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Fall in the Carolinas is a magical time. The crowds are gone from the beaches and the mountains are bursting with color. And everywhere in between you’ll find festivals, farmers markets, pumpkin patches and haunted houses!

Learn more about the amazing destinations that appeared in the Fall issue of Carolina Traveler magazine by following the links below. And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop on fun things to do in the Carolinas.

Wild horse on a sand dune in the Outer Banks

The legendary wild horses of Corolla

Currituck Outer Banks, NC

Be a little legendary this fall. With autumn upon us, many families are planning to find their way here now that the busy season has ended. It is nice to know that remove beaches, the legendary Corolla Wild Horses, and historic sites like the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, Whalehead and the new Currituck Maritime Museum await you and yours in Corolla, NC. CorollaNC.com

Find things to do in Carolina Traveler magazine

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Kayakers paddle the Haw River near Burlington NC

Kayaking on the Haw River

Burlington and Alamance County, NC

Fall adventures await in Alamance County. Fall is the perfect time to experience the outdoors in Alamance County. Hit a trail and explore one of our many nature parks and natural areas. Ramble along picturesque riverbanks on the Haw River Trail, part of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. Discover a hidden picnic spot at Lake Mackintosh or savor the scenic views at our newest nature park – the Cane Creek Mountains Natural Area. Spend an afternoon drifting along the Haw river Paddle Trail in a canoe or kayak. Enjoy a tranquil paddle on Rock Creek at Cedarock Park. There are so many choices to experience the outdoors. VisitAlamance.com

Two tigers relax in the shade at Tiger World near Charlotte NC

Experience the wild side at Tiger World in Rockwell, NC (near Charlotte). Mention “Day Trips” to save $1 on Wild Adventure Golf.

Tiger World

Have you ever wanted to see a tiger or lion eat? Follow our Carnivore Specialists around the park as they feed our Big Cats. You will be able to learn about and observe the natural feeding behaviors of large carnivores as we feed out various types of meat including whole prey. Their diet is specially prepared. It is an amazing sight to see and hear as the animals catch their food and begin the feeding frenzy. This Thursday is our last carnivore feed of the year. Spots are filling up quickly so call (704 279-6363) to make reservations. Play a round of miniature golf in our wild setting – save $1 on a golf game when you mention “Day Trips“.  TigerWorld.us

An elaborate corn maze at Kersey Valley

The corn maze at Kersey Valley

Asheboro and Randolph County, NC

Fall in love with the Heart of North Carolina this season – with dramatic leaf colors, crisp cool weather, and fun festivals for all ages. Grab your cozy sweater and seasonal-flavored drink (pumpkin or apple) to begin your fall adventures in Asheboro and Randolph County, NC. HeartofNorthCarolina.com

Adventurous hikers linger on the overhang of Hanging Rock State Park

Hike to the top of Hanging Rock for exhilarating views

Hanging Rock and Stokes County, NC

There is another North Carolina, off the four-lane highways, with miles-long views of the piedmont plateau, sheer cliffs and bare rock summits, calm forests, and gushing waterfalls. This North Carolina is not far from the cities of the Triad.

Take a hike along Hanging Rock’s paths and unplug from life’s fast pace. Rent a cabin and sleep soundly to the lullaby of a chorus of frogs and spring peepers. Join an interpretive program to discover something new about our environment. Find a calm mountain lake that beckons swimmers and anglers tucked away in the hills. Spread a blanket at a picnic site – perfect places to spend time with loved ones. You’re invited to Hanging Rock State Park. HangingRock.com

A couple relax at Lucky City Brewing in Reidsville NC

Make time for a refreshment after your outdoor adventures in Rockingham County

Rockingham County, NC

Here you will find rural, small-town charm coupled with close proximity to big-city amenities in North Carolina’s Northern Piedmont Triad Region. Our most abundant natural resource—water—makes
Rockingham County a good place for powering industries as well as offering numerous options for outdoor recreation. You can play a round of golf, hit the lakes, go horseback riding, paddle the rivers, rush through rapids, play in our parks, peddle mountain bike trails, visit historic sites and museums or simply soak up the sun in our rural, scenic beauty. So, come hike the extra mile. Run faster through the rapids. Dive deeper under the surface. When you’re in Rockingham County, you’re in a good place! VisitRockinghamCountyNC.com

Costumed performers from the Woods of Terror in Greensboro NC

Buy one ticket, get one free! Use the code “daytrips” at woodsofterror.com

Woods of Terror and McLaurin Farms (Greensboro, NC)

Visit Woods of Terror (if you dare!) from September – November. Our famous adults-only Terror Trail will leave you running for your life! No kids under 13 years old. No exceptions. Buy tickets at WoodsofTerror.com. Use the code DAYTRIPS to get your second ticket FREE!

Families will enjoy McLaurin Farms pumpkin patch, open September – October. It’s everything you love about Fall! Crisp weather, pumpkins galore with hayrides, a petting zoo, and more. We’ve set up lots of pumpkin farm areas for your perfect family photos, too. This event is also open to reserve for school groups and field trips. Buy tickets at McLaurinFarms.com. Use the code DAYTRIPS to get your second ticket FREE!

A squad car parked in front of the Andy Griffith mural in Mount Airy NC

Experience small-town hospitality in Mount Airy, better known as Mayberry!

Mount Airy and Surry County, NC

When visiting Mount Airy, fans of The Andy Griffith Show can take a trip back in time. It’s no accident that a trip down Main Street in the “Friendly City” reminds viewers of the town of Mayberry from the popular 1960s hit TV series, The Andy Griffith Show. Actor Andy Griffith was born and raised here. Visitors can go to Snappy Lunch, the Old Mayberry Jail, Floyd’s City Barber Shop, and even Andy’s childhood home. There are plenty of Mayberry, North Carolina sights and sounds to see in Mount Airy and surrounding areas. But there’s even more to Mount Airy and Surry County, from Pilot Mountain, old-time string music and old-time dances to the century-old farm on nearby Horne Creek Farm. Visitmayberry.com

Find things to do in Carolina Traveler magazine

Get more Carolina! Subscribe to Carolina Traveler Magazine and we’ll deliver it to your home.

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