Cameron grew up in Charlotte and spent his childhood traveling around this great region. That last part is why Wilkes County is also home to the first-ever NASCAR track. 20 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina - Home - Sunlight Living I hope Waynesville stays relatively small in comparison to Asheville which is getting very crowded. "source": "woocommerce", Whether drawn to the fresh mountain air, top dining, award-winning art galleries and unique shopping boutiques all and more can be found in the mountains of North Carolina. With Watauga River running through, its also a haven for anglers seeking out that coveted rainbow trout. Read More About Our Journey! You can enjoy an array of eateries, breweries, boutiques, and galleries on Main Street, and the historic buildings add an additional old-school charm. After, six years of international travel they settled down and launched Lost in the Carolinas to share their experiences about and travel tips on South Carolina and North Carolina. The town itself is nice for a stroll from the county courthouse. In summer, you may see people fishing. Read More: How to See the EPIC Rainbow Falls. n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; 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. Make sure to stop in the Paces General Store (operating since 1899) and Thompons Grocery Market- North Carolinas oldest grocery store! Then there is The Cullasaja Falls, about nine miles outside of Highlands, which is only visible by car. jQuery && jQuery( function( $ ) { The Most Beautiful Towns in North Carolina - Culture Trip Boones truly a four-season destination: they boast hiking and waterfalls in spring through fall and world-class skiing in the winter. The Best Places to Live in The Blue Ridge Mountains | The Cliffs Downtown, youll find vintage motels, lots of motorcyclists, and the best pancakes of your life at Joeys Pancake House! Blowing Rock's downtown has the look and feel of a true mountain town, with a mix of restored historic buildings and modern structures designed to fit in with the town's village atmosphere. And while private, the close proximity to explore other North Carolina mountain towns is a plus. 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. 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. } Explore the charming downtown area on foot to discover its collection of shops, restaurants, breweries, and a famous Mast General Store that features an eclectic selection of souvenirs and candy. North Carolina's 6 Best Mountain Towns - This Is My South The tree-lined Main Street in the upscale downtown is filled with charming stores and tourist shops. One of the best small towns near Asheville - well, technically a village with a population under 3,400 people as of 2020 - Flat Rock is home to history, apples, and hiking. Black Mountain features quaint shops, impressive restaurants (including Phils Bar-B-Que Pit! Ranging in size and shape, North Carolina mountain towns come packed with unique attractions and wait with warm, welcoming smiles. If youre looking to explore the many waterfalls near Brevard, we recommend starting with Looking Glass Falls. 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 Blowing Rock and Boone are often talked about together because they are so closebut so different! The history of Cashiers showcases the rich heritage of several buildings circa 1800s that have been restored overtime and are still in use today. Art festivals are held here year-round and an impressive array of galleries and funky shops to browse. Dont forget to visit our favorite waterfalls in Cherokee: Mingo Falls and nearby Soco Falls. But, with only 12,920 full time residents, there aren't a lot of people to get the word out. With only about 500 people living here, its main draw is the eponymous natural thermal mineral baths. Anglers come from far and wide to try and catch one of the river's colorful rainbow trout. Our love story begins in Wilmington, where we met while attending UNCW. Banner Elk Avery County NC Official Website /***Underline Links***/ Hi Marguerite, the goats are at the Carl Sandburg home in Flat Rock. Awesome to hear, Donna, and thanks for sharing your favorite with us! There is a draw for every season, with plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities to partake in. Our NC travel map will help you visually plan, in case youre ready to start exploring! Its been a retreat for tourists since the 1890s and continues to be as refreshingly retro as ever. To ease your search, weve organized these NC mountain towns in alphabetical order. Its also home to one of the coolest distilleries in the state, Oak & Grist. Its original town limits are now a historic district where tourists can visit historical homes. For rare historical mountain artifacts, check out Swain County Heritage Museum. Highlands, North Carolina. Its downtown is packed with shops and restaurants galore (Old World Baking Company for starters), but theres also some outdoor fun to find here. It includes some of the top wild places in western North Carolina, such as Catawba Falls, Andrews Geyser, and Point Lookout. 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. The 3,800-acre development has nearly half the land set aside in conservation areas including lakes, waterfalls, woodlands and hiking trails. Of course, a very popular time of year to visit is in June, when the annual Rhododendron Festival kicks off. 15 Best North Carolina Mountain Towns You Must Visit Mitchell Craft Fair, adding to their creative haven atmosphere. 5 Gorgeous Mountain Towns You Can Actually Afford - Livability } The Franklin Gem and Mineral Museum is a testament to this moniker, set in a 19th-century jailhouse. Murphy is loaded with natural wonders, with mountains, lakes, and rivers all around it, and is one of the best mountain towns in North Carolina. This is another popular destination in winter for skiers, particularly families. There's a lot to do here, such as hiking the famous Appalachian Trail and rafting down the Cheoah River. Set on the banks of the Tuckasegee River, its a tiny treasure trove for local art, as this community lives and breathes creativity. This small and gorgeous mountain town in North Carolina is a haven for food, culture, and outdoor adventure, and of course, for those seeking a laid-back mountain life that's not far from awesome attractions. Here are some ideas to point you in the right direction. Among its many quirky independent storefronts, its downtown is lousy with independent and adorable book stores. In the summer, these same ski hills feature downhill mountain bike courses for those fearless on two wheels. Thanks for sharing your favorite with us, Jacquelyn! #1 Best Places to Live in North Carolina Morrisville Suburb of Raleigh, NC 79 reviews Niche User: Morrisville is one of my favorite cities in the Triangle Area of North Carolina. Thank you, Lori! If you brought kids, theyll want to check out the fire engine outside! 15 Cutest Small Towns In North Carolina (Mountains, Beaches, And More 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. 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. Every time we visit, we dream of our next home on a hillside in the High Country! This is an isolated outpost at a high elevation and a hidden gem of the high country. The compact downtown is replete with restored old brick buildings housing interesting restaurants, art shops, and stores. In early September, the Morganton Festival is a huge event with big name bands, celebrations, games, and arts and crafts vendors set up in the streets. Several streams high in the Nantahala National Forest and the Pisgah National Forest feed the states largest private lake. For a traditional lodge experience, stay at the Chetola Lodge looking out over Chetola Lake. Just off I-40 and not far from Asheville, is Black Mountain, a treat of a small town! height: 100%; The 5 Best North Carolina Mountain Towns to Live In - landmarkrg.com Feel free to browse the available properties on our website and contact us if you see something you love. Its bustling with incredible restaurants, shops, and an iconic courthouse on a hill. 13 Top-Rated Mountain Towns in North Carolina | PlanetWare At Lake Lure, get the best of mountain and lake life by going boating, biking the trails at Buffalo Creek Park, or climbing to the top of Chimney Rock. The Murphy River Walk is an idyllic stroll around the scenic town. Catch some incredible views from Lovers Leap, a 2-mile loop with a gain of 500 feet in elevation. Black Mountain has a little bit of something for everyone. Our weekly newsletter shares weekly updates and tips on upcoming events. Brevard is frequently ranked as one of the best small towns in WNC, and it's for good reason. @media only screen and (max-width: 359px) { 4. One of the top 10 arts communities . You can see Table Rock Mountain, one of the most incredible hikes in the area, from downtown Morganton. padding-right: 10px !important; Downtown Blowing Rock is home to adorable shops and restaurants, as well as the only urban entrance to a waterfall that weve seen in North Carolina (Glen Burney). Best Places to Live Near the Mountains - Extra Space Storage Market Square, is a popular tourist stop that is impossible to miss as you drive through town. It also offers some of the best birdwatching around. Dillsboro is one of the coolest mountain towns to discover. text-decoration: underline Conveniently located on the lake carrying the same name, this popular location is definitely one of the best mountain towns to live in California.Surrounded by Sierra Nevada mountains, it's known for nearby ski resorts, beautiful restaurants, cozy bars, and breathtaking lake views.. Best North Carolina Mountain Towns Guide Banner Elk Blowing Rock Boone Brevard Bryson City Burnsville Cherokee Franklin Hendersonville Hot Springs Morganton Murphy Sylva Weaverville West Jefferson Downtown Banner Elk NC, photo by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett 1. Get the latest Severe Weather Alerts. Best Places to Live in Black Mountain, North Carolina The town is an eastern equivalent of the many mountain resort towns that dot the American west, particularly in the Rocky Mountains. All of these mountain towns in NC possess something unique, which is why we cant choose our favorite. 19 Beautiful Mountain Towns in North Carolina (For Your Next Vacation!) .search .content-area a { For a flatter road, check out the Catawba River Greenway in Morganton. ), The Best Black Mountains Hikes near Burnsville, 20+ Kid-Friendly Waterfalls In NC (Easy Hikes And Swimming Holes! Beautiful scenery, friendly people, and a great vibe. } ); Dont miss walking across the Flowering Bridge, a beautiful blooming garden that spans the Rocky Broad River. Fans of fly fishing may have already heard of Sylva. Bridal Veil Falls, which is between Highlands and Dry Falls, offers North Carolinas only drive behind the waterfall. // Insert placeholder for events injected when a product is added to the cart through AJAX. This family-friendly gated community in South Asheville is situated among 1000 acres of preserved forest and bordered by the Blue Ridge Parkway. Read More: The Best Black Mountains Hikes near Burnsville. Black Mountain. If you prefer to spend your day being pampered, there are some excellent spas in the area. Couples may want to book a room at the romantic B&B-style Bob Timberlake Inn, while families looking for more living space can opt for the Chetola Premium Condominiums. Tryon International Equestrian Center is a world-class facility for horse racing and riding. 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.". There are a plethora of charming small towns nestled among the majestic Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains of western North Carolina. There are many magnificent properties to select as a summer vacation home or a cozy winter getaway for the holidays to relax and recharge. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Morganton. The thriving healthcare sector will give you access to all the medical resources you might need. 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. The Trail of Faith explores this heritage through a collection of preserved monuments and buildings. You can view Fontana Lake in Graham County, too, though another spot is near Bryson Citys Road to Nowhere. Many people come to this waterfall every year as the trail is an almost entirely flat gravel road. If you'd like to learn more visit the about us page. Ride the trains through majestic mountains on the local railroad. Throughout the year, we think youll love eating and walking around downtown, tasting some of NCs finest beer at local breweries, and exploring the areas arts scene. Visit the Old Fort Arrowhead Monument to get a peek into its interesting past. } Sapphire Valley is tucked away in a scenic niche of the North Carolina mountains but offers visitors an experience like none other. The city is named after pioneer Daniel Boone and has breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. A walk around the Village Green reveals gardens, outdoor sculptures, and a plethora of pleasing storefronts. You might say its a Foothills or Piedmont town, but well argue otherwise. @media only screen and (min-width: 769px) { 5. The lake, actually a reservoir near Cashiers, is home to a number of sought after fish like Largemouth Bass and Rainbow Trout. Ranking high on the best cities to live in in North Carolina, Wake Forest is an ideal place for those who love the great outdoors. There is a happening scene of Boone breweries and Boone bistros to indulge in and an overarching focus on sustainability. (NC), Hanging Rock State Park Ultimate Travel Guide, 10 BEST Things to do in Waynesville (North Carolina), 15 Amazing Things to Do in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. Located between Ashville and Cherokee, this town near the Great Smokey Mountains National Park and the, Blowing Rock is a charming hamlet tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Did you know North Carolinas Beech Mountain is the highest town in the Eastern United States? .generate-back-to-top, Read More: 25+ Beautiful North Carolina Road Trips (Scenic Byways and Highways). It's also the apple capital of North Carolina and one of the largest apple-producing counties in America. Right down the road from Maggie Valley is Lake Junaluska, a lovely community with a trail that takes you around its namesake lake. Its known as the gateway to the Blue Ridge mountains. This is a haven for hikers to set off on the trails of either Gorges State Park or in a portion of the Panthertown Valley. Many small towns in North Carolina claim to be the gateway to the Smoky Mountains, but Bryson City has a serious argument. Appalachian Ski Resort is just minutes away and is a top destination for snowboarders and young skiers. 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. Its a small town that harkens back to simpler times with vintage signs and brick buildings. One of the top things to do in the summer is to catch the long running outdoor drama, Horn in the West. The Best of North Carolina: Still in the planning stage of your next vacation? That scenic route is another reason we rank Highlands among the best mountain towns in NC! Stop into Myras 1950s style diner for a taste of the good old days. 5 Pinehurst at No. Its a picture-perfect pick with plenty of kitsch to go around. Its also where you can see the spectacular Soco Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in North Carolina. Except here, you can taste delicious wine and take some home with you. "agent": "woocommerce-7.4.0-3.0.12" .ai-viewport-0 { display: none !important;} Ayden wasn't even in the top 40 cheapest places to live in North Carolina last year, so this jump up to the #2 spot is quite impressive. From old standbys such as Aspen and Stowe to a few spots you've probably never even heard of (what's up, Hamburg? We welcome you to the North Carolina mountains; we know youll just love it here! Start at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian or the Oconaluftee Indian Village. .inside-article{ 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. Here are a few of them. Its one of many falls along the famed Waterfall Byway. Grandfather Vineyard is one of many nice spots along the water. Add to that a good selection of restaurants, many with outdoor patios in summer; hotels; and attractions; and it's not surprising you frequently hear people describing Hendersonville as the best small town in North Carolina. Burnsville offers an authentic small-town experience, with a cute downtown area, where you can find shops, restaurants, and galleries lining the town square. Beautiful Boone, North Carolina, is easily one of the most popular NC mountain towns to visit. You'll also find a fine assortment of restaurants, many with outdoor patios. The shores of Lake Toxaway are known for beautiful properties which date back to the turn of the century when industry giants such as the Fords, Edisons and Rockefellers vacationed here. Read More: 25 of the Most Amazing Winter Hikes in North Carolina. document,'script','https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/fbevents.js'); Read More: 100+ Wonderful Places to Visit in Western North Carolina. 2. We are captivated by the Plateaus beauty and special charm and are passionate to share it with others looking to make the area home. $( document.body ).append( '' ); .ai-viewport-2 { display: none !important;} Read More: Western North Carolina Map (400+ Wonderful Places Listed). This is the best of the North Carolina mountain towns to soak all your worries away. While its a rare admission-required waterfall, the area around the 90-foot falls remains well-maintained. Experience a mountain resort atmosphere in Sapphire Valley. Its downtown is home to nice shops, a cozy atmosphere, and great restaurants. Best Small Towns To Live In, North Carolina Edition Since way back, Maggie Valley has been a mountain resort and maintains its allure through vintage motels and gift shops. You can easily immerse yourself in local art, browse unique shops, and dig into each places amazing food scene. 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 Asheville is one of the coolest mountain towns in NC and by population, its the biggest in this guide. My favorite mountain town is Banner Elk. Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. If you are heading to the coast, you may want to have a read through our article on Deep Sea Fishing in North Carolina. Retail shops and restaurants can be found on Sylva's Main Street. Lake Louise Park and Main Street Nature Park are beautiful spaces to explore and enjoy the local wilderness here. Top 9 Mountain Towns to Live in Tennessee - ezhomesearch.com North Carolina Mountain Towns | Smoky Mountain Towns - Visit NC Smokies Regardless of your religious views, Fields of the Wood (a massive representation of the 10 Commandments) is an interesting place to visit. Enjoy beautiful vistas at The Switzerland Inn and hike to Grassy Creek Falls while youre there. Natasha moved to North Carolina for college years ago (but she's not trying to age herself here). .ai-viewports {--ai: 1;} Once a mining hub has now become a top vacation destination as part of the Plateau region of western North Carolina. Hampstead NC. Great place to visit! Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, Bryson City is well-known for hiking and river recreation. Mount Airy, a.k.a. text-decoration: none You can find works from hundreds of artists, all in this small scenic setting. Morganton is charming town in the foothills surrounded by beautiful scenery and outdoor adventure opportunities. Take a walk down Main Street past the Swain County Heritage Museum and then turn up Everett Street to cross the bridge and look out over the river. We definitely recommend stopping at Whiteside Brewing for a pint and a burger (or wings!). The annual Rhododendron Festival is what brings many visitors to this town today. America's 50 Best Small Towns in the Mountains | Far & Wide It is no secret that Boone is one of our favorite North Carolina mountain towns. To help narrow down that search, one website has chosen three cities in North Carolina as some of the best lake towns in the country to live in. The unmatched beauty and privacy of the area is the most appealing aspect of what residents love about Lake Toxaway. } Just outside of Hendersonville is the North Carolina mountain town of Flat Rock. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Bryson City. 2. The Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster is a newer attraction nearby, sure to provide you with a year-round thrill! The most recent of a long list of awards was Community of the Year by the Asheville Builders Association (ABA). North Carolina Mountain Towns To Escape the Summer Heat Explore the hiking trails and waterfalls, and if you are here on a weekend, check the local events calendar to see the complete lineup of festivals. Lovely homes line the slopes overlooking ravines, making this one of the prettiest towns in this area of the Blue Ridge Mountains. #1 in Best Mountain Towns to Visit in the USA For a mountain getaway the whole family will enjoy, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is an ideal destination. The fresh air calls most outside to enjoy nature. Among the top contenders is the beloved Sliding Rock. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Waynesville. Each town has its own vibe and many unique outdoorsy things to do. Read More: National Parks Sites in North Carolina. Read More: 20+ Kid-Friendly Waterfalls In NC (Easy Hikes And Swimming Holes!). 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. Use it as a base for nearby hikes and waterfalls, rides on the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway, or just relax in luxury at Biltmore Estate or The Omni Grove Park Inn. Can some one tell me where the goats are in the Flat Rock picture? Be sure to spot their most famous residents as well, the thriving population of White Squirrels. The selection and quality of its culinary scene are impressive given its size, so be ready to enjoy some fine foodie fares during your stay here. Home of the Davidson College Wildcats, Lake Norman, and great prices on real estate, the #3 best place to live in North Carolina, Davidson, is one of the Tar Heel State's best kept secrets. Banner Elk. North Conway might be best known as a ski townand that's a legitimate distinction with Cranmore Mountain Resort 's steeps and glades just a mile from . The old brick buildings have been restored in a thriving downtown that offers all the amenities you could need.
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