Appalachian Trail: Western North CarolinaExperience one breathtaking view after another by exploring this National Scenic Trail. The trail follows a 2,157 mile course from Maine to Georgia. The 285 miles through the North Carolina ridges of the Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests boasts the most beautiful scenery along the way.
Bald Head Island: Bald Head Island, North Carolina230 miles from Piedmont Triad International Airport
Barely three nautical miles off the southeastern coast of North Carolina, this island claims not only the state’s oldest lighthouse but its premier residential and resort community as well. Enjoy a 20-minute passenger ferry ride across the historic Cape Fear River, then travel the island’s winding lanes in electric carts. (800) 234-1666
Biltmore Estate: Asheville, North Carolina164 miles from Piedmont Triad International Airport
Created by George Vanderbilt, this expansive European-style estate is not to be missed. This French Renaissance chateau features 255 rooms furnished with prize antiques and art, 75 acres of formal gardens and landscaped grounds, and a winery. (704) 255-1700
Blue Ridge Parkway: Western North CarolinaTake time and enjoy this gently winding road as it travels the mountains between the Virginia border and the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Cherokee, North Carolina. Follow the curves and hills stopping to view the breathtaking scenic overlooks.
Eastern Music Festival: Guilford College Campus, Greensboro, North Carolina12 miles from Piedmont Triad International Airport
International, classical summer concert series, presented annually by the Eastern Philharmonic Orchestra and musicians from the world’s leading orchestras, universities and music conservatories. (336) 333-7450
Galax, Virginia90 miles from Piedmont Triad International Airport
Experience outdoor recreation in the cool mountains of Virginia! Plan your trip around hiking, biking, horseback riding on the New River Trail State Park. Visit the annual Old Fiddler’s Convention, or one of several festivals and special events. (540) 238-8130 or galaxcity@tcia.net
The Blue Ridge Music Center 4th Annual Summer Concert Series: Galax, VirginiaNineteen concerts are scheduled for the 2005 summer season that will showcase a wide range of traditional music and dance from the Blue Ridge region. Summer concerts will be Saturdays June 4th through Labor Day Weekend, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Blue Ridge Music Center located at Fisher Peak, Milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. A full schedule and ticket information is available online at www.blueridgemusiccenter.net, or phone (276) 236-5309.
Grandfather Mountain: Linville, North Carolina125 miles from Piedmont Triad International Airport
View native wildlife in natural habitats, cross the famous Mile-High Swinging Bridge and enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains. Remember to visit the museum containing geological and nature exhibits, animal displays and natural history films. (704) 733-4337 or (800) 468-7325
Linville Gorge: Linville Falls, North Carolina155 miles from Piedmont Triad International Airport
Hike through jungles of rhododendron to reach the upper and lower falls. Take in the breathtaking view of the cascading water as it tumbles over rocks and falls into the gorge below. (704) 652-2144
Main Oak Emporium: Mt. Airy, North Carolina61 miles from Piedmont Triad International Airport
A festive collection of specialty retail including Gourmet Foods & Wines, Original Art, Home Furnishings, Carpets, Garden Decor, Gifts, Bath & Body, Music, Books, Candles, and Jewelry from over 100 vendors. Open 7 days, free parking and tour buses welcome. Midkiff’s Restaurant in the Emporium is open Monday through Saturday, 11 am - 10 pm.
Myrtle Beach: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina281 miles from Piedmont Triad International Airport
Perhaps your plans include a beachfront paradise or a challenging golf getaway, or maybe you’re looking for spectacular shopping and sensational entertainment ventures, or even an educational trip through history. The Grand Strand has it all. To acquire your Stay & Play vacation guide, call Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce at (800) 356-3016.
Natural Bridge: Natural Bridge, Virginia141 miles from Piedmont Triad International Airport
One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, experience the wonder of this limestone arch. A view to behold, this amazing “bridge” stands 215 feet high, 90 feet long and varies in width between 50 and 150 feet. Make sure to stay at the Natural Bridge Inn & Conference Center. Sit back and relax on a rocking chair or dine on the veranda overlooking a breathtaking view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. (800) 533-1410
Seagrove: Seagrove, North Carolina49 miles from Piedmont Triad International Airport
A 200 year old tradition continues in Seagrove, North Carolina, where over 70 potters feature and sell hand-crafted pottery.
