North Carolina stretches from the Appalachian Mountains in the west to the Atlantic coast in the east. Western North Carolina, known as WNC, features the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains, offering scenic beauty and outdoor recreation. The central Piedmont region is home to major cities like Charlotte and the Research Triangle (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill), serving as the state's economic and educational hub. The eastern Coastal Plain encompasses fertile agricultural lands and transitions into the Outer Banks, a string of barrier islands known for their beaches and historic lighthouses. North Carolina's varied landscape supports a wide range of industries, from technology and finance to agriculture and tourism.

South Carolina, though smaller than its northern neighbor, also boasts diverse regions. The Upstate region in the northwest features the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, including popular destinations like Table Rock State Park. The Midlands region, centered around the capital city of Columbia, is characterized by its rivers and lakes, including Lake Murray. The Pee Dee region in the northeast is known for its agricultural heritage and historical significance. The Lowcountry along the Atlantic coast includes charming cities like Charleston, with its well-preserved antebellum architecture, and popular beach destinations such as Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head Island. This coastal region is also home to the Sea Islands, known for their unique Gullah culture.