Come in the summer to experience the cool refreshing mist of any of the breathtaking waterfalls in the area or grab some skis to hit the snow-covered slopes in the winter. padding-right: 10px; Show Transcript. With Watauga River running through, its also a haven for anglers seeking out that coveted rainbow trout. Just 15 minutes from two of the best ski resorts in North Carolina, Banner Elk is a popular winter destination. After a day of taking in the sights, stroll downtown Highlands along Main Street to discover a number of boutiques, specialty shops and make reservations at any of the fine dining options in this mountain town. The Museum of NC Handicrafts offers distinctive displays of work by a range of North Carolina artists. Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. 2023 Compare Cities : Black Mountain, NC vs Elizabethtown, NC Taylor. Check out Toe River Arts, the Design Gallery, and the Quilt Block Trails. Spruce Pine is about 15 minutes away from Little Switzerland and is full of fun to explore. If youve heard of the Ashe County Cheese Factory, then you already know why West Jefferson is on this list. Tryons reputation as an equestrian haven and arts enclave is revered. Creekside cabins, glamping tents, resort hotels you can find them all in the best Smoky Mountain towns. Explore the charming downtown area on foot to discover its collection of shops, restaurants, breweries, and a famous Mast General Store that features an eclectic selection of souvenirs and candy. Its historic and Swiss-style architecture adds to its charm. There is a lot to discover when you live in North Carolina mountain towns. The outskirts of Highlands are known for spectacular waterfalls, but the downtown of Highlands is equally beautiful! . You'll also find a fine assortment of restaurants, many with outdoor patios. Just outside of Hendersonville is the North Carolina mountain town of Flat Rock. There's a lot to do here, such as hiking the famous Appalachian Trail and rafting down the Cheoah River. While in the area, dont miss out on Apple Hill Farm, an ethical and working alpaca farm! Its a hotspot for entertainment, with music at the Folkmoot, the acclaimed HART Theater, and Mountain Street Dances every Friday night. Spread over 78 acres but within walking distance of downtown Blowing Rock, this resort offers three lodging choices to suit everyone, from couples to families. Robbinsville NC. } Its one of many falls along the famed Waterfall Byway. 7. Home to less than 500 people, Bakersville was founded to mine its wealth of mica deposits. Cream is poured on a frozen sheet and rolled up in a Thai tradition, and capped with your favorite toppings. Enjoy Wake Forest's many restaurants, museums, galleries, concerts, and more. padding-right: 10px !important; Please visit our Disclosure and Privacy Policy pages for further explanation. Thanks for sharing your favorite with us, Jacquelyn! Our NC travel map will help you visually plan, in case youre ready to start exploring! The 20 Best Places to Live in the Mountains in the U.S. - Money Inc Boones truly a four-season destination: they boast hiking and waterfalls in spring through fall and world-class skiing in the winter. Jump Off Rock is a great scenic overlook that sits in Laurel Park, 15 minutes outside of downtown Hendersonville. Address: Pinehurst, NC, USA Address: Davidson, NC, USA Address: Winterville, NC, USA Address: Trent Woods, NC 28562, USA Address: Apex, NC, USA Address: Cary, NC, USA Address: Black Mountain, NC 28711, USA Address: Valdese, NC, USA document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Carl and Christina started NC Tripping. We also love that town and cant wait to go back:). Experience a mountain resort atmosphere in Sapphire Valley. "version": "7.4.0", That last part is why Wilkes County is also home to the first-ever NASCAR track. Ashe County might sound familiar if you like yummy cheese. Its also home to one of the coolest distilleries in the state, Oak & Grist. Blowing Rock's downtown has the look and feel of a true mountain town, with a mix of restored historic buildings and modern structures designed to fit in with the town's village atmosphere. Sylva is one of the most interesting and quaint NC mountain towns youll find. fbq( 'track', 'PageView', { Right down the road from Maggie Valley is Lake Junaluska, a lovely community with a trail that takes you around its namesake lake. The 24 Best Mountain Towns in the U.S., Ranked - Outside Online For the inside scoop on where to go, see our guide to the Top Rivers for Trout Fishing in North Carolina. Guilford Courthouse National Military Park, 100+ Wonderful Places to Visit in Western North Carolina, Western North Carolina Map (400+ Wonderful Places Listed), 50+ Great Things to Do in Asheville (Downtown, Biltmore, and More! Outdoor lovers can enjoy wonderful hikes and viewpoints in the surrounding Yancey County area, including those on nearby Mt. North Carolina mountain towns have a lot to offer those looking for extraordinary property surrounded by picturesque views to take in the natural beauty of the region and exquisite activities accompanied by top dining options. Read More: 20+ Amazing Things to Do in Maggie Valley. Median household income: $40,875. Visit Tour Wheels Through Time for a unique display of classic cars and motorcycles. For more ideas, see our list of the Top Attractions in North Carolina. You can also walk to Blannahassett Island and fish or enjoy views of the French Broad River. Brevard is frequently ranked as one of the best small towns in WNC, and it's for good reason. Saluda is a popular spot for rafting and tubing along the Green River. Live like a local and experience a leisurely day of exploration. Surrounded by rolling hills, it has many hikes for sweeping sights, such as the Nantahala Gorge. Its home to the highest peak east of the Mississippi, the majestic Mt. We have been writing about travel for the last decade. .ai-viewport-2 { display: inherit !important;} } Read More: National Parks Sites in North Carolina. Not to be outshone by the National Park, Bryson City manages to be an experience all its own! Downtown Blowing Rock is home to adorable shops and restaurants, as well as the only urban entrance to a waterfall that weve seen in North Carolina (Glen Burney). Of course, we cant forget about the famous Christmas Fraser Firs youll see around Ashe County. You can take a side-trip to the not-mountain town of Charlotte and learn about its history at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Dont forget Catawba Brewing is based here for a cold refreshing craft pint post-adventure. Annual celebrations like the Elk Fest and Hillbilly Jamboree are reason enough to visit. Wilmington was also founded in the first half of the 18th century by colonists, so it has a number of historical buildings. 2022 Best Cities to Live in North Carolina - UpNest Can some one tell me where the goats are in the Flat Rock picture? In early September, the Morganton Festival is a huge event with big name bands, celebrations, games, and arts and crafts vendors set up in the streets. Pearsons Falls is also nearby. text-decoration: none min-width: 310px; After, six years of international travel they settled down and launched Lost in the Carolinas to share their experiences about and travel tips on South Carolina and North Carolina. The town's lovely architecture and historic buildings set it apart from others in the area. The sparkling North Carolina lake of the same name is the main draw for this mountain town. Make sure to stop in the Paces General Store (operating since 1899) and Thompons Grocery Market- North Carolinas oldest grocery store! The top of Lookout Mountain is just a 15-minute drive from downtown. .site-header .header-image { The fresh air calls most outside to enjoy nature. Each of our 12 Best Small Mountain Towns around Asheville has its own great Visitor's Center where you can plan your day. 11 Most Beautiful Mountain Towns in North Carolina - Trips To Discover They have a tiny population of residents but a vast number of visitors each year. Its charming downtown is composed of just a general store, bookstore, and restaurant. You forgot to mention that it is home to Lees-McRae College! Lake Glenville has the distinction of being the lake with the highest elevation east of the Mississippi River. Banner Elk, NC 28604, USA. Some of North Carolina's mountain towns are highly seasonal, with major attractions open only during the summer months, but a few, particularly those near the ski resorts, lend themselves more towards winter visits. For a mixture of small-town roots and modern comforts, Boone is a great balance of the two. Banner Elk is a very interesting town with quaint little stores, wineries, and restaurants! Some are more touristy than others, but none of the NC beaches are as touristy as Myrtle Beach, SC.I like Beaufort, but it's not right on the beach. Its downtown is home to nice shops, a cozy atmosphere, and great restaurants. Linville Falls and High Shoal Falls are both close by and worth a visit. Ride the trains through majestic mountains on the local railroad. 12 Adorable North Carolina Mountain Towns You Should Visit - TheTravel A glistening lakefront community in North Carolina, Connestee Falls is home to an 18-hole golf course and other established lifestyle amenities that are fully owned and operated by the residents. Couples may want to book a room at the romantic B&B-style Bob Timberlake Inn, while families looking for more living space can opt for the Chetola Premium Condominiums. Home to the Woolly Worm Festival in October, we can't get enough of this town, the amazing restaurants and shops here, and its gorgeous surroundings. What Are the Best Mountain Towns to Raise a Family in America Named for its likeness to the Swiss Alps, the Switzerland Inn is a century-old resort catering to this concept. Sitting on the North Carolina-Tennessee border, right before the Tuckasegee River runs right, Bryson City is definitely one of our favorite North Carolina mountain towns! Best Small Towns To Live In, North Carolina Edition You'll find the Great Smoky Mountains on the Eastern side of Tennessee. Its also known for The Diamondback, a road full of dangerous curves and beautiful vistas, popular among many daring drivers. The town itself is nice for a stroll from the county courthouse. This classic mountain town is only 45 minutes from Asheville and is located right along Pisgah National Forest. Visit the Old Fort Arrowhead Monument to get a peek into its interesting past. Read More: 100+ Unique Things to Do in North Carolina. If you are in town on a Friday, be sure to catch one of the free summer musical events taking place at Concerts on the Creek at the Bridge Park. But beyond the dramatic summit of Mount Mitchell, there are also waterfalls near BurnsvilleCrabtree Falls joins two near the base of Mount Mitchell (Setrock Creek Falls and Roaring Fork Falls). North Carolina is home to over 250 waterfalls with a number of them located in the Plateau region. } Hendersonville Main Street, Hendersonville | Photo Copyright: Lana Law Asheville may be the best-known destination in the mountains of North Carolina, but Hendersonville is a wonderful small-town alternative. 15 Cutest Small Towns In North Carolina (Mountains, Beaches, And More Beautiful scenery, friendly people, and a great vibe. Weve created many more NC travel guides that include these mountain towns in more detail. Youll enjoy walking on its brick sidewalks while admiring the towns historic buildings. Banner Elk is also a popular gateway to Grandfather Mountain State Park and the Mile High Swinging Bridge on the privately-owned Grandfather Mountain attraction. the inspiration for Mayberry in The Andy Griffith Show, is a time capsule of midcentury small-town America. Top 40 Coolest NC Mountain Towns - RomanticAsheville.com It has just enough diversity within its quaint downtown to attract plenty of visitors, from eclectic eateries to art studios to specialty shops. Take in the views overlooking the charming downtown from Sunset Rock. Climb to the top of Mount Jefferson to take in the views overlooking the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway. Written by Lana Law Updated Jun 23, 2021We may earn a commission from affiliate links (). My favorite is Waynesville because I live there. As such, it offers an amazing assortment of natural feats to discover. Make sure to get a taste of Hollywood at the Henry River Mill Village in Hildebran. Overall SnackAbility. These affordable towns could be your next home or vacation home! Valdese was settled by 19th-century Waldensians from Italy, giving it a unique identity apart from its neighbors. Use it as a base for nearby hikes and waterfalls, rides on the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway, or just relax in luxury at Biltmore Estate or The Omni Grove Park Inn. Read More: The North Carolina Bucket List. Art festivals are held here year-round and an impressive array of galleries and funky shops to browse. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Blowing Rock. Catch some incredible views from Lovers Leap, a 2-mile loop with a gain of 500 feet in elevation. @media only screen and (max-width: 359px) { Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Regardless of the season, the Chetola Resort is a wonderful accommodation option. Read More: 50+ Great Things to Do in Asheville (Downtown, Biltmore, and More!). The last town before the Nantahala National Forest and Parks, Bryson City pops up out of nowhere in a valley between some of North Carolina's most incredible outdoor spaces and stunning waterfalls.. Read More: 75+ Fun Day Trips from Asheville (Within a 2-Hour Drive). Among its many quirky independent storefronts, its downtown is lousy with independent and adorable book stores. Check out the shops filled with local crafts and popular tourist attractions like Harrahs Casino. Black Mountain has a little bit of something for everyone. .ai-viewport-3 { display: inherit !important;} 5 Pinehurst at No. Read More: Western North Carolina Map (400+ Wonderful Places Listed). Hike around the Carl Sandburg Home in Flat Rock, NC. Banner Elk. Whether Cashiers is the ideal location or an elegant private estate on the shores of Lake Toxaway beacons, contact any of our Landmark real estate brokers to help you explore the area and find your next North Carolina dream home. $( document.body ).append( '' ); Its reputation for charm precedes it, known mainly as the hometown of Andy Griffith and the inspiration for the idyllic neighborhood his show was set in, Mayberry. The history of Cashiers showcases the rich heritage of several buildings circa 1800s that have been restored overtime and are still in use today. Along with multiple parks, the area is the ideal location for camping, boating, fishing, or cycling. Franklin is known as the gem capital of the world. Read More: 20+ Kid-Friendly Waterfalls In NC (Easy Hikes And Swimming Holes!). Its a small town that harkens back to simpler times with vintage signs and brick buildings. Its also home to New River Brewing for the finest craft beer and pub grub. One of the best small towns near Asheville - well, technically a village with a population under 3,400 people as of 2020 - Flat Rock is home to history, apples, and hiking. The heart of the area is the quaint town square. /***Underline Links***/ height: 100%; The downtown is decked out with colorful murals, reflecting the artistic spirit of the town. Located between Ashville and Cherokee, this town near the Great Smokey Mountains National Park and the, Blowing Rock is a charming hamlet tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. You can enjoy an array of eateries, breweries, boutiques, and galleries on Main Street, and the historic buildings add an additional old-school charm. Don't miss a chance to see spectacular Dry Falls, about 10 minutes from town, where you can walk behind a curtain of water pouring off an overhanging ledge. Near Beech Mountain skiing and Grandfather Mountain hiking. The 25 Best Western NC Small Towns To Visit (and Live In!) Fly fishing is a popular thing to do in Sylva. The track winds its way through the forest and along the contours of the mountain and since you control the braking, the ride can be as thrilling or sedate as you choose. There are a few hiking trails there, too, which are among the best in the area. Home of the Davidson College Wildcats, Lake Norman, and great prices on real estate, the #3 best place to live in North Carolina, Davidson, is one of the Tar Heel State's best kept secrets. If youre looking to explore the many waterfalls near Brevard, we recommend starting with Looking Glass Falls. 80+ Great Small Towns in North Carolina (+ Top 10 Best) - NC Tripping The ride down is thrilling, with the two-seater sleds hitting top speeds of 27 miles per hour as they twist and turn down the nearly 2,400-foot run. You can easily immerse yourself in local art, browse unique shops, and dig into each places amazing food scene. Youll find stunning waterfalls and spectacular North Carolina hikes all right outside your doorstep in this small mountain town. Main Street is a mix of restaurants and retail shops, including a disproportionate number of bookstores considering the size of the town. The first town on this list isn't a town at all; rather, it's an unincorporated area in the Wilmington Metropolitan area. We're always looking for hidden gems here in the Tarheel State, and we'd love to hear from you. This gives the area a hip youthfulness that many find appealing. Named after blowing rock that is located 4000 feet above sea level the town has sweeping vistas, and is located right off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Mount Airy, a.k.a. Burnsville is an authentic mountain experience with an artistic flair. Old Fort is another of our North Carolina small towns off I-40, best known for gold and Catawba Falls. A massive aquarium, a mountain coaster and. On the edge of the town is Soco Falls. There are many opportunities for phenomenal hikes, waterfalls, climbing, watersports, and winter sports to engage in here. Due to Henderson Countys high concentration of orchards, the area offers some of the best apples for picking in North Carolina. Boone is a haven of natural wonders offering an, Warren LeMay from Cincinnati, OH, United States, click for interactive map of the Best North Carolina Mountain Towns, 15 Best Bryson City Restaurants You Need to Try! Facebook. If you'd like to learn more visit the about us page. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Banner Elk. Read More About Our Journey! There's only one "big" city within an hour of the coast and that's Wilmington, with a pop of about 200,000 in New Hanover County, or 260,000+ in the Wilmington MSA.All the beach towns rely on a tourist-driven economy. Begin with our list of the best mountain towns in North Carolina. Lake Louise Park and Main Street Nature Park are beautiful spaces to explore and enjoy the local wilderness here. Best non-touristy mountain & coastal towns in North Carolina Hike the easy Deep Creek Loop, go whitewater rafting on the Nantahala River from the Nantahala Outdoor Center, ride the scenic Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, or get lost on the Road to Nowheretheres endless fun in Bryson City! You might say its a Foothills or Piedmont town, but well argue otherwise. Land of Oz (held in September) is one of many great reasons to come here with its warmer outside. We're also huge fans of Hillman Beer and the Mountain Gateway Museum in Old Fort. ), 20 Excellent Things to Do in Cherokee and the Qualla Boundary (and Nearby! There are three breweries making some of the finest mountain drafts around. Appalachian Ski Resort is just minutes away and is a top destination for snowboarders and young skiers. Of course, the nearby Moore Cove Falls and French Broad Falls (Mill Shoals) are two of many more to explore. 2 Marion at No. My name is Ellen Pitts and I am . Several Western NC towns made the list, including Fletcher (#3), Woodfin (#12), and Black Mountain (#20). Downtown, youll find vintage motels, lots of motorcyclists, and the best pancakes of your life at Joeys Pancake House! } Skiing in North Carolina: With elevations that exceed 5,000 feet and extensive snowmaking equipment, the mountains of North Carolina offer excellent opportunities for skiing. n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments)};if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n; Beyond the downtown, you will find lovely homes and streets with manicured yards and views in all directions. 17 Terrific Cities & Towns Near Asheville, NC To Visit Read More: 25+ Beautiful North Carolina Road Trips (Scenic Byways and Highways). .inside-footer-widgets a { Take a walk down Main Street past the Swain County Heritage Museum and then turn up Everett Street to cross the bridge and look out over the river. The main street is designed with tourists in mind, and is lined with cute shops, galleries, and covered walkways. Beyond chasing tall hairy creatures, Marion is situated at the base of Mount Mitchell with many waterfalls nearby, such as Linville Falls and Toms Creek Falls. /***Mediavine Sidebar Fix***/ People dont just come here for that bucket list-worthy accomplishment. The Tuckasegee River flows nearby and is regarded as a hot spot for trout and whitewater fish populations. Youll also encounter a thriving art community through the Toe River Arts and awesome barn quilt trails! 17 Best Towns in Western North Carolina (in 2023) Take a horseback ride at Shady Grove Dude Ranch, see DeSoto Falls, and book a cabin rental to take in the mountain air. 25 Best Mountain Towns in the U.S. - PureWow - PureWow: Women's Take a peek at our exclusive Asheville Region community at The Cliffs. Read More: Winter in Boone (20 Great Activities, Snow Tubing, and More!). In Highlands you will also find high-end dining and bustling boutiques downtown. - 5/13/2022 I lived in Black Mountain for about ten years and loved it! Cashiers is the gateway to one of our favorite NC mountain escapes, Bear Lake Reserve. Maggie Valley is a true tourist town just over 30 minutes from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with all kinds of accommodation, including campgrounds, and a number of things to do. There are several opportunities for guests to learn about the history and culture of the tribe. The median home price in Ayden is 127,400 and the median income is $53,317, giving Ayden a solid ratio of home price to income. ), How to See Elk River Falls (Trail and Safety Tips), 100+ Unique Things to Do in North Carolina, The Asheville Art Museum (How to Visit + 7 Great Things to Do), Winter in Boone (20 Great Activities, Snow Tubing, and More!