Blowing Rock is located in the High Country of North Carolina. It’s a popular destination for Christmas tree farms and other winter activities. In addition, there are countless exciting things to do in Blowing Rock.
Known as the Blue Ridge Mountains crown, this area is also known for its charming and easy-to-visit village. The small entrance fee and the numerous paths make this site an ideal choice for a quick visit.
This area has something for everyone. From the beautiful scenery to the variety of shops and restaurants downtown, it’s an excellent destination for everyone. The article covers all the fun things to do in Blowing Rock (NC).
Where Is Blowing Rock?
Blowing Rock is located in western North Carolina on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It’s named after a formation known for its sweeping views of the mountains and the Johns River gorge.
The Art & History Museum in the town features regional art pieces. Moses Cone Memorial Park, a country estate with a 1901 mansion, is also a must-visit.
A trail passes through Annie Cannon Gardens and leads to Glen Marie and Glen Burney waterfalls.
According to the 2010 census, the town’s population was 1,241. It’s located in the two counties of Caldwell and Watauga in North Carolina. There are also various attractions in the area.
The Caldwell portion is in the Hickory–Lenoir-Morganton Metropolitan Statistical Area. The Watauga portion of it is in the Boone Metropolitan Statistical Area.
Things To Do In Blowing Rock (NC)
With various family-friendly attractions and sophisticated locations, visitors to the town of Blowing Rock can expect to find something for everyone.
Call the establishments directly to confirm the restaurants’ and attractions’ current opening times. These are the most exciting things to do in Blowing Rock;
1. Moses H. Cone Memorial Park
Moses Cone Memorial Park is a massive property that features over 3500 acres of land.
This estate was the home of Moses Cone, and it has a variety of trails that lead through the forest and open fields.
The 20-room Flat Top Manor is a lavish mansion that can be rented. This property is also known for its beautiful views.
One of the most prominent architectural pieces in the area is the majestic white and painted structure known as the Moses H. Cone Memorial Park.
This park is a popular destination for people who enjoy hiking and fishing.
Address: The Moses H. Cone Memorial Park is at Blue Ridge Parkway, Milepost 294, Blowing Rock, NC 28605, USA
2. The Blowing Rock
The town of Blowing Rock was created more than 250 million years ago when the mountain range was formed due to continuous erosion over the years.
One of the most popular stories surrounding the formation of the town of Blowing Rock is the famous love story between a Chickasaw maiden and a Cherokee warrior.
The magnificent views of the valley below are provided by the 1,200-foot-long trail that leads to the formation.
Address: This attraction is at 432 The Rock Road, Blowing Rock, NC.
3. Tweetsie Railroad
One of the most popular attractions in the area is the historic Tweetsie Railroad, a Wild West theme park.
This three-mile journey through the mountains provides guests with an exciting and fun experience. The park features 14 carnival-style rides and various live entertainment.
The various magic shows and musical performances held in the area provide a fun experience for everyone.
During the Country Clogging Jamboree, audiences can enjoy Appalachian dancing and old western songs. The last stop for most Tweetsie Railroad visitors is the Deer Park Zoo.
Address: The Tweetsie Railroad is at 300 Tweetsie Railroad Lane, Blowing Rock, NC.
4. Flat Top Manor
The Flat Top Manor was constructed in 1899 by Moses and Bertha Cone. It was inspired by the home of George Vanderbilt in North Carolina.
Moses was passionate about farming and nature, which led him to plant various trees and gardens. He also raised livestock on his property.
The second floor of the property is accessible to the public. Park rangers provide guided tours on the first and second floors.
The first floor features the Craft Center, which a Southern Highland Handicraft Guild group manages.
The second floor also features a bookstore and a National Park Service information station. Coming to this facility is one of the most fun things in Blowing Rock.
Address: This attraction is at 6570 Blue Ridge Pkwy, Blowing Rock, NC.
5. Julian Price Memorial Park
The Julian Price Memorial Park is located at the mountain’s base and features 4200 acres of rolling terrain.
Combined with the neighboring park, the two parks are the most significant areas on the Blue Ridge Parkway used for recreation.
People can enjoy various activities at the park, such as picnics and fishing.
A 13-mile trail is also available through the Blue Ridge Parkway from Price Lake to Beacon Heights.
This area is a popular destination for mountain bike riders and hikers. Another popular activity is camping under the stars. Visiting this park is another exciting thing to do in Blowing Rock.
Address: The Julian Price Memorial Park is at Milepost 297 Blue Ridge Parkway, Blowing Rock, NC.
6. Blowing Rock Brewery
After five years of hard work and development, the owners of the local brewery opened their doors in 2013.
The support they received from the community helped them create the best mountain craft brewery in the area.
In addition to the brewery, Todd and Jeff also opened an inn and lodging facility known as the Blowing Rock Ale House. This facility provides guests with a variety of lodging options.
The inn and lodging facility features guest rooms equipped with elegant furnishings and spa-like facilities.
At the same time, the restaurant has local and regional dishes that the skilled chefs of the brewery prepare.
The restaurant serves some popular items, including the Carolina Bison Burger and the crispy duck legs.
Address: The Blowing Rock Brewery is at 152 Sunset Drive, Blowing Rock, NC.
7. Appalachian Ski Mountain
The Appalachian Ski Mountain was established in 1962 as the Blowing Rock Ski Lodge. In 1968, it was purchased by a group of investors.
Over the years, the mountain has grown and features 12 different ski slopes. Its base lodge features a total area of 46,000 square feet.
The mountain’s Bavarian-style lodge features a variety of facilities for guests, such as a large restaurant and a game room that can accommodate the kids.
Address: The Appalachian Ski Mountain is at 940 Ski Mountain Rd, Blowing Rock, NC.
8. Blowing Rock Art and History Museum
Blowing Rock Art and History Museum is an educational facility with various classes designed to give the community a deeper understanding of the arts.
The museum also hosts guest speakers who talk about the various artistic activities commonly performed in the area.
The museum also hosts various workshops that allow children and adults to get in on the action while they’re having a good time.
These programs provide them with an opportunity to develop their artistic skills. During the summer, the museum hosts concerts featuring local musicians.
Address: This attraction is at 159 Ginny Stevens Lane, Blowing Rock, NC.
9. French-Swiss Ski College
During the winter season in 1968, Jim Cottrell, a renowned instructor, established the French-Swiss Ski College at the Appalachian Ski Mountain.
This program gave students the necessary skills to improve their skiing and snowboarding abilities. This method is more effective than traditional learning how to ski or snowboard.
Address: The French-Swiss Ski College is at 940 Ski Mountain Rd, Blowing Rock, NC.
10. Green Knob Trail
This is one of the most famous hiking trails in Blowing Rock, and it is a two-mile-long route that features various terrains and beautiful waterfalls.
The trail’s starting point is Sim’s Pond. It takes hikers through different mountain landscapes and offers spectacular views of the nearby Grandfather Mountain.
Certainly, one of the best things to do in Blowing Rock.
Address: The Green Knob Trail is in Blowing Rock, NC, United States.
11. Village Cafe
The Village Cafe was originally a workshop used by local artisans to create various products. It was also a place where mountain folk could sell their goods.
In 1923, the building was saved from a fire. The community club that rescued the building then continued to renovate it.
The building was officially recognized in 1991 by the local Historical Society. It now houses the Village Cafe, which is a restaurant that serves a variety of delicate dining dishes. Andy and Annie Whatley own this establishment.
Address: The Village Cafe is at 146 Greenway Ct, Blowing Rock, NC.
12. Westglow Resort & Spa
Westglow is an all-inclusive spa resort located in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. This property was established in 1917 and featured a magnificent 42-acre estate.
It’s situated on a hill overlooking the Blue Ridge Parkway, a few miles away from the village of Blowing Rock.
The resort’s various activities and services provide guests with a sophisticated and stylish getaway.
Address: The Westglow Resort & Spa is at 224 Westglow Circle, Blowing Rock, NC.
13. Foggy Rock Eatery and Pub
Family-owned and operated, Foggy Rock Pub and Eatery is a local establishment serving various local and international food.
This restaurant’s executive chef, known for his unique take on southern dishes, is also a master of his design.
The restaurant’s signature dishes will surely be a hit with its guests with an eclectic mix of local and international ingredients.
Address: This beautiful attraction is 8180 Valley Blvd., Blowing Rock, North Carolina.
14. Camp Coffee Roasters
After serving his country in Iraq, Jason Campbell decided to start Camp Coffee Roasters.
This Camp Coffee roaster was established to provide the finest coffee and the best possible experience.
His wife, Amanda, helps him create the perfect cup of coffee. Camp’s core values of adventure, passion, and community set it apart from other businesses.
Address: The Camp Coffee Roasters is at 921 Main Street, Blowing Rock, NC.
15. Rowland’s Restaurant
The restaurant serves a variety of breakfast and lunch options made with fresh fruit, yogurt, and cereals.
It also offers a variety of imported and local coffees and juices. The breakfast buffet is served every morning and includes a variety of bread and pastries.
Address: The Rowland’s Restaurant is at 224 Westglow Cir, Blowing Rock, NC 28605, USA.
16. Ziplining at Sky Valley Zip Tours
The only establishment in Blowing Rock that offers services related to the ziplining industry is Sky Valley Zip Tours.
This facility is near a park that’s called Moses Cone Memorial Park. It features a river, a waterfall, and tons of forest.
17. Chetola Resort
The Chetola Lodge and resort is one of the best places to stay in Blowing Rock.
Even if you’re not staying at the property as a guest, it still has various services and facilities designed to provide guests with a memorable experience.
Some of these include the Headwaters Pub, Timberlake’s Restaurant, and the Spa at the resort.
Address: The Chetola Resort is at 185 Chetola Lake Dr, Blowing Rock, NC 28605, USA
18. Thunder Hill Overlook
Although the Thunder Hill overlook isn’t as well-known as some other popular attractions in Blowing Rock, it offers a fantastic view of the mountains.
Just a few miles away from the resort, this area offers incredible views of the mountains.
Address: The Thunder Hill Overlook is at Blowing Rock, NC 28605, USA
19. Rough Ridge Trail
The rough ridge trail, located at the Blue Ridge Parkway’s milepost 302.8, is one of North Carolina’s most popular hiking trails.
It starts from the Thunder Hill overlook’s parking lot and goes through a forest. It then crosses a bridge and gains 480 feet of elevation.
Address: The Rough Ridge Trail is at 3218 Blue Ridge Pkwy, Linville, NC 28646, USA
20. Broyhill Park
Blowing Rock is located in the beautiful North Carolina High Country, surrounded by natural beauty.
Broyhill Park is a must-visit if you’re looking for a tranquil environment to spend time with family and friends.
Address: This beautiful park is at 173 Lakeside Dr, Blowing Rock, NC 28605, USA
21. Mystery Hill
This historical site in the town of Blowing Rock has been around for over 70 years. It’s a must-visit for anyone who’s looking for a unique experience.
The Mystery Hill is a collection of 13 different attractions designed to provide a fun and unique experience for the entire family.
One of these is a gravitational anomaly discovered in an apple orchard in the 1920s.
Address: The Mystery Hill is at 129 Mystery Hill Ln, Blowing Rock, NC 28605, USA
Best Time To Visit Blowing Rock
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the best time to visit and enjoy the ideal weather in the town of Blowing Rock is from April 30 to September 30.
Cost Of Visiting Blowing Rock
The average cost of a seven-day trip to the town of Blowing Rock for a single individual is around $1,852.
A couple can expect to spend approximately $2,967, while a family of four $5,562.
There are various types of accommodations in the area, such as hotels and vacation rentals, ranging from $82 to $560.
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