Franklin isn't a place where you need a long list of attractions to have a good time, although there are plenty to choose from! Its charm is in the little things: colorful leaves, pretty storefronts, quiet streets, and that cozy mountain-town feeling. If you love exploring small towns in the fall as much as I do, add Franklin, North Carolina, to your autumn travel list.
The fall whirlwind is in full swing. Gather your crew and head to Hendersonville, NC, to experience the cutest pumpkin maze for the littlest at Linda’s Plants and Shrubs.
Chimney Rock Rd in Hendersonville is a great spot for a fall road trip, featuring plenty of orchards, pumpkin patches, and colorful sunflower fields to explore.
If you're looking for a fun-filled fall outing near Greenville, several orchards offer delightful apple-picking experiences along with family-friendly activities. With bumpy hayrides, play areas for kids, and the chance to sample fresh apple cider, these orchards make for an ideal day trip. Plus, you’ll be treated to stunning mountain vistas while you wander through the orchards, ensuring you soak in all the beauty autumn has to offer. Don't miss out on this engaging way to celebrate the season!
There’s something about fall in the mountains that has us ready to hit the road as soon as summer starts winding down. The moment those first leaves begin to change, we’re already dreaming about heading toward Western North Carolina. And every year, there’s one little mountain town we can’t wait to return to—Cashiers, NC.
If the Hendersonville orchards were sisters, Jeter Mountain Farm would be the one who shows up to every party dressed to the nines. Everything here feels beautifully put together, from the rustic-chic buildings and spacious back porch to the rows of fruit trees stretching toward the mountains.
For years, our family treated Brevard, North Carolina, as nothing more than a pit stop.We would stretch our legs on the way to Looking Glass Falls, or pass right through during our other mountain excursions. We never gave it a second thought. We never took the time to actually pull over, park the car, and explore what Brevard itself had to offer.What a mistake that was—and what a massive surprise it turned out to be.
Every December, a tiny town outside Charlotte transforms into something straight out of a Christmas movie… and it’s completely FREE to experience! Welcome to McAdenville, NC — Christmas Town USA — a beloved holiday tradition that has been dazzling visitors for more than 60 years.
If you’re searching for a fun, festive, and completely FREE holiday outing, Kannapolis’ Village Park should be at the top of your list. This charming Christmas experience has plenty to enjoy, but two things truly steal the show: the beautiful Christmas lights and the absolutely adorable Singing Bear Orchestra.
If you're looking for a family-friendly winter road trip that’s fun, educational, and packed with hands-on play, Kaleideum is an easy favorite—just 3 hours from Greenville, SC. This four-story wonderland blends science, art, and imagination into one unforgettable experience for kids of all ages.
Hidden at the UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens, this children's play area is a little-known gem. Every corner of this space offers something exciting for kids, including a tree stump path, a boulder scramble, a musical wall, a water pump station, a small stream, and a giant spider web.
Get ready for endless winter fun at Beech Mountain, NC, where you can enjoy stunning snowy vistas and the thrill of a free sledding hill! With its gentle slopes perfect for all ages, this scenic destination offers an ideal spot for families and adventure seekers to slide into excitement. Whether you're a seasoned sledder or a first-timer, Beech Mountain's free hill promises laughter, fresh air, and unforgettable memories in a picturesque mountain setting.
The Charlotte International Art Festival is currently taking place in Uptown Charlotte and Ballantyne's Backyard through September 29, 2024. This breathtaking, immersive experience is free for everyone to enjoy. We attended on opening weekend and loved it; there were many amazing art pieces, along with lawn games for kids. For the best experience, try to go at dusk. I hope you all get a chance to check it out!
The forest is full of secrets. Take a half-mile hike through Holmes Educational State Forest outside of Hendersonville, NC, to discover them all. On your way, you'll come across talking trees, interactive exhibits, massive southern red oak tree ring, and plenty of wildflowers. This forest is more than just a natural area, but rather a unique educational experience.
I've been so eager to tell you about this awesome place. While on a road trip to the Smokies, I was in the mood for a pit stop among rolling mountains, serene lakes, unspoiled nature, and peace - and Lake Junalushka was the place we stumbled upon at the last moment that satisfied all these yearnings.
Looking for a gem to get away from the constant buzz of the city? Cherokee, NC, is the place to set you off on a little adventure. As the home to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, it's easily the most unique town on the North Carolina side of the Smokies.
