news-record.com

Residents of the Triad don’t have to go far or leave the state to enjoy a great summer vacation.

Mountains and coast wait just a few hours away. The higher elevations offer cooler temperatures, spectacular views and endless attractions. The big news at Grandfather Mountain State Park is the installation of an elevator that allows visitors to avoid climbing stairs from the upper parking area to the Mile-High Swinging Bridge.

North Carolina beaches, meanwhile, remain free of oil — and, with good fortune and favorable currents, won’t experience even a fraction of the devastation suffered along the Gulf Coast since the BP disaster.

Closer to home are outstanding destinations for day trips or longer visits. In a recent Ideas article, state parks director Lewis Ledford described developments at two nearby properties, Haw River and Mayo River state parks. Last week, the News & Record listed many of the area’s top historic sites.  Some are well-known, such as Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. Others may have been missed by many local folks, such as the Mendenhall Plantation and Museum in Jamestown. And, has everyone checked out Greensboro’s International Civil Rights Center & Museum yet?

Gas prices have fallen in time for vacation season, but that’s not a good reason to put a lot of miles on the car. Shorter drives will save that much more money for staying at a nice hotel and dining at fine restaurants without leaving the state. Money earned in North Carolina that’s also spent in North Carolina is good for the economy and may help put fellow Tar Heels back to work.

Golf, swimming, boating, hiking, tennis, fishing and learning about our history and heritage are inviting activities throughout North Carolina. There are many opportunities to enjoy all those pursuits here in the Triad.

So, let the vacations begin.