There's something about spring in the Carolinas that just hits different. Maybe it's the way the azaleas explode with color, or the way a coastal breeze feels after a long winter. Maybe it's the smell of festival food drifting through a downtown street, or the look on a kid's face when they discover something amazing for the first time. Whatever it is, spring here is special and we've packed this week's newsletter with ways to make the most of it. From unforgettable family field trips and the best May events across both states to the freshest spring destinations worth putting on your radar, we've done the planning so you can focus on the fun. Let's make this season one to remember.
- Tar Heel athletes competing across sled hockey, short-track, skeleton, and Olympic ice hockey at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
- Romantic Valentine’s ideas offering spa dates, scenic hikes, candlelit dinners, and art-filled afternoons in the Carolinas.
- One-night getaways from cozy vintage escapes to luxury and wellness retreats designed for couples.
- Quirky museums showcasing Bigfoot, pinball arcades, cat mummies, haunted dolls, and unexpected local oddities.
- Family-friendly picks including Greenville’s top playgrounds, winter events, and museum experiences for kids and families.
Wrangle the Kids — Adventure Is Calling!
Skip the boring Saturday and take your kids somewhere they’ll never stop talking about. From roaming free alongside exotic animals in Burlington to blasting off in a planetarium in Hickory and exploring the history of America’s elite soldiers in Fayetteville, North Carolina is packed with family field trip destinations that turn an ordinary day into a full-on adventure. We’ve rounded up the best for 2026 and your kids will thank you. Read more…
May Events in the Carolinas? Yes, Please.
Two strawberry festivals, a blue crab feast, a beer and bourbon blowout, and a festival celebrating black bears. May in the Carolinas is anything but boring. Whether you’re chasing live music, fresh seafood, craft vendors, or just a great excuse to get outside, this month’s lineup is stacked. Here’s your guide to the best events happening across the Carolinas this May. Check out upcoming events here!Â
These Destinations Won't Disappoint
Wild horses on a quiet Outer Banks beach. Blooming trails in the Uwharrie. Charming downtowns buzzing with spring energy. Spring in the Carolinas is at its absolute best right now, and we’ve found the destinations worth making the trip for. From coastal escapes to small-town gems, these 2026 spring destinations will have you packing a bag before you finish reading. Read more…
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
SC Strawberry FestivalÂ
May 1 – 2 | Fort Mill, SC
Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival
May 9 | Charlotte, NC ♕ VIP Free Tix
NC Fossil FestivalÂ
May 23 – 24Â | Aurora, NC
NC Black Bear FestivalÂ
June 6 – 7 | Plymouth, NC
Beer, Bourbon, & BBQ Festival
July 31 – Aug 1 | Cary, NC ♕ VIP Free Tix
Liquid Summer Festival
August 15 | Wilmington, NC  ♕ VIP Free Tix
Carolina Traveler VIPs Scored $1436 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.
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.
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.
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