Discover Boone, North Carolina: A Hidden Gem in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Advisor - Gillian Spatz
Curated By

Gillian Spatz

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  • North Carolina

  • Boone

  • Nature Escapes

  • Active Travel

  • Outdoors

  • Mountains

  • Hiking

A person standing on the edge of the clifftop of Boone Mountain with blue sky overhead
Curator’s statement

Nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Boone captivates visitors with its charming blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures and rich Appalachian heritage. As the hometown of legendary pioneer Daniel Boone, this quaint mountain town exudes a sense of history at every turn. From scenic hikes along the iconic Appalachian Trail to exploring vibrant local art scenes and savoring farm-to-table cuisine, Boone offers a rejuvenating escape for travelers seeking a retreat in nature's embrace. Join us on a journey through Boone's enchanting landscapes and vibrant culture, where every moment is infused with the spirit of adventure and discovery.

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Where to stay in Boone, North Carolina

Courtyard by Marriott Boone

A contemporary hotel in the heart of Boone, providing comfortable accommodations and convenient access to the town's attractions and outdoor activities.

Hampton Inn Boone

Discover comfort and convenience at Hampton Inn Boone, nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina. With its cozy accommodations, complimentary hot breakfast, and friendly service, this hotel offers guests a relaxing retreat after a day of exploring the nearby Appalachian State University, outdoor adventures, and charming downtown Boone

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Things to do in Boone, North Carolina

A view of the mountains during sunset with bright orange and yellow sky

Hiking: Explore the scenic trails of the Blue Ridge Mountains, including popular routes like the Tanawha Trail and the Boone Fork Trail in Julian Price Memorial Park

Appalachian State University: Take a stroll through the picturesque campus of Appalachian State University, known for its vibrant student life and beautiful surroundings.

Grandfather Mountain: Visit this iconic landmark for breathtaking views, wildlife encounters at the nature preserve, and the adrenaline-pumping experience of crossing the Mile High Swinging Bridge.

Winery Tours: Discover the thriving wine scene of the Yadkin Valley with guided tours and tastings at local wineries such as Banner Elk Winery & Villa and Grandfather Vineyard & Winery.

Explore Downtown Boone: Wander through the quaint streets of downtown Boone, lined with unique shops, art galleries and cozy cafes offering locally sourced cuisine.

Cultural Attractions: Immerse yourself in Appalachian heritage at the Hickory Ridge Living History Museum or explore the works of regional artists at the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts.

Appalachian Ski Mountain: Hit the slopes for skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing during the winter months at this popular ski resort located just minutes from downtown Boone.

Rock Climbing: Test your skills on the rugged cliffs and boulders of the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, High Gravity Adventures, known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," or try indoor climbing at High Gravity Adventures.

Fishing and Tubing: Cast a line in the pristine waters of the New River or enjoy a leisurely tubing trip down the gentle currents of the Watauga River.

Blue Ridge Parkway: Take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, stopping at overlooks for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Ziplining: Soar through the treetops with exhilarating zipline adventures offered by companies like Sky Valley Zip Tours and Hawksnest Zipline.

Appalachian Trail: Embark on a section hike or simply enjoy a peaceful stroll along the legendary Appalachian Trail, which passes through nearby areas like Roan Mountain and Mount Rogers.

Day Trips:

Blowing Rock: Just a short drive from Boone, Blowing Rock offers a charming mountain town experience with plenty of outdoor activities and attractions. Visit the iconic Blowing Rock itself for stunning views, explore the shops and galleries downtown or enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing or horseback riding in nearby Moses H. Cone Memorial Park or Julian Price Memorial Park.

Linville Gorge and Linville Falls: Nature lovers will delight in a day trip to the stunning Linville Gorge, often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the East." Explore the rugged wilderness with hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging, and be sure to visit the breathtaking Linville Falls, one of the most photographed waterfalls in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Places to eat & drink in Boone, North Carolina

Long table set with red and yellow flowers in vases and blue glasses and gold plates

The Gamekeeper: Known for its upscale mountain dining experience featuring locally sourced ingredients and creative cuisine in a rustic lodge setting.

Vidalia Restaurant & Wine Bar: Offering a refined Southern-inspired menu with dishes crafted from seasonal ingredients, complemented by an extensive wine selection.

Proper: A cozy eatery serving elevated comfort food classics with a modern twist, including hearty burgers, sandwiches and creative small plates.

Casa Rustica: Specializing in authentic Italian cuisine served in a charming, candlelit atmosphere with warm hospitality and an extensive wine list.

Melanie's Food Fantasy: A beloved spot for breakfast and brunch, known for its creative menu featuring scratch-made dishes, including pancakes, omelets, and specialty coffees.

Coyote Kitchen: Offering a unique fusion of Southwestern and Caribbean flavors with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and vibrant dishes bursting with flavor.

Lost Province Brewing Co.: A brewpub and restaurant known for its handcrafted beers brewed on-site, wood-fired pizzas and farm-to-table fare sourced from local farmers and producers.

The Local: A farm-to-table restaurant committed to sustainability and community, offering a seasonally inspired menu showcasing the best of regional ingredients.

Dan'l Boone Inn Restaurant: A beloved institution serving Southern comfort food classics with all the fixings in a family-style dining experience reminiscent of a traditional mountain feast.

Black Cat Burrito: A casual spot offering eclectic burritos, tacos and other Mexican-inspired dishes, along with live music and a laid-back atmosphere.

Makoto's Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar: Offering authentic Japanese cuisine, including hibachi-grilled meats, sushi rolls and traditional dishes served in an inviting atmosphere

Need to Know

For more travel tips, check Fora Advisor Joslyn Weaver's guide, Romantic Long Weekend Getaway in Asheville. This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to North Carolina.

Advisor - Gillian Spatz

Travel Advisor

Gillian Spatz

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