North Carolina’s Spring Break Hot Spots
With spring break just around the corner, now is the perfect time to explore the wonderful vacation destinations of North Carolina. We at The Edge have chosen our favorite hot spots the state has to offer into three must-visit locations just a short drive from Elon. Live like a local this spring break and discover the beauty of North Carolina!
#1. Wilmington, N.C.
The town of Wilmington, North Carolina is known for its sparkling water, sandy beaches and cozy downtown by many across the country. Wilmington is just under three hours away from Elon, making it an easy spring break trip for students not looking to go too far. Just 15 minutes away from Wilmington’s city center is Wrightsville Beach, a four mile long beach with watersports and plenty of space for soaking in the sun!
Besides the beach, the charming city also has local coffee shops, botanical gardens and eclectic retail stores that sightseers can pop into to make their spring break experience even better. A must visit is the Wilmington Riverwalk, a two mile long boardwalk filled with coastal cuisine and locally owned shops open to visitors year-round who want to catch the sunset and eat tasty dishes!
#2) Asheville, N.C.
Let’s head back 3 hours West to one of North Carolina’s gems: Asheville. This mountain town is filled with music, culture, arts and outdoor attractions. From its bustling city center to the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville truly has something for everyone.
For our art lovers, we at The Edge recommend visiting the Upper River Arts District — now open again to tourists after rebuilding due to Hurricane Helene. The vibrant community is encouraging visitors to be part of their comeback by supporting its over 700 artists, galleries, record stores and more. The Grove Arcade in downtown also wonderfully captures the essence of the city with it being home to the Makers Market and artisan shops that are great places to find trinkets to take back with you.
For our outdoor adventurers, hiking to one of Asheville’s famous waterfalls is a must-do activity and the best way to stay cool while getting in touch with nature. Looking Glass Falls and Sliding Rock are two of our favorites in the Pisgah National Forest that you can't miss!
#3) Charlotte, N.C.
Ending with the state’s largest city just an hour and a half drive from Elon, we’re taking you to Charlotte. The Queen City is filled with anything and everything you could imagine from art museums to concerts and nightlife — Charlotte does it all!
Uptown Charlotte has some of the best food and nightlife in the state. Before catching a show at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center, visit one the many breathtaking rooftops to grab a drink, a quick bite and take in the views of the city. During the day you can visit Carowinds if you’re an amusement park lover and ride the Copperhead Strike or Fury 325 for a thrill. Sports fanatics can catch a Hornets game at the Spectrum Center, The Checkers at Bojangles Coliseum or Charlotte FC at Bank of America Stadium.
There’s something for everyone in the QC!
If you explore any of these North Carolina hot spots, make sure to tag us @theedgemag on Instagram so we can experience the spring break fun with you!