tourism

WFDD's David Ford wondered how the drought conditions plaguing central North Carolina are impacting outdoor adventure companies that rely on the area's rivers for business. He found the answer for this edition of Carolina Curious.

The holiday marks the opening of many campgrounds, picnic areas and visitor centers along the Parkway. But there are still a number of maintenance and road projects underway, many related to Hurricane Helene repairs.

After just over one month on display, Thomas Dambo's "Little Sally" sculpture has garnered thousands of views.

After a difficult year, visitor data shows that tourism has been looking up this fall.

According to a small business survey, 93 percent of the businesses impacted by Helene have since reopened, but economic uncertainty and the lingering government shutdown are blocking the road to full recovery.

Hotel revenue was up by about 10% last fiscal year, to more than $140 million.

Visitor spending increased in 71 of the state's 100 counties.

Now with three races in the books, the NASCAR All-Star Race's effects are becoming more evident, says Thomas Salley, executive director of the Wilkes County Tourism Development Authority.

In March, President Trump signed an executive order to increase domestic timber production by streamlining federal policies. The move will have environmental and economic consequences in North Carolina.

Travelers to North Carolina spent nearly $37 billion last year, surpassing the previous record set in 2023.