Get ready for summer fun in the Carolinas!
Summer in the Carolinas is almost here—and it’s calling you outside. From lazy river days to lively festivals and everything in between, there’s no better time to hit the road and explore. Whether you’re craving cool mountain trails, coastal breezes, or small-town charm, we’ve rounded up the best places to beat the heat and make the most of the season. Let the summer adventures begin!
Keep It Cool This Summer With a Trip to Gaston County
 Just west of Charlotte, this under-the-radar gem offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, and small-town hospitality. Paddle through the calm waters of the South Fork River, hike shaded trails at Crowders Mountain, or cycle the Rail Trail through Mount Holly and Belmont. Then cool off with ice cream, local brews, and river views. It’s the ideal place to unplug, unwind, and make new summer memories—without the beach crowds. Whether you're looking for an action-packed day trip or a laid-back weekend away, Gaston County’s got your summer escape covered. Read more…
Cool Off With Our Summer Issue
Inside our summer edition, you’ll find everything you need to beat the heat and embrace the season. From the best splash spots and scenic hikes to quirky festivals and small-town treasures, our curated guide is packed with inspiration for your next adventure. Say goodbye to screen time and hello to sunshine! Check it out!Â
NC Blueberry Festival
 The NC Blueberry Festival is a celebration of community, heritage, and—of course—plenty of berries. Enjoy live music, blueberry-themed eats, local vendors, and even a blueberry pancake breakfast. It’s a wholesome, family-friendly event that captures the heart of small-town North Carolina. Learn more…
3 Fun Summer Day Trips
Need a quick escape from the daily grind? These three summer day trips pack big adventure into just one day!
Hike through vineyards and river trails, then cool off with local wine and downtown eats. Â Stroll the historic waterfront, hop on a dolphin cruise, and dine al fresco with a coastal breeze. Plan your getaway!
Ready To Make A Splash?
Got the courage (and core strength) to conquer Charleston Aqua Park? This epic floating playground is the ultimate test of balance, bravery, and belly flops. Enter daily for a chance to win a Family 4-Pack of tickets and take on the summer’s coolest water adventure.
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.
Bloom with Our Spring Issue
Inside the spring Carolina Traveler Magazine you'll find all the briny details about the NC Pickle Festival, majestic trees, the best places to see wildflower blooms and a lot more!
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 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.
Upcoming Events
Here’s a quick look at upcoming events across the Carolinas—perfect for planning your next adventure:
NC Fossil Festival – May 24–25 | Aurora, NC
NC Sugar Rush – May 25 | Raleigh, NC
NC Trail Days – June 6–8 | Elkin, NC
NC Ground Steak Festival – June 4 | Dobson, NC
NC Blueberry Festival – June 20–21 | Burgaw, NC
SC Peach Festival – July 9–19 | Gaffney, SC
Outer Banks Tours – All Summer Long | OBX, NC
â™› 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.
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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