Boone, North Carolina: A Weekend Getaway

Hiking and Exploring Trails

Boone is surrounded by an array of hiking trails catering to different skill levels. For stunning panoramic views, hike up to places like Rough Ridge or Hawksbill Mountain. The famous Grandfather Mountain offers challenging trails, including the Mile High Swinging Bridge.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains. Numerous overlooks and picnic spots provide great opportunities for relaxation and photography.

Linville Caverns

Explore the underground wonders of Linville Caverns, North Carolina's only caverns open to the public. Marvel at the intricate formations and learn about the geology and history of the area during guided tours.

Appalachian State University

Visit the campus of Appalachian State University to soak in the youthful energy and artistic vibe. Check out art exhibitions, theater performances and cultural events that usually take place on campus.

Tweetsie Railroad

A family-friendly attraction, Tweetsie Railroad is a Wild West-themed amusement park with rides, live entertainment and a scenic train ride through the North Carolina mountains.

Downtown Boone

Stroll through downtown Boone's charming streets filled with art galleries, boutiques and cafes. Don't miss the Mast General Store, a historic emporium that offers a blend of traditional and modern merchandise.

Mast Farm Inn

Indulge in a taste of history and elegance by visiting the historic Mast Farm Inn. Enjoy a meal at the restaurant known for its farm-to-table cuisine or simply explore the serene grounds.

Watauga Lake

Located a short drive from Boone, Watauga Lake offers boating, fishing, and picnicking opportunities. It's a great spot for a relaxing day by the water.

Mystery Hill

Experience the fun and curiosity of Mystery Hill, where optical illusions and gravitational anomalies challenge your perceptions and spark your imagination.

Blowing Rock

Just a short drive from Boone, Blowing Rock is a charming mountain town known for its shopping, dining and, of course, the Blowing Rock itself—a natural rock formation that causes upward-moving air currents.

Elk Knob State Park

This state park offers hiking trails that lead to the summit of Elk Knob, providing panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It's a great spot for a peaceful hike.

Outdoor Recreation

Engage in outdoor activities like mountain biking, zip-lining, horseback riding and rock climbing, all of which are readily available in and around Boone.

High Country Wineries

Explore the local wine scene by visiting High Country wineries and tasting rooms, where you can sample regional wines and enjoy the picturesque landscapes.

Valle Crucis

Just outside of Boone, Valle Crucis is a historic community with a country store, charming church and idyllic scenery that captures the essence of Appalachian life.

The Gamekeeper Restaurant & Bar: Experience upscale dining with a focus on game meats and locally sourced ingredients. The menu at The Gamekeeper offers a unique blend of flavors, featuring dishes like elk, duck and other game meats.

Proper: A farm-to-table restaurant that emphasizes seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Proper offers a diverse menu of dishes inspired by Southern cuisine, along with creative cocktails and a cozy atmosphere.

Vidalia Restaurant & Wine Bar: Known for its contemporary Southern cuisine and extensive wine selection, Vidalia offers a refined dining experience. The menu features a fusion of Southern flavors and international influences.

Melanie's: A popular breakfast and brunch spot in Boone, Melanie's is beloved for its diverse menu featuring omelets, pancakes, benedicts and more. The cozy and welcoming atmosphere adds to the charm.

The Local: True to its name, The Local focuses on sourcing ingredients from local farms and purveyors. The menu highlights regional ingredients in dishes ranging from salads to sandwiches and entrees.

Red Onion Cafe: A casual yet vibrant eatery with a diverse menu that includes sandwiches, salads and entrees. Red Onion Cafe is a great spot for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner.

Dan'l Boone Inn Restaurant: Experience Southern comfort food at its finest with family-style dining at Dan'l Boone Inn. Enjoy classics like fried chicken, country ham and a variety of side dishes in a homey setting.

Lost Province Brewing Co.: For a taste of local craft beer and wood-fired pizzas, visit Lost Province Brewing Co. Their menu includes an array of artisan pizzas and other pub-style dishes.

Capone's Pizza: A local favorite for pizza lovers, Capone's offers a variety of specialty pizzas, calzones and pasta dishes. The laid-back atmosphere is perfect for a casual meal.

Mellow Mushroom: Part of a popular pizza chain, Mellow Mushroom serves creative and unique pizza creations, along with salads, sandwiches and a diverse range of appetizers.

The Cardinal: A coffee shop and bar that serves specialty coffee, craft cocktails and light bites in a relaxed and artistic environment.

Macado's: A casual restaurant known for its extensive menu of sandwiches, burgers and comfort food. Macado's is a fun and lively spot with a nostalgic vibe.