What to do in NC in the fall: A list of award-winning experiences, from orchard to cideries

Stories by News & Observer journalists, with AI summarization

Updated November 6, 2024 4:33 PM

At least 10 apple orchards within three to four hours’ drive of Raleigh offer pick-your-own options this fall. Most N.C. apples are harvested from mid-August to late October. N.C. State University Cooperative Extension

North Carolina’s fall experiences have gained national recognition among readers choice awards, capturing the essence of the season through apple orchards, cideries, corn mazes, breweries, fishing lodges, camping spots and more travel destinations.

James Creek Cider House was ranked among the top cideries in the country, noted for its vast variety of apples and natural fermentation processes. In the realm of apple picking, Sky Top Orchard earned accolades for its picturesque settings and family-friendly activities.

Additionally, Hubb’s Farm was spotlighted for its extensive corn maze, making it a must-visit fall destination.

Breweries like The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery also made the list with their seasonal offerings, showcasing the state’s rich brewing tradition.

NOTE: Please check with destinations in Western North Carolina before heading out, to make sure they are open and operational after Hurricane Helene.

The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories below were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.

No. 1: This small town in North Carolina ranks among the best places in the South. Here’s why

Here’s what to know about the award-winning destination. | Published April 10, 2024 | Read Full Story by Simone Jasper

No. 2: ‘Charming’ main street in this NC town ranks among the nation’s best. Here’s why

It wasn’t the only North Carolina town to receive praise. | Published April 22, 2024 | Read Full Story by Simone Jasper

No. 3: NC is home to one of the Top 10 cideries in the country, USA Today says

Here’s why this North Carolina cidery was voted one of the best in the U.S. and what makes it so special. | Published September 4, 2024 | Read Full Story by Chyna Blackmon

No. 4: NC farm has one of the best corn mazes across the country, USA Today says

Here’s why this North Carolina corn maze was voted as one of the top spots in the U.S. to visit this fall. | Published September 19, 2024 | Read Full Story by Chyna Blackmon

No. 5: These NC breweries have the best fall seasonal beer across the country, USA Today says

Here’s which North Carolina breweries are serving up seasonal fall drinks voted among the top ten in the U.S. | Published September 19, 2024 | Read Full Story by Chyna Blackmon

No. 6: Two apple-picking orchards in North Carolina rank among nation’s best. Here’s why

One of the orchards was named a fan-favorite in two separate rankings. | Published September 18, 2024 | Read Full Story by Simone Jasper

No. 7: NC fishing lodges named one of the best in America, USA Today says. See the rankings.

A North Carolina fishing lodge ranked among the top 10 in the U.S. Here’s what makes the resort so special. | Published July 19, 2024 | Read Full Story by Chyna Blackmon

No. 8: NC is home to one of the best camping spots in the country, USA Today says

Planning a camping trip? This North Carolina property was named one of the most charming spots in the country for campers. | Published May 21, 2024 | Read Full Story by Chyna Blackmon

This report was produced with the help of AI tools, which summarized previous stories reported and written by McClatchy journalists. It was edited by journalists in our News division.

This story was originally published November 6, 2024 at 4:18 PM with the headline "What to do in NC in the fall: A list of award-winning experiences, from orchard to cideries."