Get ready for a unforgettable February in the Carolinas
February in the Carolinas is full of reasons to get out and explore. Whether you’re craving a romantic getaway, looking for meaningful ways to honor Black History Month, or dreaming up your next big adventure for 2026, this week’s stories are packed with inspiration. From wild Outer Banks beauty and unforgettable bucket-list experiences to museums the whole family will love, these destinations and ideas prove there’s always something new waiting just down the road. Wherever this season takes you, consider this your guide to making it memorable.
- Discover towering wooden trolls by Thomas Dambo scattered through North Carolina forests, made from recycled materials.
- Experience Victorian holiday charm at the Dickens Christmas Show & Festivals in Myrtle Beach.
- Drive or hike scenic routes like the Blue Ridge Parkway and Table Rock to see peak fall colors.
- Celebrate renaissance fun at the North Carolina Renaissance Festival with jousting, artisans, and family activities.
- Join Carolina Traveler VIP for exclusive perks: free event tickets, hotel rate comparisons, and savings.
Plan The Perfect Valentine’s Day Getaway
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and if the thought of battling for a dinner reservation makes you want to hide under a blanket, we have a better idea. This year, trade the crowded restaurants and rushed prix fixe menus for something truly romantic: a quick getaway made for two. These handpicked Valentine’s escapes are all about cozy moments, sweet surprises, and reconnecting somewhere beyond your usual routine. Whether you’re dreaming of vintage charm, luxurious indulgence, or a wellness-inspired reset we’ve got you covered. Read more…
Celebrate Black History In The Carolinas
This February, Black History Month invites us to explore the Carolinas through stories of courage, creativity, and resilience. Across the region, powerful museums, cultural landmarks, and living traditions offer meaningful ways to reflect, learn, and honor the generations who shaped the South. From inspiring works of art to historic sites of change and communities where heritage still thrives, these destinations remind us that Black history is not only the past. It is a living, vital part of the Carolinas today. Check out the full article…
Discover the Wild Beauty of the Northern Outer Banks
The Northern Outer Banks is where the OBX still feels wild, soulful, and beautifully untouched. From windswept beaches and peaceful marsh trails to historic treasures like Whalehead and the legendary wild horses of Carova, this stretch of coastline offers the perfect mix of adventure and calm. Add in fresh coastal seafood, charming beach towns, and unforgettable places to stay, and you’ve got a getaway that feels both timeless and totally magical. If you’re craving an Outer Banks escape with real spirit, the Northern OBX is calling. Read more…
Wild and free! Make the most of your beach vacation in Corolla, NC. The Outer Banks.
20 Epic Things To Do in the Carolinas in 2026
A new year is the perfect excuse to get out and explore, and the Carolinas are packed with unforgettable adventures waiting to happen. From scenic drives and botanical gardens to small-town day trips, outdoor thrills, cultural stops, and feel-good staycations, this bucket list rounds up 20 must-do experiences to keep your calendar full all year long. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline, craving a quiet escape, or simply looking for fresh inspiration close to home, these ideas will make 2026 your most adventurous year yet. Check out the ultimate bucket list!
Museum Central 2026: The Coolest Museums in the Carolinas
Looking for an educational adventure your kids will actually love? Museum Central 2026 is your all-access pass to the most fascinating, quirky, and family-friendly museums across the Carolinas. From racing legends and restored aircraft to dinosaurs, science centers, and hands-on exhibits that beg to be explored, this guide is packed with places where curiosity runs wild. Whether you’ve got a future astronaut, a history detective, or a button-pressing explorer in tow, these museums turn an ordinary day trip into an unforgettable experience.
The Winter Issue Is Here!
If winter has your family restless and out of ideas, Museum Central is your official cure for cabin fever. Our 2026 Winter/Museum Central Issue spotlights museums that turn “just one stop” into an all-day adventure—along with cozy winter day trips, quirky hidden gems, festive seasonal events, and a brand-new 2026 bucket list. From hands-on exhibits to history that actually holds attention, these experiences make winter travel easy, warm, and anything but boring. Whether you’re headed to the mountains, the coast, or a quick city escape, consider this your excuse to bundle up, hit the road, and rediscover how fun learning can be.
Upcoming Events
Here’s a quick look at what’s happening this week across the Carolinas — perfect for planning your next adventure!
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On CarolinaTraveler.com
Lowcountry Oyster Festival
February 1 | Mt Pleasant, SC
The Great Outhouse Races
Feb 7 | Jackson County, NC
Beer, Bourbon, & BBQ Festival
March 14 | Wilmington, NC
North Carolina Azalea Festival
April 8 – 12 | Wilmington, NC
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 Fearlessly
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
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- Renaissance Festival Sep 8 – Nov 23 | Huntersville, NC Check back for FREE tickets!!!
- Fall At Fogleman's Farm Sep 14 – Nov 10 | Liberty, NC Details
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..
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Here’s to making your holidays as merry and bright as they can be.
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