North Carolina is a state filled with wonder. The state offers a wide range of travel destinations including gorgeous mountains, a cultural piedmont and beautiful sandy beaches. Many attractions are actually free. From skiing to sunbathing, North Carolina has something for everyone.

Biltmore is a magnificent 250 room home located in Asheville. While visiting the estate, you and your family can tour the home and gardens. If you want to explore the area, horseback riding, hiking and rafting are all options. Biltmore also has skeet shooting and golf. When it’s time to dine, consider visiting the Biltmore winery and fine restaurant. If you don’t wish to stay the night, consider visiting Thomas Wolfe’s Memorial or the North Carolina Arboretum. There are also spas and local tours in and around Asheville.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the highlights of the North Carolina mountains. The scenic route is beautiful in summer and fall. Numerous lookouts, country stores and cultural events straight off the parkway provide something for everyone. In addition to the Blue Ridge Parkway, consider visiting Grandfather Mountain, Hanging Rock and Blowing Rock. Linville Falls and Linville Caverns are two popular mountain destinations as well. After visiting Linville, consider staying and shopping in Boone.

The piedmont area of North Carolina is full of museums, parks, cultural events and shopping. The Natural Science Center in Greensboro has a small zoo and various science exhibits. Note that some exhibits vary throughout the year. Asheboro is home to the North Carolina Zoo. Both make excellent day trips and will run you approximately $10 per person. Old Salem in Winston-Salem is a set of museums dedicated to the history of the area. Winston-Salem also has a scenic historic area. Greensboro is also home of Emerald Pointe, a large water park that’s open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

For race fans, visit Charlotte’s Lowe’s Motor Speedway. Also visit the Richard Petty Racing Museum in Asheboro. The piedmont is also home to the triangle area. Visit the Raleigh-Durham area for plenty of fine dining. Raleigh is home to the Museum of Natural History and many other museums. Many of which are free.

North Carolina’s coast is full of scenic beaches, a busy nightlife and historic tours. The Outerbanks are home to North Carolina’s famous lighthouses such as Cape Hatteras, Ocrakoke and Bodie. While at the Outerbanks, visit the Wright Brother’s Museum to see where the Wright Brothers first took flight. Along North Carolina’s coast, visit Fort Fisher for history on the Civil War, one of the two aquariums, Kitty Hawk for hang gliding and the U.S.S. North Carolina. Also check for local ghost and historic tours. If you’re not in the mood for sight-seeing, spend the day on one of North Carolina’s many beaches either sunbathing or swimming.

North Carolina is full of destinations perfect for any family, couple or group of friends. From shopping to museums and beaches to mountains, there is plenty to keep everyone entertained. For more information on North Carolina destinations, visit VisitNC.com.