North Carolina
"Esse quam videri"
Nickname
Tar Heel State
Capital
Raleigh
Statehood
November 21, 1789 (12th)
Motto
Esse quam videri
Explore North Carolina
18 of 18 articles available
Top mountains
Signature peaks and elevation highlights.
Best hikes
Trail ideas from day hikes to overnighters.
State parks
Must-see parks and natural areas.
Road trip loops
Weekend-friendly scenic drives.
Waterfronts
Lakes, rivers, and coastal stops to visit.
Waterfalls & springs
Cool-down spots and photogenic falls.
Scenic overlooks
Pull-offs and vistas for quick views.
Camping spots
Easy campgrounds and dispersed sites.
Historic towns
Main streets, museums, and landmarks.
Family weekends
Low-stress itineraries with kids in mind.
Top universities
Best-known universities and colleges.
Top biggest cities
Largest metros and fast-growing hubs.
Top places to visit
Must-see destinations and attractions.
Top high schools
High-performing public and private schools.
Top cities
Beloved cities for living and visiting.
Basic information
Quick facts, nickname, capital, and region.
Geography
Landscapes, neighbors, and natural regions.
Economy
Key industries, employers, and growth drivers.
About North Carolina
North Carolina runs unbroken from Appalachian peaks in the west to the barrier islands of the Outer Banks in the east, a stretch that covers more ecological variety than most states manage in twice the distance. The Research Triangle around Raleigh and Durham has become one of the country's most significant technology and biotech hubs.
The guides below follow that west-to-east range, covering the mountains, the Piedmont cities, and the coast that together define North Carolina.