The East

Eastern North Carolina is known for its 300-mile stretch of beautiful sandy beaches that kiss the Atlantic Ocean. The region is also rich in history: It is home to Battleship North Carolina, Cape Hatteras and a half-dozen other lighthouses, and the birthplace of aviation, the Wright Brothers Memorial. The region also features vibrant agricultural, education and health care sectors.

BIGGEST COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES

• East Carolina University, Greenville
• UNC Wilmington
• UNC Pembroke
• Fayetteville State University
• Fayetteville Technical Community College
• Cape Fear Community College
• Pitt Community College

ATTRACTIONS

• Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and Wright Brothers Memorial, the Outer Banks
• Historic Tryon Palace, New Bern
• Battleship North Carolina, Wilmington
• Airlie Gardens, Wilmington
• 1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse, Edenton
• North Carolina Aquariums: Kure Beach, Roanoke Island, Nags Head and Pine Knoll Shores
• Fort Fisher State Historic Site, Kure Beach
• N.C. Maritime Museums: Beaufort, Hatteras, Southport

INDUSTRIES

• Aerospace and defense
• Agriculture
• Biotechnology
• Marine trades
• Metalworking
• Textiles
• Tourism