I’m wrapping up my article reviewing and reflecting on 2023 with my absolute favorite one to write. This post highlights the best part of my year, which is getting to travel and experience new places. It is such an honor to be able to share the trips that I take, whether with David, friends, or a solo trip and have you trust my recommendations and experiences. While I mentioned it last week, I do not take that lightly and genuinely appreciate the support for this work.
I am still working my way through visiting all 100 counties in North Carolina, with trips planned already for 2024 to continue working towards this goal starting this weekend! 2023 was heavy on the North Carolina road trips, though we spent a little time in Washington, D.C. for David’s birthday and made a trip back to New York City for the holidays. So, grab a blanket and a cup of coffee and check out these travel guides, which hopefully will give you some inspiration for your own travel in 2024.
For more on my 100-county tour, follow this page for the most up-to-date guides. For previous travel adventures, check out this page.
2023 Review: Our Year in Travel
Albemarle, NC
My first trip of 2023 was a day trip down to Albemarle, NC in Stanly County. It is a charming town right outside of Charlotte and about 2.5 hours from Raleigh. We really enjoyed dining at Off the Square for lunch and exploring the downtown area. In the summer, they have a wooden bat league baseball team.
Black Mountain, NC
I cannot express my love of Black Mountain enough, y’all. It is the coolest, hippest little mountain town with a whole lot to offer! We lucked up on a beautiful, early spring weekend and we were delighted with our experience.
Hendersonville, NC
We thoroughly enjoyed our long weekend in Hendersonville! There is quite a bit to do, including beautiful hikes to waterfalls, and delicious restaurants. The downtown is lovely and walkable.
Winston-Salem, NC
It’s no secret that I adore Winston-Salem and I was delighted to spend so much time there in 2023. I made a special trip in August to visit The Powder Room and I am so glad I did! It is absolutely spectacular and a spot you should add to your 2024 list.
Greensboro, NC
David and I took a weekend trip to Greensboro and had the absolute best time exploring! I had never been to the Greensboro Science Center and we both cannot recommend it enough.
Fearrington Village, Pittsboro, NC
One of my favorite spots close to Raleigh is Fearrington Village! It’s the perfect spot for a little staycation or even a day trip to shop, relax, and dine.
Manteo, NC
It had been quite a while since I had visited Manteo and I thoroughly enjoyed popping down on our way to Ocracoke. I think moving forward, we will visit later in the week when more restaurants and shops are open.
Mt. Airy, Pilot Mountain, Elkin, NC
Glory and I spent a weekend in Surry County trying out sonkers, ground steak sandwiches, a new winery, and checking out three delightful towns! I love this spot for a weekend trip that feels like you’re a bit further away than you actually are!
Washington, D.C.
For David’s birthday, we flew up to D.C. for a quick weekend to catch a Bills game. It was a rainy, cold weekend so exploring was a little bit more difficult than we had hoped. However, we loved calling Kimpton Hotel George home!
Burnsville, NC
I cannot stop singing the praises of this welcoming mountain town! I absolutely adore Burnsville and I am looking forward to making a return trip once the NuWray Hotel renovations are completed.
Southern Pines, Carthage, Cameron, Pinehurst, NC
I had the most wonderful girls’ weekend in Southern Pines, Carthage, Cameron, and Pinehurst. We called Southern Pines home base while exploring Moore County!
Benson, NC
Benson is about 25 minutes from our home and I thoroughly enjoyed popping down to spend a morning grabbing coffee, shopping, and checking out the local history museum.
New York City, NY
We ended our year with a trip to our very favorite spot. New York is always a good idea regardless of the time of year, though there is something magical during the holidays.
I’m looking forward to another year of adventures and travel and sharing this with y’all on here!
