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North Carolina has a lot to offer, and we encourage all of you to arrive a few days early or stay a few days after sdOB12 to enjoy some of the activities listed below! Charlotte, for example, is a large city with nearly 3 million people living in the wider metro area. Check out this website that lists 101 fun things to do in Charlotte. And check out this website for a list of fun things to do in the entire state of North Carolina. Some recommended activities (to do on your own, not organized by the sdOB12 LOC) are listed below. We will continue adding other recommendations to this list between now and March.
Outdoor activities
Outdoor activities
US NATIONAL WHITEWATER CENTER - RIVER RAPIDS, ZIPLINES, ROPES COURSES + MORE
US NATIONAL WHITEWATER CENTER - RIVER RAPIDS, ZIPLINES, ROPES COURSES + MORE
Charlotte, NC
Navigate the world's largest artificial whitewater river by raft, or explore the expansive Catawba River via kayak or stand-up paddleboard. If you'd rather stay dry, the area offers ziplines, rock climbing, ropes courses, and mountain biking spread over 1,300 acres. Additionally, you can enjoy yoga classes and live music.
GREEN RIVER ADVENTURES - WATERFALL RAPPELING, ZIPLINES, WHITEWATER RAFTING + MORE
GREEN RIVER ADVENTURES - WATERFALL RAPPELING, ZIPLINES, WHITEWATER RAFTING + MORE
Saluda, NC
Step out of your comfort zone and leave it behind in the car. This outfitter provides numerous opportunities to push your limits through zipline canopy tours, hiking expeditions, and whitewater adventures. However, the truly unmatched experience is the waterfall rappel. Embark on a guided trek to either Little or Big Bradley Falls, gear up with a harness, and pick up some rope skills from expert guides. Then, lean back over the cascading waters and descend. Once you reach the bottom, reward yourself with a celebratory swim in the serene pool beneath the waterfall.
HIKE GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN
HIKE GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN
Linville, NC
Anticipate panoramic views from Grandfather Mountain, a towering peak in the Blue Ridge Mountains standing at 5,946 feet. Select your adventure: embark on a challenging 4-mile hike in Grandfather Mountain State Park, aided by ladders and cables for a steep ascent, or opt for a drive to the Mile High Swinging Bridge. As America’s highest suspension footbridge, it offers a thrilling walk across an 80-foot chasm connecting two of the mountain's summits.
MOTOR OFF-ROAD IN UWHARRIE NATIONAL FOREST
MOTOR OFF-ROAD IN UWHARRIE NATIONAL FOREST
Troy, NC
Enthusiasts of 4x4s, four-wheelers, dirt bikes, and other off-road vehicles will discover thrilling challenges on 16 miles of rugged trails in the Uwharrie National Forest. Prepare for steep ascents, deep ruts, mud, and rocky paths. Begin your adventurous journey at the Dutch John Trailhead, Falls Dam Trailhead, or Art Lilley Campground. Steer clear of the challenging Daniel Trail, as it's designed for professional riders. Additionally, Overland Experts provides driving classes for those looking to improve their off-road driving skills.
NC OUTDOOR ADVENTURES - CLIFF RAPPELLING
NC OUTDOOR ADVENTURES - CLIFF RAPPELLING
Bakersville, NC
If climbing up a cliff isn’t for you… perhaps rappelling down a cliff is! Rappelling with NC Outdoor Adventures is a fun and exhilarating wilderness adventure, tame enough for families new to the outdoors, and exciting enough to never be forgotten. An intro rappelling day can be customized for anyone, from those with no experience to those seeking larger thrills or even those preparing for canyoneering objectives. Once you book your guide will reach out to discuss your day and trip goals.
NC OUTDOOR ADVENTURES - WHITEWATER RAFTING
NC OUTDOOR ADVENTURES - WHITEWATER RAFTING
Bakersville, NC
Enjoy a white-water (class II-III) adventure on the pristine Toe River located among the Blue Ridge Mountains Western NC. This trip features over a mile long section of back-to-back rapids for guests looking for a more adventurous trip! NCOA boasts, NO CROWDS! This fact sets us apart from other river outfitters offering a more nature immersive experience, a truly wild and scenic river adventure trip. Perfect trip for ages 12+. The trip includes a brief stop to take a dip in the Red Hill swim hole before paddling a long section of flatwater to the take-out. The end of the trip passes under one of the county’s last remaining, functional wooden suspension bridges.
HIKE IN THE MOUNTAINS OF WESTERN NC
HIKE IN THE MOUNTAINS OF WESTERN NC
Western NC (various locations)
Western North Carolina is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking trails that wind through lush forests, past waterfalls, and up to breathtaking panoramic vistas. The Blue Ridge Parkway, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Pisgah National Forest each boast trails suited to a range of skill levels, from easy family-friendly walks to challenging climbs. Adventurers can tackle the rugged peaks of Grandfather Mountain or explore the Linville Gorge Wilderness, often dubbed the “Grand Canyon of the East.” Thanks to a moderate climate and vibrant fall foliage, this region remains a top hiking destination nearly year-round.
EXPLORE THE WATERFALLS OF WESTERN NC
EXPLORE THE WATERFALLS OF WESTERN NC
Western NC (various locations)
Western North Carolina is a treasure trove of stunning waterfalls, each offering unique scenic charm. Visitors can discover popular spots like Looking Glass Falls and Triple Falls in Pisgah National Forest and DuPont State Recreational Forest, respectively. Many of these waterfalls are easily accessible via short hikes, while others beckon more adventurous treks through dense forests. Whether you’re seeking a serene photo opportunity or a refreshing swimming hole, the waterfalls of western North Carolina promise a memorable nature escape.
Other activities
Other activities
EXPLORE DOWNTOWN CHARLOTTE
EXPLORE DOWNTOWN CHARLOTTE
Charlotte, NC
Charlotte, also known as the Queen City, offers a mix of cultural attractions and outdoor adventures that appeal to visitors from around the globe. Begin by exploring the NASCAR Hall of Fame to immerse yourself in a beloved American sporting tradition, then stroll through Uptown to discover museums like the Mint Museum and Bechtler Museum of Modern Art. Next, head to the U.S. National Whitewater Center to try exhilarating activities like whitewater rafting, zip-lining, or rock climbing. Finally, indulge in Southern cuisine at one of the city’s many diverse eateries and finish off with a craft brew from Charlotte’s thriving brewery scene.
CAROWINDS
CAROWINDS
Charlotte, NC
Carowinds is a sprawling 407-acre amusement park located in Charlotte, North Carolina. The park features the Fury 325, voted the world's best steel roller coaster by Amusement Today, and offers more than 60 thrill rides, family rides, and roller coasters. Admission also includes access to Carolina Harbor—the largest water park in the Carolinas—boasting extreme water slides, wave pools, cabanas, and a three-acre area dedicated to children's activities.
NC TRANSPORTATION MUSEUM
NC TRANSPORTATION MUSEUM
Spencer, NC
The N.C. Transportation Museum, situated at the site of Southern Railway’s former steam locomotive repair facility showcases a diverse range of transportation history, including railroading, automotive, aviation, and more. Key historical structures on the site include the Barber Junction Depot, a genuine train station built in 1898 that now functions as the museum's Visitor Center. The Bob Julian Roundhouse, the largest remaining roundhouse in North America, houses an array of locomotives and passenger rail cars, along with a full-size replica of the Wright Flyer. The expansive Back Shop, previously used for comprehensive overhauls of steam locomotives, currently displays historic rail cars, antique automobiles, fire trucks, and houses the restoration of the Piedmont Airlines' Potomac Pacemaker DC-3. Additionally, the Flue Shop is home to the museum’s Bumper to Bumper automotive exhibit.
EXPLORE ASHEVILLE
EXPLORE ASHEVILLE
Asheville, NC
Asheville, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, boasts a vibrant arts scene, eclectic shopping, and a dynamic culinary landscape. Downtown is perfect for strolling, featuring colorful street art, galleries, and plenty of farm-to-table restaurants. Craft beer enthusiasts will delight in the city’s thriving brewery culture, offering unique local brews. Whether wandering through the historic Biltmore Estate or exploring scenic hikes off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville seamlessly blends natural beauty with creative urban flair.
BILTMORE ESTATE
BILTMORE ESTATE
Asheville, NC
Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, is America’s largest privately owned home, built by George Vanderbilt in the late 19th century. Visitors can tour the magnificent 250-room chateau, stroll through the meticulously landscaped gardens, and explore the on-site winery for tastings. Beyond the mansion, the sprawling 8,000-acre estate features hiking trails, a historic farmyard, and seasonal events. Whether you’re marveling at art in the grand halls or sipping locally produced wine, a trip to Biltmore offers a blend of history, luxury, and natural beauty.
More recommendations coming soon!
More recommendations coming soon!
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