Raleigh is the perfect jumping-off point for destinations from the mountains to the sea — and beyond!
by WALTER staff
With Raleigh so centrally located here in North Carolina, its residents have endless options to plan easy weekend trips. West to the Blue Ridge Mountains or east towards the Crystal Coast? An easy car drive. And even within the Piedmont, there are options to break out of city life to hike a trail or sip wine at a vineyard. Read on for four ideas to consider as you look to plan spring and summer vacations.
WALTER’s Get Out & Explore! section is made possible through sponsors from our local business community.
Beaufort Historic Site
Where the off season is on
Winter months are traditionally the off-season in Beaufort, NC — but this charming port is a popular year-round destination for history, arts and community events. This time of year, the Beaufort Historic Site, MKD Art Gallery, Gift Shop and Welcome Center are open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Guided Historic Site tours run twice daily, providing entrance to six restored historic structures.
The two acres of grounds and gardens in the heart of the historic district also stay active as a community center for locals and visitors alike. This year, the Beaufort Historic Site will present the town’s annual Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball for the first time, drawing inspiration from the 18th century featuring a red, white and blue theme in honor of America’s 250th birthday. It’s the spirit of 1776, Carnival of Venice and New Orleans Mardi Gras rolled into one. The weekend of revelry kicks off Friday evening, Feb. 20 at 7 p.m. See you there!
BEAUFORT HISTORIC SITE
130 Turner Street Beaufort, NC 28516
252-728-5225 | beauforthistoricsite.org
Elkin
Outdoor Adventures in Wine Country
Nestled in the heart of North Carolina’s foothills and Yadkin Valley wine country, the town of Elkin offers a charming blend of outdoor adventure pursuits, quaint downtown shopping, weekly live music and eclectic eateries and watering holes. Elkin is a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting an extensive network of picturesque trails that wind through lush forests and alongside the serene Yadkin River. The town is the base camp for the Carter Falls Trail and the Grassy Creek Forest Bathing Trail, the site of the beautiful, one-of-a-kind “Dam Mural.” Hikers and bikers can explore the scenic Elkin and Alleghany Rail Trails, while those seeking more chal- lenging and longer treks can venture into Stone Mountain State Park.
In addition to its natural allure, Elkin’s location in the heart of the Yadkin Valley AVA — surrounded by nearly 50 vineyards — makes it a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts. Visitors can embark on the Surry Wine Trail or many other themed culinary trails, festivals and events focused on the art of making wine. With its harmonious blend of outdoor recreation, small-town charm and viticultural delights, Elkin offers a unique escape for anyone seeking a relaxing, multi-activity long weekend.
TOWN OF ELKIN
226 N. Bridge Street Elkin, NC 28621
336-258-8900 | exploreelkin.com
Great Outdoor Provision Co.’s Fly Fishing Tour
Inspiration to Spark Your Next Adventure
Great Outdoor Provision Co.’s annual Fly Fishing Film Tour returns with a selection of movies to inspire folks to pursue outdoor adventure. Fly fishing is more than a sport: it’s a pathway to connection. The films highlight how time spent on the water deepens our relationship with our local ecosystems and a community of anglers with a respect for wild places. Experience these stories on the big screen at The Rialto Theater on Feb. 26 — and leave inspired to cast your own line.
Hosting this international film tour speaks to GOPC’s philosophy: Explore Global, Shop Local. Wherever you may be inspired to venture for a fly fishing excursion, you can find everything you need close to home. GOPC experts can teach you the skills you need at Fly Fishing or Fly Tying classes or outfit you with thoughtfully curated gear to enhance your experience on the water.
VILLAGE DISTRICT
2017 Cameron Street Raleigh, NC 27605
919-833-1741 | GreatOutdoorProvision.com
Wilkes County
A Hidden Gem in the Blue Ridge Mountains
In the scenic foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Wilkes County, NC, is a hidden gem offering a perfect escape for adventure seekers, food lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Just a short drive from Raleigh, the Great State of Wilkes boasts breathtaking landscapes, rich heritage and warm Southern hospitality. Outdoor enthusiasts will find their paradise with miles of trails at Stone Mountain State Park and the pristine waters of W. Kerr Scott Reservoir, ideal for kaya- king, fishing and paddleboarding. For a more leisurely pace, explore charming downtown Wilkesboro and North Wilkesboro, where local shops, art galleries and cozy cafés invite you to unwind.
Wine lovers can sip and savor along the renowned Yadkin Valley Wine Trail, featuring award-winning vineyards like Raffaldini and Piccione. Music lovers won’t want to miss our legendary bluegrass roots, celebrated annually at MerleFest. Whether you’re seeking a weekend of outdoor adventure, cultural enrichment or simply a scenic getaway, Wilkes County offers something for everyone. Experience the heart of North Carolina’s High Country — we’re on the way up! Visit us at wilkescountytourism.com to plan your escape today!
GREAT STATE OF WILKES, NC
203 W. Main Street Wilkesboro, NC 28697
tsalley@wilkesboronc.org | 336-838-3951
wilkesboronc.org
This article originally appeared in the February 2026 issue of WALTER magazine.
