North Carolina
Here Is The Ultimate Bucket List of Things to Do in North Carolina
When you’re traveling or have just moved to a new area, it’s difficult to not fall into the overly-touristy scene. Preparing a bucket list is the ideal way to explore a state’s authenticity without the need of a guide. This six-part bucket list combines tourist attractions as well as local hot spots to provide things to do in NC for the full experience.
1. Tour the NASCAR Hall of Fame
Even if you’re not a fan of the fast lane, The NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte offers an incredible experience for just about anyone. Explore the most honored racers in the Hall of Honor or hop straight over to Glory Road to view 18 historic cars and 40 tracks. The NASCAR Hall of Fame frequently hosts events and tours so make sure to check out what’s going on before you visit!
2. Ride Fury 325 at Carowinds
While you’re in Charlotte, you may as well cross this thriller off the list, because if you like roller coasters, you’re in luck. So, for one of the most thrilling things to do in NC, check out this 325 ft monstrosity. The coaster clocks speeds up to 95 mph and is also the tallest and fastest Giga Coaster in the world. Charlotte’s amusement park, Carowinds, spent $30 million building this wild ride, but the ride itself is priceless. Those exceptionally daring can visit during parts of September and October to experience the thrills of “SCarowinds”.
3. Attend a Panthers Game
You saw them in last year’s Super Bowl, now why not see them play live at their home stadium in Charlotte? With their season beginning in just one month, now is the perfect time to start planning your visit to the Bank of America Stadium.
4. Visit the World’s Largest Beer Garden
Beer lovers, get ready to meet your match! With over 360 draft beers, the Raleigh Beer Garden is the largest beer garden in the world. They offer a menu far superior to traditional bar food, so grab a bite and a brewski and relax in either the indoor front porch, outdoor garden, or enjoy a view of the city from the rooftop patio.
5. Complete the Krispy Kreme Challenge
Raleigh’s Krispy Kreme Challenge is more than just your daily intake of calories. This annual event is held to raise money for the North Carolina Children’s Hospital and is the most delicious of things to do in NC. 12 doughnuts, 5 miles, and 1 hour and you can make a difference in a child’s life. Running isn’t so bad when you have a dozen-doughnuts-snack in between!
6. Climb the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
Experience an incredible coastal view and continue working off the donuts from this last challenge by climbing the 257 steps in the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse. The lighthouse, currently found on Hatteras Island in the Outer Banks, was relocated in 1999 after erosion to the shore left it only 15 feet from the edge of the ocean. The lighthouse was moved 2,900 feet inland and consequently is the tallest stone structure ever moved.