The Blue Ridge Mountains span North Carolina at many points, but the area known as the High Country is a favorite destination year-round.
Winter months call for skiing at the slopes of Beech Mountain or Sugar Mountain, while the summer allows for drives on the Blue Ridge Parkway with the top down.
Merlefest is a popular bluegrass music festival held every spring in honor of Merle Watson, and the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games celebrate Scottish heritage in July.
The High Country is made up of dozens of towns, including Boone, Blowing Rock, Valle Crucis, Wilkesboro, Banner Elk, Beech Mountain, and Linville. Choose one to base yourself on and to explore the area.
This post contains affiliate links.
Banner Elk
Long before European Americans arrived, the valley along the Elk River was used by the Cherokee for hunting, fishing, and seasonal travel. It gets its name from Martin Luther Banner, who established the first permanent settlement there in 1848.
As members of the Banner family joined him over the following years, the settlement became known as “Banner’s Elk,” referring to the Banner family living along the Elk River. The founding of Lees–McRae College in 1900 helped transform Banner Elk into an educational and cultural center.
What to Do in Banner Elk
Banner Elk Winery– One of several in this region, this winery has sprawling grounds with tastings and bottle sales as well as an adjoining villa. 135 Deer Run Lane
Banner House Museum– This 1870 home, furnished with period antiques from the community, tells the story of early residents to Banner Elk, specifically Samuel Henry Banner, a relative of the town’s namesake. 7990 Hickory Nut Gap Road
Grandfather Vineyard & Winery– This winery also offers tastings, bottle sales, and events on weekends. 225 Vineyard Lane
Kettell Beerworks– This is one of many craft breweries in the High Country, founded in 2010 and family-run. It features German-style brews like kolsch and Marzen, paired with pretzels and pizza from the modest kitchen. 567 Main Street
Sugar Mountain Resort– The longtime ski resort is ideal for beginners. When the snow melts, it opens as a downhill mountain biking course. 1009 Sugar Mountain Drive, Sugar Mountain
Where to Eat in Banner Elk
Bella’s Italian Neighborhood Restaurant– Open since 2006, this family Italian restaurant has all the menu favorites you’d expect, like pizza, fettuccine Alfredo, and deli-style sandwiches. There’s also a second location in Boone. 3585 Tynecastle Highway, (828) 898-9022
The Pedalin’ Pig– One of three High Country outposts, this is where to get your barbecue fix, with the option of pork in ribs, salads, tacos, and sandwiches. 4235 Highway 105 South, (828) 898-7500
Reid’s Cafe and Raw Bar– Part of a local restaurant group, Reid’s offers elevated seafood, including fresh oysters and local trout, paired with farm-to-table fare. 4004 NC-105, Unit 8, Sugar Mountain, (828) 898-9200
Where to Stay in Banner Elk
BlueGreen Vacations Blue Ridge Village– The Ascend resort is only three miles from the slopes of Sugar Mountain. Rooms have sofa beds, kitchens, and laundry facilities, while the resort has a pool and playground. 3781 Tynecastle Highway
Courtyard by Marriott Sugar Mountain Banner Elk– The family-friendly resort between Banner Elk and Sugar Mountain has an indoor pool for year-round swimming, a restaurant, and sizable rooms. 3988 NC-105, Sugar Mountain
The Lodge at Banner Elk– The 100‑room lodge‑style retreat has recently been renovated, with free parking, WiFi, and a fitness center. 1615 Tynecastle Highway
Beech Mountain
What’s now known as Beech Mountain lay along portions of the Great Trading Path, an Indigenous trail that connected communities throughout the Southeast. Beech Mountain’s transformation into a resort community began in the 1960s when Alabama dentist Thomas Brigham envisioned creating a Southern ski destination.
What to Do in Beech Mountain
Beech Mountain History Museum– This modest local museum focuses on the history of the region from the Cherokee to its modern tourism era. It’s free to visit. 503 Beech Mountain Parkway
Beech Mountain Resort– This ski resort also offers year-round programming, from its mountain biking trail to yoga on a mountaintop platform. The resort has several bars and restaurants, including a cocktail lounge and brewery. 1007 Beech Mountain Parkway
The Land of Oz– This quirky attraction, inspired by The Wizard of Oz, has welcomed visitors seasonally since 1970, when it was created by the founder of Tweetsie. Go on tours with costumed characters. 1007 Beech Mountain Parkway
Where to Eat in Beech Mountain
Beech Mountain Brewery– The rustic brewery at the ski resort is the perfect place for a post-run pint, including several IPAs. The menu also includes burgers and sandwiches. 1007 Beech Mountain Parkway, (828) 387-2011
Brick Oven Pizzeria– The family-run restaurant dates back to 1988 and is now owned by two brothers. They have freshly made pizzas, desserts, and craft beer, as well as an on-site mini-golf course and frequent events like movies and live music. 402 Beech Mountain Parkway, (828) 387-4209
Fred’s Backside Deli– The 40-year old general store has a restaurant serving the fresh-made biscuits and Boar’s Head meats and cheeses. They’re open 365 days per year. 501 Beech Mountain Parkway, (828) 387-4838
Where to Stay in Beech Mountain
Pinnacle Inn Resort– The mountaintop community has condominiums for rent. The property also has trail access, an indoor pool and hot tub, playground, tennis courts, and a mini-golf course. 301 Pinnacle Inn Road
Blowing Rock
For centuries, the area’s rugged mountains were part of the homeland of the Cherokee and earlier Indigenous peoples, who traveled through the Blue Ridge for hunting and trade. The town takes its name from The Blowing Rock, a dramatic cliff overlooking Johns River Gorge.
According to Cherokee legend, the rock’s unusual upward wind currents carried a young brave back to his beloved after he leapt from the cliff, inspiring one of the region’s best-known folktales. Plan your trip around a downtown art walk.
What to Do in Blowing Rock
Appalachian Ski Mountain– Students flock to this particular mountain for discounts and easy access to Boone, but it’s open to all and has been since opening in 1968. 940 Ski Mountain Road
Blowing Rock Art & History Museum– This world-class museum is an essential stop for visitors through town for learning about the several noted artists who lived here and the regional artists who continue to be inspired by the Appalachian surroundings. 159 Ginny Stevens Lane
The Blowing Rock– The town’s namesake is this unusual outcropping steeped in Indigenous lore, not to mention one of the state’s oldest tourist attractions. Note that it may close suddenly due to weather conditions. 432 The Rock Road
Moses H. Cone Memorial Park– This Blue Ridge Parkway detour is the former Flat Top Manor and has one of the most beautiful views around. Visitors can tour the home and shop at the Southern Highland Craft Guild craft shop. Milepost 294
Tweetsie Railroad– Open seasonally, Tweetsie is a park featuring a ropes course, rides, live shows, animal habitats, and, of course, the railroad. The former line opened as a tourist attraction in the 1950s. Also, come by for their seasonal events like the Ghost Train. 300 Tweetsie Railroad Lane
Where to Eat in Blowing Rock
Six Pence Pub– The cozy British-style pub has a sister restaurant in Savannah, Georgia. Expect to find warming dishes like shepherd’s pie and bangers and mash with an extensive selection of single-malt scotch. 1121 Main Street
The Speckled Trout Restaurant & Bottle Shop– The popular restaurant has a cozy bar and a small bottle shop with house-made brews. As you’d expect, it highlights Appalachian ingredients like its namesake fish. 922 Main Street, (828) 295-9819
Storie Street Grille– Sit on the back patio for the best experience at this restaurant specializing in fresh-baked breads, excellent smash burgers, and light salads. 1167 Main Street, (828) 295-7075
Tout Suite– The bakery offshoot of Cafe Violette is the perfect place to grab a bite before a hike, including coffee and freshly-made pastries and sandwiches like ham and cheese, radish and butter. 1132 Main Street, Suite 103
Where to Stay in Blowing Rock
Blowing Rock is made up of several small inns and rental properties, especially if you’re looking to stay in the heart of downtown and within walking distance of restaurants.
Chetola Resort at Blowing Rock– The upscale resort has multiple types of accommodations, including lodge rooms and cabins. They have a restaurant, spa, and sporting grounds. 185 Chetola Lake Drive
Hellbender Bed & Beverage– The quirky inn sits above a popular bar and restaurant, thus the name that honors a local salamander species. All eight rooms are different but come with coffee makers and televisions. 239 Sunset Drive
Inn at Ragged Gardens– Just down the street is this historic home dating back to the 1900s. With eleven rooms, it’s more of a traditional inn experience, with a full-service restaurant and music on the lawn throughout the year. 203 Sunset Drive
Meadowbrook Inn– Despite the name “inn,” this property has 62 rooms and plenty of amenities, including a fitness center, indoor swimming pool, morning coffee, and daily happy hour. 711 Main Street
Boone
Named for American frontiersman Daniel Boone, Boone traces its history to the late eighteenth century, when European American settlers began establishing farms in the Blue Ridge Mountains after following trails long used by Indigenous peoples. Boone’s modern identity took shape in 1899 with the founding of what is now Appalachian State University.
What to Do in Boone
Appalachian Mountain Brewery– One of three in Boone alone, this brewery made headlines after successfully buying its brand back from one of the major US companies. Come by for house-made beer and THC drinks. There’s also a food truck in the parking lot if you get peckish. 163 Boone Creek Drive
Hickory Ridge Living History Museum– To better understand what life was like here during the 1700s, visit this outdoor museum. You’ll find cabins and period actors in costumes doing crafts and showcasing their talents. It’s also here that you’ll find Horn in the West, an outdoor drama about Daniel Boone and the fight for independence, plus a weekly farmers market. 591 Horn in the West Drive
Live performance– In addition to the buskers typically set up on King Street, you can catch free bluegrass jam sessions at the Jones House and plays and other productions at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts.
Where to Eat in Boone
For a relatively small town, Boone has excellent restaurant options, ranging from upscale Appalachian dining to casual spots for students in between classes.
Black Cat Burrito– Since 2000, Black Cat has been a college student favorite for its offbeat styles of burritos, like Thai and Greek, and cheap margaritas. Tacos and salads are other options, and the eatery also has live music. 127 South Depot Street, (828) 263-9511
Come Back Shack– Located on the way into town with all the chains, Come Back Shack is known for their burgers. Everything is made fresh, including milkshakes and fries. Choose one of the signature burgers or build your own at one of two locations in town. 767 W. King Street, (828) 902-7106
Boone Bagelry– Start your day with at the area’s only bagel spot. Established in 1988, they have 15 different styles, including gluten-free. Top them with cream cheese or make a breakfast sandwich out of it. 516 West King Street, (828) 262-5585
The Cardinal– Easily the best burger in town, this restaurant takes its vision from road trip food with turkey and elk patty variations. Enjoy with a cheap beer or a craft cocktail. 1711 NC-105, (828) 355-9600
Coyote Kitchen– Caribbean meets Southwestern at this strip mall eatery. Their bowls are the most popular, but they also serve burgers, sandwiches, salads, and tacos. Meats are all natural, and the menu includes items for those with dietary restrictions. 200 Southgate Drive, (828) 265-4041
Dan’l Boone Inn– Another popular spot is the family-style restaurant named after the frontiersman. Arrive early for weekend breakfast, which includes country ham, biscuits and gravy. They’re also open for lunch and dinner, where they’re known for fried chicken. 130 Hardin Street, (828) 264-8657
Gamekeeper Restaurant– Set in the forest outside of town is likely the most fine dining restaurant you’ll find in the High Country. It’s known for its use of game meat and uncommon ingredients, but be sure to make a reservation. 3005 Shulls Mill Road, (828) 963-7400
Hatchet Coffee Roasters– Boone’s favorite coffee roaster has a minimalist space with coffee and tea drinks, as well as pastries and avocado toast. It neighbors a climbing gym and is popular with outdoor lovers. 150A Den Mac Drive, (828) 278-7505
Lost Province Brewing Co.– This brewery is also a restaurant, located downtown in Boone. They serve lunch and dinner, including pizzas, salads, and beer created in-house. They have weekly trivia, live music, and other events. 130 North Depot Street, (828) 265-3506
Over Yonder– The folks behind Mast Farm Inn opened this restaurant and full bar in the rolling Appalachian hills. Favorites include North Carolina trout, shrimp and grits, and meatloaf. They also have a full bar. 1377 Blowing Rock Road, (828) 865-3255
The Pasta Joint– Located in the former jail in town, this charming restaurant makes all of its pasta fresh, so you can’t go wrong with any of them. It also has a great wine and cocktail program. 142 Burrell Street, (828) 865-5000
Where to Stay in Boone
Blue Ridge Tourist Court– The converted motel is full of vintage charm and a short drive from town, also located on the bus route. Each is decorated in a different color palette, and one room even has bunk beds for groups. 574 Old East King Street
The Horton Hotel– Downtown Boone’s only boutique hotel is right on King Street and has a rooftop lounge. There are 15 uniquely furnished guest rooms with king and queen beds. The former general store space dates back to the 1920s. 611 West King Street
Rhode’s Motor Lodge– Another retro hotel option, this one features stylish design and one of the best restaurants in town. 1377 Blowing Rock Road
Linville
Linville is one of the oldest planned resort communities in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The area was originally home to Cherokee hunting grounds and was later settled by European Americans in the late eighteenth century. The community takes its name from William Linville, a frontier explorer who was killed by Cherokee warriors in 1766 while surveying the region.
What to Do in Linville
Grandfather Mountain– You’ll see the familiar outline of the mountain from town, but visit the park. Not only was it a filming location for Forrest Gump, but it also offers hiking trails and a nature preserve with black bears and other animals. 2050 Blowing Rock Highway, Linville
Linville Caverns– These private limestone caves were discovered in the 1800s and have fish swimming in an underground stream. It’s been a popular tourist attraction since 1937. Their hours change seasonally, so check before you go. Tours last 35 minutes. 19929 US 221 North, Marion
Linville Falls– The 2,000-foot cascade that lends its name to one of the area’s communities is an easy stop from the Blue Ridge Parkway. Milepost 316
Linville Falls Winery– Unwind with a tasting at this beautiful winery that started as a Christmas tree farm operation. Wine varieties include Chardonnay and Malbec. 9557 Linville Falls Highway, Newland
Linville Gorge- Called the “Grand Canyon of the East,” the canyon carved by the Linville River is part of the Pisgah National Forest, and its trails are popular with hikers.
Where to Eat in Linville
Famous Louise’s Rock House Restaurant– Originally built as Linville Falls Tavern, Louise’s is made of pieces of stone and sits on three counties. The menu features homestyle cooking and seafood, as well as pies. 23175 Rockhouse Lane, Linville Falls, (828) 765-2702
Old Hampton Store & Barbeque– The longtime general store hosts live music but is also known for its hickory-smoked barbecue, making it an essential High Country stop. 77 Ruffin Street, Linville, (828) 733-5213
The Tin Trout- The eclectic restaurant in Crossnore sits along a lovely creek, making it the perfect setting for enjoying a chicken sandwich or shrimp and grits. 176 Maple Street, Newland
Where to Stay in Linville
Linville is primarily residential, so you’ll find more rentals than in other parts of the High Country. This includes cottages rented by Linville Golf Club, which manages the historic Eseeola Lodge. Linville Falls Campground, RV Park, and Cabins is also an option.
Valle Crucis
Valle Crucis is one of the oldest and best-preserved rural communities in North Carolina’s High Country. Archaeological evidence shows that people have lived in the valley for at least 10,000 years.
The community took shape in 1842 when Levi Silliman Ives, the Episcopal bishop of North Carolina, established the Valle Crucis Episcopal Mission. Legend says Ives looked across the valley and noticed three streams converging in the shape of a cross, inspiring the Latin name Valle Crucis, meaning “Vale of the Cross.”
What to Do in Valle Crucis
Mast General Store– Every trip to the High Country requires a stop at the original Mast General Store, originally the town’s main grocery and essentials store in 1883. It’s still a functioning post office and has vintage candies, outdoor gear, and gifts, plus discounted clothing in a nearby annex. 3565 North Carolina 194
Where to Eat in Valle Crucis
Pearl’s Kitchen + Tiny Market– There are literally no other options in Valle Crucis, but thankfully Pearl’s is great. Just expect it to stay busy with Mast weekend crowds. Grab a North Carolina beer and a sandwich, including the delicious turkey BLT. 3595 NC-194
Where to Stay in Valle Crucis
The Mast Farm Inn– The award-winning bed and breakfast offers romantic mountain lodging in its main building, the former Mast family home, and its historic cabins. Guests enjoy free WiFi and daily breakfast. 2543 Broadstone Road
Wilkesboro
In 1778, the North Carolina General Assembly created Wilkes County from the western frontier of Surry County and named it for John Wilkes, an English parliamentarian who supported the American colonies’ fight for liberty. Wilkesboro was established as the county seat shortly afterward, with the first courthouse completed in the early 1780s. Today, it’s home to MerleFest, an annual bluegrass festival founded in honor of Doc Watson’s son.
What to Do in Wilkesboro
Call Family Distillers– Run by a family of moonshiners and distillers, this legal distillery is open for tastings of their moonshine and fruit brandy. They also have a collection of historic cars that were used to outrun “the law.” 1611 Industrial Drive
Copper Barrel Distillery– Another Wilkesboro distillery crafts moonshine using the best ingredients. The facility is open to visitors for tastings and tours. 508 Main Street
Wilkesboro Heritage Museum– This small town museum in the former courthouse has exhibits on the region, including Appalachian music, crafts, and military history. 100 East Main Street
Where to Eat in Wilkesboro
Cinder Bistro– The casual restaurant highlights barbecue and smoked meats, paired with local craft beer. 532 Main Street, North Wilkesboro, (336) 827-2739
The Lost Wombat– Combining Australian and American dishes is what this unusual restaurant does. 810 Main Street, North Wilkesboro, (336) 990-5020
TwoBoros Brewery & Pizzeria– The craft brewpub brings together both Wilkesboros for delicious beer and bar bites like pizza, wings, and sandwiches. 111 East Main Street, Wilkesboro, (336) 990-9455
Where to Stay in Wilkesboro
Hampton Inn Wilkesboro– Perks of this property include an outdoor pool, electric car charging, and free daily breakfast. 1300 South Collegiate Drive, Wilkesboro
Holiday Inn Wilkesboro– This hotel offers king and double queen rooms, free daily breakfast, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center. 1700 Winkler Street, Wilkesboro
PIN IT
Oh my goodness! I absolutely needed this list! The guy I’m dating is moving to North Carolina next month, and I was trying to find some places for us to visit to explore his new state! I’ll definitely have to take these into consideration!