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A Local’s Guide to Fun Things to Do in Boone, NC (The High Country)
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items Born and raised in Boone, NC - I often refer to myself as a “boonie”. Boone and the High Country have so much to offer, and these are some of our favorite ways as locals to spend time here. Whether you're visiting or just looking for something fun to do, these are some of our top recommendations!
Sections
4
Outdoor Activities
Restaurants
Other Food & Drinks
Arts & Entertainment
Outdoor Activities
Great areas for walking, bike riding, and just enjoying nature! In the evening hours, you will probably see a lot of deer. It's a beautiful place to take a walk and get some fresh air, take the kids for a walk or stroll, and ride bikes!
Boone's Great Greenway Trail Guide
Why we love it: This is a local Saturday morning favorite in Boone, especially on a nice weekend morning. It’s such a great way to experience the local community, and there’s always a good mix of fresh produce, baked goods, handmade items, and more. ...
What to expect: A vibrant local farmers market with fresh fruits and vegetables, locally made products, baked goods, flowers, and unique artisan items, all set in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Best for: A relaxed weekend outing, supporting local vendors, or picking up fresh and unique finds
Good to know: It’s typically open seasonally (spring through fall), and mornings are the best time to go for the fullest selection
What to expect: A vibrant local farmers market with fresh fruits and vegetables, locally made products, baked goods, flowers, and unique artisan items, all set in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Best for: A relaxed weekend outing, supporting local vendors, or picking up fresh and unique finds
Good to know: It’s typically open seasonally (spring through fall), and mornings are the best time to go for the fullest selection
🧺 Watauga County Farmers' Market
Why we love it: This is one of our favorite easy, peaceful walks in the area. The trail loops around the lake and has such a calm, relaxing feel, perfect when you want to be outside without doing a more intense hike. It’s one of those places that jus...
What to expect: A flat, easy walking trail that loops around a scenic lake, with beautiful mountain views, wooded areas, and plenty of spots to stop and take it all in.
Best for: Families, a relaxed walk, or anyone looking for an easy outdoor activity with great scenery
Good to know: Very beginner-friendly and great for all ages. It’s also a popular spot, especially on nice days, but the loop makes it easy to enjoy at your own pace
What to expect: A flat, easy walking trail that loops around a scenic lake, with beautiful mountain views, wooded areas, and plenty of spots to stop and take it all in.
Best for: Families, a relaxed walk, or anyone looking for an easy outdoor activity with great scenery
Good to know: Very beginner-friendly and great for all ages. It’s also a popular spot, especially on nice days, but the loop makes it easy to enjoy at your own pace
🥾 Bass Lake Trail
Why we love it: This is one of our favorite trails in the area because the views are absolutely worth it. It’s not a super long hike, but you get some of the most beautiful mountain scenery along the way. It’s one of those spots that really makes you...
What to expect: A relatively short hike with some elevation and wooden boardwalk sections, leading to stunning overlooks of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Best for: Visitors looking for a scenic hike without committing to a long trek, photo lovers, and anyone wanting that classic mountain view
Good to know: It can get busy, especially on weekends, and there are some uphill sections, but it’s very doable for most people and totally worth the effort
What to expect: A relatively short hike with some elevation and wooden boardwalk sections, leading to stunning overlooks of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Best for: Visitors looking for a scenic hike without committing to a long trek, photo lovers, and anyone wanting that classic mountain view
Good to know: It can get busy, especially on weekends, and there are some uphill sections, but it’s very doable for most people and totally worth the effort
🥾 Rough Ridge Trail
Why we love it: This one feels like a little adventure. The trail takes you down into a beautiful wooded area with multiple waterfalls along the way, which makes it feel really rewarding. It’s a bit more challenging than some of the other trails near...
What to expect: A forested trail with a steady descent leading to scenic waterfalls, rocky paths, and a more rugged hiking experience compared to easier local trails.
Best for: Hikers looking for something a little more adventurous, waterfall lovers, and anyone wanting a more immersive nature experience
Difficulty level: Moderate (with a bit of a challenge on the way back up)
Good to know: The hike down is easier than the hike back up, so be prepared for a bit of a climb on the return. Good shoes are definitely recommended
What to expect: A forested trail with a steady descent leading to scenic waterfalls, rocky paths, and a more rugged hiking experience compared to easier local trails.
Best for: Hikers looking for something a little more adventurous, waterfall lovers, and anyone wanting a more immersive nature experience
Difficulty level: Moderate (with a bit of a challenge on the way back up)
Good to know: The hike down is easier than the hike back up, so be prepared for a bit of a climb on the return. Good shoes are definitely recommended
🥾 Glen Burney Trail
Why we love it: This is such a beautiful little spot and one we always enjoy visiting. It’s perfect if you want something low-key but still really enjoyable. The park is well-kept, has a great playground, and just has that charming small-town mountai...
What to expect: A lovely park with a playground, open green space, and scenic surroundings right in the heart of Blowing Rock.
Best for: Families, a relaxing afternoon, or letting kids play while enjoying the mountain atmosphere
Good to know: It’s an easy stop if you’re already exploring Blowing Rock, and it’s especially nice on a sunny day when you want something simple and outdoors. If traveling near a holiday, check for special events.
What to expect: A lovely park with a playground, open green space, and scenic surroundings right in the heart of Blowing Rock.
Best for: Families, a relaxing afternoon, or letting kids play while enjoying the mountain atmosphere
Good to know: It’s an easy stop if you’re already exploring Blowing Rock, and it’s especially nice on a sunny day when you want something simple and outdoors. If traveling near a holiday, check for special events.
🌳 Blowing Rock Memorial Park
Why we love it: This is such a peaceful and beautiful spot to walk through. It’s one of those places where you can slow down and just enjoy being surrounded by nature. The gardens are full of native plants and flowers, and it’s especially pretty when...
What to expect: A serene botanical garden featuring native North Carolina plants, walking paths, and a quiet, natural setting perfect for exploring at your own pace.
Best for: A relaxing stroll, nature lovers, or anyone looking for a quiet, scenic break while visiting Boone
Good to know: It’s easy to walk through and doesn’t take a lot of time, making it a great quick stop, especially during spring and summer when the flowers are at their best
What to expect: A serene botanical garden featuring native North Carolina plants, walking paths, and a quiet, natural setting perfect for exploring at your own pace.
Best for: A relaxing stroll, nature lovers, or anyone looking for a quiet, scenic break while visiting Boone
Good to know: It’s easy to walk through and doesn’t take a lot of time, making it a great quick stop, especially during spring and summer when the flowers are at their best
🌿 Daniel Boone Native Gardens
Why we love it: This is such a great spot for letting dogs run and play, especially if you’re visiting the area with your pup. It’s well-maintained, spacious, and just a really nice place for dogs to burn off some energy while you enjoy being outside...
What to expect: A fenced-in dog park with plenty of space for dogs to run freely, socialize, and play in a safe environment.
Best for: Dog owners, travelers with pets, or anyone looking for a safe and fun place for their dog to get some exercise
Good to know: It’s a great stop if you’re spending time in Boone and need a break where your dog can stretch their legs and have some fun
What to expect: A fenced-in dog park with plenty of space for dogs to run freely, socialize, and play in a safe environment.
Best for: Dog owners, travelers with pets, or anyone looking for a safe and fun place for their dog to get some exercise
Good to know: It’s a great stop if you’re spending time in Boone and need a break where your dog can stretch their legs and have some fun
🐾 Watauga Humane Society ARKO Dog Park
Why we love it: This is one of those iconic High Country experiences you just have to do at least once. The views are absolutely incredible, and there’s so much to explore, from the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge to the different trails and wildlif...
What to expect: A scenic mountain attraction with breathtaking views, hiking trails, a nature museum, wildlife habitats, and the well-known swinging bridge at the top.
Best for: Visitors wanting a true mountain experience, families, and anyone looking for unforgettable views of the Blue Ridge Mountains
Good to know: There is an entrance fee, but it’s worth it for everything included. Weather can change quickly at the top, so it’s a good idea to dress in layers
What to expect: A scenic mountain attraction with breathtaking views, hiking trails, a nature museum, wildlife habitats, and the well-known swinging bridge at the top.
Best for: Visitors wanting a true mountain experience, families, and anyone looking for unforgettable views of the Blue Ridge Mountains
Good to know: There is an entrance fee, but it’s worth it for everything included. Weather can change quickly at the top, so it’s a good idea to dress in layers
🏔️ Grandfather Mountain
Why we love it: Tweetsie is one of those classic High Country experiences that’s just pure fun. It has that nostalgic, old-timey charm, and there’s so much to do, from the train ride to the rides and live entertainment. It’s one of those places that ... It feels like a tradition. It’s fun, a little nostalgic, and always a great way to spend the day, especially with kids.
What to expect: A Wild West-themed park with a historic train ride, rides for kids, live shows, and plenty of family-friendly activities throughout the park.
Best for: Families with kids, especially younger ones, and anyone looking for a fun, nostalgic theme park experience
Good to know: It’s seasonal and can get busy during peak times, so planning ahead is a good idea. Comfortable shoes are a must, you’ll be doing a lot of walking!
What to expect: A Wild West-themed park with a historic train ride, rides for kids, live shows, and plenty of family-friendly activities throughout the park.
Best for: Families with kids, especially younger ones, and anyone looking for a fun, nostalgic theme park experience
Good to know: It’s seasonal and can get busy during peak times, so planning ahead is a good idea. Comfortable shoes are a must, you’ll be doing a lot of walking!
🚂 Tweetsie Railroad
Restaurants
I have a totally separate board dedicated to this, check out my “Local Favorites: Where to eat in Boone, NC (High Country Picks)” board for my top recommendations.
Why we love it: This is hands down our favorite pizza spot in town. It’s one of those places we keep going back to because it’s just consistently good, and the whole vibe is fun and laid-back. If we’re craving pizza in Boone, this is always our go-to...
What to expect: A casual, no-frills pizza spot with a fun atmosphere and a menu full of classic favorites and hearty options.
Best for: Casual meals, families, or grabbing a great pizza after a day of exploring
Good to know: It’s a great, easy option when you want something quick and satisfying without overthinking it
What to expect: A casual, no-frills pizza spot with a fun atmosphere and a menu full of classic favorites and hearty options.
Best for: Casual meals, families, or grabbing a great pizza after a day of exploring
Good to know: It’s a great, easy option when you want something quick and satisfying without overthinking it
🍕 Capone’s Pizza
Other Food & Drinks
Why we love it: This is one of our favorite spots to grab coffee in Boone. It has such a cozy, relaxed feel and is the perfect place to slow down for a bit. Whether you’re starting your day or taking a break from exploring, it’s just a really enjoyab...
What to expect: A local coffee shop with a welcoming atmosphere, great coffee, and a laid-back mountain town vibe.
Best for: A morning coffee stop, a mid-day break, or just a cozy place to relax for a bit
Good to know: It’s a great stop while you’re out exploring Boone, perfect for recharging before heading to your next activity
What to expect: A local coffee shop with a welcoming atmosphere, great coffee, and a laid-back mountain town vibe.
Best for: A morning coffee stop, a mid-day break, or just a cozy place to relax for a bit
Good to know: It’s a great stop while you’re out exploring Boone, perfect for recharging before heading to your next activity
☕️ Higher Grounds Coffee Shop
Why we love it: This is a great place to hang out and relax in Boone. It has such a fun, relaxed atmosphere, and it’s the kind of spot where you can easily spend a couple of hours just enjoying good drinks and good company. It’s always a great stop a...
What to expect: A local brewery with a great selection of craft beers, a lively outdoor space, and a welcoming, social vibe.
Best for: Meeting up with friends, unwinding after a day out, or enjoying a laid-back evening in Boone
Good to know: The outdoor area is a big highlight, especially when the weather is nice, it’s a great place to relax and take in the mountain atmosphere
What to expect: A local brewery with a great selection of craft beers, a lively outdoor space, and a welcoming, social vibe.
Best for: Meeting up with friends, unwinding after a day out, or enjoying a laid-back evening in Boone
Good to know: The outdoor area is a big highlight, especially when the weather is nice, it’s a great place to relax and take in the mountain atmosphere
🍺 Booneshine Brewing Company
Why we love it: This place is absolutely beautiful and a wonderful spot to relax in the High Country. Sitting by the river with a glass of wine and a view of the mountains is hard to beat. It’s one of those places where you just want to slow down and...
What to expect: A scenic winery with mountain views, a peaceful riverside setting, and a variety of wines to enjoy in a laid-back outdoor atmosphere.
Best for: A relaxing afternoon, date day, or unwinding after a day of exploring
Good to know: The outdoor seating by the river is the highlight, so if the weather is nice, definitely plan to spend some time outside and enjoy the view
What to expect: A scenic winery with mountain views, a peaceful riverside setting, and a variety of wines to enjoy in a laid-back outdoor atmosphere.
Best for: A relaxing afternoon, date day, or unwinding after a day of exploring
Good to know: The outdoor seating by the river is the highlight, so if the weather is nice, definitely plan to spend some time outside and enjoy the view
🍷 Grandfather Vineyard & Winery
Why we love it: If you want the best local bakery in Boone, this is it! Everything is so fresh and delicious, and it’s one of those places that just feels special the second you walk in. It’s a must-stop for us anytime we’re in the area.
What to expect: A beloved local bakery known for fresh breads, pastries, sandwiches, and sweet treats, all made with high-quality ingredients and a lot of care.
Best for: Breakfast, a quick lunch, or grabbing something delicious to go
Good to know: It’s a popular spot, especially in the mornings, so expect a bit of a crowd, but it’s 100% worth it
What to expect: A beloved local bakery known for fresh breads, pastries, sandwiches, and sweet treats, all made with high-quality ingredients and a lot of care.
Best for: Breakfast, a quick lunch, or grabbing something delicious to go
Good to know: It’s a popular spot, especially in the mornings, so expect a bit of a crowd, but it’s 100% worth it
🥖 Stick Boy Bread Company
Why we love it: There are 2 locations in Blowing Rock but the downtown location has all the vibes! This is such a fun stop, especially when you’re walking around Blowing Rock. It has that classic, nostalgic feel, and it’s hard to walk past without going in. Whether you’re in the mood for ice cream or something sweet, it’s always a treat.
What to expect: A charming sweets shop offering ice cream, chocolates, fudge, and other handmade treats in a cozy, old-fashioned setting.
Best for: A sweet treat after dinner, an afternoon pick-me-up, or just enjoying something fun while exploring Blowing Rock
Good to know: It’s right in the heart of town, making it an easy and fun stop while walking around especially on a warm day, if you want to visit the other location it's a Shoppes on the Parkway
What to expect: A charming sweets shop offering ice cream, chocolates, fudge, and other handmade treats in a cozy, old-fashioned setting.
Best for: A sweet treat after dinner, an afternoon pick-me-up, or just enjoying something fun while exploring Blowing Rock
Good to know: It’s right in the heart of town, making it an easy and fun stop while walking around especially on a warm day, if you want to visit the other location it's a Shoppes on the Parkway
🍦 Kilwins Blowing Rock
Arts & Entertainment
Why we love it: This is such a great place to check out what’s going on in Boone. There’s always something interesting happening, from live music to shows and special events and it’s a fun way to experience the local arts scene.
What to expect: A beautifully restored historic theatre hosting a variety of events including concerts, films, performances, and community events throughout the year.
Best for: Date nights, evening entertainment, or anyone looking to add something unique to their Boone experience
Good to know: Event offerings change regularly, so it’s worth checking their schedule ahead of time to see what’s happening during your visit
What to expect: A beautifully restored historic theatre hosting a variety of events including concerts, films, performances, and community events throughout the year.
Best for: Date nights, evening entertainment, or anyone looking to add something unique to their Boone experience
Good to know: Event offerings change regularly, so it’s worth checking their schedule ahead of time to see what’s happening during your visit
🎭 Appalachian Theatre of the High Country
Why we love it: This is one of the most fun and unique fall festivals in the area. It’s one of those events that’s just full of personality, and it always makes for a great time. Between the wooly worm races, the food, and the overall atmosphere, it’...
What to expect: A lively fall festival featuring the famous woolly worm races, local vendors, food, crafts, and a fun, festive mountain atmosphere.
Best for: Families, fall visitors, and anyone looking for a fun and memorable local experience
Good to know: It’s a popular event and can get crowded, so plan accordingly, but that’s part of the fun! It’s usually held in October, making it a perfect fall activity
What to expect: A lively fall festival featuring the famous woolly worm races, local vendors, food, crafts, and a fun, festive mountain atmosphere.
Best for: Families, fall visitors, and anyone looking for a fun and memorable local experience
Good to know: It’s a popular event and can get crowded, so plan accordingly, but that’s part of the fun! It’s usually held in October, making it a perfect fall activity
🎉 Woolly Worm Festival
Why we love it: This is one of our absolute favorite fall traditions in the High Country. It has such a classic, small-town feel with amazing local crafts, food, and music. It’s one of those places where you can just wander, take your time, and enjoy...
What to expect: A large, well-loved fall festival featuring handmade crafts, local food vendors, live music, and a beautiful mountain setting in Valle Crucis.
Best for: Families, fall visitors, and anyone who loves browsing unique local goods and soaking in that perfect fall atmosphere
Good to know: It’s held the same weekend as the Woolly Worm Festival, which makes it perfect for a full weekend of fall activities in the High Country. It can get busy, so plan for crowds, but it’s absolutely worth it
What to expect: A large, well-loved fall festival featuring handmade crafts, local food vendors, live music, and a beautiful mountain setting in Valle Crucis.
Best for: Families, fall visitors, and anyone who loves browsing unique local goods and soaking in that perfect fall atmosphere
Good to know: It’s held the same weekend as the Woolly Worm Festival, which makes it perfect for a full weekend of fall activities in the High Country. It can get busy, so plan for crowds, but it’s absolutely worth it
🎉 Valle Country Fair