North Carolina is a state full of surprises, from its breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains and stunning Outer Banks to its mouthwatering barbecue and iconic universities like Duke and UNC. Learn more about what makes this state so special.
Natural Beauty
North Carolina is a state that is home to some of the most stunning in the United States. From the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains to the picturesque Outer Banks, there is no shortage of breathtaking scenery for visitors to take in. One of the most stunning natural wonders that North Carolina has to offer is its collection of waterfalls. These cascading bodies of water are a sight to behold and are scattered throughout the state.
Blue Ridge Mountains
The Blue Ridge Mountains are a prominent feature of the landscape in western North Carolina. These majestic peaks are part of the larger Appalachian Mountain range and offer visitors breathtaking views and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a must-see attraction that winds its way through the mountains and offers stunning vistas at every turn. Visitors can also explore the many hiking trails that wind through the mountains and experience the natural beauty of the area up close.
Outer Banks
The Outer Banks are a string of narrow barrier islands that stretch along the coast of North Carolina. This area is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and historic lighthouses. Visitors can explore the many quaint towns that dot the coastline and sample fresh seafood at one of the many local restaurants. The Outer Banks are also home to a number of state parks and wildlife preserves, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.
Waterfalls
North Carolina is home to a number of stunning waterfalls that are a must-see for visitors. Some of the most famous waterfalls in the state include Linville Falls, Rainbow Falls, and Crabtree Falls. These cascading bodies of water are a sight to behold and offer visitors the chance to experience the natural beauty of North Carolina up close. Many of the waterfalls are easily accessible via hiking trails and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Food and Drink
North Carolina is a lover’s paradise, boasting a rich culinary culture that blends traditional Southern flavors with modern twists. From savory barbecue to refreshing Cheerwine, and sweet potatoes that will melt in your mouth, there’s no shortage of delicious and drink to enjoy in the state.
Barbecue
North Carolina is known for its barbecue, and for good reason. The state has two distinct styles of barbecue: Eastern and Western. Eastern-style barbecue uses a whole hog, which is slow-cooked over wood coals and then chopped or pulled. The meat is then served with a tangy vinegar-based sauce. Western-style barbecue, on the other hand, uses pork shoulder, which is slow-cooked over hickory wood and served with a tomato-based sauce. Whichever style you prefer, you’re sure to find some of the best barbecue in the country in North Carolina.
- Must-try barbecue spots in North Carolina:
- Skylight Inn BBQ (Ayden)
- B’s Barbecue (Greenville)
- Lexington Barbecue (Lexington)
- The Pit (Raleigh)
Cheerwine
If you’re looking for a refreshing drink to wash down your barbecue, look no further than Cheerwine. This cherry-flavored soda was first created in Salisbury, North Carolina in 1917 and has since become a beloved staple in the state. Cheerwine is the perfect combination of sweet and tangy, and pairs perfectly with just about any meal.
Fun fact: Cheerwine was originally sold as a “soft drink” and was marketed as a cure for various ailments, including headaches and indigestion.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a staple in Southern cuisine, and North Carolina is one of the top producers of sweet potatoes in the country. These delicious root vegetables can be prepared in a variety of ways, from baked and mashed to fried and even used in desserts. In fact, sweet potato pie is a popular dessert in North Carolina, especially during the holiday season.
Fun fact: North Carolina produces more sweet potatoes than any other state in the country.
History and Culture
North Carolina is a state that is rich in and culture, with numerous attractions that reflect the state’s unique heritage. In this section, we will explore three of the most significant historical and cultural landmarks in North Carolina: the Wright Brothers, the Biltmore Estate, and the Civil Rights Movement.
Wright Brothers
The Wright Brothers, Orville and Wilbur, were aviation pioneers who made on December 17, 1903, when they successfully flew the first powered airplane in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. This achievement marked a significant milestone in the of aviation and paved the way for future developments in the field.
Today, the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, is a popular attraction that honors the brothers’ contributions to aviation. The memorial includes a visitor center, a reproduction of the brothers’ 1903 glider, and a 60-foot granite monument that marks the spot where the first flight took place.
Biltmore Estate
The Biltmore Estate is a sprawling mansion located in Asheville, North Carolina, that was built by George Washington Vanderbilt II in the late 1800s. The estate covers over 8,000 acres and is home to a 250-room mansion, gardens, and a winery.
Visitors to the Biltmore Estate can take a tour of the mansion, explore the gardens, and sample wines at the winery. The estate also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, exhibitions, and holiday celebrations.
Civil Rights Movement
The Civil Rights Movement was a pivotal period in American that aimed to end racial discrimination and segregation. North Carolina played a significant role in the movement, with numerous civil rights leaders and organizations based in the state.
One of the most significant events in the civil rights movement in North Carolina was the Greensboro sit-ins, which took place in 1960. Four African American college students staged a sit-in at a Woolworth’s lunch counter in Greensboro, North Carolina, to protest the store’s policy of segregating its lunch counters. The sit-ins sparked a wave of similar protests across the country and helped to bring about significant changes in civil rights laws.
Sports
Sports play a huge role in the lives of North Carolinians, with basketball being the most popular. The state has produced some of the greatest basketball players of all time, including Michael Jordan. Jordan is considered by many to be the greatest basketball player of all time and is a native of Wilmington, North Carolina. He played for the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill before being drafted by the Chicago Bulls in 1984. Jordan led the Bulls to six NBA championships and won five NBA MVP awards.
Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan is not just a basketball player, he is a cultural icon. He has transcended the sport of basketball and has become a global brand. Jordan’s influence can be seen in fashion, music, and even in the world of gaming. He has inspired millions of people around the world and has become a symbol of excellence and determination.
Jordan’s career in the NBA spanned 15 seasons and he played for the Chicago Bulls and Washington Wizards. In addition to his six NBA championships and five MVP awards, Jordan was a 14-time NBA All-Star and was named to the All-NBA First Team 10 times. He also won two Olympic gold medals as a member of the United States men’s basketball team.
Duke-UNC Rivalry
Another important part of North Carolina culture is the rivalry between Duke University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The rivalry is considered one of the best in all of college basketball and has been going on for over a century. The two teams play each other twice a year, with the games being some of the most watched and anticipated events in college basketball.
The rivalry is so intense that it has become a part of the culture of the entire state. Fans of both teams are passionate about their respective schools and take great pride in their school’s accomplishments. The rivalry extends beyond the basketball court and is a part of everyday life in North Carolina.
NASCAR
NASCAR is another important part of North Carolina’s culture. The state is home to the Charlotte Motor Speedway, which hosts some of NASCAR’s biggest races, including the Coca-Cola 600 and the Bank of America 500. The speedway is also home to the NASCAR Hall of Fame, which honors the sport’s greatest drivers and contributors.
NASCAR has a huge following in North Carolina, with fans coming from all over the country to attend races at the Charlotte Motor Speedway. The sport has deep roots in the state, with many NASCAR teams and drivers calling North Carolina home.
Universities in North Carolina
North Carolina is home to some of the best universities in the United States, attracting students from all over the world. The state has a reputation for academic excellence, and its universities are highly regarded for their quality of education, research opportunities, and excellent faculty. Here are the top three universities in North Carolina:
Duke University
Duke University is a private research university located in Durham, North Carolina. It was founded in 1838 and has a long of academic excellence. Duke University is consistently ranked in the top 10 national universities by U.S. News & World Report and is known for its strong programs in medicine, law, business, and engineering.
The university has a diverse student body, with over 16,000 students from all over the world. The faculty is equally diverse, with over 3,000 full-time professors who are experts in their fields. Duke University is also home to several research centers and institutes, including the Duke Clinical Research Institute, the Duke Global Health Institute, and the Duke Cancer Institute.
If you’re interested in attending Duke University, you’ll need to have a strong academic record and demonstrate a commitment to community service and leadership. The university is highly selective, with an acceptance rate of only 7%.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a public research university located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. It was founded in 1789 and is the oldest public university in the United States. UNC Chapel Hill is consistently ranked in the top 30 national universities by U.S. News & World Report and is known for its strong programs in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
The university has a large and diverse student body, with over 30,000 undergraduate and graduate students from all over the world. The faculty is equally diverse, with over 3,000 full-time professors who are experts in their fields. UNC Chapel Hill is also home to several research centers and institutes, including the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, the Carolina Population Center, and the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute.
If you’re interested in attending UNC Chapel Hill, you’ll need to have a strong academic record and demonstrate a commitment to community service and leadership. The university is highly selective, with an acceptance rate of only 22%.
North Carolina State University
North Carolina State University is a public research university located in Raleigh, North Carolina. It was founded in 1887 and is known for its strong programs in engineering, agriculture, and the sciences. NC State is consistently ranked in the top 100 national universities by U.S. News & World Report.
The university has a diverse student body, with over 35,000 undergraduate and graduate students from all over the world. The faculty is equally diverse, with over 2,500 full-time professors who are experts in their fields. NC State is also home to several research centers and institutes, including the Center for Advanced Processing and Packaging Studies, the Center for Environmental Farming Systems, and the Center for Marine Sciences and Technology.
If you’re interested in attending NC State, you’ll need to have a strong academic record and demonstrate a commitment to community service and leadership. The university is highly selective, with an acceptance rate of only 45%.
In conclusion, North Carolina is home to some of the best universities in the United States. Duke University, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and North Carolina State University are all highly regarded for their quality of education, research opportunities, and excellent faculty. Whether you’re interested in medicine, law, business, or engineering, these universities have something to offer.
