The town of Boone is located in western North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains. It is home to Appalachian State University and Samaritan’s Purse, a medical relief organization.
With a connection to the small town roots of its inhabitants, it’s an ideal choice for people looking for a more traditional feel.
Yet, despite the modern conveniences of modern living, it still maintains its old-fashioned spirit. The article covers the most exciting things to do in Boone (NC).
Where Is Boone, North Carolina?
Located in North Carolina’s Watauga County, the town of Boone is the county’s seat. It is also home to the headquarters of Samaritan’s Purse.
According to the census data released in 2020, the town’s population had reached 19,092.
It’s named after Daniel Daniel Boone, an American explorer and pioneer. In addition, the town hosts an outdoor drama production called Horn in the West every summer.
This event, which takes place in an area once part of a British settlement during the Revolutionary War, features the contributions of Daniel and other notable individuals from the area.
Things To Do In Boone (NC)
With fast and clear rivers ideal for kayaking or rafting, the town of Boone is an excellent choice for people looking for something a bit different.
These are 21 fun things to do in Boone, North Carolina;
1. Daniel Boone Heritage Trail
Daniel spent about two decades in North Carolina between 1752 and 1773, leaving a significant mark on the state’s history.
As a result, the Daniel Daniel Boone Heritage Trail was named after him. This trail takes visitors through various locations that played vital roles in the area’s history.
The various locations featured on the trail allow visitors to glimpse the exciting events happening in the area during the early stages of the country’s development.
One of the most popular stops on the trail is the site of the fort where Daniel hid during the Cherokee War.
Other locations featured on the trail include the village where he brought his brother and the cave where he lived.
Address: The Daniel Daniel Boone Heritage Trail is at 126 W Church St, Mocksville, NC 27028, USA.
2. Moses H. Cone Memorial Park
One of the most popular attractions in North Carolina is the Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, which is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway near the town of Blowing Rock.
This park was established to protect the country estate of the textile entrepreneur.
One of the main attractions of this area is the Flat Top Manor, a grand Colonial Revival mansion surrounded by various natural areas.
This park is located in Blowing Rock, a short distance from Boone, making it one of the most fun things to do in Boone, North Carolina.
Address: This Park is at Blue Ridge Parkway, Milepost 294, Blowing Rock, NC 28605, USA.
3. Watauga County Farmer’s Market
This local farmers’ market in the town of Watauga has been operating since 1974. It takes place every Saturday from 8 am to noon in the parking lot of the Horn in the West.
This event features various types of fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.
This market features local produce and other products such as soft artisan bread and honey during summer. Kids can also participate in this market.
Address: This market is located at 591 Horn in the W Dr, Boone, NC 28607, USA.
4. Howard’s Knob
Located in North Carolina High Country are Howard’s Knob, a park, and a mountain overlooking the town of Boone. This area is part of the Appalachian Mountains.
It has an elevation of over 4,000 feet and is around a thousand feet above the campus of Appalachian State University.
Due to the magnificent views of the mountain and the city, the High Country Conservancy and several residents could acquire a conservation easement that allows them to protect 46 acres of land. This area is currently protected from development.
Address: Howard’s Knob is located at 530 Howards Knob Rd, Boone, NC 28607, USA.
5. The Art of Living Retreat Center
One of the best things to do in Boone, North Carolina, is to visit the Art of Living retreat center and spa at the top of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
This facility offers various services and activities for people looking to improve their lives.
This facility can provide activities that include yoga and meditation, group ceremonies, and spa treatments.
Sri Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, a renowned spiritual teacher, established the facility. It has been regarded as one of the best wellness and health resorts in the country by the readers of USA Today.
Address: The Art of Living Retreat Center is at 639 Whispering Hills Rd, Boone, NC 28607, USA.
6. Turtle Island Preserve
Eustace Conway established the Turtle Island Preserve, a heritage farm and education center in the Appalachian Mountains. This facility is located in a remote valley that a gravel road can only access.
The facility’s goal is to provide visitors with a glimpse into the life of their ancestors.
Visitors can learn about how their ancestors lived through various activities at the facility, such as walking tours.
Address: The Turtle Island Preserve is at 2683 Little Laurel Rd, Boone, NC, 28607, USA.
7. Appalachian Ski Mountain
One of the area’s three ski mountains is Appalachian Ski Mountain, which is situated in North Carolina’s Watauga County.
It features 11 slopes and three terrain parks. In addition, it has five lifts and two quad chairs.
This facility also features a conveyor belt that takes novice skiers to the top of the mountain. This feature allows people of all ages to enjoy the various activities available at the facility.
Address: This attraction is at 940 Ski Mountain Rd, Blowing Rock, NC 28605, USA.
8. Hickory Ridge Living History Museum
Many individuals who helped pioneer the area’s development were also noteworthy, such as Daniel Boone and the Cherokee Indians.
The Living History Museum at the Ridge is located near the Horn in the West. This museum features several restored cabins that were used during the 1700s.
Address: This attraction is located at 591 Horn in the W Dr, Boone, NC 28607, USA.
9. Foggy Mountain Gem Mine
The mining of gemstones played an essential role in Boone’s history. Due to the abundance of natural resources, people flocked to the area to explore its various mines.
It was very challenging to find gemstones in real mines. However, with the help of experienced workers and equipment, the Foggy Mountain Mine has already produced some of the finest gemstones for visitors.
Address: This Foggy Mountain Gem Mine is at 4416 NC-105, Boone, NC 28607, USA.
10. Daniel Boone Native Gardens
One of the most popular attractions in the area is the Daniel Boone Native Gardens, a beautiful garden located near downtown North Carolina.
This garden features a wide variety of native plants and trees. It’s also a laboratory that botanists and clubs can use to grow endangered and rare species.
The gardens are full of hundreds of plants that bloom continuously throughout the year. Various gardens feature plants, such as a bog garden, a rhododendron garden, and a rock wishing well.
The descendants of Daniel Boone build the entrance to the garden. Other notable features of the garden include an arbor covered in vine, a pond, and a historic log cabin.
Address: This attraction is located at 651 Horn in the W Dr, Boone, NC 28607, USA.
11. Turchin Center
Turchin Center features a collection of over 1,700 works of art, which are arranged in various styles and mediums.
This facility also offers various activities and exhibitions related to the visual arts.
In addition, one of the center’s educational wings is the Arnold Rosen Family Education Wing, which provides classes for adults and children.
The Turchin Center is part of Appalachian State University’s Department of Art and Design.
This facility is excellent for people of all ages to come and experience the power of art.
It also serves as a dynamic community that allows people of all backgrounds to learn more about the visual arts.
Address: This facility is located at 423 West King Street Boone, Boone, NC 28608, USA.
12. The Greenway Trail
The popular hiking trail known as the Greenway Trail is also an excellent way to get around in the area. It follows various natural features, such as the New River.
Along the way, you will pass a historical ruin along with various picnic tables, shelters, and resting benches. You’ll also see signs explaining the area’s natural and human history.
Address: The Greenway Trail is at 607 Deerfield Rd, Boone, NC 28607, USA.
13. The Cascades Trail
The Cascades Trail is a quick and easy way to get around the area. It follows a path through the forest on the edge of the Blue Ridge. It eventually reaches Falls Creek.
Along the way, you’ll see various plaques that list the tree names and descriptions of the area. The trail starts from a paved surface.
The area contains various plants, such as tulip trees, dogwood, and pignut. As you walk across the bridge over Falls Creek, you’ll see two overlooks protected by a wall.
Address: The Cascades Trail is at Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 272.5, Purlear, NC 28665, USA.
14. Rock Dimensions
Rock Dimensions is a local company that provides guided climbing tours and classes.
Its experienced guides are highly trained and have the necessary experience to ensure that the experience is safe and enjoyable.
These trips and courses are designed to allow people of all ages to experience the freedom of climbing.
Address: The Rock Dimensions is at 131B Depot St, Boone, NC 28607, USA.
15. River and Earth Adventures
In western North Carolina, numerous activities are suitable for people of all ages. River and Earth Adventures is a local company that offers various adventure activities, such as kayaking, rafting, and climbing.
It also has a paddling school that is certified by the ACA. Engaging the services of these professionals is one of the best things to do in Boone, North Carolina.
Address: This attraction is located at 1655 NC-105, Boone, NC 28607, USA.
16. Booneshine Brewing Company
At the local brewery known as the Booneshine Brewing Company, they believe that having a good time with friends should be a treasured moment.
This belief is carried out through the company’s passion for creating unique and flavorful beers.
The staff at the brewery puts a lot of attention into their products to ensure that their customers have a great experience.
The facility features a restaurant, a beer garden, and a tasting room. It also has a food truck that can serve different types of food.
Address: This brewing company is located at 465 Industrial Park Drive, Boone, NC 28607, USA.
17. Two Worlds Divers
A short distance from Boone in Vilas, North Carolina, a local company known as Two Worlds Divers offers various diving lessons.
Through their services, people can learn all the necessary skills to take a lifetime trip.
So if you’re planning on visiting the Caribbean in the future, this company can help you get ready to dive.
Address: This attraction is located at 2482 US-421, Vilas, NC 28692, USA.
18. Melanie’s Food Fantasy
Located in the heart of the community, Melanie’s is a gathering place where people can come for their food but stay for the conversation.
The restaurant serves various types of food, such as the Extreme Appalachian Breakfast and the Truckers’ Breakfast. The meals are very well-prepared and beautiful.
Address: This Melanie’s Food Fantasy is at 664 W King St, Boone, NC, 28607, USA.
19. Tweetsie Railroad
The Tweetsie Railroad was first established in 1957 as an excursion train that passed through the area near the town of Blowing Rock.
In 1958, the length of the track was expanded to a 3-mile loop. A saloon and a Western town were also added to the train rides.
In 1962, more additions were made, including an amusement ride and a mountain bike lift.
Address: The Tweetsie Railroad is at 300 Tweetsie Railroad Ln, Blowing Rock, NC 28605, USA.
20. High Mountain Expeditions
In 1986, High Mountain Expeditions started its operations by opening up some of the most beautiful wilderness in North Carolina.
Through their expeditions, they have taken people on various adventures, such as rafting, canyoning, and hiking.
Address: This attraction is located at 1380 NC-105, Boone, NC 28607, USA.
21. Joy Bistro, Boone, NC
This rounds off our list of fun things to do in Boone, North Carolina. This is also one of the most popular restaurants, and it is located in the New Market Center.
It offers a sophisticated French dining experience with several comfortable seats and white-table clothed walls.
The interior design of the restaurant features various mirrors. Chef Melissa Claude’s creations are also known to be very well-received.
Address: This attraction is located at 115 New Market Center, Boone, NC 28607, USA.
Best Time To Visit Boone, North Carolina
The best time to visit this area is during the September-November season.
This is because the weather, the cost of accommodations, and the peak travel period are more favorable.
Cost Of Visiting Boone, North Carolina
The average cost of a seven-day trip to the area is around $1611 for a solo traveler. A couple would most likely spend approximately $2,900 and $5500 for a family of four.
There are various types of accommodations in the area, such as hotels and vacation rentals. They range from $84 to $560 per night.
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