Seven out of 12 towns on this list of "off the beaten path" choices in N.C. were located in the Western region. Here's why.

Hiking along the Deep Creek Trail for views of waterfalls and wildlife. Examining marine life at the Appalachian Rivers Aquarium ... Hunting for antiques and souvenirs at Sutton & Sons Antique ...

Magnificent waterfalls, take-your-breath-away vistas, and glorious stretches of sandy beaches—Southern state parks are some ...

The first genetically engineered Christmas gifts have been given (and probably ... despite the power and might of the aquarium business. Furthermore, the lives of ornamental zebrafish—transgenic ...