Born and bred in Western North Carolina, Brook Bolen is based in Asheville, NC and has written for publications including Thrillist, Vice, the Guardian, and Salon.
Brook Bolen
Latest from Brook Bolen
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Summer screenings in the park: Free outdoor movies across North Carolina
Sit back and see some of your favorite flicks under the starry skies. Here are 11 spots for free outdoor movies in North Carolina this summer.
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Your 2026 guide to berry picking in North Carolina all summer long
From the mountains to the coast, berries are bountiful in North Carolina.
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5 North Carolina stereotypes that are actually pretty accurate
From Southern drawls to our staunch belief that North Carolina is inherently better than South Carolina, here are five common North Carolina stereotypes that actually ring true.
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5 animal sanctuaries in North Carolina (+ the critters you’ll see)
Have you ever wanted to cuddle a coatimundi, kick it with a kangaroo, or chat with a capybara? Do that and more at five animal sanctuaries in North Carolina.
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The 12 best beaches in North Carolina for every kind of beachgoer
Everyone from partygoers and outdoor enthusiasts to introverts and families can find their ideal beach vacation in North Carolina.
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10 NC sites to visit during Women’s History Month
From unsung heroes to noteworthy names, North Carolina is full of extraordinary women. Learn about them at these 10 sites across the Tar Heel state.
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5 ways to save on back-to-school shopping in North Carolina
The average American is going to spend more than $800 this year on back-to-school shopping. Yikes. Here’s how to do it without breaking the bank in North Carolina.
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Interested in dropping alcohol? Here are 7 THC-infused drinks made in North Carolina.
These hemp-derived drinks give a light buzz, but without alcohol or hangovers. Here’s a guide to the North Carolina THC-infused drinks you should try.
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7 NC Instagram accounts to help you ditch the doomscrolling
North Carolinians, now’s the time to intentionally scroll for joy. Here are some local accounts on Instagram to help you do just that.
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USPS’ Operation Santa: Making children’s holidays merry and bright
The holidays are approaching, and that means the United States Postal Service’s yearly initiative, Operation Santa, is back in business. Here’s what to know.



















