By Sam Huntington

Fayetteville, North Carolina is a charming city located in the Southern center of the state. The town’s nickname is “The All-American City” and this is evident upon one look at the downtown. Although the downtown area of the city has a quaint, small town feel to it, Fayetteville is one of the largest cities in North Carolina. The city is named for a French Revolutionary war hero, LaFayette, and many of the homes in the downtown area were built during that era.

Fayetteville is rich with history from both the Revolutionary War as well as the Civil War. During the Civil War, General Sherman moved his troops there. The Battle of Monroe’s Crossroads, considered the last cavalry battle of the Civil War, took place not far from Fayetteville and today is an historical site.

Today the city maintains ties with the armed services as it is the home of Fort Bragg Army Post as well as the Pope Air Force Base.

There are many things to see and do when visiting. Hay Street in Downtown Fayetteville is rife with history. The cobblestone sidewalks reach to the Revolutionary War era buildings that line the street. There is some wonderful antique shopping in the Downtown that draws many visitors to this picturesque city each year.

Architecture throughout the city varies from the Revolutionary era buildings in the downtown area of the city to the pre Civil War homes that are located throughout the city. Anyone who enjoys historic architecture will find plenty to see in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

There are many other points of interest in Fayetteville. In addition to visiting Fort Bragg, many visitors embark on a hiking adventure on the Cape Fear River Trail. The city is located on the banks of the Cape Fear river, which was made famous in original and remake of the film, “Cape Fear.” The Cape Fear River trail takes you through the Cape Fear Botanical Gardens which are open to the pubic. Here you can wander beautiful nature trails that are filled with unusual plants as you progress through pine forest to the river banks. A narrow bridge stretches over the river that you can walk across and get some fabulous photos. A visit to the Cape Fear Botanical Gardens should be first on your list when visiting this charming city.

History buffs in particular will love Fayetteville, North Carolina as it is has many different museums and homes that are opened to the public. At the Museum of the Cape Fear you can see the natural history of the area through exhibits that feature artifacts relating to the Native American population, plantation and slavery, The Civil War and other natural history.

The 1897 Poe House is a Victorian residence that is open to the public and takes the visitor back in time to a bygone age. The Poe House has maintained the same furniture and other items that were used by the family during this period.

Arsenal Park is a four acre site that once produced the Fayetteville rifle that was used in the Civil War. Union forces destroyed this arsenal in 1865 towards the very end of the war. The North Carolina Museum of History contains thousands of artifacts and time line pieces that tell the history of North Carolina and also has special children’s sections.

There are hundreds of accommodations choices for visitors staying in Fayetteville, North Carolina. They range from luxury hotels to modest Bed and Breakfast establishments. No matter what your budget or needs, Fayetteville has the perfect accommodations to suit you during your trip to this beautiful city.

On top of everything else, you can also find some of the best restaurants in the Carolinas here. No matter what type of cuisine you prefer, Fayetteville has what you’re looking for. Because the city is relatively close to the Atlantic Ocean, you can expect to get delicious fresh seafood in most of the restaurants. The 316 Oyster Bar and Seafood Grill is located in the heart of the city and has delicious oysters and seafood served fresh daily.

Fayetteville, North Carolina is a charming place to visit. It has terrific food, wonderful accommodations, scenic parks and abundant history. One trip to this beautiful, North Carolina city and you will want to call Fayetteville “home.”

Sam Huntington lives in North Carolina and frequently writes about various North Carolina locales, particularly about all things Fayetteville NC. For more great Fayetteville information visit http://www.visitfayettevillenc.com

Andrew Regan is an online, freelance journalist.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Regan  

By Sam Huntington

Fayetteville, North Carolina has some of the best theater in the south. If you are a person who enjoys culture, you will find what you’re looking for.

In addition to fine art and symphonies, Fayetteville is home to some wonderful theater, all within the splendor of the south. No matter what your tastes, there is bound to be something to suit you in this charming, southern city.

The Cameo Theater is located on Hay Street, which is in the heart of downtown Fayetteville. The Cameo Theater is a 1920s house that has been restored to magnificence. Here you can view independent and foreign films in a pristine atmosphere second to none. The Cameo was recently recognized by the Sundance Film Festival where it was pictured in one of their publications. This charming theater is open every evening and the pictures change weekly. Anyone who enjoys independent or foreign film will love watching films in this beautiful building.

One of the most award winning live theaters in the area is the Cape Fear Regional Theater. The Cape Fear Regional is located on nearby Person Street in downtown Fayetteville, North Carolina and features dramas, comedies and musical productions. The Cape Fear Regional Theater has been entertaining audiences for over 40 years and often features some guest stage and screen stars. There even run children’s matinees.

Both the Cape Fear Regional Theater and the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra often host productions at Campbellton Landing, an amphitheater located on the nearby Cape Fear River. Here you can stroll along the beautiful river front before and after some of the finest productions in the area. Campbellton Landing has many productions throughout the year, ranging from classical music, live theater and jazz performances.

For improvisational comedy, check out Stage Door Theater located on Cambridge Street. Each Friday and Saturday evening, crowds enjoy the hilarious improv performances from the talented comedians at the Stage Door. In addition to the wonderful improvisational revues, there are also several comedy plays performed at Stage Door Theater each year. For wonderful comedy in Fayetteville, North Carolina, visit the Stage Door Theater.

One wonderful venue in Fayetteville is the Gilbert Theater. This is a non-profit house that promotes socially relevant theater and original plays written by local writers. You never know, you may be the first to discover new and exciting talent at the Gilbert in downtown Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Another place for great productions is the Methodist College Monarch Theater located on Ramsey Street. Here you can see some of the most popular productions in the area at a relatively low price for admission. Some of the most noted names in show business once performed at Methodist College Monarch Theater, including screen star Julianne Moore.

For African-American inspired live works, check out Fayetteville State University Theater. Here you can see one of the wonderful plays written by some of the best African-American playwrights in the country. Fayetteville State University Theater is located on Murchison Road and produces several fine plays a year.

For culture, art and fine theater, visit Fayetteville, North Carolina. Here you can experience some of the most culturally significant productions in a warm, southern environment.

Sam Huntington lives in North Carolina and frequently writes about various North Carolina locales, particularly about all things Fayetteville NC. For more great Fayetteville information visit http://www.visitfayettevillenc.com

by: Allison Woodward

Drop those snow boots, grab your golf clubs and forget about winter for a while at Ocean Ridge Plantation in Sunset Beach, N.C.

Unlike its northern neighbors, Sunset Beach boasts a mild climate year-round. The warm weather and pristine natural surroundings make Ocean Ridge Plantation the perfect destination for active golfers who don’t want to settle for just a few short months of golf at home.

Sunset Beach experienced no serious weather issues this summer and fall, leaving the courses in beautiful condition.

Ideally located between the history of Wilmington and the excitement of Myrtle Beach, Ocean Ridge Plantation boasts one of the most diverse golf experiences on the East Coast with its three “Big Cat” courses – Lion’s Paw, Panther’s Run and Tiger’s Eye. A fourth course, Leopard’s Chase, is in progress.

Lion’s Paw is an open, hilly 18-hole course that treats golfers to spectacular views of a creek valley and wetlands. It has been described as designer Willard C. Byrd’s finest work.

Panther’s Run, an 18-hole course carved out of rolling woodlands runs along several untouched natural wildlife habitats, and offers large multiple tee areas, giving golfers of all skill levels a fair shot at making par.

Tiger’s Eye, Ocean Ridge’s crown jewel, is a rare treat and one of the most highly praised courses along the East Coast. This upscale, daily-fee 18-hole golf course is distinguished by dramatic 60-foot elevation changes and a stunning combination of natural waste areas, native wild flowers, waterfalls, coquina boulders, and coastal marshland. Tiger’s eye is a thinking-person’s course, requiring precise shot making and a reliable short game.

Construction on Leopard’s Chase, Ocean Ridge’s next Big Cat course, is on schedule with completion slated for 2006. The par-71 course measures more than 7,000 yards and features stunning natural vistas and dramatic elevation changes. Course architect Tim Cate, who also did Tiger’s Eye, believes that Leopard’s Chase will turn out even better than Tiger’s Eye and that golfers will be lining up to sample the next great cat at Ocean Ridge.

And that’s quite a prediction. Tiger’s Eye is one of “America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses, 2003-2004,” says Golf Digest magazine. North Carolina magazine named it the “Most Scenic Golf Course” in coastal North Carolina, and the third most scenic course in the entire state.

In Golf Digest’s prestigious bi-annual golf “bible” Tiger’s Eye is rated at 4 1/2 stars, which makes it a “don’t miss” golf course. In addition, Tiger’s Eye — along with its sister courses Panther’s Run and Lion’s Paw — is on Golf For Women magazine’s “America’s “Top 100 Fairways” list.

Ocean Ridge also boasts high-quality shopping, service and dining. The Ocean Ridge Golf Shoppe was named one of America’s 100 Best Golf Shops for four consecutive years by Golf Shop Operations Magazine and Tiger’s Eye Golf Links’ store has been named to Golf World Business’ prestigious “America’s 100 Best Golf Shops” list.

The two clubhouses that overlook the golf courses offer a variety of dining options.

With the Canadian dollar at a 15-year high, now is the perfect time to visit Sunset Beach, N.C.

So forget the snow and come play in the sun with the Big Cats at Ocean Ridge Plantation in Sunset Beach, N.C.

About The Author
Allison Woodward, My background includes serving as an editor at Life Insurance Selling magazine in St. Louis, Mo., where I was responsible for writing, editing, selecting editorial material, managing the magazine’s Web site, and covering industry events. In addition, I have worked as an editor, reporter, and photographer for several newspapers in the St. Louis metropolitan area.

By Matthew Keegan

Summer brings with it warmth and high humidity. The season also offers the opportunity for heat weary folks to escape to the mountains or beaches for a well deserved rest. In North Carolina, there are several beach destinations worth visiting; nine top sites are featured here.

1. The Outer Banks — Perhaps the most well known of all the beaches in the Carolinas, the Outer Banks offers much history as well as attractive beaches. You can visit the spot where the Wright Brothers first took flight in Kill Devil Hills as well as the first European settlement on Roanoke Island.

2. Bald Head Island — Got feet? You’ll need them here as no cars are allowed on the island. You can use an electric golf cart to get around, however.

3. Atlantic Beach — Located on the eastern end of the Bogue Banks this resort is part of the Crystal Coast. Historic Fort Macon State Park is a popular nearby attraction.

4. Figure Eight Island — Got money? You’ll need it to visit this private, exclusive resort.

5. Oak Island — Located in Brunswick County, below Wilmington, Oak Island is one the few south facing beaches along the east coast. Lots of golf courses in the area including at least one champion course.

6. Sunset Beach — Just three miles in length, Sunset Beach is the southern most of the Brunswick Island beaches. The only link to the mainland is a one lane pontoon bridge. Wow!

7. Carolina Beach — Located between the Cape Fear River and the Atlantic Ocean, Carolina Beach features shopping, a boardwalk, a state aquarium, and the Carolina Beach State Park.

8. Topsail Beach — If beachfront high rise developments turn you off, then this is the place for you as strict zoning laws rule the land. During the 1700s pirates roamed the nearby waters. No word on whether Blackbeard’s treasure has ever been found.

9. Wrightsville Beach — This busy beach is frequented by Raleigh area residents as it is the closest beach to the state capitol. Still, out of state visitors find it to be a favorite resort.

From the Virginia border to South Carolina, North Carolina’s beaches offer visitors much more than sand and ocean breezes. Pick one of these destinations and you will truly have plenty of fun in the sun!

Matt is The Article Writer covering topics as diverse as aviation, business, customer service, food, marketing, travel, and writing. Please visit his site today for more information: http://www.thearticlewriter.com

By Jennifer Weiss

Sitting along the coast of North Carolina, Beaufort is an ideal place to get away from it all if your dream vacation entails plenty of sand and water with just a hint of intrigue and mystery. Not to be confused with its namesake in South Carolina, this oceanfront paradise is perfect for a long, relaxing weekend getaway or as a jumping point into the always popular Outer Banks. So pack your bags and get ready for some fun in the sun in coastal North Carolina.

Before diving into the multitude of water activities, an excellent way to get acquainted with the area is through a boat tour that takes you to the Cape Lookout National Seashore and other surrounding islands. The seashore is comprised of three underdeveloped islands, North Core Banks, South Core Banks and Shackleford Banks, that may appear secluded and sparse upon first glance, but which offer an array of historical and natural features that are ripe for exploration. Catch a glimpse of dolphins, wild ponies, and numerous birds aboard one of the many vessels that offer eco-tours out of Beaufort for a rewarding and memorable experience as you begin your Beaufort vacation.

Perfect for beginners or experts, a snorkeling or scuba diving adventure is a great way to view the spectacular marine life that exists off the coast. Whether you have been scuba diving for years or are trying to learn the basics, there are readily available companies that offer lessons and show you the best locations to explore. However, remember to book your water excursion in advance since it is a popular activity for visitors to the area.

No trip to the coast is complete without climbing aboard a fishing charter to reel in a big one. If are traveling with children and want them to experience offshore fishing, an excellent option is fishing in the inland waters off the crystal coast. Inland fishing means calmer waters, preventing the sea sickness that deters many individuals from venturing out to sea, so anyone who has ever desired to fish can try for trout, black sea bass, flounder, croakers, and many other varieties without worrying about queasiness. Of course, there are charters available that extend further offshore, and these are perfect for those who want to catch Spanish mackeral, king mackeral, dolphin, or bottom fish in the summer.

If you want to explore at your own leisure, consider a self-guided kayak tour that allows you to search those areas that interest you the most. If you are not comfortable blazing your own path, there are also tours available that are led by professional guides. After all your offshore activity, throw a towel in the sand and relax to the sounds of the waves creeping up the sand. There is plenty of sun to catch, and the water is perfect for wading when you need to cool off your increasingly warm skin.

Beaufort’s distinct history makes for some interesting, can’t-miss attractions that you will likely never forget. Throughout the 18th century, many pirates and captains built houses along the coast, settling themselves in cities like Beaufort. The legendary figure Blackbeard was one such figure, whose home, Hammock House, can be toured by visitors looking to hear terrifying tales of murderous pirates. Adding to Blackbeard’s lore, the ship that was destroyed in his final battle, Queen Anne’s Revenge, was discovered in 1996, prompting even more visitors to come for the historical intrigue of the area.

When planning your vacation to Beaufort, North Carolina, you will need to find accommodations that allow you to enjoy all the beauty and wonder this area has to offer. For convenience and amenities that you usually surrender when traveling to a far off destination, consider a Beaufort vacation rental for your next trip. You can stay along the shores of the ocean and relax as the waves crash into the beach while you drink your morning coffee on the porch. This is your time to truly escape from it all, so make the most of it by staying in accommodations that make it easy to forget all the stress you have left behind.

HomeAway.com has the most comprehensive selection of vacation rental homes on the Internet. For an alternative lodging option, consider Beaufort vacation rentals for your next trip to Coastal North Carolina.Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Weiss

By Caitlin Moore

Wandering the sandy shores of North Carolina’s Outer Banks are packs of magnificent wild mustangs, representing another time and place and embodying the ultimate symbol of freedom. A visit to this region will leave you feeling similarly unfettered, particularly if you decide to make Carova your final destination. The barrier islands are brimming with prime vacation spots, but none of them compare to the untouched, far-flung stretch of beach that exists just beyond reach of the otherwise overpopulated Outer Banks.

If you know this area at all, you’re familiar with Highway 12 and the vast number of towns, vacation homes, shops, and restaurants that line it all the way up the coast. If you’ve gone far enough north, to Corolla to be exact, then you know this highway comes to an end. Most people take this as a sign to stop and turn around, but a few savvy travelers know that to keep on going is to reach vacation heaven.

If you’re ready to switch over to four-wheel drive, then forge ahead and feast your eyes on several miles of gorgeous, untrammeled beaches, interesting woodsy terrain filled with obscure wildlife, and dozens of vacation rentals that seem to glow with the pride of existing on this honorable and close-to-hidden area of interest. The sounds of civilization will fade to nothing as you venture forward, so go as far as you need to go to truly leave all your cares and worries behind.

Setting yourself up in a vacation property, be it a king-sized mansion or a quaint cottage, will allow you to soak in the rarified atmosphere of this matchless location. You’ll realize that life next to the water really is best, and the hours will last forever as you stroll along the beach with one eye on the surf in case of dolphins, and one on the ground should a sand dollar make its presence known.

Back at the house, everyone will have plenty of room to unpack and unwind without the slightest hint of claustrophobia. Not that everyone will avoid each other; in fact the selection of games, the wide-open living room and kitchen, and the patio hot tub will bring everyone together for plenty of vacation bonding time. Spirits will soar and laughter will certainly fill the rooms of your temporary home away from home.

Imagine a stocked kitchen that will satisfy the diverse hungers and schedules of all your traveling companions. The upper deck will make you feel like you’re sailing on a voyage from the vantage point of a mighty ship, and at night the Milky Way will appear like you have never seen it before. Away from the lights of the cities and the bustle of the towns, it really will feel like you’re out to sea.

Swimming, surf-fishing, crabbing, and exploring the terrain will keep you as busy as you like. Catching up on your reading, eating, and napping will be just as tempting, however, so go ahead and enjoy yourself during these few precious days away from the drone and drain of everyday life. Stretch out in a beach chair or snuggle up on the couch, the whole point is to recharge your batteries.

The rest of the Outer Banks is of course still accessible. A few minutes’ drive will take you down to the major attractions that include shopping, touring the lighthouses, visiting the North Carolina Aquarium, and chartering a boat for some deep-sea fishing. Duck isn’t too far away, and is home to many fine restaurants and an eclectic array of shops. In spite of all this, you may end up sticking close to your newly discovered home sweet home, where you’ll have plenty of things to do that are of your own design. Create your own schedule (or ignore that you even know the meaning of the word) and do what you want; this is your hard-earned vacation.

The northern shores of the Outer Banks are calling out to you, so tune in to the song of the sea and don’t stop when the highway ends. When it comes time for your next trip, kick it up a gear and make your way to a destination unlike any other. Go online to reserve your Carova Vacation Rental, and prepare for an adventure in liberation.

HomeAway.com is the place to look when it comes to choosing the vacation rental that will ideally complement your next vacation.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Caitlin_Moore ]]> http://www.vacationrentals-nc.com/2006/10/28/discover-true-peace-in-a-carova-vacation-rental/feed/ 0 http://www.vacationrentals-nc.com/2006/10/15/vacationing-in-topsail-island-north-carolina/ http://www.vacationrentals-nc.com/2006/10/15/vacationing-in-topsail-island-north-carolina/#comments Mon, 16 Oct 2006 00:30:40 +0000 Christine http://www.vacationrentals-nc.com/?p=74

By Jennifer Weiss

Topsail Island is a 26-miles barrier island located off the coast of North Carolina approximately forty miles north of Wilmington. Consisting of three communities, North Topsail Beach, Surf City and Topsail Beach, this island is known for its thick forests, beautiful beaches, and an abundance of delicate turtles. A quiet, preserved place where nature is at its finest, Topsail Island is the ideal vacation destination to escape from it all and enjoy some of the finest surroundings in North Carolina.

North Topsail Beach is located in the northernmost part of the island and is generally considered the residential part of the beach. Since there are only two restaurants in this community, most visitors either make their way south to Surf City or back to the mainland town of Sneads Ferry for shopping and entertainment. However, the North Topsail Beach portion of the Topsail Island is the best place for fishing, so keep your eyes peeled from a prime on shore spot or for a charter company that can take you into these choice waters for a prized catch.

In addition to the amazing fishing, North Topsail Beach is also home to New River Inlet and Stump Sound, where you will find an abundance of cracked and broken trees, clams, oysters, and shrimp. For those seeking serenity and adventure, this is the best place to head for a calming atmosphere, beautiful surroundings, and various marine life. The best way to navigate through this area is via kayak or canoe, which will also give you easy access to the many passages that will take you to the sound and out to the ocean.

Situated on the center of the island and extending into the mainland, Surf City is the business center and commercial hub of the island. Here you will find numerous restaurants and shopping outlets to satisfy your hunger and your quest for the perfect souvenir to remember your vacation by. One restaurant that is an absolute must for any visitor to the island is Indigo Marsh, which offers a wide selection of fresh seafood, prime cuts, and freshly baked bread and pastries. Sitting on the Intracoastal Waterway, this casual fine dining restaurant offers elegance and ambiance after a long day soaking in the sun at Surf City’s beautiful beaches.

Maintaining and protecting the environment are of highest concern for those in Topsail Beach. This family-oriented beach community strives to preserve the beauty of the area for future visitors by prohibiting high rise buildings and conserving one of the best qualities of the town. The Topsail Turtle Project locates and monitors young loggerhead turtles until they can make their way out to sea, while the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle cares for and rehabilitates injured sea turtles until they are healthy enough to return to the ocean. There are turtle walks where visitors can learn how to protect turtles, and one of the highlights of any trip to Topsail Island is a visit to the Turtle Hospital, as it is affectionately called.

Staying on Topsail Island is an excellent choice if you want to surround yourself with unprecedented beauty that is not contaminated by the growth and development that plagues many great vacation destinations. Whichever part of the island you decide to stay in, you will find an abundance of Topsail Island vacation rentals that have all the amenities you need for an amazing and fulfilling adventure. Begin your search today for the perfect vacation rental in a secluded hideaway or near a pristine beach, and you certainly will not be disappointed.

HomeAway.com has the most comprehensive selection of vacation rental homes on the Internet. For an alternative lodging option, consider Topsail Island vacation rentals for your next trip to Coastal North Carolina.Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Weiss

By Mark Mayo

A new website makes its appearance on the Internet early this week, The Cottages at Kure Beach Resort, located on Pleasure Island in Kure Beach, North Carolina. The Cottages at Kure Beach Resort offers beautiful oceanfront accommodations just steps from pristine, white sandy beaches and warm crystal-clear blue waters.

The new website sports some pretty inviting photos that will make even a procrastinator get up and take a vacation. The owners state “Whether you are a water sport adventurer or a soul searcher looking for a quiet corner of the world to enjoy with your family, Pleasure Island offers what you are looking for in a calm, relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy sport fishing, surfing, ocean kayaking or simply hanging out on the beach building sand castles”, and as a long time visitor of Pleasure Island, I can vouch for that!

Guest have a choice of staying at one of 4 different themed Cottages, The Banana Cabana, The Prescription Pad, The Cosmopolitan, and finally, The Group Therapy Cottage. Each cottage can accommodate up to 12 guests comfortably. A gas fireplace, whirlpool tub, plasma television, washer/dryer, private elevators, and garage are just a few of the amenities provided. Enjoy white sandy beaches, ocean side pool, ocean side hot tub, ocean side balconies, and rentals of bicycles or beach buggies for transportation, local attractions, wonderful dining, and much more.

Visit the Kure Beach Oceanfront Vacation Rentals webSite for more details and consider The Cottages a Kure Beach Resort for your next vacation. Call 866-400-8889 to reserve your piece of paradise.

About the Author: Mark Mayo is a Internet Specialist for 601Media and a long time resident of the coastal North Carolina region.

by: Elizabeth Ann Wares

Nags Head has grown into a summer resort area and has some of the best beach recreation on the North Carolina Coast. The name of the town has many tales associated with it. The most popular is the story that pirates would tie lanterns to the necks of their horses or nags, and walk them on the beach at night. The ship captains, thinking this was a safe opportunity to rob the ships. This is a far cry from Nags Head’s attraction today. Once a remote area, Nags Head now has accomodations ranging from classic, old timey cottages to oceanfront vacation homes. Other options include cozy cottages, quaint bed and breakfasts, hotels and motels.

Whether you are single, a couple, or a family, the area is well suited for virtually any type of vacation plans. Nags Head has a reputation as a top notch recreational destination. Watersports and fishing related activities abound. Let’s not forget the world renowned Oregon Fishing Inlet. This area is home to some of the top world-class deep sea fishing. There’s always the poular amuesment parks with miniature golf, waterslides, and go-karts.

The world’s tallest sand dune on the east coast calls Nags Head it’s home. Jockey’s Ridge is approximately 100 feet tall. Feeling adventurous? Jockey’s Ridge is the ideal place to hang glide. Or if you want to chill out, you can walk the beach, watch the sunrise, or enjoy a breathtaking sunset, or just explore the numerous nature trails.

There’s tons of opportunities to pick up souveniers along the way. There are outlet stores, an indoor mall and many local specialty shops. No vacation would be complete without checking out the local restaurants. There are many locally owned restaurants as well as all of the national chain restaurants. The selection of food is excellent. From chicken fingers to filet mignon. Make sure to try the seafood, since much of it is locally caught, and therefore, extremely fresh!

Right down the road (from Nags Head) is the town of Kill Devil Hills. You can easily spend a good half day here, without seeing all the sights. This town became famous when the Wright Brothers made history when they flew the first airplane here in 1903. The Wright Brothers National Memorial is made of granite, rises 61 feet into the air and is the focal point of this town. A 314-acre national park honors this momentous event with a flight museum and an airstrip. Take one of the air tours of the Outer Banks. Its a spectacular, and exciting way to get a bird’s eye view of these islands.

The Visitor’s Center, is a gorgeous glass covered structure that showcases a replica of that simple canvas-covered 605-pound doubled-winged plane, which Orville Wright flew on that history-making day. Looking at it today, it’s hard to imagine that it could even get off the ground.

A popular attraction for kids and adults alike, is kite flying. One of the reasons the Wright Brtothers picked this area was because it is so windy. This makes for consistently soaring kite flying. The Park Service supplies simple box kites and 20 feet of string. It’s normal to see dozens of kids and adults (acting like kids) laughing and with huge smiles on their faces, with their own flying contraptions in a pleasant five mile an hour breeze. When you visit, be sure to make time for touring the various museum exhibits. You can even attend a ranger conducted program, take a tour of the reconstructed camp buildings and the first flight trail area, and climb up Kill Devil Hill to view the memorial pylon.

Located on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills offers residents and visitors alike, a unique and relaxing environment with plenty of fascinating, and fun things to see and do year-round.

About The Author
Elizabeth Ann Wares is an avid traveler and shares travel and vacation tips. She is the webmaster of Airfare X, a leading resource for discount airfare: http://www.airfarex.com

elizabeth@airfarex.com

By Harry Hoover

Rampaging Indians, yellow fever, pirates and drought would be enough to put most towns out of business. Bath – North Carolina’s first incorporated town – celebrates its tenacity in 2005, the town’s 300th anniversary.

Europeans settled on the banks of the Pamlico River in the 1690s, drawn by the access provided by the river and the proximity of the Atlantic Ocean, just 50 miles way. But Indians had lived here for centuries before these French Protestant colonists moved in from Virginia.

In 1701 John Lawson, surveyor general of the colony and author of the first history of Carolina, ended his epic 1,000-mile journey to survey the state on the banks of nearby Adams Creek. St. Thomas Parish set up the first public library in North Carolina that same year. Shortly thereafter, a community began to coalesce, and in 1705 the town was incorporated.

Lawson was among the first 13 purchasers of lots. By 1708, there were 12 homes and about 50 souls in the town of Bath. One of the residents was Christopher Gale, first chief justice of the colony.

Bath became North Carolina’s first port of entry, and thrived with trade in tobacco, furs and naval stores. A flourishing shipyard and gristmill added to the economic well-being. But prosperity did not keep Bath out of hot water.

1711 shaped up to be the kind of year that could have submerged Bath. Cary’s Rebellion, a revolt over religion and politics, immersed the town in an armed struggle between Quakers and Anglicans. So intent on fighting, the townspeople neglected their farming duties and the harvest suffered. A drought ensued, and then yellow fever hit the weakened community. The worst was yet to come.

For years colonists had overrun favorite hunting grounds and prime village sites of the local Tuscarora Indians. John Lawson had gotten word that the Indians were planning reprisals and went to talk with them. The Tuscarora killed Lawson and then attacked nearby New Bern, slaughtering 130 people in less than two hours. Survivors fled to Bath for protection. The fighting continued into 1715 until a peace treaty was signed between the combatants.

A time of peace and renewed prosperity followed, and then pirates appeared on the horizon. Edward Teach, better known as Blackbeard the Pirate, made Bath his home. The town boomed, thanks to pirate booty. Teach, who had been pardoned by resident Governor Charles Eden, was accepted in even the best homes of the town. But once a pirate, always a pirate. Blackbeard and his men went on one last rampage in 1718 before being hunted down and killed by the British Navy.

Over the next 50 years or so, Bath would remain at the center of the action. In 1776 a new town named Washington was built 15 miles up the Pamlico River and Bath’s power circled the drain.

The town’s diminished role saved it from Union occupation in the Civil War and has left it almost as it was in the 1700s. And that is good for visitors to this tough and picturesque town that time could not conquer.

North Carolina native Harry Hoover writes about his home state for a number of online and offline publications, including VisitNC, the North Carolina Tourism official website.Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Harry_Hoover