Summer in the Carolinas is made for adventures—from mountain trails to river paddles to high-flying beach views
Summer in the Carolinas is made for movement—and these three adventures prove it. Whether you’re hiking the dramatic peaks of North Carolina’s Appalachian Trail, paddling and pedaling your way through Gaston County’s rising outdoor scene, or soaring high above Myrtle Beach in a helicopter, there’s no shortage of ways to play. This guide highlights the best of each experience so you can make the most of your summer, one trail, river, or sky-high thrill at a time.
Peddle. Paddle. Play.Â
Carved by ancient rivers and born of crumbled mountains in the Piedmont between the Blue Ridge foothills and Charlotte's edge, Gaston County, North Carolina, is emerging as an unexpected hub for outdoor adventure. It's a playground for weekend warriors and soul searchers, from epic mountain trails to winding rivers, bike-friendly paths, and a vibrant outdoor culture.
Sky-High Myrtle Beach FunÂ
Looking for a fresh way to experience Myrtle Beach? Skip the usual go-karts and water slides and take to the skies with OceanFront Helicopters—just one block off the sand. Starting at only $29, even the shortest flight offers a thrilling, bird’s-eye view of the Atlantic, the Grand Strand, and the bustling beach below. With eight tour options ranging from quick loops to extended scenic rides, there’s something for every budget and thrill level. Safe, smooth, and surprisingly serene, it’s an unforgettable adventure for all ages—and one that will completely change how you see Myrtle Beach.
🔑 Hiking The Appalachian TrailÂ
Craving wild views, misty peaks, and trails that test your legs and lift your soul? North Carolina's stretch of the Appalachian Trail delivers big with epic spots like Max Patch, the serene yet rugged Nantahala, and trail-town comforts in Hot Springs. From sunrise magic to whitewater thrills, this isn’t just a hike—it’s a full-on adventure waiting for your boots.
Discover Our Thrill Seekers 2025 Issue
Whether you’re a seasoned adrenaline junkie or simply looking to try something new, Thrill Seekers 2025 invites you to pack your bags, fuel your spirit, and explore the wild, beautiful Carolina outdoors like never before. Let the adventure begin!
The Liquid Summer Festival is coming to Wilmington — and it's bringin' the heat!
Enter now for your chance to win 4 VIP tickets to Liquid Summer Festival 2025 in Wilmington! It’s one unforgettable day—Saturday, August 16—filled with 100+ craft beer, wine, cider, and spirit tastings, live music, and beach-town vibes.
VIP winners get early entry, 3 food tickets, a craft cocktail, VIP-only bathrooms, and exclusive swag—including a souvenir cup and beach towel. That’s a $384 value—for FREE!
🎶 Sip, dance, and send off summer in the coolest way possible. Enter to win today!
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 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:
Ghost Tour Season – June 21–Oct 25 | Wilkesboro, NC
Myrtle Beach Tours – Book now for summer fun
Bourbon & BBQ Festival August 1 – 2 | Cary, NC
Liquid Summer Festival August 16 | Wilmington, NC
Bon Temps Paddle Battle August 16 | Belmont, NC
WNC Bigfoot Festival August 23 | Marion, NC
Cary Whiskey, Wine, and Fire September 13 | Cary, 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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