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Uncover the Heart of Sampson County- Barn Quilt Heritage Trail
Sampson County is the Barn Quilt Capital with over 255 unique barn quilts scattered across 8 towns throughout the county. There is a Barn Quilt Trail which represents the strong cultural and agricultural heritage of the area dating back to colonial times.
Rural Exploration in Bertie County: A Family-Friendly Agritourism Adventure
Pick your own berries, visit local orchards, learn about gardening, take the kids to the Livermon Park & Mini Zoo, and stay overnight in a treehouse at Cashie River Treehouses. During the summer, enjoy Bertie Beach, or a canoe trip along the Cashie River.
Granville County is a Must-See for History Enthusiasts and Food-Driven Travelers
Historic sites, museums, and events created to celebrate the rich cultural heritage make Granville County a fun and educational destination. The county’s history dates back to before the signing of the Declaration of Independence. It’s also the home of the natural historic district of Oxford, NC which has over 200 contributing buildings. Numerous restaurants offer authentic tastes of the region’s culinary history, including Tobacco Wood Brewing Company, Verdigiris at Oxford Oaks Distillery, and Strong Arm Baking.
Wine Enthusiasts Will Feel At Home in Bladen County, Home of Two Local Wineries
Visitors can tour both Cape Fear Vineyard and Winery, as well as Lu Mil Vineyard, each of which offers overnight accommodations for those looking to immerse themselves in the winery experience. Both properties feature incredible restaurants and beautiful scenic views. Perfect for a friends’ getaway or a couples’ retreat, Bladen County offers a relaxing respite with great food, wine, and the ideal location to spend with others.
See Where the Buffalo Roam at Sunset Ridge in Person County
Enjoy an authentic farm tour in Roxboro, NC at Sunset Ridge Buffalo Farm, a working farm and scenic lakeside property. With guided covered wagon tours, buffalo viewing, and the opportunity to take home delicious and healthy meat, the farm offers an unforgettable experience for everyone who visits.
The Uwharrie National Forest in Montgomery County is an Outdoor Enthusiast’s Dream
The towns of Troy and Mount Gilead host the annual Uwharrie 100k and 50k race, limited to only 150 runners per event. For those looking for adventure, the National Forest offers hiking, biking, climbing, camping, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, boating, horseback riding, running, and off-road vehicle activities. It is also home to one of the oldest mountain ranges, dating back 500 million years. Spend a long weekend or make it your new adventure getaway in Montgomery County.
Cycle NC is One of the Many Reasons to Visit the “Friendliest County” in North Carolina for Cyclists
Endurance cyclists or those looking for quiet roads and peaceful conditions will feel right at home in Edgecombe County, especially during the Annual Cycle NC. This mountains-to-coast bike ride is also a state-sponsored event. While exploring Edgecomb, cyclists and visitors alike will find friendly, southern hospitality, great food options, walking tours, agritourism experiences, history, and heritage. For those looking to relax, visit the Oak Grove Retreat for a memorable weekend getaway.
Discover the Charm of Caswell County: Nature, Farming, and Curated Moments of Solitude
Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life with a visit to Caswell County and enjoy a less crowded way of life. Experience the serenity of quiet spaces among the rolling hills and pasturelands of local farms. Whether it’s a place to find inspiration for your next creative masterpiece, a new favorite “hidden” place to hunt (R Wayne Bailey Game Lands boasts the state’s largest turkey population), or you enjoy local farm tours, Caswell County is the place to enjoy moments of “chill.”
Create Shareable Family Memories with Outdoor Adventures in Stanly County
Experience camping at its finest in Morrow Mountain State Park with family campgrounds, vacation cabins, swimming, rental boats, a natural history museum, hiking and nature trails, and picnic areas. For those who thrive on water, explore Lake Tillery, Badin Lake, Rocky River, Pee Dee River, or Falls Reservoir for endless family fun. After a day of activities, explore quaint downtowns with local shops and eateries for every palate.
Paddle or Float the Roanoke River and Immerse Yourself in the Natural World
Home to the first river trail in Eastern North Carolina, Martin County offers camping, river adventures, boating, fishing, boardwalking, and wildlife viewing throughout the year. As it approaches its 250th Anniversary (celebration event in March 2024), there are numerous reasons to stay over and enjoy all that the area has to offer. Martin County has a strong Underground Railroad history, as well as the African American Experience of Northeastern NC. There are also year-round events at the Eastern Agricultural Center, including equine and rodeo shows, motor sports month, dirt cart racing, and more.
Learn about the Vibrant Cultures and Rich Histories of Southeastern Native Peoples at the Museum of the Southeast American Indian in Robeson County
As you step onto the campus at UNC-Pembroke, you immerse yourself in the prehistory, history, culture, art, and contemporary issues of the Native American communities in Robeson County. If you visit in late June or early July, you may also experience the Lumbee People Homecoming, a Native American celebration of heritage, pride, and culture. It is a 2-week event with outdoor markets, competitions, performances, and the Annual Ms. Lumbee Pageant.
Experience the Thrill of a Race Day in Richmond County, North Carolina
The excitement of everything related to racing in Rockingham allows visitors to experience the thrills throughout the year. In 2024, events get started in early March and continue through December. Both Rockingham Dragway and Rockingham Speedway are sure to satisfy one’s need for speed with upcoming events that include Tailgate N’ Tallboys Maxxxed, Hops and Hot Rods, The Seaboard Festival, the American Drag Racing League, and more. Rockingham also has various lodging options, great food, and live entertainment.
Columbus County is an Eco-Tourists Paradise with Water-Based Activities, Wildlife Viewing, and More
Lake Waccamaw is the third largest lake in North Carolina and home to rare species like Venus flytraps and Waccamaw killifish, along with numerous species of waterfowl. Nature enthusiasts, boaters, and anglers will feel at home with 74 miles of shoreline to explore, the 5,722-acre Green Swamp Preserve, and a portion of the 115-mile, federally designated ‘Wild and Scenic’ Lumber River. Explore, discover, learn, relax, and enjoy the beauty and peace of Columbus County, North Carolina.
Photos courtesy of the UPLIFT-designated counties. We extend our gratitude to our partners as they have enriched our content with awe-inspiring imagery.