Airlie Gardens
Wilmington

If you'd like to languish in true Southern-style gardens, you'll have 67 "spectacular acres" to explore here. Established back in 1902, the privately owned garden was purchased for the public in January 1999. The formal gardens, walking trails, creeks, and lakes are lined with azaleas and camellias and one of the highlights is the 485-year-old, historic Airlie oak tree and the "mystery grave." Because there are no cars allowed, you should expect to do a lot of walking, though golf carts can be arranged in advance for anyone for whom walking is a challenge. Read more.

Angus Barn
Raleigh

Rustic rules at this "actual barn" that is known as "the best steak place in town." Walk into the lobby during winter to enjoy the "large fireplace" or take a look at the gift shop, then dig into a menu with "awesome food and a good wine selection, too." The "great service" makes it "worth the drive," and if you've got a designated driver, be sure to step upstairs to the Wild Turkey Lounge for a nightcap and dessert. On your way out of the barn, "barrels of fresh red apples are by the door waiting to be taken home with you." Read more.

Maple View Farm Country Store
Hillsborough

Amid a suitably "bucolic setting" with views of "rolling fields," this family-run authentic dairy farm uses no synthetic hormones to ensure its characteristically "delectable flavors." During the summer, "there's nothing like a cool treat of fresh homemade ice cream," and they offer weekly specials with names like "double trouble shakes" and "labor of love mini banana split." For something truly special, come in the evening when sunset is "especially breathtaking" from one of the front porch rocking chairs. Read more.

Trolly Stop Hot Dogs
Wrightsville Beach

Every dog has its day, and every day you'll find dogs at Trolly Stop Hot Dogs, a "local institution" that sits "right in the heart of the summertime action at Wrightsville Beach." Even though the "line often stretches out the door," it moves pretty fast, with customers ordering up menu staples with cool names like Surfer Dog. Sidle up to the counter, or take it out the beach, since there is no other seating available within this small building where fans rave "the hot dogs are the best." Everything here has been homemade for the last 31 years, including the teas, chili, and sauces. Some even go so far as to say that "summer wouldn't be the same without at least one visit."

Duckett House Inn
Hot Springs

Built in 1900, the "fantastically relaxing Duckett House Inn, is a great getaway with tremendously friendly owners." Visitors suggest that you hike the nearby Appalachian Trail, kayak the French Broad River, wallow in the mineral springs down the road, or just sit on the front porch with a book. They offer a "delicious and filling breakfast, excellent coffee," and a plush common room filled with overstuffed furniture and tons of board games. Many say you'll never want to leave. Read more.