The official 2009 North Carolina Travel Guide is available free to assist those visiting the state or seeking information about the various attractions.

The 184-page guide celebrates the state's diversity and includes a range of activities that can be shared by families or enjoyed by individuals of all ages.

"North Carolina's unique natural and cultural attractions are beautifully captured in the 2009 Travel Guide," Gov. Mike Easley said. "This guide provides information on events, festivals and every kind of outdoor activity that residents and visitors alike will enjoy. From hiking in the mountains to playing golf in the Piedmont or surf fishing on the coast, there is something for everyone in North Carolina."

The 2009 Travel Guide showcases 740 attractions, lists information on 3,988 accommodations and thousands of activities throughout North Carolina including those at state and national parks.

Feature articles focus on spas and resorts; the state's booming culinary, wine and micro-brewery scenes; Native American culture; African-American heritage; golf; home-grown arts and crafts and more. The guide also includes a fold-out road map to assist travelers in their planning and on the highway.

To highlight the growth of environmentally conscious tourism services in North Carolina, the cover of the 2009 Travel Guide features Greensboro's Proximity Hotel, the nation's highest rated "green" hotel and restaurant, according to the U.S. Green Building Council.

The hotel opened in late 2007 and has 100 solar panels on its roof. The building uses 41 percent less energy and 33 percent less water than similar conventional structures, without compromising the comfort of the guests.

The guide, which is produced by the N.C. Department of Commerce's Division of Tourism, Film and Sports Development, is free by calling toll-free 800 VISITNC. It can also be ordered online at: www.VisitNC.com.