The clinking sounds of moving around and the sweet smell of pancakes cooking over the crackling fire greeted us as got up. Over a few pots of coffee we talked over plans for our ride. After checking our tires one last time and loading up our gear we road out of camp.

Cape Henry is the site where in 1607 the Jamestown colonists first landed in search of a site to settle. Here, they gave thanks for their safe arrival to Virgina. The settlers erected a large wooden cross at the site. Today, a stone cross stands as a memorial.

Off these shores in 1781, the French Admiral deGrasse was able to hold off the British from resupplying Lord Cornwallis. This successful naval action by the French ultimately led to the Cornwallis surrender at Yorktown, effectively ending the American Revolution.

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area provides a glimpse into Civil War history as well as the opportunity for a great day at the beach.

North Carolina Aquariums are located at Roanoke Island, Pine Knoll Shores and Fort Fisher. Being reasonably priced and highly educational, the Aquariums are a must-see attraction for every Carolina family and tourists on the Carolina coast.

Plan to spend a minimum of 2 hours at the Aquarium, and to enjoy some refreshment at the Snack Bar at the end of your tour.

Located on Fayetteville Street in the heart of downtown Raleigh are 2 museums. They are both "must-see" for North Carolina citizens and anyone traveling near Raleigh.

The North Carolina Museum of Life and Science in Durham is great place for visitors of all ages, but with hundreds of hands-on exhibits, it is especially great for school-aged visitors.

In 1947, the NC General Assembly budgeted $1 million to acquire works of art. From that and private donations, a collection of paintings and sculptures was assembled and the North Carolina Museum of Art opened to the public in 1956. The collection is divided in a a number of galleries with works dating from 3000 BC to the present.

Soaring 555 feet above the National Mall in Washington DC, the Washington Monument honors our first President, George Washington. Construction on the monument began on July 4 1848, and the capstone was laid on December 6 1884. At the time, it was the world's tallest structure and held that honor until the Eiffel Tower was completed in 1889.

Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the monument for breath-taking views of 30-40 miles on clear days, and spectacular views of the Capitol on any day.