5 Cut-Your-Own Christmas Tree Farms, an Hour or Less From Charlotte
Pile the crew in the car and bring home a stunning North Carolina Christmas tree
WEEKENDER: Atlanta
A-Town, Hotlanta, Hollywood of the South, the Big Peach. Atlanta has countless nicknames, and in North Carolina we often refer to it as “Charlotte’s big sister.” It has more people, traffic, shopping, and restaurants—like a bigger, flashier version of Charlotte.…
A Charlottean's Guide to Winter Outings
Whether you want to head outdoors into the crisp temperatures or prefer to stay cozy indoors, there are plenty of winter activities around Charlotte that will make both camps happy. Read on for our favorites. Ice Skate at the U.S.…
WEEKENDER: Huntsville, Alabama
Nicknamed “The Rocket City,” Huntsville, Alabama is synonymous with U.S. space missions. It’s home to NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center and the US Space & Rocket Center museum, which includes the US Space Camp and Aviation Challenge programs. It’s also…
WEEKENDER: Mount Airy
It’s easy to zoom past Mount Airy, North Carolina as you drive up I-77 on your way to hit the ski slopes in West Virginia or view the autumn leaves along the Blue Ridge Parkway. But consider pumping the brakes…
HOLIDAY WEEKENDER: Chetola Resort
There’s nothing quite like cozying up in a mountain lodge at the height of the holiday season. At just over two hours from Charlotte, Chetola Resort is a magical weekend getaway in Blowing Rock, a Rockwell-esque town off the Blue…
Where to Ski, Snowboard and Tube Near North Carolina
Warm up this winter on a family skiing, snowboarding or snowtubing trip just a short drive away.
WEEKENDER: Elizabeth City
Elizabeth City is a popular stop on the way to the Outer Banks in the summer months, but the waterfront town is also a great place for a family-friendly weekend trip in the fall. You’ll find cozy accommodations, a…
From the Mountains to the Beach: 3 Fall Kid-Less Getaways for Charlotteans
Earlier this summer, my husband and I hiked through the woods near Linville Falls, leaving our three boys at home. I felt the stress of the last 18 months melt away. School, jobs, extended family, health, and safety had been…
NEXT STOP, NASHVILLE: A Family-Friendly Trip to Music City
Nashville is a prime destination for live music and bachelorette parties, but a night out on Lower Broadway is a bit harder to swing with kids in tow. Fortunately Music City has plenty of kid-friendly spots that aren’t just bearable—they’re…
TRAVEL: Destination Dollywood
If you dread the endless lines, overpriced food, and stimulation overload at an amusement park, Dollywood might just change your mind. It’s a 3 hour and 40 minute drive from Charlotte and drops you in the foothills of the Great…
Top 5 Adventures for Your Family's Next Mountain Getaway
In Partnership with Smyth County Tourism Association Whether ziplining through the tree tops or counting stars by the campfire, we could all use a little time to disconnect from our screens and reconnect with each other. Share what you love…
31 Ways to Explore the Carolina Coasts
Discover new ways to experience fun and adventure along the Carolina coasts — from Corolla to Hilton Head.
Historic Field Trips and Educational Getaways Near Charlotte: 2020
From presidential homes to living history museums, these destinations provide hands-on learning opportunities for all ages.
Family Day Trips for Charlotteans to Cap Off the Summer
All are within two hours of the city
An Abbreviated Vacation Guide for N.C. Families
Three- and four-night vacations are just what families with teens and tweens need
North Carolina Zoo Offers a New Virtual Visit Experience
Since a visit to the North Carolina Zoo isn’t currently possible, the Zoo is bringing its programs to you
TRAVEL: Amelia Island Time
Life moves at a leisurely pace in north Florida’s tranquil barrier island
Inside Emberglow Outdoor Resort, a New Lake Lure-Area Campsite
Here, elevated camping experiences create community
TRAVEL GUIDE: The British Virgin Islands By Boat (In One Day)
A step-by-step guide
15 Must-Visit Small Towns in North Carolina
If you love the small-town vibe, pack a suitcase to discover the irresistible charm of these North Carolina road-trip worthy destinations.
3 Must-Visit North Carolina Mountain Towns
These mountain towns offer budget-friendly family fun
TRAVEL GUIDE: Christmas Fun in Pigeon Forge
The magic of the holiday season sparkles in this eastern Tennessee town
TRAVEL GUIDE: A Christmas-Themed Itinerary for Disney World
If you’re making the trip to Orlando to celebrate the holidays, here’s what you have to know
Inside 'Downton Abbey: The Exhibition' at Biltmore
Plus: Info about this year's Christmas festivities
Explore Area Day Trips
Day Trips + Family Travel
Nearby destinations for your next day trip or weekend getaway.
