Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach, North Carolina is a small oceanfront town on the southern tip of the state. The area is home to several low-key attractions, including Orton Plantation, golf courses and, of course, the beach. It's a quiet place to relax for a few days. Bustling resort city Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is only 30 miles south of Sunset Beach, putting outlet shopping, a variety of restaurants and touristy activities such as mini-golf within easy reach. Staying at Sunset Beach can be fairly expensive during the peak summer months. However, from November through March, lodging prices for both hotels and condos are drastically reduced, making it a cheap and pleasant winter getaway.
Sunset Beach
Town Hall
700 Sunset Blvd. N.
Sunset Beach, NC 28468
910-579-6297
sunsetnc.com
Hanging Rock State Park
Hanging Rock State Park is about 50 miles northwest of Greensboro, North Carolina. Activities at the park include hiking, rock climbing, swimming, boating, fishing and picnicking. Camping is encouraged at the site and the fees are fairly inexpensive. As of 2010, it costs less than $20 per night to rent a campsite at the state park. If you want to spend a bit more, fully equipped cabins are also available for rent on the property. The cabins, which house up to six people, cost about $80 per night.
Hanging Rock State Park
1790 Hanging Rock Park Road
Danbury, NC 27016
336-593-8480
ncparks.gov/visit/parks/haro/main.php
Old Salem Museums & Gardens
Old Salem Museums & Gardens in Winston-Salem, North Carolina is a popular spot for day trippers. The attraction includes exhibits on the area's history, garden tours led by costumed staff members and the Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts. The Old Salem Toy Museum, also on the property, showcases a collection of toys dating from 225 A.D. to the 1920s. Retail stores sell handmade items and often offer hands-on craft demonstrations. Ticket packages, which include museum admissions and tours, are less than $25 per person as of early 2010, and discounts are available for AAA, AARP and American Association of Museums members. Children under 6 are free.
Old Salem Museums & Gardens
600 South Main St.
Winston-Salem, NC 27101
336-721-7300
oldsalem.org
