This North Carolina Town Made HGTV List For Most Charming Towns In America
Having lived in the Carolinas for nearly 20 years now, I know firsthand how charming many spots can be. And, it seems HGTV agrees. Ocracoke Island, North Carolina made the…
Having lived in the Carolinas for nearly 20 years now, I know firsthand how charming many spots can be. And, it seems HGTV agrees. Ocracoke Island, North Carolina made the HGTV list of the most charming towns in America. Some often refer to them as "hidden gems." However, with publicity like this, they won't stay hidden for long.
So, HGTV put together their 50 Most Charming Small Towns in America. And, I quickly scanned the article to see what might land there. First of all, I am not entirely sure what if any scientific analysis took place to create this list. Or, maybe it was just an opinion from research and travel. Nonetheless, the North Carolina spot on the list of the most charming town is Ocracoke Island.
According to the HGTV list, residents refer to this serene spot as "the cure for the common beach." They highlight many attributes of Ocracoke Island, including a collection of popular shops and restaurants. And, when Halloween approaches the ghost walk or a visit to Portsmouth Island's ghost village is perfect. Plus, it's home to the oldest light station still operating in the region.
Exploring more about Ocracoke Island, North Carolina, visitocracokenc.com points out that a trip to the area is about "getting back to nature, soaking up our unique culture. And savoring the local cuisine." The site points out that Ocracoke Island, North Carolina is for those who appreciate uncrowded and undeveloped miles of pristine beaches. They even offer up the advice that visitors need to be flexible and ready to chillax.
And, in scoping out the hot spots for grub it looks as if you won't go hungry during your stay. There are more than enough restaurants and breweries as well as food trucks. And, if you need groceries, or fresh seafood markets, Ocracoke Island, North Carolina has that too. Learn more and see HGTV's full list of 50 Most Charming Small Towns in America.
North Carolina Has One of the Best Winter Getaways in the U.S.
It's never too early to start planning an exciting winter getaway, especially since the most popular winter vacation spots get booked up quickly. The good news, though, is that most people take vacations in the summer, so traveling in the winter can be a bit more relaxing. You are also able to usually find better travel rates during the winter season, except during the holidays. If you don't have to travel during the holidays, just don't, because it's a mess. So, what are the best winter getaways in the U.S.? North Carolina has one of them.
I've researched some of the most popular winter vacation destinations in hopes of finding the perfect spot. The following list includes not just sunny, warm getaways, but also some areas that people who love snow can enjoy. Honestly, many people who live in a warm climate like to flock to a snowy location for a bit during the winter to get that seasonal experience, even if that seems counter intuitive. Of course, those who live in the northern parts of America love to go to a warm spot and get away from their daily lives filled with snow and ice.
I'm a Michigan girl, so I'm very familiar with the cold and ice in the winter. Not that I like it. Each year, I say I'm going to escape, even if it's just for a few days, to a warmer location. But, I never do. Maybe this year will be different. Looking at vacation rates, it's fairly easy to find some good deals, again, if it's not during the holiday travel season. Read on for some of the bets winter getaways in the U.S., based on my research. What's your favorite winter vacation spot? Reach out to me on social media here and let me know. Have a fantastic winter, and stay warm.
Best Winter Getaways in the U.S.
5. Savannah, Georgia
If you're looking for a mild getaway, Savannah, Georgia, is a great choice. It's pretty mild in the winter, so not too cold or too hot. The Historic District is a popular winter vacation spot, too.
4. Asheville, North Carolina
The beautiful area of Asheville, North Carolina, has plenty of gorgeous snowfall, and it's less dangerous than many other areas with snowfall. Lately, Asheville has one up in population, but it's still a popular tourist destination. One choice spot is the French Broad River, with lots of winter activities, breweries and restaurants.
3. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
If you want to enjoy a winter vacation and learn about history, Philadelphia is a great vacation spot. Sure, it's won't be like sunny Florida. But, Philly has lots of great museums and historical spots to enjoy indoors, while staying toasty.
2. Traverse City, Michigan
I know what you're thinking. Why go to Michigan in the winter? Well, if you love snow, then it's worth the trip. Traverse City, Michigan, is a quaint town, but it's big enough to have lots of things to do and places to stay. It's also cold in the winter but not as cold as, say the Dakotas.
1. Key West, Florida
If you want to get away from the snow and ice, go to Key West, Florida. It's considered one of the finest tropical spots in the U.S. during the winter months. Soak up the sun and have a margarita, because why not?
