ABOUT NORTH CAROLINA

North Carolina is known for its warm Southern hospitality, rich history, and incredible natural diversity. The state stretches from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Appalachian Mountains in the west, offering everything from sandy beaches to rolling hills and misty mountain peaks.

For city lovers, Charlotte is the largest city and a financial powerhouse, while the capital Raleigh anchors the state’s famed “Research Triangle” alongside Durham and Chapel Hill, home to world-class universities and tech innovation. Asheville, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is beloved for its vibrant arts scene, craft breweries, and access to the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. Along the coast, the Outer Banks draw visitors with historic lighthouses, wild horses, and miles of beaches perfect for relaxation or water sports.

Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling the border with Tennessee, is one of the most visited parks in the U.S. Closer to the coast, the state’s rivers and lakes offer endless opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and boating. Scenic byways like the Blue Ridge Parkway provide unforgettable views, especially in autumn when the leaves turn brilliant shades of red and gold.

North Carolina also has a strong sporting culture. Fans cheer for the Carolina Panthers (NFL), the Charlotte Hornets (NBA), and the Carolina Hurricanes (NHL), while college basketball–especially the rivalry between UNC and Duke–is a state obsession. And of course, motorsports play a central role: the Charlotte region is home to NASCAR’s headquarters and Charlotte Motor Speedway.

The state’s food scene is equally inviting. Carolina barbecue–whether you prefer the vinegar-based eastern style or the tomato-based Lexington style–is legendary. Add in fried chicken, hushpuppies, fresh seafood on the coast, and locally made craft beer, and you’ve got a taste of true Southern flavor.

With hot summers, mild winters, and four distinct seasons, North Carolina is a year-round destination. Whether you’re chasing outdoor adventures, cultural landmarks, sports, or simply a laid-back Southern atmosphere, the Tar Heel State offers something for everyone.

Quick Snapshot

• Population: About 10.8 million (2023), the 9th most populous U.S. state
• Size: Roughly 53,800 square miles (139,000 km²), ranked 28th by area
• State Capital: Raleigh
• Largest City: Charlotte

Entry into the USA

As part of the United States, North Carolina follows federal entry requirements. The exact rules depend on your citizenship, visa status, and the reason for your trip. Travelers should always check the latest guidelines before departing.

• Visa Requirements: travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries can enter for up to 90 days without a visa for tourism or business. Others may require a B-1/B-2 visitor visa.
• ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization): VWP travelers must apply online for ESTA authorization before traveling. Visit the ESTA website.
• Valid Passport: All visitors need a valid passport for the entire duration of their stay.

Currency

The currency used across North Carolina is the United States Dollar (USD), symbolized as “$” and divided into 100 cents. Issued by the Federal Reserve, it is one of the most widely traded currencies in the world. Exchange rates fluctuate daily, so it’s best to check current rates before your trip.

• 1 USD ≈ 0.90 – 0.95 EUR
• 1 USD ≈ 0.70 – 0.75 GBP
• 1 USD ≈ 110 – 115 JPY
• 1 USD ≈ 1.25 – 1.30 CAD

Electricity

Like the rest of the U.S., North Carolina uses American electrical standards. Outlets are the standard NEMA 5-15 type (two flat vertical slots with a round grounding pin). The electrical supply runs on 120 volts at 60 hertz, so visitors from countries using different systems may need a voltage converter or plug adapter.

Mobile services

Staying connected while visiting Charlotte and Concord is simple, as all major U.S. carriers provide wide coverage across North Carolina. Whether you’re enjoying Uptown Charlotte, hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, or attending the Bank of America Roval 400 at Charlotte Motor Speedway, reliable service is easy to find.

AT&T
AT&T offers strong coverage throughout North Carolina, including both major cities like Charlotte, Raleigh, and Greensboro, as well as smaller towns around the Piedmont and mountain regions. Its 5G network is expanding quickly and provides dependable service for both prepaid and postpaid customers.

Verizon Wireless
Verizon is widely regarded as one of the most reliable networks in the country and consistently performs well across North Carolina. From Charlotte and Durham to rural parts of the state, Verizon’s coverage is strong, with 5G Ultra Wideband service rolling out in many populated areas. Travelers often choose Verizon for its consistent performance.

T-Mobile
Known for competitive pricing and excellent international features, T-Mobile has become a popular choice, especially for visitors from abroad. Its network is strongest in North Carolina’s urban centers, such as Charlotte, Raleigh, and Winston-Salem, but coverage has been expanding rapidly into suburban and rural areas as its 5G rollout continues.

For short-term visitors, eSIM apps like Airalo offer a convenient way to access mobile data without needing a physical SIM card.

Phone

When calling from outside the U.S., remember to dial +1 before the number. Here are some essential contact numbers relevant to visitors attending the Bank of America Roval 400 and staying in the Concord area:

• Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Medical): 911
• Concord Police: +1 704-920-5000
• Atrium Health Cabarrus: +1 704-403-3000

Fun and fascinating facts about North Carolina

• First in Flight – North Carolina proudly calls itself the birthplace of aviation. The Wright brothers made their historic first powered flight in Kitty Hawk on the Outer Banks in 1903.
• Blue Ridge & Smoky Mountains – The western part of the state is home to the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in America. Both are famous for scenic drives, hiking, and breathtaking fall colors.
• Motorsports Capital – The Charlotte region is considered the home of NASCAR. Most race teams are headquartered nearby, and Charlotte Motor Speedway has been a landmark for stock car racing since 1960.
• Civil War history – North Carolina played a major role during the Civil War. It was the last state to secede from the Union and the site of several key battles.
• Sport state – College basketball is huge here, with the fierce rivalry between the University of North Carolina Tar Heels and the Duke Blue Devils drawing national attention. On the professional side, the state supports the Carolina Panthers (NFL), the Charlotte Hornets (NBA), and the Carolina Hurricanes (NHL).
• Barbecue debate – North Carolina is famous for its barbecue, but locals are split: Eastern-style uses a vinegar-based sauce, while Lexington-style adds a touch of tomato. Both are worth trying.
• Outer Banks legends – The remote barrier islands are home to the story of the Lost Colony of Roanoke, historic lighthouses, and wild horses that still roam freely.