Part of our North Carolina guide.
Seven places and guides from our North Carolina coverage, gathered into one page.
Related travel guides: Secrets North Cape In North Carolina, Hiking And The Outdoors In North Carolina, Secrets Of North Carolina's Coastal Climate Studies, Hidden Fishing Villages Of North Carolina's Core Sound, and Hidden Coastal Marshes Of North Carolina's Outer Banks.
How Long Is The Ferry Ride From Hatteras To Ocracoke?
The ferry ride from Hatteras to Ocracoke takes about one hour. The Hatteras-Ocracoke ferry connects Hatteras Island to Ocracoke Island across the Pamlico Sound. Hatteras Island is a barrier island in the Outer Banks, popular for its beaches and natural surroundings. Ocracoke Island is known for its history and relaxed character. The ferry operates year-round, with schedules varying by season, so check the current timetable before you travel.
How Long Is The Ferry Ride From Southport To Bald Head Isalnd
The ferry ride from Southport to Bald Head Island takes about 20 minutes. Southport is a coastal town in Brunswick County, North Carolina, with a working waterfront and a historic district. Bald Head Island is accessible only by ferry or private boat, and has no bridge connecting it to the mainland. The ferry departs from the Deep Point Marina in Southport and arrives at Bald Head Island's harbor. Once on the island, visitors get around by golf cart, bicycle, or on foot, as private cars are not allowed. The island offers beaches, maritime forests, and trails.
How Long Is The Ferry Ride To The Outer Banks
The ferry ride to the Outer Banks varies depending on your departure point, but the shortest regular car ferry to the Outer Banks takes about 45 minutes. Several ferry routes serve the Outer Banks, including the Hatteras-Ocracoke route, the Cedar Island-Ocracoke route, and the Swan Quarter-Ocracoke route. Each route has its own crossing time and schedule. The Cedar Island to Ocracoke crossing takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes, while the Swan Quarter to Ocracoke crossing takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes. These ferries are part of the North Carolina Ferry System and operate year-round, with more frequent sailings during the summer months.
Thrills Await At Whitewater Center's Olympic Training Ground
The Whitewater Center in Charlotte, North Carolina, is an outdoor adventure facility built around an Olympic-level whitewater river. It is the official U.S. Olympic team training site for whitewater slalom, and the center’s channels are fed by pumps that create Class II to Class IV rapids. Visitors can try whitewater rafting, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding, with lessons available for beginners. The center also has zip lines, a ropes course, mountain bike trails, and hiking paths. It hosts events, festivals, and live music throughout the year, and you can also find climbing walls, a free-fall jump, and flatwater kayaking. The center is open daily, and day passes cover most activities, while season passes are available for frequent visitors.
How Long Is The Ferry Ride From Fort Fisher To Southport, North Carolina?
The ferry ride from Fort Fisher to Southport, North Carolina, takes about 35 minutes. This route crosses the Cape Fear River and is a regular car ferry operated by the North Carolina Department of Transportation. The ferry departs from the Fort Fisher terminal, near the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher and the Fort Fisher State Historic Site. The Southport terminal is within walking distance of the town’s waterfront and shops. The ferry runs daily, with departures about every 45 minutes to an hour during the day. It offers views of the water and the surrounding coastal landscape.
All Aboard The Magic Of Wilmington's Model Trains
Wilmington, North Carolina, has a model train display in a restored building in the city’s historic district. It features multiple operating layouts with detailed miniature scenes. The trains run on a schedule, and the display includes a mix of vintage and modern engines. The model train room is open on weekends, and admission is by donation. It is a small but engaging stop for families, train enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a quiet indoor activity. The displays change periodically, so repeat visits can offer something new.
All Aboard For Fun At North Carolina's Train Museum
North Carolina’s Train Museum is located in Spencer, North Carolina, housed in a historic rail yard that once served as a major repair facility for the Southern Railway. The museum has a large collection of locomotives and rail cars, including steam engines, diesel engines, and passenger cars. Visitors can walk through the roundhouse, see the turntable, and board several of the restored cars. The museum also offers short train rides on select days, pulled by a vintage locomotive. The site includes a visitor center with exhibits on rail history, a gift shop, and a picnic area. It is open Tuesday through Saturday, and admission is charged for adults, with discounts for seniors, children, and families.
