North Carolina, September 9, 2025
News Summary
North Carolina’s tourism sector is recovering from Hurricane Helene, which caused $1.4 billion in losses. While 93% of businesses have reopened, 86% still earn below pre-storm levels. Efforts to bolster the industry include targeted marketing strategies to attract tourists back to the state, particularly focusing on areas like New Hanover County which generated significant spending in 2024. Local officials stress the importance of tourist support for small business recovery.
North Carolina is facing significant economic challenges in its tourism sector following the impacts of Hurricane Helene, which caused approximately $1.4 billion in combined tourism losses throughout the region. The state’s tourism industry, crucial to its economic stability, is seeing gradual recovery but remains well below pre-storm income levels.
Despite the challenges, data shows that 93% of tourism-related businesses have reopened in western North Carolina. However, 86% of these businesses are still earning below the income levels recorded before the hurricane. As communities strive to rebound, local officials urge tourists to visit, highlighting that their support is essential for small businesses to recover.“Every visit counts,” emphasized state officials.
New Hanover County, in particular, had a significant tourist spending total of $1.14 billion in 2024, indicating a vital role for tourism despite slower growth rates. Local authorities are exploring effective marketing strategies and campaigns designed to rekindle interest among tourists and encourage visits to these affected regions.
Governor Josh Stein is taking an active role by promoting recovery efforts for western North Carolina, emphasizing the importance of the tourism sector to local economies. The state is not only focused on marketing but also on addressing infrastructural needs, ensuring tourism continues contributing to economic development and community vitality across North Carolina.
Highlights of North Carolina’s Tourism Offerings
The diversity of experiences that North Carolina provides make it an appealing travel destination. The state’s landscape extends from the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains ideal for outdoor adventures to the beautiful beaches of the Outer Banks. Major cities such as Raleigh, Charlotte, Durham, and Greensboro draw visitors with urban experiences, while charming small towns enhance the state’s appeal.
Small Town Attractions
For instance, in Banner Elk, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at Beech and Sugar Mountain Resorts, along with sampling wines from award-winning wineries such as Banner Elk Winery and Grandfather Vineyard & Winery. The town also hosts the Annual Woolly Worm Festival in October, celebrating the folklore of woolly worms and their ability to predict the coming winter weather.
Blowing Rock offers visitors stunning views from its famous rock formation over the Johns River Gorge, as well as the Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, where outdoor enthusiasts can find extensive hiking trails. Bryson City serves as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is a hub for outdoor activities, including scenic train rides and various water sports.
Other notable towns include Manteo, with its rich American history represented in attractions like the Roanoke Island Festival Park and Fort Raleigh National Historic Site; Sylva, which boasts a vibrant Main Street filled with cafes and restaurants; and Southport, known for its maritime charm with unique attractions like the Old Brunswick County Jail Museum.
Cultural and Natural Attractions
Brevard, often referred to as the Land of Waterfalls, features numerous cultural events and natural sights. The Hillsborough Historic District attracts visitors with late-18th to early-20th century architecture and extensive outdoor recreational options. Mount Airy, known as “The Granite City,” celebrates its legacy as the inspiration for Mayberry from The Andy Griffith Show during its autumn festival each October.
Visiting North Carolina not only provides potential uniqueness and leisure but also aids in the recovery of communities affected by Hurricane Helene. Each community’s tourism efforts depend on the vital support and visits from tourists to help stimulate economic recovery for small businesses.
FAQ Section
What impact did Hurricane Helene have on North Carolina’s tourism?
Hurricane Helene resulted in approximately $1.4 billion in tourism losses in western North Carolina, creating significant economic challenges for the industry.
How many tourism-related businesses have reopened in western North Carolina?
About 93% of tourism-related businesses have reopened, but 86% are still earning below pre-storm income levels.
What is being done to revive tourism in affected areas?
Effective marketing strategies and campaigns are being implemented to encourage visitors to return to affected regions. The state is also focusing on infrastructure improvements to support tourism.
Can you name some tourist attractions in North Carolina?
North Carolina offers a range of attractions including skiing in Banner Elk, scenic views in Blowing Rock, outdoor adventures in Bryson City, and historical sites in Manteo.
Key Features of North Carolina’s Tourism
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Economic Impact | 1.4 billion USD tourism losses due to Hurricane Helene |
| Business Recovery | 93% of tourism-related businesses have reopened, but 86% earn below pre-storm levels. |
| Tourism Revenue | New Hanover County generated 1.14 billion USD in visitor spending in 2024. |
| Major Attractions | Skiing, hiking, vineyards, historical sites, and local festivals |
| Community Support | Tourism is important for helping small businesses recover and thrive. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Corolla, North Carolina: A Leader in Sustainable Tourism
Discover the Tranquility of Northern Outer Banks in Autumn
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Richard Fertig Transforms Hatteras Island Real Estate Market
Explore North Carolina’s Natural Wonders in 2025
Additional Resources
- Charlotte Observer Opinion
- Carolina Journal Opinion
- Star News Online
- NC Newsline
- World Atlas
- Wikipedia: North Carolina
- Google Search: North Carolina tourism 2025
- Google Scholar: North Carolina tourism
- Encyclopedia Britannica: North Carolina
- Google News: North Carolina tourism
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
