I think in North Carolina, it’s safe to say underrated is synonymous with overlooked. North Carolina is a popular tourist destination in the US with plenty of beautiful beaches, people, and views…but when one thinks of must-see America, states like California, Hawaii, and Alaska usually come to mind. Sure, those states are beautiful…but there’s nothing quite like Carolina. Here are twelve reasons why.
1. Move over Cali, we have mountains and coast too.
Sure, they're not right next to each other but that's the beauty of it. Each area has its own unique feel and atmosphere.
2. It's a place where all your foodie dreams can come true.
From the hip, posh restaurants of Asheville to the best darn BBQ down a dirt road...there's diversity in our cuisine here but one thing is for sure...we know what we're doing when it comes to cooking!
3. We have the whole Southern hospitality thing down to an art.
We'll always greet you with a, "Hey, how ya doin'?" But we're also a bit more understanding and progressive than our other neighbors to the south. Needless to say, we're down to Earth but still good ol' southerners at heart.
4. Our festivals rock.
There's a festival for everyone...but each one has plenty of food, brews, music, and fun!
5. Our music scene rocks.
North Carolina has been producing ultra talented, famous musicians since day one. But we also have a thriving underground scene. Oh, and have you heard of Bluegrass?
6. We have the best beer and wine you'll ever find.
With hundreds of breweries, vineyards, and wineries...we always drink local here!
7. The people are about as diverse as the landscape.
There's all kinds of characters in North Carolina. You never know who you'll meet here...but needless to say you'll be surprised!
8. North Carolinians know how to have a good time.
Maybe we're kicking back with a cold one and catching a beach sunset, climbing a mountain, or at a bonfire in the fall...having a good time and making the most out of life is in our blood!
9. Our museums and attractions are amazing!
There's plenty of amazing museums throughout the state. Not to mention our beautiful, natural habitat zoo in Asheboro, Carowinds, and unique destinations like Seagrove and aquariums along the coast.
10. We have history.
While the majority of states were undiscovered and thus non-existent, buildings, houses, churches were being built and actively used in North Carolina. Many of which you can still see today. Pirates loved North Carolina...especially Blackbeard. Not to mention the first American child was born in North Carolina and we were also the first to declare independence from England.
11. A lot of inventions that are used worldwide, day-to-day, were born here.
Essential computer functions in the Triangle...the barcode...oh, and aviation, North Carolina has paved the way for the world.
12. Our arts scene is incredible.
Second only to New York City, to be exact. North Carolina has the School of the Arts, RCC Photography program, The Brevard Music Center, plenty of arts-based festivals, Seagrove pottery, film, literary history....the list goes on and on.
North Carolina is pretty awesome, don’t you agree? What would you add? Tell us in the comments.
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