Attractions
Here in the High Country you will not ever be bored, as in addition to activities, we have a multitude of attractions for the entire family. Nationally known popular attractions include the Blue Ridge Parkway, Grandfather Mountain, Tweetsie Railroad, the original Mast General Store, Mystery Hill and many others.
| Honored as an International Biosphere Reserve, this state park boasts a nature museum, environmental habitats, interpretive programs, the famous Mile-High Swinging Bridge, picnic areas, and hiking trails. Expansive views abound from this landmark of the region. |
| Phone: |
(828) 963-9522 |
| One of the most popular in the National Park System, the Blue Ridge Parkway is not only a great road trip, but alongside you will find waterfalls, hiking, picnic areas, camping, historic sites, and gorgeous vistas. In our area, popular destinations include Crabtree Falls, Linville Falls, the Cascades, and Mount Mitchell, the highest peak in the East (only an hour away.) |
| Phone: |
(828) 298-0398 |
| Featuring one of the highest peaks in North Carolina’s high country at 5,520 feet, this state park includes trails to the spectacular views from the summit. Interpretative programs, backcountry camping, picnicking and varied trails from easy to strenuous to suit everyone. |
| Phone: |
828-297-7261 |
| Explore the inside of one of our mountains by visiting Linville Caverns. Surrounded by stalactites and stalagmites, you will appreciate this grand work of nature through a subterranean view. |
| Phone: |
828-756-4171 |
| Toll Free: |
800-419-0540 |
| Featuring an authentic steam train, this wild west-themed family fun park is a destination for park rides, shows, a petting zoo, a chair lift, and a train excursion. Originally the steam engine was part of a railroad that ran through the area from the late 1800s to the 1940s. |
| Phone: |
828-264-9061 |
| Toll Free: |
1-800-526-5740 |
| This summertime historic outdoor drama tells of the adventures of Daniel Boone in the High Country and the role local pioneers played in winning the American Revolution. At the site, you can also tour the Hickory Ridge Living History Museum, a collection of 18th and 19th century log cabins, and the Daniel Boone Native Gardens which showcase the flora of the region. |
| Phone: |
(828) 264-2120 |
| Known as the oldest travel attraction in the state, the Blowing Rock was named for the odd updrafts on this spectacular crag, and it was listed in "Ripley`s Believe It or Not" as "the only place in the world where snow falls upside down." Dramatic views and sweeping vistas reward the visitor from the observation tower. |
| Phone: |
828-295-7111 |
| One of the few remaining historic general stores, Mast General Store in Valle Crucis offers a step back in time and modern shopping of Americana and assorted and unique goods and merchandise. Another branch is located in downtown Boone, as well. |
| Phone: |
828-963-6511 |
| Gravity and the laws of physics fail to work in the usual way at this popular nostalgic attraction for kids of all ages. Hands-on activities and science experiments also provide entertainment. Right next door, Appalachian Heritage Museum is a historic c. 1898 house museum giving a glimpse of 19th century mountain living. |
| Phone: |
(828) 264-2792 |
| West Jefferson is the home of Ashe County Cheese, the oldest cheese plant in NC, producing cheese since 1930. You can watch the fascinating process of cheese making from the viewing area and visit their cheese and gift shop, too. You have to try their famous "squeaky cheese" or fresh cheese curds. |
| Phone: |
336-246-2501 |
| Toll Free: |
800-445-1378 |
