As a daughter of the Blue Ridge Mountains, I have ideas of some fun things to do in and around Boone and Banner Elk, North Carolina.
Sections
5
A Wonderland for All Seasons
Fork and Find
The Art and Culture of the Mountains
Local Favorites
Wander the Wonders
A Wonderland for All Seasons
It's always a wonderland, no matter the season
I grew up on these slopes; impressive when you realize that they are in the southern US!
Ski Beech
It’s where all the cool kids like to hang out - literally and figuratively!
EDGE of the WORLD Outfitters
Autumn at Oz is an incredible trip down the Yellow Brick Road
Land of Oz
Fork and Find
Local eateries, all delicious
Worked here in college, love that it has been locally owned for years. Nice taste of Italy in the NC mountains!
Casa Rustica Restaurant
Great pizza, great pastas - don't miss the garlic knots!
Bella's Italian Neighborhood Restaurant
A staple from college, it remains one of my all-time faves. EXTENSIVE sandwich menu, but don't miss the brownie sundae for dessert!
Macado's
Local favorite for many years; love the guys who own it, and the food is awesome.
Stonewalls Restaurant
A little diner with big taste and HUGE burgers. Definitely a hidden gem!
Smokey's Fillin' Station
Generations of natives know this is a staple; try the fried mushrooms and the Jean Lawson Special. They are the best!
Pepper's Restaurant and Bar
Burgers? Check. Milkshakes? Check. Fries? Double check. Get the Come Back sauce for the fries.
Come Back Shack
The Art and Culture of the Mountains
Lots of culture, lots of fun
An incredible summer theatre program, with both well-know Broadway shows and originals from local playwrights and musicians.
Lees-McRae Summer Theatre
Incredible talent in a gorgeous mountain town.
An Appalachian Summer
Great gallery with lots of local artists. Be sure to check it out when they host open house events so you can mix and mingle with the artists themselves!
Art Cellar Gallery
We all know this is the best place to view and purchase art work and handmade pieces by local artists. From photography to paintings to pottery to jewelry, this is the place to find that special something to take home with you.
Hands Gallery - Local Crafts
Local Favorites
Adventures not to be missed
Such a fun way to spend a gorgeous October weekend! Who knew worms could race?
Woolly Worm Festival
The original can't be beat. Grab a Cheerwine and a Moonpie before you go!
Original Mast General Store
Great little spot to hang with the fam or friends after hiking or skiing. Tell the owner I sent you.
Hero's Axe House
Aren't these guys the cutest? Visit the farm, pet an alpaca, buy some of the yarn or other goods to take home.
Apple Hill Farm
Erick's has been around for many years and is a great place to find a variety of cheeses and wines. They also have cute merch to browse!
Erick's Cheese and Wine
Wander the Wonders
Family fun for free in the High Country
Just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Linville Falls is a great little hike with gorgeous views.
Linville Falls
Absolutely one of my favorite places in the world; be sure to look for the Brown Mountain Lights if you go!
Wisemans View, Linville Gorge
I'm partial to the section of the Parkway near Grandfather Moutain, but the entire thing is a lovely drive - especially in the fall.
Blue Ridge Parkway
This hidden gem is in the original school in the heart of Banner Elk. Leave a book and take a book (or two or three!) from the library in this 1930’s building that smells exactly like it did when I was a student.
