“Carolina in My Mind” by James Taylor is the unofficial anthem of North Carolina—and North Carolina is the perfect state to keep in mind when thinking about a second home!

Climate

It’s often cool in the mountains but the Atlantic Ocean keeps the coast from dipping below freezing very often in North Carolina. The Piedmont region of the state has hotter summers and colder winters.

Mountains, moonshine and moonlit beaches

The mountains of North Carolina offer stunning views and activities for the whole family. The adults might like to try some authentic moonshine or perhaps the whole gang would enjoy some time on spectacular beaches.

Culture

The history of North Carolina includes key battles of the Revolutionary War, and in the Smoky Mountains, the craftwork of Native Americans and early European settlers is still celebrated.

Winston-Salem

The culinary arts are of utmost importance in Winston-Salem—and that includes the “crafts and drafts” scene. The community is also proud of its African American heritage and is located near a number of colleges and universities, including Wake Forest.

Asheville

The legendary Biltmore—with its impressive collection of art–is just one of a number of jewels in the Blue Ridge Mountain town of Asheville. The Basilica of Saint Lawrence is another architectural treasure. Meanwhile, Asheville is well on its way to becoming a hotbed for music.

Charlotte

Known as “The Queen City,” Charlotte is a place to celebrate NASCAR royalty and to cheer for today’s racers, as well. Vibrant neighborhoods, including Uptown, NoDa, and South End, offer amenities and housing options for every taste. Experience urban living with easy access to the state’s natural wonders.

Raleigh

How good is the arts and culture scene in Raleigh? Good enough for the community to be known as the “Smithsonian of the South.” The city has also been identified as boasting one of the hottest food scenes in the country. And if you’re a sports fan, there’s some pretty good college basketball to be found, as well.

Arts, sports, natural wonders, history galore—whatever your interests, you can find them in North Carolina, and that means it might be just the spot for your second home.