Covering nearly one half of North Carolina in the central part of the state, the Piedmont is an area of gently rolling foothills with the occasional boulder or unexpected rock outcropping. The Piedmont region boasts of one of the most dynamic economies in the United States and is home to the state's largest cities and biggest financial institutions. Renowned research universities, textile and furniture factories, tobacco farms, shopping meccas, top golf courses and abundant historic sites are also part of the makeup of the Piedmont.

Although the area enjoys four distinct seasons, temperatures are mild year round. The average wintertime temperature is about 42 degrees. In summer, it's 77 degrees. The area also enjoys sunshine for about 210 days a year.

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