2026 is here, and new adventures in the Carolinas await!
From winter escapes and cozy day trips to unforgettable festivals, museums, and coastal adventures, this newsletter is packed with ideas to help you make the most of 2026 in the Carolinas. We’re sharing 20 bucket-list experiences worth planning now, charming winter getaways that warm up the coldest days, can’t-miss seasonal events, and a fresh look at destinations like the Northern Outer Banks. You’ll also find family-friendly museums that turn curiosity into all-day fun—proving that no matter the season, the Carolinas are full of reasons to get out, explore, and create new memories close to home.
- 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.
20 Carolina Experiences To Check Off Your Bucket List In 2026
2026 is your cue to explore the Carolinas like never before. From scenic drives and national parks to music festivals, local shopping, and game-day thrills, this bucket list rounds up 20 experiences that mix adventure, culture, and laid-back charm. Whether you’re plotting a weekend escape or rediscovering your own backyard, these are the moments worth making time for. Read the full article here!
🔑Cozy Winter Day Trips With Southern Charm
Cold weather calls for warm experiences, and these Carolina day trips deliver. From Charlotte to Camden and Edenton, expect charming streets, rich history, cozy coffee stops, and just enough adventure to chase away the winter blues. Subscribers, click here to read the full article!
Winter Events You Can’t Miss
Cold weather doesn’t slow things down in the Carolinas! There are plenty of events for every type of traveler to enjoy. From mountain towns celebrating snow and ice to coastal festivals packed with oysters, parades, and live music, winter is full of reasons to get out and explore. Whether you’re chasing Mardi Gras energy, indulging in fresh seafood, cheering on quirky races, or planning a family-friendly weekend, these winter events across North and South Carolina turn the chill into an excuse to celebrate. Read more…
Check out our Winter Issue!
If winter has your family restless and running out of ideas, this issue is your cure for cabin fever. Our 2026 Winter Issue rounds up museums that turn quick visits into all-day fun, cozy winter day trips, quirky hidden gems, festive seasonal events, and a fresh 2026 bucket list. Whether you’re headed for the mountains, the coast, or an easy city escape, consider this your excuse to bundle up, hit the road, and make winter far from boring.
Exploring the Northern Outer Banks
The Northern Outer Banks offers a quieter, more soulful side of the coast, where wide beaches, working waterfronts, and rich history set the tone. Nature leads the way here—from peaceful marsh sunrises and scenic trails to the iconic wild horses roaming freely along the shore. Whether you’re exploring historic estates, enjoying fresh coastal flavors, or simply soaking in the sea air, the Northern OBX encourages you to slow down and experience the Outer Banks at its most genuine. Here’s where to go…
Explore the Top Museums in the Carolinas
Searching for a family adventure that goes beyond “just looking”? The 2025 edition of Museum Central rounds up the Carolinas’ most engaging, unexpected, and kid-approved museums. Whether your crew loves space, dinosaurs, history, or hands-on fun, these spots are packed with interactive moments that turn curiosity into an all-day adventure. Read more…
Upcoming Events
Here’s a quick look at what’s happening this week across the Carolinas — perfect for planning your next adventure!
Animal Park Tree Toss
January 17 | Burlington, NC
Blowing Rock Winterfest
Jan 22 – 25 | Blowing Rock, NC
Tanglewood Festival of Lights
Nov 14 – Jan 1 | Clemmons, NC
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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..
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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