Find Winter Escapes in Unexpected NC Destinations

2020 has taken unexpected turns, to say the least. If there’s a bright spot on the flip side of normal, it might lie in the rewards of venturing off tried-and-true routes to discover less familiar North Carolina destinations. In the spirit of winter escape, here are four ideas for the road.

Oriental: Anyone questing for vast outdoor spaces can find boundless open air and open water in the sailing capital of North Carolina. Perched on the edge of the Neuse River as it meets the Pamlico Sound, this village of fewer than 900 residents treats travelers to quiet beauty and epic fishing for speckled trout. Sailing, paddling, birding and biking are other options, as is a visit to riverside Lou Mac Park to channel the magic of the Dancing Chairs. Dining and the New Village Brewery and Taproom offer opportunities for conversation with locals as well as food and drink. townoforiental.com

Halifax: Exit Interstate 95 for a history fix and unexpected outdoor experiences along the Roanoke River. Halifax celebrates the first colony-wide declaration of independence at a state historic site featuring restored buildings and an Underground Railroad Trail plus a mural that’s part of the Art of Napoleon Hill Tour. Allow time to explore a downtown newly enlivened by Hen & the Hog restaurant and other businesses. For quality time outdoors, head to Roanoke Rapids and the Roanoke Canal Museum and Trail, which extends to Weldon with views of transportation history, wildlife and the spectacular aqueduct bridging Chockoyotte Creek. Sylvan Heights Bird Park in Scotland Neck showcases the world’s largest collection of waterfowl on a COVID-19-conscious self-guided tour. www.visithalifax.com

Asheboro: With Nat Geo WILD’s new “Secrets of the Zoo: North Carolina” series, the N.C. Zoo commands attention for its farsighted practices and for the relative ease of social distancing. At 26,000 acres, it’s the world’s largest natural habitat zoo, and COVID-19 adjustments (timed entry, one-way traffic flow) are designed to limit close human encounters. Nearby, the trails of Uwharrie National Forest, a safety-minded Cider Adventure at Millstone Creek Orchards and the Kersey Valley Zip Line build out the menu of outdoor activities. Complete the trip with indoor attractions including the Richard Petty Museum, the N.C. Pottery Center and individual potteries. www.heartofnorthcarolina.com

Morganton: Grab a jacket for a visit to this small mountain city off Interstate 40, where wide-open spaces stretch out all around. Inside the city limits, Catawba Meadows Park features riverside greenway trails, a canopy tour, disc golf course and a Native American Village Interpretive Center. Lake James is home to a state park and the first leg of the Fonta Flora Trail, which will eventually extend to Asheville. For more challenging terrain, head to South Mountains State Park or the Linville Gorge Wilderness. In Hildebran, local history meets Hollywood at Henry River Mill Village, location for “Hunger Games” scenes. Leave time to check out downtown beer culture, starting at Fonta Flora Brewing.

Find your way to more winter escapes via VisitNC.com.

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