Boone North Carolina Travel Guide

Boone North Carolina

Welcome to the picturesque town of Boone, North Carolina, a hidden gem nestled in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains. Boasting breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a thriving outdoor scene, Boone offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and vibrant charm. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or a history enthusiast, this comprehensive travel guide will take you on a journey through Boone's captivating attractions, delectable cuisine, and exciting activities. Get ready to uncover the wonders of the High Country and create unforgettable memories in this enchanting destination.

Boone is nestled in Watauga County at 3,333 feet in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is the heart of North Carolina’s High Country. Named for pioneer Daniel Boone, this vibrant college town is home to Appalachian State University’s 20,000 students which blends rugged outdoor thrills, a thriving arts scene, and a cozy, historic charm. Set in the green rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone's elevation is higher than any other similar-sized town in the region. The climate in Boone is moderate to mild-mostly 70's in the warm seasons and with a cooler climate in the valleys. Boone is well known for its beautiful seasons all year round.

With mild summers (average 68°F), crisp falls ablaze with color, and snowy winters, Boone’s a year-round draw for adventurers and relaxation seekers alike. Whether you're visiting in leaf season, hitting the slopes in winter, or just looking for a peaceful getaway with plenty to explore, Boone delivers. For vacationers, vacation rental accommodations, think log cabins with hot tubs or downtown lofts that offer the perfect base to live like a local. This guide delivers an exhaustive roadmap to Boone’s top activities, culinary highlights, hidden treasures, must-see attractions, day trips, and more, tailored for those planning a High Country escape.

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Things To Do in Boone North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway

The iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, often referred to as "America's Favorite Drive," winds its way through the heart of Boone. Blue Ridge Parkway, the nation’s second-most-visited National Park Service unit, born near Boone at Cumberland Knob. Drive Milepost 276.4 to 305 for vistas like Calloway Peak or hike the 2.2-mile  Beacon Heights Trail (free, moderate, park at MP 305.2) for 360-degree views. The Greenway Trail, a 4-mile paved path along the New River, is ideal for biking ($15/day rentals at Magic Cycles, 140 S. Depot St.) or leisurely walks from downtown.

This scenic highway offers unparalleled views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Be sure to explore the numerous overlooks and hiking trails along the parkway for breathtaking vistas and encounters with local flora and fauna. Just minutes from downtown Boone, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers some of the most scenic drives and hiking access points in the Southeast. This stretch of the parkway is dotted with lookout points like Thunder Hill and Rough Ridge. Hikes to craggy overlooks and waterfalls (try Linn Cove Viaduct Trail or Beacon Heights Overlook)

Grandfather Mountain State Park

A short drive from Boone to Banner Elk leads to Grandfather Mountain State Park, an awe-inspiring peak known for its unique rock formations and sweeping views. The Mile High Swinging Bridge, a 228-foot span with 360-degree views, offers an exhilarating experience as it spans a chasm at an elevation of one mile above sea level, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Grandfather Mountain (2050 Blowing Rock Hwy.) is about 30 minutes from Boone and packed with activities: Walk across the Mile-High Swinging Bridge with amazing views! 

Hike Profile Trail or Grandfather Trail for serious elevation gain and rugged terrain. Visit the Nature Museum, animal habitats (black bears, otters, cougars), and picnic areas. This is a must-see for first-time visitors and a favorite for repeat travelers looking to push their limits. Forrest Gump Curve (MP 302.4) offers postcard-worthy photo ops.

Downtown Boone

Local culture with a college town vibe, home to Appalachian State University, Boone’s downtown blends student energy with small-town charm. Walk King Street to find: Record shops, indie bookstores, and vintage shops. Outdoor outfitters like Footsloggers and Mast General Store. Local coffee, craft beer, and live music everywhere you turn.

Cultural kicks include King Street, Boone’s walkable downtown. Browse Mast General Store (630 W. King St.), a 1880s mercantile with candy barrels and outdoor gear, or catch live bluegrass at Jones House (604 W. King St.), a 1908 home turned cultural center (free concerts, Fridays, June-October). 

Daniel Boone Native Gardens

Daniel Boone Native Gardens (651 Horn in the West Dr.) showcases 100+ native plants in a serene layout ( May-October). The Daniel Boone Native Gardens were established in 1963 with the noble mission of preserving and promoting the native flora of the Appalachian region. Named after the legendary American pioneer, Daniel Boone, the gardens pay homage to the deep-rooted history and natural beauty of the area. A botanical gem nestled in the heart of Boone, North Carolina, Daniel Boone Native Gardens is a celebration of the region's native plant species and a testament to the rich biodiversity of the Appalachian Mountains.

Boone Greenway Trail

Easy access to nature, the Boone Greenway is a paved and gravel path perfect for walking, biking, or stroller cruising through wooded areas, over creeks, and past open fields. Dog-friendly and Wheelchair/stroller accessible. Beautiful in every season, especially fall

Tweetsie Railroad

Step back in time and experience the charm of an old-fashioned Wild West theme park at Tweetsie Railroad. Take a ride on an old-timey steam engine on the Tweetsie Railroad in Blowing Rock and experience the countryside and mountain ride like they did long time ago. This family-friendly attraction offers steam train rides, live entertainment, and thrilling amusement rides that will delight visitors of all ages.

Old west family fun, this heritage theme park between Boone and Blowing Rock has been delighting families for generations. Ride a historic steam locomotive. Take kids through the Wild West town and enjoy live entertainment, rides, and special events. (Halloween and Christmas) Great for young families, and a real taste of regional charm.

New River and Watauga River

Paddle, fish, and float the New River (ironically one of the oldest in the world) and Watauga River offer awesome opportunities to get on the water. Kayaking and tubing from outfitters like River & Earth Adventures. Fly fishing for trout, guided trips are available year-round. Swimming holes and picnic spots along both rivers. Spring through fall are the best times for water-based activities.

Mystery Hill

Mystery Hill at 129 Mystery Hill Lane in Blowing Rocking offers optical illusions, axe-throwing, and a gravitational anomaly. Mystery Hill is the perfect attraction for those traveling with family or friends. It is the perfect place for people of all ages, including young children and seniors. There are things for people of all ages to do throughout their visit to this popular attraction. It is full of culture, interesting information, and so much more. It is all about having a good time while enjoying a learning experience and trying out all kinds of new things.

Hickory Ridge Living History Museum and Horn in the West

Hickory Ridge Living History Museum (591 Horn in the West Dr.) reenacts 18th-century pioneer life featuring free tours, Created in 1980, Hickory Ridge History Museum strives to recreate the atmosphere of a small mountain community to show guests about the daily lives of our colonial ancestors. 

Then through June and August, the Horn in the West performances (An outdoor drama about Daniel Boone). Horn in the West is a tale of triumph and tragedy, joy and heartbreak, all set in the context of the forging of America. Enjoy the compelling story of Daniel Boone and the intrepid settlers of America in their journey westward to overcome adversity and spark the fire of a nation. 

Moses H. Cone Memorial Park

Moses H. Cone Memorial Park (MP 294, Blue Ridge Parkway) is a 3,500-acre estate with a 1901 mansion. For a taste of history and tranquility, visit Moses H. Cone Memorial Park in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. This sprawling estate, once owned by a wealthy textile entrepreneur, is now a national historic site featuring beautifully landscaped grounds, walking trails, and the Flat Top Manor, a stunning 20-room mansion that now houses a craft center.

Appalachian Ski Mountain

Winter sports for all levels, Boone is one of the few places in the South with legit skiing and snowboarding, and Appalachian Ski Mountain is just 10 minutes from town. 12 slopes for all skill levels Terrain park for snowboarders, Snow tubing at nearby Hawksnest, and Rentals and lessons for beginners. It’s a family-friendly resort that’s especially good for first-timers and casual skiers. Go early or mid-week to avoid crowds.

Watauga Lake

Located a short drive from Boone, Watauga Lake offers a tranquil escape for fishing, boating, and picnicking. Enjoy the serenity of the lake's clear waters and scenic shores while unwinding in nature's embrace.

Foggy Gem Mine

 Foggy Mountain Gem Mine, a gemstone paradise nestled in the picturesque town of Boone, North Carolina. This captivating mine offers a unique and immersive experience, where visitors of all ages can try their hand at gem mining and unearth a kaleidoscope of precious stones. 

Foggy Mountain Gem Mine has a history steeped in the love for gemstones and minerals. Originally founded in the 1980s, the mine has been a family-owned and operated business since its inception. What began as a modest gem mining operation soon blossomed into a beloved attraction, drawing gem enthusiasts from far and wide to explore the wonders of the Earth's geological treasures.

Appalachian State University Activities

Sporting and community events abound at App State. Families get to experience Boone through the eyes of a student. Coffee shops, mountaintop hike at sunrise, downtown shopinng, or relax and take in the splendor of the Blue Ridge Mountains. 

Embrace the Outdoors

Naturally the best tourist attraction in and around Boone is nature itself. Surrounded by breathtaking views and paths begging for walks and biking adventures, the park system in Boone is highly recommended and a proudly held offering for vistors of the Boone area. Boone's allure lies in its natural beauty and outdoor activities. Embrace the opportunity to connect with nature and participate in the town's outdoor adventures.

Adrenaline junkies thrive here. Wahoo’s Adventures (1201 Old US Hwy 421) offers whitewater rafting on the New River (3-hour trips) or tubing (2 hours) for a chill float with mountain views. High Gravity Adventures (215 Tweetsie Railroad Rd.) runs a zipline course and a three-person giant swing. Fly Fishing is world-class and Mountain Bound Fly Guides leads half-day trips on the Watauga River, targeting trout. Winter brings skiing at Appalachian Ski Mountain (940 Ski Mountain Rd.), with 12 slopes and a 365-foot vertical drop. Its ice-skating rink and snow tubing suit all ages.

Grandfather Mountain is a sight to be seen with it natural habitat for cougars, bear or deer and one must not miss the breath-taking swinging bridge that sends you high in the air over the plush evergreen Carolina Valley. Would you like to set your eyes on some stalagmites and stactites? You will if you visit the Linville Caverns published as the "only publically accessible cavern in North Carolina." This cavern is partially handicapped accessible. Linville Caverns are active limestone caverns located in northern McDowell County, North Carolina, just south of the village of Linville Falls, on U.S. Highway 221. The caverns are open to the public year-round for guided tours only. 

Hiking and Biking Trails

Boone and its surroundings are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with an abundance of hiking and biking trails. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a leisurely stroller, Rough Ridge Trail and Linville Falls offer picturesque views of waterfalls and lush landscapes.

Flat Top Manor, now a craft shop (free entry, April-November). Its 25 miles of carriage trails suit hiking or horseback riding (Banner Elk Riding Stables). Howard Knob County Park (1.5 miles from downtown, 6148 Howard’s Knob Rd.), 
Nature buffs hike, a 1-mile loop with panoramic views—free, dog-friendly, sunrise favorite. For solitude, Valle Crucis Community Park (2892 Broadstone Rd., 15-minute drive) has riverside trails and picnic spots for free, open dawn-dusk

Skiing and Snowboarding

In the winter months, Boone transforms into a winter wonderland with opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. Beech Mountain Resort and Appalachian Ski Mtn. are popular destinations for winter sports enthusiasts.

Kayaking

Julian Price Park (MP 297) has a 47-acre lake for kayaking ($20/day rentals aand the 2.7-mile Price Lake Loop Trail for hiking (easy, free).

Ziplining and White Water Rafting

For a dose of adrenaline, embark on ziplining adventures or white water rafting expeditions in the nearby mountains and rivers. These thrilling activities provide a unique perspective of the High Country's natural beauty.

Highlights and Events

Boone’s four seasons each bring distinct vibes:

Local Cuisine and Drinks

Boone's culinary scene reflects a blend of Southern comfort food and diverse international flavors. Delight your taste buds at locally-owned restaurants, and savor dishes made with fresh, regional ingredients. Don't miss the chance to explore the growing craft brewery scene, which offers a wide selection of handcrafted beers.

Watauga County Farmers’ Market (591 Horn in the West Dr.) buzzes Saturdays, May-October, with local honey, fresh produce, and crafts. Rrrive by 9 a.m. for the best selection.

Boone’s dining reflects its Southern roots, Appalachian heritage, and student-driven energy, no chains dominate here. Boone’s food scene punches above its weight with local, seasonal, and proudly Appalachian. Here are some standout spots:

Breakfast / Brunch

Lunch

Coyote Kitchen is a Caribbean/Southwestern fusion cuisine with amazing bowls, tacos, and plant-based options. The Local has great burgers, creative sandwiches, and Southern twists. Sit outside if weather allows. Come Back Shack (152 Boone Heights Dr.), a drive-thru burger joint with hand-cut fries and 20+ toppings. Its milkshakes are legendary, try peanut butter banana. 

Dinner

Dessert & Coffee

Art and Music Scene

Boone's cultural landscape thrives with art galleries, craft studios, and live music venues. Immerse yourself in the town's artistic spirit by visiting galleries showcasing local talent or attending live performances at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts.

Turchin Center for the Visual Arts (423 W. King St.), a free Appalachian State gallery with rotating exhibits, from quilts to sculptures - open Tuesday-Saturday.

Practical Tips

Fly into Charlotte (CLT, 2-hour drive) or Tri-Cities (TRI, 90 minutes). Shuttles via Boone Airport Shuttle beat rentals if biking downtown. Be prepared for varying weather conditions, especially in the mountains. Pack layers and rain gear, as weather can change quickly. Summers are mild; winters drop to 20°F with 50+ inches of snow. Pack layers as fall nights dip to 40°F. Avoid App State game days (September-November) for quieter dining check for schedules. Parking at King Street meters ($1/hour, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.) fill fast and use free lots at Watauga County Library (140 Queen St.) and trolley. Download AllTrails for offline maps; bear sightings are rare but store food securely.

Beyond Boone: Day Trips and Nearby Towns

Other popular sights and parks are Blowing Rock, Elk Knob, Banner Elk, and New River. Whether you love history, the outdoors or a romantic getaway with amazing views,

Boone’s proximity to High Country gems makes day trips a breeze. Blowing Rock (8 miles south) feels preppier, with The Blowing Rock (432 Rock Rd.), a 4,000-foot cliff over Johns River Gorge, and downtown boutiques. Blowing Rock Art & History Museum (159 Ginny Stevens Ln.) showcases regional works.

Discovering Boone's History

An Introduction to Boone

The Town of Boone was named after the Daniel Boone, famous American explorer, pioneer and frontiersman who spent time in this very location in the 1700's. Boone is a vibrant town located in the northwest region of North Carolina. It serves as the seat of Watauga County and is home to Appalachian State University, adding a youthful and dynamic energy to the town's atmosphere.

To hear details of the history of Daniel Boone, make plans to see the Horn in the West, an outdoor reinactment of some of Daniel Boone's adventures in the Hills of the Carolina's and how the inhabitants of Boone and surrounding area from that time had a hand in winning the American Revelution. Mystery Hill provides visitors with tours of a mountain home built in 1898 giving a great look into what it was like to live the mountain life in a time when modern convenience was far from being discovered.

The High Country's Natural Jewel

Nestled at an elevation of approximately 3,333 feet (1,016 meters), Boone lies within the High Country of North Carolina, a region renowned for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. From the famous Blue Ridge Parkway to the serene beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, Boone beckons travelers with its natural splendor.

Support Local Businesses

As you explore Boone, support local businesses by shopping at boutiques, dining at independent restaurants, and purchasing handcrafted souvenir. 

The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce is an association that stands as the unified voice of the business community. We seek to connect members and enhance relationships. We serve as advocates to our membership on key community issues. Through programming and events we further educate our member businesses and local workforce. And of course we celebrate new businesses and projects that come to the High Country.

Conclusion

Boone, North Carolina, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure. From the majestic peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the charm of its quaint downtown, this High Country gem promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

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