This winter, there are plenty of things to get excited about in the Carolinas Plan a romantic Valentine’s Day with cozy spa dates, scenic hikes, and one-night getaways designed for two. Escape the winter blues on charming day trips through Camden and Edenton’s historic streets. Discover the quirkiest museums you’ve ever seen. From Bigfoot and haunted dolls to pinball arcades and cat mummies…you’ll find plenty of surprising exhibits. Family fun? Greenville’s top playgrounds have you covered. And sports fans can cheer on North Carolina athletes making their mark on the world stage at the 2026 Winter Olympics. There’s something for everyone this season…all you have to do is dive in and start exploring.
- 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.
Tar Heel Talent Takes the Ice at the 2026 Winter Olympics
From Paralympic sled hockey and short-track speed skating to skeleton racing and Olympic ice hockey, North Carolina athletes are showing up big on the world stage at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina. Meet the Tar Heel standouts representing Team USA and beyond including rising stars, Duke student-athletes, and Carolina Hurricanes players and find out when to tune in and cheer them on.
Date Ideas in the Carolinas to Make Valentine’s Day Extra Special
Looking to make Valentine’s Day feel a little more special this year? From side-by-side spa days and scenic mountain hikes to candlelit dinners and art-filled afternoons, this story rounds up romantic date ideas that go way beyond the usual dinner reservation. Whether you’re planning something luxurious, adventurous, or effortlessly sweet, the Carolinas are full of ways to make hearts flutter. Trust us… you’re going to want to bookmark this one. Read more…
Unforgettable Valentine’s Day Getaways in the Carolinas
This Valentine’s Day, trade the crowded prix fixe dinner for a weekend designed just for two. From cozy, classic romances and vintage-inspired escapes to polished luxury stays and soul-soothing wellness retreats, these one-night, two-day getaways are all about savoring moments together. Think of it as a menu of love. Choose the perfect vibe for your sweetheart and pack your bags! Start planning your romantic getaway here!
Cozy Carolina Day Trips to Chase Away the Winter Blues
Winter is the perfect season to slow down and explore the Carolinas’ historic towns. From Camden’s Revolutionary War sites and antique-filled streets to Edenton’s lantern-lit waterfront and colonial homes, these easy day trips are all about warmth, history, and small-town charm. No long drives, no heavy planning… just a simple winter escape that feels exactly right this time of year. Read the full article here.
The Weirdest, Wildest Museums in the Carolinas
The Carolinas are full of museums that surprise, delight, and sometimes outright baffle. From Bigfoot footprints to pinball arcades, cat mummies, and folk-art doll villages, these quirky spots turn a simple day trip into a micro-adventure. Grab an overnight stay nearby, follow your curiosity, and prepare to see museums like you’ve never seen them before. Check out the most mysterious museums!
Greenville’s Best Playgrounds
Finding a playground that appeals to kids of different ages can be a challenge. Toddlers, tweens, and everything in between all have unique needs, and it’s not always easy to locate a space that offers fun and safety for everyone. Luckily, Greenville, South Carolina, and its surrounding areas boast an impressive array of playgrounds and outdoor spaces designed to entertain children of all ages. From creative climbing structures to sprawling green spaces, these spots are perfect for family outings, birthday parties, or just a sunny afternoon adventure. Here are ten top playground and outdoor space picks that work for kids from toddlers to tweens.
The Winter Issue Is Here!
If winter has your family restless and out of ideas, Museum Central is your official cure for cabin fever. Our 2026 Winter/Museum Central Issue spotlights museums that turn “just one stop” into an all-day adventure—along with cozy winter day trips, quirky hidden gems, festive seasonal events, and a brand-new 2026 bucket list. From hands-on exhibits to history that actually holds attention, these experiences make winter travel easy, warm, and anything but boring. Whether you’re headed to the mountains, the coast, or a quick city escape, consider this your excuse to bundle up, hit the road, and rediscover how fun learning can be.
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
Beer, Bourbon, & BBQ Festival
March 14 | Wilmington, NC
North Carolina Azalea Festival
April 8 – 12 | Wilmington, NC
Dare A250: Life, Liberty, and Liftoff
April 18 | Kill Devil Hills, 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..
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Here’s to making your holidays as merry and bright as they can be.
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