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Morganton is a charming Burke County town located approximately an hour east of Asheville within the gorgeous foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The town is the site of the United States' oldest inland European settlement, established in 1567. Today, its quaint downtown district is anchored around its historic courthouse and is home to a plethora of delightful shopping, dining, and performing arts destinations. Couples can explore the History Museum of Burke County, which offers two floors of historic exhibits, or take in Broadway musicals and dramas at the City of Morganton Municipal Auditorium. Delicious craft breweries line the city's downtown area, including Fonta Flora Brewery, Catawba Brewing, and Sidetracked Brewery. Pisgah National Forest offers ample opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and camping, including trails to hike to picturesque waterfalls. Lake James State Park offers a seasonal swimming beach and opportunities for mountain biking.
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