Southeast Excursions

If ever a historic site deserved a 'banner' headline, it would be a museum in picturesque Banner Elk.

The roar of cannon and musket fire was heard again last month when the 150th anniversary of the siege of Fort Macon was commemorated with a variety of Civil War-related events.

A large new exhibit at the S.C. Aquarium in Charleston lets you see the island wildlife and clues you into the need for conservation.

In 1957, the Kingston Trio lent their voices to an old folk tune, turning “Hang Down Your Head, Tom Dooley” into a chart topper. The song is still popular, but many may not realize is that the subject of the song lived in North Carolina, and that the crime for which he was found guilty – the murder of sweetheart Laura Foster – took place around the Elkville/Ferguson community in Wilkes County. Interested in the story behind the song? Spend a few hours on N.C. 268 between Lenoir and Wilkesboro – designated an N.C. Scenic Byway – and make some stops along the informal Tom Dooley “trail.”

From Charlotte, depending on which way you drive, Myrtle Beach is about 175 miles (3 hours 45 minutes), one way.

Fayetteville calls itself “historic” and – and this city really is. A full weekend is needed to explore all the history-related attractions Fayetteville has to offer.

Of the four national forests in North Carolina, Croatan is the only one located along the coast and is the only true coastal forest east of the Mississippi.

South Carolina has its own 'ace in the hole' at Edisto Beach State Park, near the confluence of three rivers.

The Andy Griffith Museum in Mount Airy showcases all manner of memorabilia from the actor’s long stage, screen and TV career.

Just getting to this wildlife wonderland in the northeast corner of North Carolina is a minor adventure.