judged on a list of 50 criteria under four main areas: physical factors such as sand color and quality, and number and size of waves; biological factors such as color and condition of the water; presence of wildlife and pests; and human use and impacts such as lifeguard protection, far-reaching views and traffic.

The natural, untouched beauty of Ocracoke Island's sand, clear sunshine, good waves and clean water caught the attention of Dr. Beach years ago. Visitors have come for the same reasons. In addition, they want to see the Ocracoke Lighthouse, Banker pony herd and reign of Blackbeard:*

Ocracoke Lighthouse-

The second-oldest operating lighthouse in the nation. Completed in 1823, she stands 75-feet tall with a 25-foot diameter at the base and a gracefully tapered 12-foot top. The building is solid brick and was used by some residents as shelter during bad storms.

Banker Ponies-

In 1565, Sir Richard Grenville's ship Tiger ran aground on Ocracoke Island. Some speculate this may have been the origin of Ocracoke's famous Banker pony herd. The ponies were documented on Ocracoke since European settlers came to stay in the 1730s. In the late 1950s, Ocracoke Boy Scouts cared for the ponies and had the only mounted troop in the nation. By law, the free-roaming animals were penned in 1959 to prevent over-grazing and to safeguard them from traffic after Highway 12 was built in 1957.

Teach's Hole or Channel-

In the late 1700s, Blackbeard fought his last battle here. Legend has it his headless body swam around the boat three times before sinking to Davy Jones Locker.Ocracoke Lifeguarded Beach is part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore and can be accessed from the Lifeguarded Beach public parking area 1⁄4 mile north of Ramp 70 on N.C. Highway 12 just outside Ocracoke Village. It offers public parking, beach access, restrooms and changing areas. Lifeguards are on staff Memorial Day to Labor Day, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The length of lifeguarded beach varies with lifeguard availability. The Park Service recommends that swimmers stay within sight of manned lifeguard stands. Red warning flags are posted at lifeguarded beaches when swimming conditions are hazardous.

There's much more to see and explore around the island, including charter fishing, outstanding bird watching, camping, stories of Civil War and World War II ocean battles and more. Getting to Ocracoke Island is now easier; a new summer ferry schedule began May 22 and will last through Labor Day weekend. There will be four departures from both Swan Quarter on mainland Hyde County and Ocracoke Island versus the two departures that are in effect the remainder of the year.

Ferry service is also available from Cedar Island and Hatteras.Extensive information on Ocracoke Island's attractions, history and accommodations, the Outer Banks, and other North Carolina beaches is available at web site www.VisitNCcoast.com.

Local web sites such as www.ocracokevillage.com and www.hydecounty.org are also available.

Natural scenic beauty, 300 miles of barrier islands, relaxation, adventure and Southern hospitality come together in North Carolina.

Call 1-800-VISIT NC (1-800-847-4862) or go to www.VisitNC.com to plan your next getaway.

On the Trail of Blackbeard

A new book by Kevin Duffus touts the idea that history’s most famous pirate, Blackbeard, was a native son of North Carolina. While historians debate just who Blackbeard was, visitors can retrace his steps at several sites in North Carolina. The book, The Last Days of Black Beard The Pirate discusses how he met his demise off Ocracoke Island and may be buried there (www.ocracokevillage.com). Blackbeard spent his final days near Bath negotiating for his freedom. Visitors to this historic city can walk the same paths and re-live the history in North Carolina’s oldest town www.originalwashington.com/attractions/bath.php.

Blackbeard’s Lodge -

Come sit on the porch swing and enjoy the island breeze at America’s Best Beach, Ocracoke Island. Relax in the warm and comfortable lobby where you’ll find a grand piano and a wood-burning stove from the 1800s. Each of Blackbeard’s Lodge’s 38 guest rooms, suites and apartments has its own distinct character. Find it in the heart of Ocracoke Village. www.blackbeardslodge.com

OUTER BANKS

First Flight Retreat opened as the first new oceanfront condominiums on the Outer Banks in nearly 20 years. Enjoy the luxury finish and amenities of a rental house with all the services of a first class resort. The resort is centrally located right on the beach. 866-595-1893; www.FirstFlightRentals.com

The first of its kind on the Outer Banks, Aqua S Restaurant and Spa features a posh dining spot and day spa under the same roof. Aqua S is located right on the water and offers organic cuisine and breathtaking scenery. 252-261-9709; www.aquasrestaurant.com

The Oasis Suites is the Outer Banks’ newest suite hotel. Located on the Causeway in Nags Head, this 17-room finely furnished property offers spectacular views, a swimming pool and proximity to many of the areas popular attractions and restaurants. 252-441-5211; www.oasissuites.com

PINEHURST

More than 100 years after it was built, the grand Carolina Hotel at Pinehurst, once known once as the Queen of the South, is sporting a tiara-to-glass slipper makeover. An $8 million renovation of its guest rooms, as well as upgrades to the main dining room, the addition of a new Presidential Suite and more have made the resort new again without losing its Southern Belle charm. 800-487-4653; www.pinehurst.com/carolina_historic_hotel.asp

RAEFORD

Paraclete XP Skyventure opened in early 2008 in Raeford, NC (almost 2 hours south of Raleigh), featuring the innovative sport of bodyflight. Paraclete’s wind tunnel enables guests to fly in a controlled manner in the safety of a wall-to-wall airflow chamber. No experience is necessary and the sport is open to people of all ages and experience levels. Paraclete is one of the biggest vertical wind tunnels on the planet. Paraclete has high-definition video in the chamber for debriefing flight sessions and great take home movies. 910-495-3334; www.paracletexp.com

RALEIGH

The Raleigh Marriot City Center is the hotel headquarters for Raleigh's new Convention Center that opened in September 2008. This four-star quality hotel has 400 rooms, including 20 suites, and 15,000 square feet of space in 15 meeting rooms. Conveniently located near RDU International Airport and many Raleigh businesses and recreation, it is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the many things the Greater Raleigh area has to offer. 919-833-1120; www.Marriott.com/rduMC

Free with general admission. The “glass house” is five stories tall and features orchids and tropical plants and includes the largest indoor display of bromeliads in the eastern U.S.

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