Include stops in Valdese (more on it later), Connelly Springs, and other great smaller towns. As a university town, the population reaches heights of around 20,000. Read More: 50+ Great Things to Do in Asheville (Downtown, Biltmore, and More!). You'll find everything from t-shirt shops to ski outfitters and restaurants here. Dillsboro is one of the coolest mountain towns to discover. Come in the summer to experience the cool refreshing mist of any of the breathtaking waterfalls in the area or grab some skis to hit the snow-covered slopes in the winter. We receive compensation if you make a purchase, but it won't cost you anything extra. Whether Cashiers is the ideal location or an elegant private estate on the shores of Lake Toxaway beacons, contact any of our Landmark real estate brokers to help you explore the area and find your next North Carolina dream home. Boones truly a four-season destination: they boast hiking and waterfalls in spring through fall and world-class skiing in the winter. Known as the states oldest attraction, there is plenty to see and do within, Nestled in North Carolinas Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone is a quaint and charming borough with surprisingly plenty of things to do! Alabama's quintessential mountain town is Mentone, which is set atop Lookout Mountain and filled with charming spots, including the Wildflower Caf, Mentone Log Cabin Village, and Mentone Arts and Cultural Center. We mentioned Valdese earlier and thought you should know about this truly interesting place. That scenic route is another reason we rank Highlands among the best mountain towns in NC! The various festivals and several golf courses is what residents have come to love about Sapphire Valley along with the peaceful scenery that attracts many to the area. Spread over 78 acres but within walking distance of downtown Blowing Rock, this resort offers three lodging choices to suit everyone, from couples to families. At an elevation of 4,118 feet, the temperatures, even in the peak of summer, rarely get above the high 70s. Its surrounding landscape makes it one of the prettiest mountain towns and also one of the most popular. Creekside cabins, glamping tents, resort hotels you can find them all in the best Smoky Mountain towns. Beyond the downtown, you will find lovely homes and streets with manicured yards and views in all directions. Bakersville is the Mitchell County seat and one of many arts-heavy communities in the area. The town offers a surprising amount of accommodation and has a number of family-focused attractions. Down the road from Banner Elk is Sugar Mountain, home to one of our best ski resorts. This famous performance, running each summer since 1952, tells the story of Daniel Boone's adventures in the local area. Historic Biltmore Estate is one of the. One of the largest North Carolina mountain towns on this list, we absolutely love all the fun things to do in Hendersonville. Blowing Rock offers a beautiful balance between the new and the old. Grand Highlands is one of the dreamiest mountain communities in North Carolina. Banner Elk Avery County NC Official Website The town itself is nice for a stroll from the county courthouse. The town is home to the Great Smokey Mountains Railroad, a popular sightseeing excursion that has several different routes, the most popular is the Nantahala Gorge return trip. Read More: 25 of the Most Amazing Winter Hikes in North Carolina. } With Pendleton School of Craft nearby, theres also a thriving community for local art and handicrafts here. At the same time, Chattanooga has many urban pleasures, including dining and entertainment options, a wide variety of public. Disclaimer: This site uses demographic data, email opt-ins, display advertising, and affiliate links. About Catawba Falls, we think youll love the 2.3-mile hike that leads to the 100-ft tall waterfall with beautiful cascades. Head here for one of the most romantic weekends in North Carolina. This is one of those very tiny North Carolina mountain towns that packs big personality. The Tuskegee River runs right through town, offering ample opportunity for tubing, rafting, and paddleboarding. Its proximity to many NC ski resorts makes it especially alluring for the winter seasons as well. The mountains of North Carolina are dotted with quaint towns but it seems that Highlands gets much of the acclaim. Morganton is one of the easternmost North Carolina mountain towns well mention. You forgot to mention that it is home to Lees-McRae College! The town is an eastern equivalent of the many mountain resort towns that dot the American west, particularly in the Rocky Mountains. While its a rare admission-required waterfall, the area around the 90-foot falls remains well-maintained. For local beer and live music, hit Nantahala Brewing, one of the best breweries in North Carolina, before enjoying some amazing Bryson City restaurants. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Maggie Valley. Brevard is ideally situated at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, close to some of North Carolina's most spectacular waterfalls. Residents enjoy natural settings with a wellness center with a pool and tennis court, parks, playgrounds, trails, outdoor/indoor gathering spaces for community . Here are some ideas to point you in the right direction. Climb to the top of Chimney Rock or stroll over the Rocky Broad River through the blooming flora of Flowering Bridge. Jump Off Rock is a great scenic overlook that sits in Laurel Park, 15 minutes outside of downtown Hendersonville. We love the latters overlooks almost as much as the Blue Ridge Parkway, if not more. @media (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 979px) { Right down the road from Maggie Valley is Lake Junaluska, a lovely community with a trail that takes you around its namesake lake. It's no wonder Asheville is consistently voted as one of the best places to live in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Morganton. In 2020, we decided to share more about our home in the Carolinas. You'll also find a fine assortment of restaurants, many with outdoor patios. This article may contain affiliate links. There is a happening scene of Boone breweries and Boone bistros to indulge in and an overarching focus on sustainability. North Carolina mountain towns have a lot to offer those looking for extraordinary property surrounded by picturesque views to take in the natural beauty of the region and exquisite activities accompanied by top dining options. Tryon International Equestrian Center is a world-class facility for horse racing and riding. Lovely homes line the slopes overlooking ravines, making this one of the prettiest towns in this area of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Ashe County might sound familiar if you like yummy cheese. The population is larger than most of the area, and as such, the downtown provides plenty of quaint amenities without any of the hustle and bustle of bigger city crowds. This quaint mountain village at 3,700 feet elevation has great restaurants, breweries, shops, Wildcat Lake beach, and many events including the Woolly Worm Festival in October. bottom: 80px; /* 80px from the bottom of your screen */ } Today, Cashiers is home to only a few hundred full-time residents but is a much sought out vacation destination. Beyond chasing tall hairy creatures, Marion is situated at the base of Mount Mitchell with many waterfalls nearby, such as Linville Falls and Toms Creek Falls. It is no wonder that Brevard is one of the best North Carolina mountain towns. The Ashe County Cheese factory and store are two great places to visit in West Jefferson, one of the cutest mountain towns in NC! Franklin is known as the gem capital of the world. Cashiers is in the heart of the Nantahala National Forest and provides a front row view to the spectacular annual fall foliage. Enjoy creekside beers at BearWaters Brewing, dance at Stompin Ground, and zoom through the iconic Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum. Read More: 20+ Kid-Friendly Waterfalls In NC (Easy Hikes And Swimming Holes!). Cream is poured on a frozen sheet and rolled up in a Thai tradition, and capped with your favorite toppings. Spend a luxurious weekend at The Old Edwards Inn and roam the charming shops. 5. Anglers come from far and wide to try and catch one of the river's colorful rainbow trout. Views over the rolling mountains are spectacular, and some of the best in the area. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Carl and Christina started NC Tripping. Read More: Winter in Boone (20 Great Activities, Snow Tubing, and More!). Known as a culinary hot spot in the mountains of North Carolina, Banner Elk offers a charming place to simply relax, enjoy the scenery, and indulge in some fine dining. Thanks for sharing your favorite with us, Jacquelyn! The Jackson County Courthouse stands proudly on the hill at the end of Main Street in the quaint town of Sylva. The first town on this list isn't a town at all; rather, it's an unincorporated area in the Wilmington Metropolitan area. The 3,800-acre development has nearly half the land set aside in conservation areas including lakes, waterfalls, woodlands and hiking trails. Its all here and Landmark Realty can help find your dream North Carolina mountain home. See our article on the Best Ski Resorts in North Carolina for ideas to help plan your ski vacation. The Franklin Gem and Mineral Museum is a testament to this moniker, set in a 19th-century jailhouse. Some of North Carolina's mountain towns are highly seasonal, with major attractions open only during the summer months, but a few, particularly those near the ski resorts, lend themselves more towards winter visits. Named after blowing rock that is located 4000 feet above sea level the town has sweeping vistas, and is located right off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Its a small town that harkens back to simpler times with vintage signs and brick buildings. You're 20 minutes away from Raleigh, 20 minutes away from Durham, and 10 minutes away from Cary. .ai-viewport-1 { display: none !important;} If youve heard of the Ashe County Cheese Factory, then you already know why West Jefferson is on this list. Just outside the entrance to Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the small town of Cherokee, headquarters of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians. Tourists travel from all over to soak in the waters. The old-fashioned charm of Maggie Valley is a refreshing escape to a slowed-down era of simplicity. Here are the best places to live near the mountains! Affiliate links linking to products we love may be found in our articles. For a flatter road, check out the Catawba River Greenway in Morganton. Thank you, Lori! We are captivated by the Plateaus beauty and special charm and are passionate to share it with others looking to make the area home. Robbinsville NC. You can turn in a circle to see the mountains. Lake Glenville Lake Glenville is hidden away in the mountains of western North Carolina, surrounded by hiking trails that wind through natural mountain beauty to waterfalls. text-decoration: underline Its original town limits are now a historic district where tourists can visit historical homes. Home to the Woolly Worm Festival in October, we cant get enough of this town, the amazing restaurants and shops here, and its gorgeous surroundings. Many small towns in North Carolina claim to be the gateway to the Smoky Mountains, but Bryson City has a serious argument. You can view Fontana Lake in Graham County, too, though another spot is near Bryson Citys Road to Nowhere. Its downtown is packed with shops and restaurants galore (Old World Baking Company for starters), but theres also some outdoor fun to find here. Top 9 Mountain Towns to Live in Tennessee While Nashville, Knoxville, and Memphis may grab all the attention, Tennessee has some incredible, more rustic places to live. Designed by the same landscape architect responsible for the grounds at the Biltmore Estate, the North Carolina Arboretum, located just outside downtown Asheville, offers 426 acres of groomed gardens and lush trails. As a university town, the population reaches heights of around 20,000. Next on our list of the best cities to live in North Carolina is the Inner Banks community of Greenville. Its known for its iconic courthouse; an ascent to the entrance often offers an excellent photo op of the picturesque surroundings. Banner Elk. Start at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian or the Oconaluftee Indian Village. Night or day, this city never ceases to amaze. At over 5,000 feet above sea level, you can expect some of the most breathtaking views from this mountain town. There are museums, an arts center, a variety of shops, and over 30 restaurants, all quite impressive for their small stature. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s){if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function(){n.callMethod? RELATED The 12 Most Charming Small Towns in South Carolina Mark Vandenberg 1. 13 Best Small Towns in Western North Carolina: Sometimes, smaller is better. Bald Head Island, NC 28461, USA. the inspiration for Mayberry in The Andy Griffith Show, is a time capsule of midcentury small-town America. Its charming downtown is composed of just a general store, bookstore, and restaurant. Except here, you can taste delicious wine and take some home with you. ), these are the best mountain towns in America. Ranging in size and shape, North Carolina mountain towns come packed with unique attractions and wait with warm, welcoming smiles. Filled with shops, boutiques, and the beautiful Village Green, there is always something to explore in this lovely town. Old Fort is another of our North Carolina mountain towns off I-40, best known for gold and Catawba Falls. Streets here are rampant with a retro nostalgia, for a unique feel unlike anywhere else. All this wonderful scenery might be a reason why many movies, including The Fugitive and Nell, were filmed in the area. 1. The Museum of NC Handicrafts offers distinctive displays of work by a range of North Carolina artists. A walk around the Village Green reveals gardens, outdoor sculptures, and a plethora of pleasing storefronts. Wilmington is one of the best places to live in North Carolina near the beach as it is more affordable than the Outer Banks, which is the state's most popular coastal vacation spot. Outdoor lovers can enjoy wonderful hikes and viewpoints in the surrounding Yancey County area, including those on nearby Mt. A little over an hour west of Asheville, Bryson City calls itself the gateway to the Smokey Mountains, and is, in fact, a great option for travelers looking to visit the park. The tree-lined Main Street in the upscale downtown is filled with charming stores and tourist shops. Its downtown is home to nice shops, a cozy atmosphere, and great restaurants. This town nestled amongst the foothills is rich in history and architecture. As such, it offers an amazing assortment of natural feats to discover. Robbinsville is surrounded by some wonderful places both natural and manmade. Madison County seat Marshall sits just north of Asheville and Buncombe County. .generate-back-to-top:visited { Read More: Christmas in North Carolina (the Best Holiday Events). Between the Great Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains, visitors will find charming downtowns with local shops and restaurants as well as cozy inns and cabins. A little over 1.5 hours from Asheville, just over two hours from Atlanta, and about three hours from Charlotte, Highlands is a beautiful town in the far southwest corner of North Carolina, not far from the South Carolina border. Its a setting rich with rocks and minerals, ideal for any geology buffs looking for a scenic retreat. Hike the easy Deep Creek Loop, go whitewater rafting on the Nantahala River from the Nantahala Outdoor Center, ride the scenic Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, or get lost on the Road to Nowheretheres endless fun in Bryson City! Tryon Fine Arts Center is a cultural institution of North Carolina, hosting eclectic exhibits, community events, TEDtalks, performing arts, classic films, and live music. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. A number of great restaurants and breweries (including Fonta Flora) are based here, too. Joyce Kilmer Forest, the Cherohala Skyway, Nantahala National Forest, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Lake Santeetlah are nearby. The top of Lookout Mountain is just a 15-minute drive from downtown. Mount Airy, a.k.a. At, For a relatively small town, there are some fantastic restaurants in Waynesville, North Carolina. The Best of North Carolina: Still in the planning stage of your next vacation? The heart of the area is the quaint town square. Beautiful Boone, North Carolina, is easily one of the most popular NC mountain towns to visit. The downtown is decked out with colorful murals, reflecting the artistic spirit of the town. Charlotte is one of the best places to live in North Carolina for a few reasons. Just outside of the Great Smoky National Park sits the home of the eastern band of the indigenous Cherokee tribe. Each village brings its own delightful draws and unique allure. "agent": "woocommerce-7.4.0-3.0.12" The track winds its way through the forest and along the contours of the mountain and since you control the braking, the ride can be as thrilling or sedate as you choose. The downtown is chock full of charming shops, restaurants, and Brevard breweries. Spend some time wandering around, stop in at the Mountain Fresh Grocery to pick up a quick bite or fresh coffee, or enjoy a lunch at one of the many restaurants. The North Carolina mountains are renowned for offering up a charming slice of small-town life and local culture, including everything from moonshine and bluegrass music to country cooking and . Retail shops and restaurants can be found on Sylva's Main Street. Market Square, is a popular tourist stop that is impossible to miss as you drive through town. "source": "woocommerce", Beautiful scenery, friendly people, and a great vibe. .inside-footer-widgets a { Our NC travel map will help you visually plan, in case youre ready to start exploring! Festivals are a big deal in Highlands, especially those hosted in the fall which feature arts & crafts, the annual Halloween celebration, and the Culinary Weekend. Thanks for commenting. Just recently voted in the top 10 places to retire in North Carolina, Black Mountain is nearby Asheville and has a tiny population of just under 8,000 residents. Its historic and Swiss-style architecture adds to its charm. Pearsons Falls is also nearby. Live like a local and experience a leisurely day of exploration. "pluginVersion": "3.0.12" One of the big attractions, just outside of town, is Grandfather Mountain and its mile-high swing bridge, one of the top sites in North Carolina. ), but theres just something extra special about those found in and around our North Carolina mountains. #right-sidebar { Properties are provided courtesy of Highlands-Cashiers Board of REALTORS. If you want to spend a night up in this area, have a look at the Old Edwards Inn and Spa, an incredible European-style, luxury hotel in the heart of downtown. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops. In summer, you may see people fishing. Asheville is a popular retirement spot, and over a quarter of the population is age 60 or older . This is another popular destination in winter for skiers, particularly families. ), and one of our favorite North Carolina distilleries (Oak & Grist). } Information is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed. The 5 Best North Carolina Mountain Towns to Live In Real Estate Blog The majestic peaks of the Blue Ridge Parkway, charming towns offering luxurious properties with panoramic beauty are just a few of the reasons that many seek out the best place to live in the North Carolina mountains. The simple and slowed-down atmosphere of these magical enclaves makes for an ideal relaxing respite from the real world. Distance: 74.3 miles from Gatlinburg TN (2-hour drive) Robbinsville is a rural mountain town in the Smoky Mountain foothills that takes you back to a time of solitude and natural beauty. There are so many outdoor options in West Jeffersons surroundings, including the Blue Ridge Parkway, the New River (ironically one of the oldest rivers), and Mount Jefferson. Little Switzerland is a Blue Ridge Parkway NC mountain town that packs quite the punch! .content-area a { There is a lot to discover when you live in North Carolina mountain towns. Climb to the top of Mount Jefferson to take in the views overlooking the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway. Great place to visit! ), Maggie Valley draws tons of tourists each year. Emerald Outback has plenty of trails to trek through dense old-growth forests, lush fields, and babbling mountain brooks in the warmer months. Hike around the Carl Sandburg Home in Flat Rock, NC. Sapphire Valley is tucked away in a scenic niche of the North Carolina mountains but offers visitors an experience like none other. Get the latest Severe Weather Alerts. On the edge of the town is Soco Falls. Copyright 2023 PlanetWare Inc. All rights reserved. height: 100%; There. Its an ideal setting for any wild wanderings in the local landscape. Grandfather Vineyard is one of many nice spots along the water. Twitter They hold the renowned Steeplechase each Spring. We welcome you to the North Carolina mountains; we know youll just love it here! As a former railroad outpost, the towns historic charm offers a vintage vibe, enhanced by establishments such as Paces General Store, the oldest grocery store in the state. There are many opportunities for phenomenal hikes, waterfalls, climbing, watersports, and winter sports to engage in here. From stunning scenery to outdoor adventure to quirky shops and quaint eateries, the North Carolina mountain towns have plenty to offer visitors. Let us know in the comments section, as always. Cameron grew up in Charlotte and spent his childhood traveling around this great region. Home to the Woolly Worm Festival in October, we can't get enough of this town, the amazing restaurants and shops here, and its gorgeous surroundings. The water also calls anglers to cast their lines in a variety of streams great for fly fishing. Land of Oz (held in September) is one of many great reasons to come here with its warmer outside. Boone is a haven of natural wonders offering an, Warren LeMay from Cincinnati, OH, United States, click for interactive map of the Best North Carolina Mountain Towns, 15 Best Bryson City Restaurants You Need to Try! 14. Address: Pinehurst, NC, USA Address: Davidson, NC, USA Address: Winterville, NC, USA Address: Trent Woods, NC 28562, USA Address: Apex, NC, USA Address: Cary, NC, USA Address: Black Mountain, NC 28711, USA Address: Valdese, NC, USA ), 25+ Beautiful North Carolina Road Trips (Scenic Byways and Highways), Max Patch Trail (A Short Hike to Beautiful 360-Degree Views! Some describe the area like a country-club environment within a short drive of other amenities like shopping and dining. Appalachian Ski Resort is just minutes away and is a top destination for snowboarders and young skiers. jQuery && jQuery( function( $ ) { These affordable towns could be your next home or vacation home! This is the best of the North Carolina mountain towns to soak all your worries away. Of course, the nearby Moore Cove Falls and French Broad Falls (Mill Shoals) are two of many more to explore. } Asheville, NC - One Of The Best Mountain Towns In NC Because Of Its Culture. .woocommerce-product-gallery{ opacity: 1 !important; } Have you ever seen Bigfoot? Located in western North Carolina on what is known as the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau in the Nantahala National Forest, Highlands has been called "the Aspen of the East.". Named for its likeness to the Swiss Alps, the Switzerland Inn is a century-old resort catering to this concept. 15 Best Small Towns in North Carolina - Great Small Towns to Visit and Live In NC 1 Best Easy, Cheap Dinner Ideas for Your Family 2 42 Best Bedroom Paint Color Ideas for 2023 3 Early Spring Flowers Will Combat the Winter Blues 4 What Our Editors Bought and Loved in February 5 Dad Jokes To Keep the Whole Family Laughing Boone Boone boasts a vibrant and active outdoor adventure scene. People dont just come here for that bucket list-worthy accomplishment. The last of the North Carolina mountain towns well mention is Wilkesboro. At 90-feet high, Pearsons Falls is an exciting natural attraction. This wonderful (and family-friendly) music festival brings in big names each year. Lake Glenville is a very popular summer vacation spot with several vacation homes available in Glenville and in the nearby Cashiers and Highlands communities. /***Mediavine Sidebar Fix***/ Fans of fly fishing may have already heard of Sylva. Its also known for The Diamondback, a road full of dangerous curves and beautiful vistas, popular among many daring drivers. The Macon County Gemboree is one of the most widely known gem shows in the entire country. It is a popular tourist destination as well, so developing tourism . Just off I-40 and not far from Asheville, is Black Mountain, a treat of a small town! Its also known for its four-day roots music festival, Merlefest, for which people travel from all over to see legendary performances. In Flat Rock, spend your days hiking the trails, saying hello to the many goats, and touring the house before heading downtown for some beers and barbecue from Hubba Hubba Smokehouse. The city is named after pioneer Daniel Boone and has breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Floating high at 3,700 feet is one of the best NC mountain towns Banner Elk. .rll-youtube-player, [data-lazy-src]{display:none !important;}. Many people come to this waterfall every year as the trail is an almost entirely flat gravel road. document.addEventListener( 'DOMContentLoaded', function() { Nevertheless a gorgeous one and one of the most romantic places to travel in North Carolina. Read More: How to See Elk River Falls (Trail and Safety Tips). The majestic peaks of the Blue Ridge Parkway, charming towns offering luxurious properties with panoramic beauty are just a few of the reasons that many seek out the best place to live in the North Carolina mountains. ), Chimney Rock State Park (How to Enjoy an NC Icon), 20+ Amazing Things to Do in Maggie Valley, 75+ Fun Day Trips from Asheville (Within a 2-Hour Drive), 25 of the Most Amazing Winter Hikes in North Carolina, How to Find 20+ Haywood County Artists on Blue Ridge Craft Trails, Christmas in North Carolina (the Best Holiday Events), Craggy Gardens: A Beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway Stop, People of NC: Merlefest Director B Townes, Mingo Falls In Cherokee NC (a Great Waterfall + Easy Hike). Greenville, South Carolina From fine dining and shopping to live music and festivals, downtown Greenville has it all. @media only screen and (min-width: 769px) { Hope you get to see them sometime! You can take a side-trip to the not-mountain town of Charlotte and learn about its history at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. If youre feeling adventurous, you can even visit the nearby ghost town of Henry River. Skiing in North Carolina: With elevations that exceed 5,000 feet and extensive snowmaking equipment, the mountains of North Carolina offer excellent opportunities for skiing. Bridal Veil Falls, which is between Highlands and Dry Falls, offers North Carolinas only drive behind the waterfall. One of the top 10 arts communities . While in the area, dont miss out on Apple Hill Farm, an ethical and working alpaca farm! Youll also encounter a thriving art community through the Toe River Arts and awesome barn quilt trails! Its bustling with incredible restaurants, shops, and an iconic courthouse on a hill. While there's a bit of a dispute that we won't get into, Old Fort's Gold Festival typically kicks off each June. So many great mountain towns to choose from! This area is considered to be one .

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