Exploring Reynolda Village in Winston-Salem NC

Reynolda House at Reynolda Village in Winston Salem NC

If you find yourself looking for fun things to do in Winston Salem NC, look no further than Reynolda Village.   Of all the Winston-Salem attractions we’ve visited, Reynolda Village is definitely among our favorites.    We could easily spend an entire weekend there shopping, dining at local restaurants, walking the historic grounds, taking in … Read more

The 8 Best Train Rides in the Smoky Mountains of NC & TN

Riding the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad in Bryson City NC- Lake Fontana Train Trestle

The Smoky Mountains are renowned for their spectacular natural beauty. And in our experience, there’s no better way to see them than by taking a Great Smoky Mountains train ride. Train rides have a rich history in the Southeastern US, and carry a rich sense of nostalgia that bridges generations.  Sadly, many old passenger trains have … Read more

Visiting Lake Junaluska Conference & Retreat Center in Waynesville NC

Perfect Sunset on Lake Junaluska in Waynesville NC

Ever since spending my boyhood summers on Lake Hartwell in North Georgia, I’ve become a lifelong lover of the myriad beautiful lakes in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Named after early 19th century Cherokee leader Chief Junaluska, Lake Junaluska NC is one of the oldest man-made lakes in North Carolina. The Lake Junaluska Dam on Richland … Read more

10 Must-Visit Blue Ridge Mountain Resorts for 2024

Best Blue Ridge Mountain resorts NC

Blue Ridge Mountain resorts come in all shapes and sizes.  Some upscale luxury resorts in the Blue Ridge Mountains focus on foodie-friendly restaurants, outstanding golf courses, and top-notch spas.  My favorite mountain resorts go all-in on the rustic feel, offering breathtaking scenic vistas, hiking trails and/or waterfalls. Of course, there are also Blue Ridge Mountain ski resorts for … Read more

The 10 Best Things to Do in the Great Smoky Mountains in Winter

Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains in Winter

The Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee are spectacular at any time of year, including Winter. Sure, the chilly Smoky Mountains Winter weather drives some folks indoors. But for visitors interested in snow skiing, snow tubing, snowboarding, hiking, and/or exploring waterfalls, Winter is a perfect time to visit! Whichever category you fall into, … Read more

The 20 Best Romantic Getaways in NC (Hotels, Inns & Resorts)

romantic getaways north carolina

[Updated December 22, 2023] From the majestic mountains and scenic coastlines to history and all-out opulence, romantic getaways in NC can take on an incredible array of forms.  From the rustic nature of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the art deco architecture of Asheville to the massive dunes of the Outer Banks, options for wonderful romantic getaways in … Read more

The 40 Best Camping Gifts and Hiking Gifts for 2023-2024

Best Camping Gifts and Hiking Gifts for 2023-2024

[Updated on December 5, 2023] Growing up in North Georgia, some of my favorite childhood memories involved camping and hiking in the mountains with my family.  My parents led our church youth group on incredible excursions, hiking up to the summit of Blood Mountain, trekking 14 miles on the Appalachian Trail, and going to visit … Read more

The 7 Best Places for Snow Skiing Near Asheville, North Carolina

Snow Skiing near Asheville North Carolina

As a longtime Western North Carolina resident (formerly of Brevard, currently of Elkin NC), I’ve spent a lot of time in Asheville over the years.  From critically acclaimed restaurants and hip breweries to trendy boutiques and swanky museums, there’s an ever-increasing array of fun things to do in Asheville NC.  This burgeoning mountain metropolis is … Read more

The 10 Best Christmas Parades in North Carolina (2023)

Home For Holidays Christmas Parade in Hendersonville NC

After living just off the Blue Ridge Parkway near Elkin NC for years, I’ve come to realize that there are an endless array of things to do for Christmas in North Carolina.    Whether you’re looking for a choose-and-cut Christmas tree, top-notch Christmas light displays, or shopping in charming Christmas towns, there are loads of … Read more