Like so many spots in the North Carolina mountains, Blowing Rock shines in every season—though there is just something extra special about visiting in the fall. Crisp mountain air, colorful foliage, and cozy small-town charm make it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway. On a recent visit, I made a return stay at the…
travel guide
Local Love: 25+ Best Places to Photograph in North Carolina (Updated for 2026)
North Carolina is packed with photogenic spots, from coastal gardens to mountain overlooks, and here is my roundup of 25 of the best places to photograph in North Carolina. This guide has been updated for 2026 with current conditions, optimal times to visit, and a few insider tips for each location. This post was originally…
36 Best Vacation Spots in North Carolina (2026 Guide)
Being born and raised in North Carolina, I am so proud of all that our state has to offer its residents and visitors alike. There are so many amazing things to do across the state — with some of the best beaches, national parks, forests, mountains, and cities — it truly has something for every…
A Hillsborough NC Day Trip with Your Dog (Raleigh & Durham, You’re So Close)
If you have been sleeping on Hillsborough NC as a day trip destination, let this be your wake-up call — especially if you have a dog who deserves a Saturday adventure beyond a walk around the neighborhood. We spent a full day here with our dog Ruthie B, and I am telling you — this…
A Weekend at Tuxedo Falls: Waterfalls, Dogs, and the Art of Doing Nothing
Some weekends are packed with plans. This one was not — and that was exactly the point. David and I recently packed up our two dogs, Winston and Ruthie, and headed to Tuxedo Falls in Zirconia, NC for a long-overdue weekend of absolutely nothing. No packed itineraries. No obligations. Just mountains, fresh air, and two…
