One of a kind adventures in North Carolina

For the curious:
Look through the eyes of a scientist and examine their work at Raleigh’s state-of-the-art Nature Research Center. This additional 80,000 square-foot wing opened in April as part of North Carolina’s Museum of Natural Sciences. Inside the new wing, visitors will be immersed in interactive science and technology exhibits. You will have the opportunity to try science activities in the labs, explore the many research collections in the high-tech Naturalist Center or view the SECU Daily Planet, a state of the art, three story presentation space, to get a behind the scenes look at the latestscientific matters. http://naturalsciences.org

General admission is free and fun for everyone! Check out more of the must-see museums in North Carolina. www.visitnc.com/journeys/highlights/must-see-museums

For the adrenaline junkie:
If you’re seeking one of a kind adventure this summer, it’s time to grab your family and friends and head to the National Whitewater Centre. Located 10 minutes outside of Charlotte, you will set your eyes on the world’s largest man made whitewater river. With over 12 million gallons of treated water, you can test your endurance whitewater rafting in huge pumps, with more than 536,000 gallons of waves. The USNWC has 17 miles of trails that extend along the Catawba River and around small ponds and lake vistas; enjoy a walk, bike ride or hike. All ages and abilities are welcome on the trails. With over 15 special features, you and the family can experience a day filled with adventure including, kayaking, paddle boating, rock climbing, ziplining and much more. www.usnwc.org

For the film buff:
North Carolina was a favorite location for filmmakers as far back as the 1920s, even before the industry boomed in Hollywood. The long- established tradition of filmmaking in North Carolina is largely due to the state’s geographic diversity and natural beauty, as well as its four-season climate. More than 800 films and 15 television series have been filmed in the state including Nights in Rodanthe, Leatherheads, The Color Purple, Bull Durham, Days of Thunder, Nell, Dirty Dancing, Forrest Gump, A Walk to Remember, The Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood, Patch Adams, Last of the Mohicans, The Hunt for Red October, The Green Mile, and The Fugitive, in addition to television favourites such as Matlock, One Tree Hill and Dawson’s Creek. Adding to the roster this year was the much anticipated film, The Hunger Games. Explore DuPont State Recreational Forest with your "Mentor" to discover the locations used in the movie. Master fundamental survival skills like orienteering, camo-face painting, archery lessons and shelter building needed to excel in the Hunger Games. Day trips and weekend trips available. www.hungergamesfantours.com.

For the foodie:
Indulge in the freshest seafood, finest foods and decadent desserts served throughout the state. What better way to explore your taste buds and discover the charming towns by taking a walking tour. Tour downtown Wilmington and sign up for this summer’s top chef farmer’s market tour; led by chef-food writer, Liz Biro. www.lizbiro.com/tours.html

Not along the coast, no problem! Discover what Raleigh has to offer by touring all five downtown districts. On the tour, you will stop for discover hidden gems, sample tasting, sightseeing, and inside stories from local establishments. From classic southern cooking to chef inspired secrets, North Carolina is one state that you won’t leave hungry. www.trianglefoodtour.com/

Getting there:
Drive: Only 10-12 hours from Toronto, Ontario
Fly: Direct daily flights into Charlotte & Raleigh via Air Canada

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For questions or help planning your adventure vacation please contact 1-800-VISITNC or Get the new NC Travel Guide APP by visiting www.visitnc.com

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