Looking for scenic drives, mountain trails, and Southern charm? Head to Boone, North Carolina! Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone is a vibrant college town filled with outdoor adventures, Appalachian culture, and cozy cabins. Whether you're leaf-peeping along the Blue Ridge Parkway or hiking to a waterfall, Boone is a four-season getaway for nature lovers and families alike.
Boone, NC Highlights:
- For Hikers: Trek to the top of Grandfather Mountain – Hike rugged alpine trails or cross the Mile High Swinging Bridge for breathtaking views.
- For Families: Explore Tweetsie Railroad – This Wild West theme park features a steam train, rides, and live entertainment for all ages.
- For Scenic Drives: Cruise the Blue Ridge Parkway – Roll down the windows and enjoy overlooks, wildflowers, and stunning mountain vistas.
- For History Buffs: Visit Hickory Ridge Living History Museum – Learn about pioneer life through historical reenactments and 18th-century cabins.
- For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Go tubing or kayaking on the New River – Enjoy a relaxing float through rolling farmland and lush forest.
Best Time to Visit Boone, NC
The best time to visit Boone is in the fall (September–November) for incredible foliage and hiking or in summer (June–August) for outdoor festivals and mild mountain temperatures. Winter (December–February) brings snow sports, while spring (March–May) offers wildflowers and fewer crowds.
How to Get to Boone, NC
- By Car: Boone is located along US-421 and NC-105, about 2 hours from Charlotte and 3 hours from Raleigh.
- By Air: The nearest airports are Tri-Cities Regional Airport (TRI) in TN and Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT); both require a rental car for the drive to Boone.
- By Bus: Limited regional bus service is available; driving is the most convenient way to reach Boone.
Where to Stay in Boone, NC
- Recommended for Families: La Quinta Inn & Suites – Conveniently located with an indoor pool and breakfast near downtown and major attractions.
- For Couples: The Horton Hotel – Stylish boutique stay with a rooftop bar and walkable access to downtown shops and restaurants.
- For Mountain Charm: Cabins near Valle Crucis – Rent a cozy log cabin surrounded by woods, trails, and quiet seclusion.
Best Things to Do in Boone, NC
⮕ Stroll Through Botanical Beauty at Daniel Boone Native Gardens
A serene path through native flora, perfect for peaceful walks and plant lovers alike.
© Courtesy of Esin Deniz - Fotolia.com
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What is the Daniel Boone Native Gardens?
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The Daniel Boone Native Gardens is a
magnificent naturally landscaped garden near downtown Boone, North Carolina. It has a
rare, extensive collection of native plants, shrubs, trees, and wildflowers.
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When did the gardens open?
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The 3-acre gardens, which opened in 1963, represent a conservation and
education effort as well as a kind of laboratory where clubs, botanists, and schools can grow
rare or endangered species.
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What can visitors see in the gardens?
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There are hundreds of plants that continuously bloom during every growing season. There are
different gardens with unique species – a bog garden, rhododendron garden,
and fern garden, a rock wishing well, a vine-covered arbor, a lovely pond next to the
historic Squire Boone log cabin, and magnificent wrought-iron gates at the entrance, built by
Daniel Boone’s descendants.
651 Horn in the W Dr, Boone, NC 28607, Phone: 828-264-6390
⮕ Strike Gold at Foggy Mountain Gem Mine
Get hands-on with gem mining fun and uncover treasures of all shapes and sparkle.
© Foggy Mountain Gem Mine
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What role did gem mining play in the High Country’s history?
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Gem mining played a huge role in the High Country’s history. You can just imagine how the
shiny rubies, topaz, and emeralds grabbed peoples’
imaginations and started the Gold Rush. The area is honeycombed with gem mines, and most are
rich in gems of different kinds.
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Is finding gems in real mines easy?
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Finding gems in real mines is a hard job that requires patience,
equipment, and experience.
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What can visitors do at the Foggy Mountain Gem Mine?
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At the Foggy Mountain Gem Mine,
the hard work has already been done for the visitors. They can buy buckets of gems
mixed with soil and rocks and sift through them in search of real, beautiful gems. It is a
fun activity for kids, and there’s a competition for who can find the most valuable stones.
If you wish, you can use the mine shop to set your precious stones in a piece of jewelry.
4416 NC-105, Boone, NC 28607, Phone: 828-963-4367
⮕ Step Into the Past at Hickory Ridge Living History Museum
Cabins, costumed interpreters, and pioneer life bring Boone’s frontier days vividly to life.
© Courtesy of Ritu Jethani - Fotolia.com
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What historical significance do the North Carolina mountains have?
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The mountains of North Carolina are rich in history. The Cherokee Indians,
Daniel Boone, and other early explorers and settlers are an important part of the history of
the area.
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What can visitors learn at the Hickory Ridge Living History Museum?
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At the
Hickory Ridge Living History Museum, you can learn what life was like in the 1700s as the
young country was formed and expanded. The museum is located next to the site of the Horn in the West
and consists of several original period cabins.
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What are some of the historical cabins at the museum?
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The oldest cabin, the Tatum Cabin, dates back to the time of the
American Revolution and was originally located in Todd, North Carolina. The
Coffey House dates to the early 1800s. There is also a WPA cabin built in
the 1930s, as well as another cabin from the same period that is now used as a tavern.
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Who runs the museum, and what demonstrations are available?
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The museum staff are volunteers dressed in period clothing who provide
stories about the cabins and showcase the lifestyle of the early settlers. They also offer
demonstrations of settlers’ skills, such as spinning, weaving,
blacksmithing, tomahawk throwing, candle dipping,
basket weaving, and shooting black-powder guns.
591 Horn in the W Dr, Boone, NC 28607, Phone: 828-264-2120
⮕ Hit the Slopes at Appalachian Ski Mountain
Family-friendly skiing, snowboarding, and winter fun with a cozy lodge vibe.
© Courtesy of Microgen - Fotolia.com
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What is Appalachian Ski Mountain?
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Appalachian Ski Mountain is a
ski area in one of three ski mountains in Watauga County in western
North Carolina, located between Boone and Blowing Rock.
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What skiing facilities are available at Appalachian Ski Mountain?
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The ski area features 11 slopes, three terrain parks, and
five lifts, including two quads and one double chair.
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What activities are available for beginners and non-skiers?
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There is a conveyor belt that takes ski novices to the top of the terrain, making learning
easier. Additionally, there is a large outdoor ice arena, ensuring there is something for
every family member, regardless of their ski experience.
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When is the skiing season at Appalachian Ski Mountain?
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The season lasts from mid-November to late March. There is also
night skiing every night, making it the only ski area in the Southeast with
late-night skiing.
940 Ski Mountain Rd, Blowing Rock, NC 28605
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
⮕ Live Off the Grid at Turtle Island Preserve
Connect with sustainable living, nature skills, and the simple power of unplugging.
© Courtesy of MG - Fotolia.com
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What is Turtle Island Preserve?
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Founded by Eustace Conway,
Turtle Island Preserve is a
1000-acre Appalachian heritage farm and education center. It is located in a
remote, wild, hidden valley that can only be reached along a
long gravel road.
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What kind of experience does Turtle Island Preserve offer?
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At Turtle Island, Eustace Conway offers visitors a glimpse into the
lifestyle of their ancestors, including living in
primitive, simple hand-made structures, using an “outhouse”, and
wielding simple primitive tools for everyday chores.
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How does Turtle Island Preserve promote self-sufficient living?
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Everything at Turtle Island comes from the land and is used with care and in
balance with nature. Residents and visitors build shelters,
plant and harvest gardens, milk goats,
gather plants and herbs in the woods, and literally live “off the land.”
2683 Little Laurel Rd, Boone, NC 28607, Phone: 828-265-2267
⮕ Recharge at The Art of Living Retreat Center
Wellness workshops, mountain views, and deep relaxation in a spiritual hilltop haven.
© Courtesy of LumineImages - Fotolia.com
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What is The Art of Living Retreat Center?
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Located high on the top of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains near Boone, North Carolina, the
The Art of Living Retreat Center
and Ayurvedic Spa is a 380-acre sanctuary that provides an inviting place for those who seek
peace, solitude, and personal growth.
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What activities are available at the retreat center?
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Visitors can practice guided meditation and yoga, attend
philosophy workshops, indulge in spa treatments, take part in
group ceremonies and celebrations, or simply enjoy nature walks.
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Why is The Art of Living Retreat Center special?
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A combination of spectacularly beautiful surrounding nature and a
knowledgeable staff makes this center a great place to nurture your body and mind.
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Who founded The Art of Living Retreat Center?
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The center was established by the renowned spiritual teacher Sri Ravi Shankar and was
recognized by the readers of USA Today as one of the
Best Health and Wellness Resorts in America.
639 Whispering Hills Rd, Boone, NC 28607, Phone: 828-263-4910
⮕ Catch a Blue Ridge Sunrise at Howard’s Knob
Just minutes from town, this lookout delivers epic views and crisp mountain air.
© Courtesy of Holly Michele- Fotolia.com
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What is Howard's Knob?
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Howard's Knob is both a mountain and a park in the North Carolina High
Country, overlooking the town of Boone. It is part of the Appalachian Mountain Range.
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What is the elevation of Howard’s Knob?
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Howard’s Knob has an elevation of 4,396 feet above sea level and rises about
1,000 feet above Boone and the Appalachian State University campus.
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How is Howard’s Knob preserved?
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The magnificent views of the city and the beauty of the mountain led the
High Country Conservancy and local residents to sign a conservation easement
that protects 46 acres as a natural forested area, with provisions for
hiking trails and a small shelter.
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
⮕ Meet the Makers at Watauga County Farmers’ Market
Local produce, handmade goods, and a joyful community vibe every Saturday morning.
© Courtesy of Leslie - Fotolia.com
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What is the Watauga County Farmer's Market?
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The Watauga County Farmer's Market
has been a community effort since its founding in 1974. It is a
gathering place where people come together for people, by people.
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When and where does the market take place?
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The market is held every Saturday from 8 am to noon, from
May through October, at the Horn in the West parking lot in Boone.
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What can visitors find at the market?
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During the summer, the market offers fresh local produce, right-from-the-farm eggs,
soft artisan breads, plants, fresh dairy products,
delicious honeys, jams and jellies, local crafts, and on
some weekends, a kid’s mini market, where children can sell their own wares.
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Are there any special events at the market?
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The Watauga County Farmer’s Market also features special events such as
chef demonstrations, live music, art demonstrations, and more.
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Why should people visit the market?
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The market is a great place to see the community, meet local farmers, and
learn where your favorite goodies come from.
591 Horn in the W Dr, Boone, NC 28607
⮕ Wander the Trails of Moses H. Cone Memorial Park
Miles of carriage paths, mountain lake reflections, and a touch of Gilded Age elegance.
© Courtesy of Jill Lang - Fotolia.com
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What is Moses H. Cone Memorial Park?
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Moses H. Cone Memorial Park on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Blowing Rock, North Carolina,
was created to protect the country estate of Moses H. Cone, a
textile entrepreneur, philanthropist, and conservationist.
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What is Flat Top Manor?
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At the heart of the park is Flat Top Manor, a 1901 Grand Colonial Revival mansion
with 20 rooms and covering 13,000 square feet. This gleaming white beauty
is surrounded by acres of forests, meadows, wildflowers, and
lakes full of bass and trout.
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What recreational activities are available at the park?
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There are 26 miles of carriage roads for horseback riding, walking,
or biking. Additionally, rangers offer tours of the house on weekends.
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What can visitors see inside the mansion?
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The mansion is now home to the Parkway Craft Center, which offers
handmade crafts by regional artists. At times, artists demonstrate
traditional crafts such as embroidery, quilting,
weaving, woodcarving, pottery, and glass blowing
to the public on the porch.
Blue Ridge Parkway, Blowing Rock, NC
⮕ Follow the Footsteps on the North Carolina Daniel Boone Heritage Trail
Trace the journey of the legendary explorer across landscapes full of history and legend.
© Courtesy of blew_f - Fotolia.com
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Who was Daniel Boone?
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Daniel Boone, one of America's favorite heroes of the pioneer era, spent 21 years
between 1752 and 1773 in North Carolina and left a significant impact on the area’s history.
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What is the North Carolina Daniel Boone Heritage Trail?
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What can visitors experience along the trail?
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By visiting the trail, you are transported back to the exciting times when the young country was
being built. Along the trail, you can:
- Visit a replica of Boone’s cabin on the bank of Beaver Creek.
- See the site of the fort where Boone hid during the Cherokee War.
- Explore the ruins of the historic 1753 Moravian village, where Boone took his
ill brother for care.
- Visit the cave on the Yadkin River where Boone lived while fishing and hunting.
- And much more!
126 W Church St, Mocksville, NC 27028
Where to Eat in Boone, NC
- Recommended for Families: Dan’l Boone Inn – A local institution serving Southern comfort food family-style in a historic home.
- For Farm-to-Table Dining: Vidalia Restaurant & Wine Bar – Creative Southern cuisine using seasonal ingredients in an elegant setting.
- For Casual Bites: Our Daily Bread – Sandwiches, soups, and baked goods with a cozy downtown atmosphere.
If you are interested in local events:
- For Fall Fun: Woolly Worm Festival (October) – Quirky races and mountain crafts in nearby Banner Elk, just 30 minutes away.
- For Music Fans: Appalachian Summer Festival (July) – Music, dance, and theater performances hosted by Appalachian State University.
- For Winter Cheer: Boone Christmas Parade (December) – Holiday floats, lights, and community spirit in downtown Boone.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30–90 Minutes of Boone, NC:
- For Scenic Hiking: Linville Falls (45 min) – Hike to multiple viewpoints of one of North Carolina’s most beautiful waterfalls.
- For Thrill Seekers: Hawksnest Snow Tubing and Zipline (35 min) – Year-round thrills with winter tubing and mountain ziplines.
- For Charming Shopping: Blowing Rock (20 min) – A storybook mountain village with boutiques, cafes, and the famous Blowing Rock cliff overlook.
- For History: Mast General Store in Valle Crucis (25 min) – Step back in time at this 1880s general store stocked with toys, candy, and hiking gear.
- For Blue Ridge Views: Grandfather Mountain (40 min) – Home to wildlife habitats, the Mile High Swinging Bridge, and epic hiking trails.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Where is Boone located?
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Boone is a charming historical town situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina.
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What university is located in Boone?
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Boone is home to Appalachian State University, giving it a lively student-town spirit.
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What is Boone’s historical significance?
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Boone is closely linked to the legendary explorer Daniel Boone, reflecting its rugged frontier history.
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What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy near Boone?
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The surrounding area offers some of the country's best outdoor adventures, including:
- Rafting
- Kayaking
- Exploring fast, clear rivers
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit |
Places to Stay |
Tips for Visiting |
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming mountain landscapes. |
The Horton Hotel – A stylish boutique hotel in downtown Boone. |
Hike to Rough Ridge Overlook – Experience stunning Blue Ridge Mountain views. |
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather, perfect for outdoor adventures. |
Blue Ridge Mountain Club – A luxury retreat with beautiful nature access. |
Explore Grandfather Mountain – Walk the Mile High Swinging Bridge and see native wildlife. |
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and breathtaking autumn foliage. |
Lovill House Inn – A charming historic bed & breakfast. |
Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway – Enjoy one of the most scenic fall foliage routes in the country. |
Winter (December-February) – Cold and snowy, great for winter sports. |
Westglow Resort & Spa – A cozy luxury stay with breathtaking mountain views. |
Go Skiing at Appalachian Ski Mountain – Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and cozy lodge vibes. |
Map:
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