“The Biltmore Estate is the largest private residence in the United States. It boasts acres of beautiful gardens, a winery, and endless places to explore. This is a must-see and makes for a great half-day trip. The Biltmore is located in Asheville, just over an hour from Sapphire. ”

“ALL NEW IN 2019! Marvel at the new parade floats, catch Santa’s high-flying entrance and help the Snow Angel fill the town with Holiday cheer! ”

“Get your hike on or take in these breathtaking views. Hiking is open all year round. Check out Cades Cove while you're here as well!”

“Discover aquatic wildlife at the incredible Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Touch stingrays, see live shows, and immerse yourself in the world under the sea. *Located 20 miles south of Wilmington”

“The North Carolina Museum of Art has more than a dozen galleries holding works from around the world and a variety of art types. Originally starting with 139 works from Europe and America, the museum has grown to include African, Egyptian and Jewish works of art while also expanding European and ancient American holdings. With 30 added Rodin sculptures, the NCMA leads the holdings of this artist’s work in the southeastern United States. Other galleries hold everything from Renaissance paintings to contemporary photography. Exhibitions also run at the museum for several months at a time for guests to visit. Outside the museum is the 164-acre Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park, recently expanded and featuring monumental public art installations inspired by the natural world and preservation of landscapes, including the Gyre rings, Cloud Chamber for the Trees and Sky and Askew, as well as several recreational activities, picnic spots, and wooded trails. Tours are given daily if you or a group would like to learn more about the collections. When it’s time for lunch, you can stop by the Iris restaurant located inside the museum, specializing in contemporary American cuisine in a modern setting. (Also open for dinner! Order from items such as the Iris Burger, Seared Scallops with Red Curry Lemongrass Broth, Seafood Burrito and more.) For those interested in researching art periods or artists, the Art Reference Library holds over 40,000 volumes of books and available catalogs and databases. Kids to seniors can enjoy the many programs occurring throughout the year, including classes, concerts, films, camps, and workshops. Before you leave, head by the Museum Store, where items based on the museum’s collections and exhibits are available to purchase, perfect as souvenirs or gifts for family and friends. Admission is free, while some fees are given for specific programs, exhibitions, and large tours. Hours: Tues.-Thurs., 10am-5pm; Fri., 10am-9pm; Sat.-Sun., 10am-5pm; Mon., closed.”

“There are so many shops you could spend the day here! Great buys of name brand items. Fall and Christmas time can be busy so go early to get parking. Shops such as North Face, Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Brighton, Under Armour, and so many more!”

“Some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world are just around the corner. This day trip is an easy walk to many jaw dropping falls. ”

“Skate on an ice trail or free skate on 17,000 sq. ft of ice. Located in the Upper Pond of the Whitewater Center, the skating environment features three distinct programming areas and an on-ice Airstream serving hot and cold beverages.”

“It’s an incredible Aquarium like none you have seen! The glass tunnels allow you to see animals from underneath and around you. ”

“74,000-seat football stadium, home of the NFL's Carolina Panthers & host of college teams.”

“The gingerbread house display is fantastic during the Christmas season. It doesn't cost a thing but it may cost you to park your vehicle.”

“Stroll across Greenville’s iconic, suspension bridge, picnic by the river and let your kids cool off at the city’s only splash pad. You can also turn your visit into a scavenger hunt if you look for the butterflies from the Butterfly Keeper Project. Iconic suspension bridge of Greenville, paved walking trail, bench swings, picnic tables, splash pad Sunny and shady areas Restrooms Street-side parking or city parking garage”

“Carowinds is an amusement park that straddles the North Carolina-South Carolina state line, just off I-77, south of Charlotte. It's about an hour from The Lake House, and great family fun.”

“Large amusement park with rides, shows, and shopping. Fun for the whole family. The theme park has something for everyone and is a great place to spend the day. ”