Your Ultimate Guide To Beating Heat Wave This Summer
When the thermometer hits triple digits, it's time to cool off! This month, we've curated a sizzling lineup of stories to help you stay cool and make the most of summer in the Carolinas. From natural swimming holes that feel like nature's air conditioning to family-friendly fun in Gaston County, we've got your summer plans covered. Whether you're seeking a refreshing dip, a cultural escape, or a frosty treat, dive into our latest picks and make this summer unforgettable.
Take A Dip: Best Swimming Holes in NC & SC!
From mountain slides to hidden quarries and riverside retreats, these six stunning swimming holes across the Carolinas are your ticket to a summer well spent. Whether you're hiking to waterfalls or floating in tea-colored lakes, dive into nature's coolest escapes—perfect for families, road-trippers, and anyone ready to splash into adventure.
Too Hot To Fish? Think AgainÂ
Carolina All Out’s Chris Douglas proves summer fishing in North Carolina isn’t just possible—it’s spectacular. From the clear, breezy waters of Lake Phelps to the cool, shady runs of the Nolichucky River, discover two top spots where you can cast a line and beat the heat in style.
Spend A Summer Day At The Schiele Museum in Gastonia
Beat the heat and dive into discovery at the Schiele Museum of Natural History. From stargazing in the air-conditioned planetarium to wandering prehistoric halls filled with dinosaurs, this Gastonia gem offers a refreshing escape for curious minds of all ages. Pair your visit with shady trails, local eats, and a legendary ice cream cone to make your summer day both cool and unforgettable.
Keep Your Cool With Family Fun in Gaston County
When summer heats up, Gaston County turns down the temperature with river breezes, splash pads, shady hikes, and icy treats. Just west of Charlotte, this four-day itinerary is packed with cool adventures for kids of all ages—from dinosaur digs and kayak trips to mountaintop views and grape ice cream. Whether you're chasing thrills or just looking to chill, Gaston County is your go-to summer escape.
The Liquid Summer Festival is coming to Wilmington — and it's bringin' the heat!
Enter now for your chance to win 4 VIP tickets to Liquid Summer Festival 2025 in Wilmington! It’s one unforgettable day—Saturday, August 16—filled with 100+ craft beer, wine, cider, and spirit tastings, live music, and beach-town vibes.
VIP winners get early entry, 3 food tickets, a craft cocktail, VIP-only bathrooms, and exclusive swag—including a souvenir cup and beach towel. That’s a $384 value—for FREE!
🎶 Sip, dance, and send off summer in the coolest way possible. Enter to win today!
Carolina Traveler VIPs Scored $762 in Free Tickets Last Year!
Want in on the perks? Carolina Traveler VIPs enjoy exclusive access to free tickets for events, festivals, and top attractions across the Carolinas. From beer festivals and aquariums to historic tours and adventure parks, we’re unlocking hundreds in savings every year—just for our subscribers. 👉 Sign up now and make this your best summer yet!
Make the most of your summer—discover, explore, and create memories that last long after the season fades.
Compare Hotel Rates & Save
Traveling doesn’t have to break the bank! Our newsletter gives you access to the best hotel rate comparisons, so you can save up to 40% on your next stay. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a week-long retreat, we’ll help you find the best deal. Learn more and start planning your next trip today!
Travel FearlesslyÂ
Traveling is an adventure, but sometimes things don’t go as planned. In this week’s issue, we share some expert tips on how to travel fearlessly and handle unexpected emergencies with ease. With the right preparation, you can enjoy your travels with peace of mind. Learn more about smart travel practices to ensure a safe, stress-free journey.
Upcoming Events
Here’s a quick look at upcoming events across the Carolinas—perfect for planning your next adventure:
NC Blueberry Festival – June 20–21 | Burgaw, NC
Ghost Tour Season – June 21–Oct 25 | Wilkesboro, NC
SC Peach Festival – July 9–19 | Gaffney, SC
Myrtle Beach Tours – Book now for summer fun
Highland Games – July 10–13 | Grandfather Mountain, NC
Bourbon & BBQ Festival August 1 – 2 | Cary, NC
Liquid Summer Festival August 16 | Wilmington, NC
â™› VIP Free Tix!
It’s the ultimate holiday giveaway — enter daily for a chance to win four VIP tickets to a dazzling holiday wonderland! With over a million lights, this event is a true spectacle that will leave you in awe. Read more to find out how you can win these exclusive tickets!
Be Prepared with Good Sam
Holiday travel can be stressful, but don’t let car trouble ruin your festive fun. With Good Sam’s Roadside Assistance Plan, you can rest easy knowing you’ve got comprehensive coverage on the road. Find out how Good Sam can keep your holiday travel plans on track, no matter where you’re headed.
Plan an Epic Trip to the Outer Banks with These Tours and Experiences
Warmer weather will be here before you know it, so it's time to start planning your next getaway to the Outer Banks! These exciting tours offer a unique way to experience the Outer Banks, showcasing its beauty and diversity. Witness wild horses in their natural habitat, try out hang-gliding, or enjoy the natural beauty of Alligator River. The adventure never stops!
Save Big, Travel More
Got family coming into town? Or maybe you’re planning a holiday escape yourself? Carolina Traveler has the inside scoop on unpublished hotel rates that’ll stretch your vacation dollars. Join Tripfox and start planning that extended stay—or just bank the savings for more eggnog.
More VIP Perks You’ll Love
What’s better than having fun? Doing it for free. When you become a Carolina Traveler VIP, you’ll score free tickets to events worth over $200 annually.
Last year we offered VIPs more than $700 in free tickets!
Sound too good to be true? It’s not. Just sign up and start reaping the rewards..
Want more ideas? Subscribe to the Carolina Traveler newsletter and make sure you don’t miss a single event.
Here’s to making your holidays as merry and bright as they can be.
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