mike,
I also live in nc so if you have the oppurtunity take the I77 route through virginia rather than 95 if possible. Much better scenery less traffic. As far as the trip, take in the whole area on your way up. Stop in CT to a casino like Mohegan Sun or foxwoods (these are real casinos not that video poker crap down here) also stop in providence and check out that scene. They have great food (seafood and italian) and downtown life. I recomend Thayer Street for checking out the freeks and the culture. Then shoot upto boston for the bars and latenight after the game.