Visiting North Carolina Coast

North Carolina from the Smoky Mountains in the West, to the Outer Banks and Beaches of the Atlantic Coast is a travelers delight. Named in 1953, Cape Hatteras, along the North Coast, is the first recognized US National Seashore.  The North Carolina coast is home to ten lighthouses, the most famous being the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse built in 1870. The ocean area around the Outer Banks, is known as the graveyard of the Atlantic because of the 600 plus shipwrecks in its history. North Carolina is where cold currents from the north meet the warm southern currents, forming the dangerous Diamond Shoals area.

Wilmington and Carolina Beach in Southern North Carolina, draw visitors to the acclaimed “Golf Coast” with more than 35 championship gold courses, outstanding windsurfing, scuba diving and beaches. When you are in Wilmington don't miss the Saturday Riverfront Farmer's Market. The 2010 Market runs through mid-December providing the best local products directly to consumers. Showcasing local growers, producers, artisans and crafters, come support local business and enjoy fresh produce and products. The market is held in Riverfront park in downtown Wilmington along the Cape Fear River.

Music lovers check out the Southern Coastal Bluegrass Festival mid-September. In addition to great bluegrass and bluegrass gospel music, sample the best local cuisine, enjoy clogging performances and square dancing. Kids will love the arts and crafts and storytelling among the fun activities.

Travelers can enjoy a getaway in Wilmington at the Best Western Coastline Inn in Wilmington or the Best Western Westgate Inn & Suites in Leland. Take your pick of a view of the Cape Fear River or the convenience of a location on Highway 17 and enjoy some time away from home. With affordable rates and comfortable accommodations – Best Western is a great choice.

North Carolina's Piedmont region, the central area has the most urban and populous cities in the state. Raleigh the state capital is part of the Triangle metropolitan area along with Durham and Chapel Hill. Raleigh hosts the 2010 North Carolina State Fair starting mid-October. With exceptional headliners like Chris Young, Jeffery Osborne and Gloriana, there will be plenty of entertainment for everyone. Kids will love Kiddieland Fun Park along with the midway rides and games -  the nightly fireworks are spectacular for the whole family.

The Best Western Cary Inn and Extended Stay is less than five miles from the fairgrounds. Enjoy all the State Fair attractions with your favorite concerts and relax for the night at the Best Western. The Best Western Edison Inn in Garner is also convenient. Want to stay closer to downtown? Check out the Best Western Raleigh North just off I-440 or the Best Western Raleigh Inn and Suites near the Time Warner Pavilion.