With its lush forests, rolling hills, miles of coastline, and picturesque islands, North Carolina is a great place to live in the South. Even if you’ve lived in the state for years, there’s always something you should know about North Carolina. So, what is North Carolina known for?
At Redfin, we’re here to tell you all about the Tar Heel State, and how it got its nickname. whatever you are looking for Rent an apartment in Charlotte or Buying a House in Fayettevilleread on to learn what North Carolina is known for.
Thriving economy and job opportunities
North Carolina is known for its wide range of industries, some of the major industries being banking, biotechnology, and manufacturing. Other major industries include aerospace, furniture manufacturing and textiles. Major companies contributing to the state’s economy include Bank of America, Biogen and Duke Energy.
Top Five Employers in North Carolina
- WakeMed Health & Hospitals
- FuGuo bank
- Bank of America
- Duke University and Health System
- North Carolina State University
historical tourist attractions
- Blue Ridge Parkway: Winding through the mountains of Western North Carolina, you’ll find stunning vistas, scenic views, and access to outdoor recreational activities like hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. Fall is especially popular when the mountains are painted brilliant reds, oranges and golds.
- Biltmore Estate: The largest private residence in the United States is a masterpiece of Gilded Age architecture. Nestled in the rolling mountains of Asheville, you can tour the gorgeous mansion, stroll the formal gardens, and taste the wine produced on the estate.
- The Bund: The area is a series of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina known for its pristine beaches, historic lighthouses and abundant outdoor activities. From surfing and kitesurfing to fishing and bird watching, the Outer Banks offer endless opportunities for seaside adventure and relaxation.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Located on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, this UNESCO World Heritage National Park is the most visited national park in the United States. You can explore its vast wilderness through hiking trails, scenic drives and wildlife-viewing excursions.
- Charlotte: This vibrant city is known for its vibrant arts scene, diverse cuisine and NASCAR heritage. Home to attractions like the Mint Museum and the New South Levine Museum, you can also catch a show at the Blumenthal Center for the Performing Arts or sample craft beers at a local brewery.
Highly acclaimed local cuisine
North Carolina’s culinary identity is deeply rooted in Southern traditions, with barbecue being the state’s most popular dish. Whether it’s Eastern-style whole hog or Lexington-style pork shoulder, North Carolina barbecue is slow-cooked to perfection and served with a tangy vinegar sauce. The state also loves fried chicken, pimento cheese, and classic Southern favorites like collard greens and quesadillas.
Top North Carolina restaurants
Arts scene and concert venues
North Carolina’s heritage is shaped by its native roots, colonial history and communities. Cities like Asheville and Durham are creative hubs with vibrant arts scenes and cultural events. There are many arts institutions across the state, such as North Carolina Museum of Art In Raleigh, Reynolda House Museum of American Art in Durham, and Mint Museum In Charlotte.
Five great places to catch a show in North Carolina
Interesting facts: North Carolina is home to the oldest state university in the United States, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, founded in 1789.
landscape scope
North Carolina is home to a diverse range of natural landscapes, from the towering peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the west to the pristine barrier islands of the Outer Banks on the east coast. The state is also home to the picturesque Great Smoky Mountains, with lush forests, cascading waterfalls and abundant wildlife.
North Carolina National and State Parks
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Situated on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains are the most visited national park in the United States and are known for their biodiversity, hiking trails and scenic drives.
- Jockey Ridge State Park: Jockey’s Ridge is located on the Outer Banks and has the highest sand dunes on the East Coast. The area offers opportunities for hang gliding, kite flying and sunset viewing.
- Mount Mitchell State Park: Home to the highest peak east of the Mississippi River, Mount Mitchell offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Umstead State Park: Umstead, located near Raleigh, offers hiking, fishing, picnicking and wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Stone Mountain State Park: Known for its massive granite domes, Stone Mountain is an ideal place for hiking, rock climbing, fishing and camping in the scenic foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
professional and collegiate sports teams
- Carolina Panthers (NFL)
- Charlotte Hornets (NBA)
- Carolina Hurricanes(NHL)
- Duke Blue Devils (plays an NCAA Division I sport)
- University of North Carolina Tar Heels (compete in NCAA Division I sports)
Popular phrases for North Carolina
In North Carolina, you’ll find many local expressions that reflect the state’s rich history and Southern charm.
- “Pig Picking” It is a traditional barbecue feast.
- “there,” It’s a way of describing something far away.
- “Fix it”, It’s when you want to do something.
- “Sweet tea,” It is a popular summer drink.
- “ACC Basketball” Refers to the competition and excitement of college game day.
- “The Lost Colony” The history of Roanoke and the enduring legend of Blackbeard’s coastal pirate adventures.
More things North Carolina is famous for
- Tar Heel Status: North Carolina’s nickname, the “Tar Heel State,” comes from its colonial past. The state produces tar, pitch, and turpentine from its vast pine forests. This phrase came to represent the tenacity of soldiers during the Civil War.
- Research Triangle Park: Research Triangle Park is a hub of innovation and research in the heart of North Carolina’s booming technology industry. It is home to many high-tech companies, research institutes and start-ups.
- BBQ City: North Carolina takes barbecue very seriously and has a distinct regional style. From vinegar sauces in the East to tomato sauces in the West, barbecue fans can find plenty of options.
- College Basketball: There are legendary rivalries between universities like Duke, UNC and NC State, and college basketball is North Carolina’s favorite pastime.
