Winter in the Carolinas: Your Ultimate Guide to Family Fun and Relaxation
Winter in the Carolinas isn’t just about chilly weather—it’s a season packed with opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and family bonding. Whether you're looking to get outdoors for some thrilling snow tubing, seeking cozy retreats to unwind, or on the hunt for fun-filled activities that will keep the whole family entertained, the Carolinas have something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore a variety of winter escapes—from adrenaline-pumping snow tubing in the mountains to serene spa retreats and educational outings that will inspire the whole crew. So, grab your winter gear, gather the family, and get ready to make the most of this season in the Carolinas!
6 Winter Boredom Busters For The Whole Family
Replace boredom with wonder at these incredible spots.
Winter doesn’t have to mean staying indoors! If you’re looking to shake off the chill and keep the family entertained, the Carolinas offer a wealth of activities for every interest. Whether it’s an educational outing to a local museum, a scenic hike to get some fresh air, or an action-packed day at an indoor trampoline park, these destinations are perfect for families looking to make the most of the season. Get ready for six great ideas to bust those winter blues and create lasting memories with the whole crew!
5 Relaxing Winter Retreats to Escape the Cold
Winter is the perfect time to unwind and recharge, and the Carolinas offer a variety of retreats perfect for a cozy escape. From the luxurious Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville, with its world-class spa and mountain views, to the family-friendly Great Wolf Resort in Concord, featuring an indoor water park and kid-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone. If you prefer the beach, Carolina Beach offers a peaceful off-season getaway with fresh seafood and quiet shores. For a more historic experience, Wentworth Mansion in Charleston combines elegant accommodations with a soothing spa. Finally, Devils Fork State Park in Salem offers scenic cabin rentals for families wanting a peaceful nature retreat. Whatever your preference, these destinations provide the perfect antidote to winter’s chill, making them ideal for a relaxing family getaway.
Epic Spots for NC Snow Tubing: Thrills for All Ages!
Get ready for some serious winter fun! Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure or a laid-back family day in the snow, North Carolina has the perfect snow tubing spots to make it happen. With thrilling slopes, breathtaking mountain views, and options for all ages, places like Beech Mountain, Sugar Mountain, and Boone offer some of the best tubing experiences in the region. Pack your snow gear and get ready to zoom down the slopes—winter fun is waiting!
Get ready for loads of laughter!
Gear Up for Winter Adventures
Winter weather may be chilly, but don’t let that stop you from getting outside and embracing all the season has to offer! From snow tubing to winter hikes, the right gear can make all the difference. Layer up with the best cold-weather clothing, grab your boots, and prepare for adventure! We’ve got the essential tips from Chris Douglas on how to stay warm, dry, and comfortable—no matter how cold it gets. Get ready to explore the great outdoors this winter with the right gear at your side.
♛ VIP Free Tickets to the Southern Oyster Festival
Oysters are in season, and we’ve got the VIP tickets you need to enjoy the best of them! Head to Charlotte for the Southern Oyster Festival, where you can indulge in oysters served up hot and cold. Get your tickets while they’re HOT—and enjoy a seafood feast like no other. Read more to claim your free tickets!
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:
- Blowing Rock Winterfest – Jan 23 to Jan 26 | Blowing Rock, NC
- NC Smokies Ice Fest Weekend – Jan 30 to Feb 2 | Haywood, NC
- Southern Oyster, Wine & Beer Festival – Feb 1 | Charlotte, NC ♛ VIP Free Tix
- Great Outhouse Races – Feb 15 | Sapphire Valley, NC
- Beaufort's Mardi Gras – March 1 to March 3 | Beaufort, NC
- Rumba On The Lumber – March 7 to March 8 | Lumberton, NC
- Hilton Head IrishFest – March 15 | Hilton Head Island, SC
These are just some of the incredible events happening around the Carolinas! For more details and updates, make sure to subscribe to our newsletter and stay in the loop. Let’s make 2025 a year to remember!
♛ 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. This year alone, that includes:
- Kaminski House Holiday Magic
- Christmas Carousel Holiday Market
- Holiday Lights Spectacular
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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Score a Discount on Charlotte Hornets Tickets
This winter, enhance your Charlotte Hornets experience with an exclusive offer from Carolina Traveler! Whether you're planning a fun family outing or a night out with friends, we’ve teamed up with the Hornets to provide discounted tickets without the usual Ticketmaster fees. Learn more about the Charlotte Hornets ticket discount.
This season, make time for the experiences that matter most. Whether you’re skating under the stars, soaking up the charm of a festive town, or sharing a laugh courtside, the Carolinas are ready to make this your most memorable holiday yet.
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