VISIT NORTH CAROLINA
4324 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-4324
VISITNC.COM
PRSRT STD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
RALEIGH, NC
PERMIT NO. 1095
OFFICIAL
2018
TRAVEL
GUIDE
VISITNC.COM
WILD OUTDOORS
Pack your sense of
adventure for a trek
to the mountains.
PRSRT STD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
RALEIGH, NC
PERMIT NO. 1095
VISIT NORTH CAROLINA
4324 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-4324
VISITNC.COM
OFFICIAL
2018
TRAVEL
GUIDE
VISITNC.COM
URBAN
RENEWAL
Feel the energy as you
explore the lively
cities of the
Piedmont region.
PRSRT STD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
RALEIGH, NC
PERMIT NO. 1095
VISIT NORTH CAROLINA
4324 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-4324
VISITNC.COM
OFFICIAL
2018
TRAVEL
GUIDE
VISITNC.COM
ROCK THE COAST
Find splashes of color at
beaches, art museums,
restaurants and
music festivals.
Have a Big Vacation in a Small Town
Calhoun
House
Inn & Suites
Nantahala adventures, luxury lodging and scenic train rides are just
three of the great vacation experiences awaiting you in Bryson City.
Experience tubing on a cool mountain creek, waterfalls, hiking and
mountain biking. Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and
the Cherokee Indian Reservation. Catch fish in our mountain streams,
rivers and lake. Drink in the breathtaking views. It’s all just an hour west
of Asheville and three hours north of Atlanta.
Start planning your big vacation today!
Visit GreatSmokies.com for a complete directory of
restaurants, shops, events, activities and lodging in the
North Carolina Smokies.
800-867-9246
Spacious, affordable 4-room luxury suites with private
entrances, private baths with Jacuzzi tubs, fully equipped
kitchens, and pillow top king beds. Just 1 block to the Great
Smoky Mountains Railroad depot, downtown shops and
restaurants. More info at CalhounHouse.com. 828-788-0505.
Wildwater guides you into the Appalachians with activities
for everyone. Whether going on a jeep tour, rafting down
the Nantahala, or zipping through the trees, Wildwater’s
guides lead you on the path less traveled. Learn more at
WildwaterRafting.com. 888-272-3886.
Take a scenic train ride along the beautiful
Nantahala River. Choose from a variety of
seating selections. Treat the family to themed
events like: The Polar Express, Dinosaur Train™
and Peanuts™ Pumpkin Patch Express. Learn
more about our packages, events and Fall
color excursions at GSMR.com. 800-872-4681.
®
Navitat zipline adventures thrill,
educate and inspire! Two incredible
tours, one world-class location. The
Moody Cove Adventure takes you
soaring through and among the
treetops, while the Blue Ridge
Experience sends you fl ying from
mountaintop to mountaintop on
some of the highest, fastest and
longest ziplines in the nation!
navitat.com/asheville
855-NAVITAT
Experience the breathtaking beauty
of Biltmore House — America’s
largest home® — and century-old
gardens. Explore our 8,000-acre
Blue Ridge Mountain backyard,
then taste award-winning wines,
dine and shop in Antler Hill Village
& Winery. Relax in our two splendid
hotels for a complete getaway.
biltmore.com
877-BILTMORE
The best of the mountains in one
place! Spectacular 75-mile views
accessible by foot or a unique
elevator built inside the mountain.
Featuring hiking trails, a 404-foot
waterfall, an animal discovery
den, special events and more.
Only 25 miles southeast of
Asheville on U.S. 74A. Open all
year. Pets are welcome.
chimneyrockpark.com
800-277-9611
Navitat Canopy
Adventures
Biltmore
Chimney Rock at
Chimney Rock State Park
Black Mountain
Stop, shop and rock in “The Little
Town that Rocks,” a quaint, scenic
mountain town 10 minutes east
of Asheville and the Blue Ridge
Parkway. Shop for arts, crafts,
antiques or furniture. Embark on
outdoor adventures — hiking, biking
or fi shing. Enjoy 40 restaurants,
three breweries, live music and
30 artistic rocking chairs.
exploreblackmountain.com
800-207-8759
ExploreAsheville.com
877-GO-TO-AVL
Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk & The Small Towns of the Blue Ridge
Request a
free Vacation
Planner!
800-438-7500
Call the Regional Visitor Center: 800.438.7500 MountainsofNC.com
Winding trails and mile-high
views star at Craggy Gardens
along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Learn more on page 24.
R U G G E D B E A U T Y
4 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
FEATURES
13 | DISCOVERIES
J ump-start your journey by exploring the
state’s history and diversity. Dive into pirate
lore, track down auto racing legends, and
get a taste of whiskey and wine. Tour the epic
Blue Ridge Parkway, artsy Winston-Salem
and majestic coastal lighthouses. You’ll also
zoom in on fi lming sites of favorite movies
and TV shows.
35 | NATURAL ENCOUNTERS
Take a wildly entertaining look at the creature
features of North Carolina state parks, zoos,
aquariums, nature centers and sanctuaries.
40 | INCREDIBLE EATS
Whether it’s spicy seafood, smoky barbecue or
decadent desserts and doughnuts, the state sets
food trends with its twists on classic favorites.
CONTENTS
For more information
www.VisitFayettevilleNC.com
To learn more about the Fayetteville
Area Convention & Visitors Bureau
(910) 483-5311
6 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
FEATURES (CONTINUED)
46 | ONLY IN NC
Dozens of unique attractions stretch
543 miles across the state from
Manteo to Murphy.
50 | GOLF LEGENDS
Boasting fam ed Pinehurst and ties
to Donald Ross, North Carolina is
hallowed golf ground. Survey the
state’s mountainside tracks, seaside
links and putting-only courses.
54 | STATE OF ART
A-list art museums in the Piedmont,
legendary music venues in the
mountains and cool waterfront
festivals on the coast power an
eclectic cultural scene.
58 | HOME TO HISTORY
Three cities chronicle these
important chapters in the state’s
past: the birth of Pepsi-Cola, the
heritage of native Cherokee people
and the importance of Fort Bragg.
62 | SPLASH ZONE
Water, water everywhere—
oscillating ocean waves, peaceful
Piedmont lakes and wild whitewater
in the mountains. There are many
fun ways to get soaked on your
North Carolina getaway.
MOUNTAINS
74 Attractions
84 Accommodations
95 Campgrounds
PIEDMONT
104 Attractions
121 Accommodations
135 Campgrounds
COAST
139 Attractions
148 Accommodations
158 Campgrounds
LISTINGS
161 LOCAL INFO SOURCES 164 STATE INFO SOURCES 166 ATTRACTIONS INDEX 170 CITY INDEX 172 ADVERTISER INDEX
58
40
35
50
62
PHOTOGRAPHS: (MUSEUM, FOOD, SURFING) RYAN DONNELL
There’s nothing quite like island life. Time slows, and you begin to notice things. Your phone
starts getting more use as a camera and less as an email/work tether (it’ll be there when you get
back). Friends and family – you – just feel more alive and in the moment. Sunrises and sunsets
become events to behold. Simple acts like a shoreline stroll, or even a night sky absolutely
full of stars, take on a new meaning. This is life on The Outer Banks. Breathe, savor, repeat.
877-629-4386 | AmericasFirstBeach.com
The Outer Banks ®
OF NORTH CAROLINA
AmericaÕs First Beach
Stay connected with the OBX Facebook.com/TheOuterBanks Instagram.com/TheOuterBanksNC
Pop Quiz
1. Which legendary
pirate—who spent a
fair amount of time
along the North Carolina
coast—died exactly
300 years ago?
ANSWER ON PAGE 14 .
2. Which state park
boasts the highest
point in the eastern
United States?
ANSWER ON PAGE 26.
3. Where can you fi nd
only veteran-owned
breweries in a town
rich with military history?
ANSWER ON PAGE 61.
4. Where can you see
wild horses on the
Outer Banks?
Hint: It’s not Shackleford
Banks, though you can see
wild horses there, too .
ANSWER ON PAGE 39.
5. What mountain city
contains America’s
largest private home?
ANSWER ON PAGE 41.
THINK YOU KNOW THE
TAR HEEL STATE?
6. How many
lighthouses line
the state’s coast?
ANSWER ON PAGE 32.
7. Which body of water
is the state’s largest
man-made lake—and
reportedly is home to
an elusive sea monster
named Normie?
ANSWER ON PAGE 66.
8. Where can you fi nd
the World’s Largest
China Shop—and
take a free tour?
ANSWER ON PAGE 48.
9. What famous
doughnut company
got its start in
Winston-Salem?
ANSWER ON PAGE 42.
10. Where can you
see the remains
of the famous
train-bus crash featured
in The Fugitive starring
Harrison Ford?
ANSWER ON PAGE 30.
See how many of these questions you can answer before
looking through the guide. If you get seven or more
correct (no peeking!), consider yourself an NC expert.
PHOTOGRAPHS: (PIRATE) RYAN DONNELL, (MILITARY) PATRICK SCHNEIDER, (HOME) JOHN NOLTNER, (LIGHTHOUSE) BRUCE DEBOER, (CHINA) NATALIA WEEDY
8 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
The four-star
Inn on Biltmore Estate®
Village Hotel on
Biltmore Estate®
BILTMORE.COM
Y O U R R O O M K E Y U N L O C K S A N 8,0 0 0 - A C R E E S T A T E.
St rol l histor ic gardens. Stargaze wi th a glass of wine. Savor the awe- inspir ing
se t t ing of America’s Largest Home®. From fl y- f i shing to f ine dining, Bil tmore
offers a wealth of ac t i v i t i e s for over night estat e gues t s to explore at thei r l eisure.
10 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
RULES OF THE ROAD
• Seat belt use is mandatory for
drivers and passengers in front
and rear seats.
• Child seats are required for
children younger than age 8 or
children less than 80 pounds.
Learn more at buckleupnc.org.
• When passing an emergency
vehicle, tow truck or work crew
with flashing lights on the highway
shoulder, move over one lane if
possible, or reduce speed.
• In work zones, obey the speed limit,
stay alert and be aware of physical
hazards such as traffic shifts or lane
reductions.
• If you are in a minor, non-injury
accident, move your vehicle to the
shoulder of the road.
• Motorists are required to use
headlights when using windshield
wipers in inclement weather.
• Right turns on red are permitted
after a complete stop, unless
otherwise posted. Left turns on red
are not permitted.
• Cell phone use by drivers younger
than 18 is prohibited except in an
emergency or when talking to a
parent or spouse.
• It is illegal to read or send text
messages or e-mails while driving.
• Motorcyclists must wear helmets
and use headlights at all times.
• Littering is against the law and
carries a sizable fine. Learn more by
searching Swat-a-Litterbug online.
STATEWIDE TRAVEL
INFORMATION
Information on travel conditions is
available online at ncdot.gov/
traffictravel, where you can search by
region, route or county for current
traffic, incident or adverse weather
conditions that might affect your trip.
Via phone, visitors can access updated
travel information, including
construction and traffic delays along
interstates and major highways, by
dialing 511. To speak to a friendly
VisitNC representative, call
(800) VISIT NC (847-4862).
DISABILITY ACCESS
Information for travelers with
disabilities is available online or via
download in English and Spanish
in ACCESS North Carolina: A
Vacation and Travel Guide for People
with Disabilities. This publication
provides information about parking,
paths, entrances and restrooms for
hundreds of attractions, and it rates
how accessible each attraction is
for different types of disabilities.
E-mail accessnorthcarolina@gmail.
com to inquire about the vacation
guide or accessible tourism in
North Carolina. You may view the
information online at ncdhhs.gov/
document/access-north-carolina.
The Americans with Disabilities
Act establishes a variety of
standards for different types of
properties. Visitors with disabilities
and special needs are encouraged to
contact the accommodations or
attractions directly to learn about
their accessibility features.
FERRY INFORMATION
The North Carolina Department of
Transportation’s ferry system includes
21 ferries that operate 365 days a year
on seven routes along the coast,
including Bayview-Aurora, Currituck-
Knotts Island, Cedar Island-Ocracoke,
Swan Quarter-Ocracoke, Hatteras-
Ocracoke, Cherry Branch-Minnesott
Beach and Southport-Fort Fisher.
Ferries can accommodate motorcycles
and any size car, trailer or RV that can
operate on the highway. Ferries provide
links to lighthouses, pristine beaches,
historic sites, outdoor recreational
activities and more. Reservations for
the Cedar Island-Ocracoke or Swan
Quarter-Ocracoke routes can be made
by calling (800) BY-FERRY (293-3779)
or online at ncdot.gov/ferry. Motorists
must claim their reservation at least
30 minutes prior to departure, or it
will be canceled. All other ferry routes
operate on a first-come, first-served
basis. For more information, including
schedules and fares, call or visit
the website.
NORTH CAROLINA’S
AMTRAK TRAIN SERVICE
Amtrak service to North Carolina is
the gateway to your getaway with
12 daily Amtrak passenger trains
serving 25 North Carolina cities.
There are also daily round-trip train
services between Raleigh and
Charlotte and connecting thruway
service to the eastern North Carolina
coast. Plan your trip and purchase
tickets online at amtrak.com, or call
(800) USA-RAIL (872-7245).
WELCOME CENTERS
AND REST AREAS
North Carolina’s welcome centers
and highway rest areas offer
opportunities for convenient, brief
stops, and they provide easy roadside
access to public restrooms, snack/
drink machines, drinking water and
telephones. Welcome centers also
offer picnic tables, family restrooms
and even displays of North Carolina
crafts. Professional travel counselors
located at each welcome center
provide detailed travel information
and distribute the state’s Official
North Carolina Travel Guide, the
Department of Transportation’s
official state map and other
marketing publications exclusively
about North Carolina. They can also
book room reservations at no charge for
visitors staying overnight in the Tar
Heel State. The welcome centers are
open 8 a.m–5 p.m. daily, except New
Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day,
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Rest areas are open 24 hours a day,
seven days a week. For more
information about traveling in
North Carolina, go to visitnc.com.
SAFETY AND ALERTS
Download the free ReadyNC app to
your iPhone or Android device for the
latest weather conditions, real-time
traffic reports, severe weather alerts
and more. Safety tips regarding hiking,
swimming, camping, and visiting
beaches and waterfalls are available
at visitnc.com/safety.
INFO FOR TRAVELERS
877-227-7071 | www.VacationOakIsland.com
From the pristine beaches of Oak
Island to historic Southport, OIA offers
500+ vacation rentals with dog-friendly
and event-friendly options.
Are we there yet?
800-795-7263 | www.ncbrunswick.com
800-334-3581 | www.TheWinds.com
Oceanfront rooms/suites. Subtropical
gardens. Breathtaking beach. Resort
cottages, hot Southern breakfast
buffet, 3 pools & Tiki bar/dining. Free
summer golf!
800-842-6949 | www.HoldenBeachVacations.com
Holden Beach, where friends and family
go to play and reconnect! Over 100
island homes in our inventory to
choose from.
800-720-2200 | www.Holden-Beach.com
With nearly 300 vacation homes, let
us help you find your quiet “escape”
to Holden Beach, America’s Best
Family Beach!
888-321-9048 | www.SeaTrail.com
Three award-winning championship golf
courses, comfortable accommodations,
fine dining and 40,000 sq. ft. of event
space, just minutes from the beach.
800-843-6044 | www.SloaneVacations.com
Grand homes to quaint cottages and
condos, Sloane Realty Vacations has a
large collection of vacation rentals on
Ocean Isle Beach and Sunset Beach, NC.
D I S C O V E R I E S
EVERY JOURNEY RESULTS IN A STORY,
and in North Carolina, there are plenty of exciting plot lines
to discover. Dive into a land of legendary pirates, auto racing,
movie sites and stellar sips.
CHO O S E YO U R A D V E N T U R E
Park your vehicle on Four-
Wheel-Drive Beach at Fort
Fisher State Recreation
Area to enjoy surf
fishing and sightings of
loggerhead sea turtles. BY GARY THOMPSON
visitnc.com 13
No pirate in colonial North Carolina instilled more fear
or inspired more legends than Blackbeard. This year marks
the 300th anniversary of the notorious Englishman’s death,
making it a good time to explore his historical haunts.
THEPirate LIFE
MY T H V S . F A C T
Myth: Pirates made prisoners walk the plank.
Fact: Pirates tortured prisoners with preferred
methods like keelhauling. Off enders were stripped
and dragged by a rope along the razor-sharp
barnacles on the ship’s bottom.
DISCOVERIES
P IR AT E F O R A DAY
Face paint and costumes
get kids ready for Pirate
Adventures of the Outer
Banks in Manteo. They
join the crew of the pirate
ship Sea Gypsy as it hunts
for sunken treasure on
Shallowbag Bay.
14 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
exploits southern Banks’ of his favorite hangouts.
Despite his bad reputation,
Blackbeard had good taste in
island getaways. Ocracoke,
accessible by ferry, off ers 16 miles
of unspoiled beach for strolling
and relaxing.
Ocracoke’s south end provided
a haven for Blackbeard at a spot
called Teach’s Hole (for his
presumed real name, Edward
Teach). That’s also where
Blackbeard lost his life (and
head) to Lt. Robert Maynard
of Britain’s Royal Navy. See a
model of his fl agship, the Queen
Anne’s Revenge, at Teach’s Hole
Blackbeard Exhibit and Pirate
Specialty Shop.
Embrace Ocracoke’s laid-back
lifestyle and nods to its pirate
past at historic Blackbeard’s
Lodge, which has housed island
guests in its 38 rooms since 1936.
Glimpse Blackbeard’s alleged
Bath-area address, Plum Point,
from a vantage point in front
of Bonner House at the Bath
State Historic Site. Legend says
foundation ruins visible from the
vantage point are of his home. A
room at the historic Van Der Veer
House displays a graphite vase
said to be the pirate’s money pot.
This year has been dubbed
the Year of Blackbeard in Bath.
Visit in May for Bath Fest.
B AT H OCR A COK E I S L A ND
PHOTOGRAPHS: RYAN DONNELL
Blackbeard and the Pirates of Carolina, Beaufort
MY T H V S . F A C T
Myth: After
Blackbeard’s headless
body was thrown
overboard, it swam
around his ship several
times before sinking.
Fact: Medical science
would say that’s
unlikely. But it makes
for a great story.
visitnc.com 15
Learn more about
Blackbeard’s life and
at the s outhern Outer
Ocracoke Island, one
Blackbeard’s boot prints
cover historic Bath, the state’s
fi rst town, which served as
the rogue’s home during the
summer of 1718.
Blackbeard’s spirit permeates
the Beaufort region, where his
ship still lies on the seafl oor
and people pass down pirate
lore to new generations.
See cannons, grenades and
other restored artifacts from
Blackbeard’s Queen Anne’s
Revenge at Beaufort’s North
Carolina Maritime Museum,
near where the ship was found
in 1996. The adjacent Harvey W.
Smith Watercraft Center off ers
boatbuilding for all skill levels.
The wreck of the Queen
Anne’s Revenge lies in 30 feet of
water near the Beaufort Inlet,
about a mile off Fort Macon
State Park and Atlantic Beach.
The fort offers excellent views
of the spot where Blackbeard’s
ship went aground.
For a fins-on view of the
sea’s perils (and beauty), scuba
dive the area’s shipwreck-filled
waters. Discovery Diving in
Beaufort offers charters for
certified divers to wrecks of
different eras and depths.
Back on dry land, Blackbeard
and the Pirates of Carolina
by Port City Tour Company
introduces Blackbeard’s
friends and enemies on the
grounds of the Beaufort
Historic Site.
Beaufort becomes a village
of pillagers during the Beaufort
Pirate Invasion in August.
Pirate actors roam the streets,
engaging in sword fights and
bursting into song. Another
Pirate Invasion, complete with
treasure hunt, takes place
during the summer on Bald
Head Island at the southern tip
of the coast.
BE AUFORT ARE A
PHOTOGRAPHS: RYAN DONNELL
Harvey W. Smith
Watercraft Center,
Beaufort
DISCOVERIES
Blackbeard marker, Bath
16 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
Riverwalk dock parties. Brew bus tours along the
Ale Trail. Hollywood film sites. Overflowing with
vibrant variety, no two getaways here are alike.
From celebrated farm-to-table dining to Harbor
Island walking tours, choose to stray off course.
WilmingtonAndBeachesInfo.com 877-945-6386
North Carolina Auto Racing
Hall of Fame, Mooresville
PHOTOGRAPH: PATRICK SCHNEIDER
DISCOVERIES
Revved UP
North Carolina waved the
green fl ag to launch NASCAR
in 1947. Today, the Charlotte
area continues to drive stock-car
racing with icons of the
sport’s past and present.
include a van ride around the 1.5-mile
quad-oval track, a trip down pit road
and a picture in the winner’s circle.
Drive a race simulator and test your
tire-changing speed as a pit crew
member at the NASCAR Hall of Fame
in Charlotte. Race fans and non-fans
alike will enjoy the high-tech
venue’s hands-on exhibits honoring
NASCAR’s heritage.
Pay homage to one NASCAR Hall of
Famer, the late Dale Earnhardt Sr. ,
with a self-guided tour of his life and
career landmarks in and around his
hometown, Kannapolis. Stops on the
Dale Trail include the neighborhood
where The Intimidator grew up,
the roads he cruised as a teen, and
a 9-foot statue of the racing legend.
See the inner workings of a top
NASCAR racing team at Hendrick
Motorsports in Charlotte
(Chase Elliott, William Byron and
Jimmie Johnson are part of the team
here). Fans visit the facility for free,
getting a behind-the-scenes look at
race shop viewing areas that reveal
team members prepping cars, and a
museum that displays memorabilia.
Just a few miles away in Concord, get
a lap in at the venerable Charlotte
Motor Speedway, which opened in
1959 and hosts premier NASCAR
eve nts in May and September this
year, as well as other races. Tours
NASCAR history
begins in moonshine
country, where
Prohibition-era
bootleggers souped
up their cars to outrun
the law. Get a taste
of the state’s need
for speed at
these museums.
NORTH CAROLINA
AUTO RACING HALL OF
FAME, MOORESVILLE
More than 40 cars
span eras and types.
A 1940 Ford recalls
moonshine runners,
while Rusty Wallace’s
NASCAR Winston
Cup car from 1980
highlights a more
modern racing age.
PETTY MUSEUM,
RANDLEMAN
See cars and trophies
belonging to King
of NASCAR Richard
Petty and his family,
who have racked up a
combined 10 NASCAR
championships.
Petty’s Garage (also in
Randleman) produces
high-performance
street cars.
RACE
TIME
NASCAR drivers don’t need
valid state driver’s licenses
to compete in events.
However, they must pay
for an annual license
from NASCAR.
L E T ’ S S E E S OME ID
18 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
North Carolina contains more than
40 state parks, including Hammocks
Beach State Park in Swansboro.
Esse Quam Videri
First in Flight
First in Freedom
The fi rst colony to sign a declaration
of independence from Great Britain ,
called the Halifax Resolves.
It begins “Here’s to the land
of the long leaf pine ...”
301
That’s the seventh-greatest
amount in the United States.
1.25 million
November 21, 1789
Raleigh
Charlotte
10,146,788
DISCOVERIES
PHOTOGRAPH: RYAN DONNELL
Translation:
To be, rather
than to seem.
Can you
guess why?
(The Wright
Brothers!)
The only
state to
have one.
Quick, name all four
national forests!
(Pisgah, Nantahala,
Uwharrie, Croatan)
OFFICIAL
STATE MOTTO
OTHER STATE
MANTRAS
STATE
TOAST
MILES OF
OCEAN
COASTLINE
ACRES OF
NATIONAL
FORESTS
STATEHOOD
GRANTED
CAPITAL
LARGEST
CITY
POPULATION
101
20 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
Population 842,051—
and counting. It’s one
of the fastest-growing
cities in the nation.
VISITLAKENORMAN.ORG • @VISITLAKENORMAN
) I S , % % $
CORNELIUS DAVIDSON HUNTERSVILLE
TOURCLEVELANDCOUNTY.COM
v i S i t
MUSH, MUSIC, BBQ
AND BASEBALL
704-487-8521 Shelby, NC
704-434-9996
3
ÄÄÄ
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PHOTOGRAPHS: MARTY BALDWIN
DISCOVERIES
Anything But
Run-of-the-Mill
Enjoy craft beers
and more at a
reimagined 1800s
mill in Rocky Mount
on the Tar River.
Rocky Mount Mills
is a new live-work-play
destination
featuring restaurants,
taprooms, music,
restored homes, and,
in partnership with
Nash Community
College, a brewery
incubator off ering
education and
equipment to new
beer-makers.
Two craft breweries
already have opened
in the development:
• Koi Pond Brewing
Company crafts
unfi ltered ales like
the Double Dragon
Imperial IPA, which
soothes you
with a rich, malty
backbone.
• Tarboro Brewing
Company’s
satellite location,
TBC West: Taproom
and Tacos, sells
shrimp and
caulifl ower tacos
along with its
beers. Local honey
fl avors Nana’s
Roof, a Belgian-style
brew.
DOUBLE BARLEY
BREWING
SMITHFIELD
Sample brews in a striking
taproom built with
materials from two local
barns. Or kick back in the
shaded beer garden. Try
crowd favorite Thrilla in
Vanilla, a smooth porter
brewed with homemade
vanilla extract.
GREGORY
VINEYARDS
ANGIER
Rock on the porch with
a glass of wine and
countryside views. If it’s
chilly out, sit inside by the
fi re. Off erings include the
Bald Eagle, a dry white
muscadine wine that suits
seafood, chicken and
salads. Try pairings at
on-site Lane’s Seafood
and Steak House.
SIP.SMILE.
Repeat
Triple your pleasure on a liquid tasting tour
Beer, Wine and Shine Trail invites you to
indulge at fi ve stops with special deals.
1
5
2
4
DEEP RIVER
BREWING COMPANY
CLAYTON
Paul and Lynn Auclair opened
Johnston County’s fi rst legal
brewery in 2013, using locally
grown produce, hops and
grain. Frequent live music and
food trucks add to the Main
Street ambience. The Twisted
River Wit, a Belgian wheat beer,
refreshes with citrus fl avors.
BROADSLAB
DISTILLERY
BENSON
Sip genuine small-batch
hooch made in moonshine
country. Owner Jeremy
Norris uses a family recipe
and corn grown on the
property to create white
lightning in a copper
pot still. Take a tour and
hit the tasting room to
try Legacy Appleshine,
a whiskey infused with
spices and juice.
of the Piedmont . The new Johnston County
22 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
3HINNANT FAMILY VINEYARDS
PINE LEVEL
Come for a tasting or a tour at one of the state’s
largest vineyards growing muscadine gra pes,
a variety known for its distinctive fruit-forward fl avor.
The sweet Tar Heel Red makes a refreshing apéritif
and pairs well with chocolate and cheesecake.
www. b l u e r i d g e t r a v e l e r s . c o m
Find a great place to stay, local events and more online.
Call 888-233-6111 to receive a free visitor guide and map.
Waterfalls & Hiking • Mountain Biking • Mountain Music
Gold and Gem Mines • Boutique Wineries
Museums and Historic Sites
Where do you
want to be?
Don’t take the same old journey.
Be somewhere genuine.
Be somewhere amazing.
Be changed.
800.828.4244 · visithendersonvillenc.org
Call for your complimentary Getaway Guide
d i n k i t i n
24 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
With overlooks every few miles and a
speed limit of 45 mph, the Blue Ridge
Parkway is the ultimate scenic route.
Allow plenty of time to experience the
252-mile stretch of mountain vistas
and colorful detours that winds
through North Carolina .
THE STATS
17
North Carolina
counties
3
national forests
25
tunnels
369
miles of hiking
trails
2,074
species of plants
MILEPOST 456
HOOFIN’ IT
Hop on a horse at Cataloochee Ranch,
located above Maggie Valley. Its
trails wind through rhododendron
tunnels and follow mountain ridges
for incredible views. Stay in an on-site
lodge, cabin or ranch house, and enjoy
family-style cooking with a side of
Southern hospitality.
MILEPOST 384
GETTING ORIENTED
In Asheville, the Blue Ridge
Parkway Visitor Center provides the
perfect orientation with a 22-foot
interactive map highlighting points
of interest, plus information about
various tree species to spot along the
way and displays about music styles
that developed along the road.
MILEPOST 382
SOUVENIRS YOU’LL TREASURE
Home of the Southern Highland Craft
Guild, the Folk Art Center boasts
the oldest continuously operating
crafts shop in the country, plus a
permanent collection of southern
Appalachian works.
DISCOVERIES
AMERICA’S
FAVORITE
Drive
Linn Cove Viaduct,
Milepost 304
MILEPOST
469
MILEPOST
217
People say something
changes in you
Somewhere along the
road to Highlands.
 Ä  Ä Ù¦ù Ê¥   Ýù Ù ¥®Ä à Äã  Ä   ÊóÄ-«Êà  Ä ®¦« ÊÙ½®Ä ÝÝ thrives atop this fertile
plateau in North Carolina’s Nantahala National Forest. Artistry and inspiration flourish,
creating a downtown experience of interactive arts and performances, fashionable shopping
excursions and adventurous dining on fresh innovations by celebrated chefs and mixologists.
Just beyond the downtown, the plateau’s crystal headwaters feed rivers, lakes, swimming
holes and waterfalls, creating a freeing and curative playground for those who venture up.
VisitHighlandsNC.com
26 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
Multiple Swiss fl ags proclaim
the heritage of chalet-dotted
Little Switzerland. The village features
an inn, shops and restaurants,
including the Switzerland Cafe,
serving not-so-Swiss barbecue with
Appalachian cornbread.
MILEPOST 305
MILE-HIGH THRILL
Walk across America’s highest
suspension footbridge at
Grandfather Mountain, a nature
preserve with large enclosures
where visitors can get close to black
bears, cougars and river otters.
SWISS, PLEASE
MILEPOST
334
MILEPOST 355
VIEW TO REMEMBER
It’s a relatively easy hike up a paved path to
the observation deck on Mount Mitchell, the
highest point in the eastern United States,
at 6,684 feet. From there, the 3/4-mile Balsam
Nature Trail at Mount Mitchell State Park
takes you to the East’s highest spring.
MILEPOST 365
FLOWER POWER
Pink and purple Catawba
rhododendron blooms
explode at Craggy Gardens
in June. A hike along the
Craggy Pinnacle trail hits
the most striking displays.
Even if you miss the peak
blooms, this place is perfect
for a mountaintop picnic
throughout the spring,
summer and fall months.
DISCOVERIES
MILEPOST 230
GOING BALD
The 600-foot granite dome of
Stone Mountain stands out against
the lush surroundings of the Blue
Ridge. The towering landmark
acts as an anchor to Stone
Mountain State Park, with great
options for hiking, fi shing and
climbing (although you need a
permit to climb the mountain).
AN ENGINEERING
MARVEL
Built to preserv e adjacent
Grandfather Mountain, the
1,243-foot-long S-curve known
as the Linn Cove Viaduct skirts the
Blue Ridge terrain, creating one
of the most photographed spots
along the P arkway.
MILEPOST 304
CAPTURING
BEAUTY
Mount Mitchell State Park’s
trails lead to close-ups of
white snakeroot, ox-eye
daisies, purple fringed orchids
and other wildfl owers.
Asheville Cabins
of Willow Winds
Twenty-five luxury cabins on delightful 40-acre
forested property with trout pond, stream,
waterfall, gardens and fountains. All cabins
are tastefully decorated, completely equipped
and beautifully furnished. Amenities include
seasonal woodburning fireplaces, covered
decks, hot tubs and much more. One-, two-and
three-bedroom cabins available. Luxury,
serenity and comfort await you!
(800) 235-2474
www.ashevillecabins.com
CASHIERS
CHEROKEE
DILLSBORO
SYLVA
DiscoverJacksonNC.com
Like getaways,
some trails are more fun
  an o  ers.
Why is the buzzard’s head bare? Why
do moles live underground? The ancient
Cherokees knew. You’ll just need more
than an afternoon to find out yourself.
Plan your overnight stay at 800.438.1601
or VisitCherokeeNC.com.
Cultural Adventure #46
With thousands of
Cherokee mysteries
to explore, you might
want to get comfortable
for a while.
Mary’s Gourmet Diner
PHOTOGRAPHS: (MARY’S, THE KATHARINE) COURTESY OF VISIT WINSTON-SALEM, (REYNOLDA) COURTESY OF REYNOLDA HOUSE, (ARTIVITY) NATALIA WEEDY, (OLD SALEM) BRETT AND JESSICA DONAR
DISCOVERIES
Br eakfast
MARY’S GOURMET DINER
This is defi nitely the spot to get a feel for the local,
artful fl avor of Winston-Salem, both on the plate (hello,
breakfast nachos!) and in the booths, where local
gallerists and entrepreneurs chat art and innovation.
Mid-Mor ning
DOWNTOWN ARTS DISTRICT
Turn left out of Mary’s and stroll down Trade Street
through the Downtown Arts District, a pedestrian-friendly
area home to art galleries and shops. L ook
for the red line on the sidewalk that leads to the new
Artivity on the Green, an open space with murals,
bright red sculptures and picnic areas.
Lunch
VILLAGE TAVERN AT REYNOLDA
The original Dairyman’s Cottage on the 1,067-acre
Reynolds Estate is now one of the most popular
restaurants in the city. The burgers are divine (try
the Tavern Burger with house “secret sauce”).
Enjoy Reynolda Gardens on your way from here to
Reynolda House Museum of American Art.
Early Aft ernoon
REYNOLDA HOUSE
MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART
The restored 1917 mansion of tobacco mogul
R.J. Reynolds and his wife, Katharine, is now home to
an impressive collection of American art, including
works by Georgia O’Keeff e . Make sure you’re in the
Reception Hall around 2:45, when the home’s
original Aeolian organ fi lls the house with music.
Late Aft ernoon
OLD SALEM MUSEUMS & GARDENS
Stroll the cobblestone streets of Old Salem, a living-history
museum and historic district . Step inside the
potter’s workshop to see one of Salem’s earliest trades,
and take in aromas of fresh bread at Winkler Bakery.
Dinner
THE KATHARINE BRASSERIE
Named for R.J. Reynolds’ wife and situated in the
former Tobacco Company headquarters, The Katharine
ends the day on a sophisticated note. I like to sip a
glass of rosé with friends and share Le Grand
Plat Katharine (an assortment of fresh seafood).
Reynolda House
Museum of American Art
Old Salem Museums
& Gardens
The Katharine Brasserie
Downtown Arts District
Artivity on the Green
REYNOLDA HOUSE
DIRECTOR
Al l ison Perkins
ONEArtsy DAY
Allison Perkins, director of Reynolda House
Museum of American Art, curates her perfect
Winston-Salem itinerary, revealing reasons
behind its City of Arts and Innovation nickname.
28 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
Experience
HISTORY
in a place where art, culture,
tradition and cuisine shape our
everyday. Explore our Historic
Homes and Gardens Collection,
including tours of Reynolda
House Museum of American Art,
Reynolda Gardens and historic
Old Salem. Or visit us online to
plan your unique getaway. Discover
hotel packages, special offers
and a host of seasonal events at
VisitWinstonSalem.com.
®
VISITWINSTONSALEM.COM
(866) 728-4200
PHOTOGRAPHS: (RAILROAD) AARON MORGAN, (HELL’S KITCHEN) COURTESY OF WILMINGTON AND BEACHES CVB
DISCOVERIES
BLOCKBUSTER
Birthdays
Filmmakers and producers love this state for its sweeping
coast, moody forests and picturesque villages. Mark the
anniversaries of four classics with stops at their filming sites.
One Tree
Hill boosted
the local
economy by
an estimated
$300 million
during its run,
according to
the Wilmington
Regional Film
Commission.
O N E B IG PAY DAY
Actress Natalie
Wood died
before filming
on Brainstorm
was complete,
so Wood’s
sister stepped
in as a body
double in some
scenes.
SUPPOR T ING A C T
BRAINSTORM
1983
Natalie Wood’s last film,
a somewhat prescient
tale about virtual reality
technology, features
Duke Gardens and Duke
University Chapel in
Durham, plus the Wright
Brothers National Memorial
in the Outer Banks. The
futuristic Elion-Hitchings
Building in Research
Triangle Park makes an
appearance, as does
Pinehurst.
YEARS
35 ONE TREE HILL
PREMIERE,
2003
You won’t find Tree Hill, North
Carolina, on a map, but
you can visit Wilmington’s
Riverwalk, which was used
numerous times as a filming
location for the TV drama. In
one episode, a funeral takes
place at nearby Airlie Gardens,
with its enchanting Pergola
Garden of jasmine flowers.
Return to Tree Hill conventions
draw thousands of fans (and
some celebrity guests) to the
coastal city.
YEARS
15
See more
than a dozen
Dawson’s
Creek sites in
Wilmington’s
Historic
District. Andie
and Pacey had
their first kiss
at Riverfront
Park.
K IS S CAME O
DAWSON’S
CREEK
PREMIERE,
1998
Hell’s Kitchen in
Wilmington served as a
location for this TV drama,
which ran until 2003. For
the final season, producers
bought a natural food store
and dressed it as a college
bar. Later, a restaurateur
purchased the place and
opened it for business,
keeping the TV name. Hell’s
Kitchen also appeared
in One Tree Hill as the
Swinging Monkey Bar.
YEARS
20
The train crash
in The Fugitive
took 10 weeks
to plan and
60 seconds
to capture.
Afterward, one
camera was
found buried in
26 feet of dirt.
SMASH S U C C E SS
THE
FUGITIVE
1993
An epic train wreck awaits
when you ride the Great
Smoky Mountain Railroad’s
Tuckasegee River
Excursion from Bryson
City to Dillsboro. The route
passes the rusted remains
of the famous train-bus
crash in the film starring
Harrison Ford. Fugitive
Richard Kimble’s high dive
from a dam into the water
below was shot at Cheoah
Dam in Deals Gap.
YEARS
25
Duke University Chapel, Durham
Great Smoky Mountain
Railroad, Bryson City
Wilmington
Riverwalk
Hell’s Kitchen,
Wilmington
30 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
Our best rates, free nights, perks
and partner off ers at over 1,100 hotels
myhellorewards.com
©2018 RLHC. All Rights Reserved
A great place to stay, play, shop, meet, and celebrate...
Where there is always good people, good music, good food, and fun for all ages.
800.849.6825 | www.rockymounttravel.com
Almost There ...“Destination Rocky Mount”
DOG PARK
GOLF
RESTAURANTS & BREWERIES
HISTORY
FESTIVALS
DISCOVERIES
CAPTURING Light
Seven lighthouses line the coast—and most are open to the public.
See them through the lenses of Instagrammers.
SNAP
IT
BODIE ISLAND
@cathyandersonphoto
OCRACOKE ISLAND
@jonathangrubbs
CAPE LOOKOUT
@chelseabrook
OAK ISLAND
@amberleigh.photography
CURRITUCK BEACH
@pivot.visuals.ben
BALD HEAD ISLAND
@jameselcoco
CAPE HATTERAS
@brandowat
Tag #visitnc on social media
for a chance to be featured online—
or in a future travel guide!
@visitNC @VisitNC @visitnc visitnc visitnc
32 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
your favorite North Carolina
scene with Corolla • Carova • The Mainland
Call 877.287.7488 for your free visitor’s guide. www.VisitCurrituck.com
Discover a land
of wild wonder
on the Currituck Outer
Banks, North Carolina.
The legendary wild
horses of Corolla, unique
historical sites and
family friendly beaches
are just a few of the
reasons why now is a
great time to visit.
Legends live on in Corolla.
An awe-inspiring selection of products for cooking, dining, & entertaining:
kitchen tools, cookware, grills, glassware, dinnerware, wine & beer, and linens.
The Cooking, Dining, & Entertaining StoreTM
University Place - 201 S Estes Drive
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
(919) 929-7133 | southernseason.com
Visit Us Today!
A Chapel Hill, NC
Landmark
Cooking School Classes
Weathervane Restaurant
Unique & Delicious Gifts
Coff ee & Tea Bar
Weekend Brunch
Full Deli Menu
Candy & Chocolate
Kitchen Tools
ASHEVILLE, NC • (828) 299-1550 • KITCHENANDCOMPANY.COM
Mount Pleasant, SC • Lewes, DE • Christiana, DE • Newington, NH
Natural
ENCOUNTERS
Spot wild horses,
howl with wolves,
and experience other
animal encounters
at state parks,
wildlife refuges,
nature sanctuaries,
aquariums and zoos.
PHOTOGRAPH: PATRICK SCHNEIDER
BY ANDREA NORDSTROM CAUGHEY
Carolina Raptor Center,
Huntersville
visitnc.com 35
GREENSBORO SCIENCE CENTER
GREENSBORO
Visit the recent expansion of the
Wiseman Aquarium, showcasing an
exotic array of sea life. Check out
African penguins at Penguin Point, plus
visit tigers, wallabies, meerkats, black
howler monkeys, Nile crocodiles
and other species.
SEA LIFE CHARLOTTE-CONCORD
AQUARIUM CONCORD
Get your hands wet handling spiny
sea urchins, sea stars and crabs at an
interactive touch-pool exhibit.
NORTH CAROLINA AQUARIUM AT
FORT FISHER KURE BEACH
Watch a scuba diver swim with rays
and eels, then let free-fl ying birds land
on your arm or feed them with nectar
cups in the Lorikeet Landing exhibit.
NORTH CAROLINA AQUARIUM ON
ROANOKE ISLAND MANTEO
Observe the largest group of sharks in
the state, visit playful otters, and pet
stingrays. Learn about the aquarium’s
conservation eff orts in the Sea Turtle
Assistance and Rehabilitation Center.
NORTH CAROLINA AQUARIUM AT
PINE KNOLL SHORES PINE KNOLL SHORES
Step into an ocean setting and learn
how far sea turtles travel and the
huge threats they face at the
Loggerhead Odyssey exhibit.
TEAM ECCO OCEAN CENTER AND
AQUARIUM HENDERSONVILLE
See shark embryos developing in eggs
and meet Charlotte the stingray. The
center is also a showcase for turtles,
tortoises, geckos and lizards.
The state’s menagerie of zoos,
aquariums, nature centers and
sanctuaries entertains families
while teaching important lessons
about conservation and ecology.
W IL D
Exhibits
Swing by one of the
Watch polar bears
Nikita and Anana take
polar plunges in their
Pedal one of the new
Dragonfl y Paddle Boats
to track waterfowl
around the North
Ride a “Zoofari” bus
for intimate looks
at gazelles, kudus,
ostriches, rhinos and
more during guided
tours of the 40-acre
WATER
WORLDS
The North in Asheboro covers
500 acres and features
more than 1,600 animals,
making it the largest
natural habitat zoo in
the world.
D I D Y O U K N O W ?
NC ZOO MUST-DOS
4
largest chimpanzee
habitats in the country.
newly expanded habitat.
American Lake.
grassland habitat.
Carolina Zoo
&
NATURE CENTERS
SANCTUARIES
PHOTOGRAPHS: (LION) COURTESY OF CONSERVATORS CENTER, (RAPTOR) PATRICK SCHNEIDER, (TIGER) COURTESY OF CAROLINA TIGER RESCUE
CAROLINA
TIGER RESCUE
PITTSBORO
Meet tigers,
lions, cougars
and bobcats, plus
the lesser-known
caracals, ocelots
and servals, at
this federally
accredited
w ildcat
sanctuary.
Conservators Center Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center
CAROLINA RAPTOR CENTER
HUNTERSVILLE
Nearly 100 birds, including
eagles, owls and vultures,
call this education, research
and rehab center home. Each
year, almost 1,000 injured
or orphaned raptors are
brought here, part of the Latta
Plantation Nature Preserve.
CONSERVATORS CENTER
BURLINGTON
Up-close encounters with
lions, tigers and wolves
are guaranteed here,
making it a favorite spot for
wildlife photographers. The
center actively promotes
conservation through telling
the stories of its residents,
including extremely rare New
Guinea singing dogs.
KAREN BEASLEY SEA TURTLE
RESCUE AND REHABILITATION
CENTER SURF CITY
Visit endangered sea turtles,
learn how to protect them,
and get an inside look at this
facility for those that are
sick and injured. During the
summer, watch the occasional
release of rehabilitated turtles
at Topsail Island.
WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA
NATURE CENTER ASHEVILLE
From underwater viewing
areas, visitors watch North
American river otters cavort
at Otter Falls. In the rest of
the 40-acre habitat, seek out
approximately 60 species
of wildlife from the South
Appalachian region at exhibits
such as Red Wolf Run and
Black Bear Ridge.
visitnc.com 37
JORDAN LAKE STATE
RECREATION AREA
APEX
The largely undist urbed shoreline
surrounding Jordan Lake provides a
perfect sanctuary for bald eagles. In
fact, this area is one of their largest
summertime homes in the country.
Join a park ranger at the Bald Eagle
Observation Deck to catch a view of
their nests and explore water habitats
along the Haw and New Ho pe rivers,
which fl ow into the lake.
MEDOC MOUNTAIN
STATE PARK
HOLLISTER
The forested park on this mountain is
an animal magnet, providing habitat
for the southern fl ying squirrel
that nests in the cavities of trees.
Watch for opossums, gray foxes and
whitetail deer, too. If you’re lucky, you
can spot the rare Carolina mudpuppy
(a large aquatic salamander) along
Little Fishing Creek.
Hit the trails or waterways of North Carolina’s state
parks, keeping a close eye out for fl ying squirrels,
loggerhead sea turtles and nesting bald eagles.
HAMMOCKS BEACH STATE PARK, SWANSBORO
Hop a ferry or paddle a canoe or kayak to explore this park’s
undeveloped, 3-mile-long Bear Island. Watch for the nests of
endangered loggerhead sea turtles. Females come ashore
at night to nest between mid-May and late August.
NEW RIVER
STATE PARK,
LAUREL SPRINGS
Tube, kayak or canoe
along one of the world’s
oldest waterways to
observe mink, muskrat
and river otters, as
well as various wading
birds. Hikers fi nd
whitetail deer and
red-tailed hawks
nesting on cliff s.
KERR LAKE STATE RECREATION AREA
HENDERSON
Bird-watching boaters fl ock to this 50,000-acre
preserve hugging Kerr Lake along the northern edge of
the Piedmont. Observe waterfowl from the lake or via
shoreline trails, where beavers, muskrats, river otters
and wading birds hang out. The vigilant can spot gray
foxes while venturing into the woodlands.
PEE DEE NATIONAL
WILDLIFE REFUGE
WADESBORO
More than 180 varieties of
birds, as well as amphibians,
reptiles, mammals and
fi sh call the refuge home.
Take the Wildlife Drive
for a leisurely trip through
the wetlands, with a stop at
Sullivan’s Pond to observe
egrets and other birds.
ROANOKE RIVER
NATIONAL WILDLIFE
REFUGE
WINDSOR
Waterfowl, including great
blue herons, wood ducks and
migratory songbirds, abound
in this area. Die-hard birders
access the most remote parts
by boat, while hikers take the
1-mile Charles Kuralt Trail
to scan for colorful Northern
Parula warblers and barred
owls. The refuge also off ers
special hunting permits for
small game, turkeys and deer.
Along with their top
priority of protecting
wildlife, our refuges
also off er the chance
to explore pristine
islands, forests
and wetlands.
WELCOME TO THEIR
Wor ld
ALLIGATOR
RIVER
NATIONAL
WILDLIFE
REFUGE,
MANTEO
Travel into the
heart of this
158,000-acre
area for a unique
nocturnal
adventure, the
Red Wolf Howlings.
After learning
about one of the
most endangered
species in the world,
tip your head back
and howl … then
wait for a rousing
reply. The refuge
also protects
red-cockaded
woodpeckers,
American
alligators and
black bears.
CURRITUCK NATIONAL
WILDLIFE REFUGE
COROLLA
Navigate your four-wheel-drive vehicle along this Outer Banks beach
preserve. First stop: Monkey Island, off ering a nesting habitat for
various migratory and wading bir ds, including herons and egrets.
The famed Corolla wild horses (descended from Spanish Mustangs
brought over by explorers in the 1500s) roam freely, but the law
requires you to stay at least 50 feet away. Scope them out with Wild
Horse Adventure Tours or Corolla Wild Horse Tours.
PHOTOGRAPH: (ALLIGATOR RIVER) RYAN DONNELL
visitnc.com 39
INCREDIBLE EATS
PHOTOGRAPHS: (BURGER) BRETT AND JESSICA DONAR, (VORTEX) JOHN NOLTNER
Pio neering its own versions of seafood (Calabash), barbecue (Lexington or Eastern-style)
and doughnuts (Krispy Kreme), North Carolina doesn’t just follow food trends—it
creates them. Try something new on a tour of these renowned foodie hot spots.
Lamb burger
and wedge
taters at Whiskey
Kitchen in Raleigh BY JASON FRYE
40 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
E ven locals have trouble keeping up with the new
independent restaurants opening in this city of
88,000. Asheville has become a haven for hyper-local
food, meaning diners usually can count on
an appetizer of an interesting story about the menu.
For a sampler, visit the North Asheville Tailgate
Market. You’ll usually spot chefs shopping at the
market for that day’s menu. Breakfast at Early Girl
Eatery might feature freshly ground grits, tomatoes
plucked off the vine, an egg or two laid at a local farm,
and honey from nearby hives. At All Souls Pizza, only
the freshest produce makes the cut for their pizzas
and sandwiches: butter lettuce, roasted beets, peas,
spinach, mushrooms and more. Rhubarb’s chef-owner
John Fleer approaches ingredients with one thing in
mind: Make everything taste like the best version of
itself. Deceptively simple salads and roast chicken
become memorable meals thanks to the perfect
marriage of textures and fl avors.
FAVORITE
BREWS
THE CULINARY MOUNTAIN MECCA
The South’s hippest mountain town dishes fanciful
takes on Southern staples while giving an overt
wink to Grandma’s recipes .
ROCKET
GIRL
LAGER @
ASHEVILLE
BREWING
COMPANY
A crisp and
refreshing
Kolsch-style
lager.
TIN CUP
CAMP STOUT
@ BURIAL
BEER CO .
Strong coff ee
notes combine
with dark,
caramel-y malt.
GOSE @
HI -WIRE
BREWING
A tart, light
wheat tempered
by coriander
and citrus.
WAVES OF
GRAIN @
LEXINGTON
AVENUE
BREWERY
Nutty and
reminiscent of
toasted bread.
THE DANK @
ONE WORLD
BREWING
This Imperial IPA
is a hop bo mb
waiting to go off .
Asheville contains
more breweries
per capita than
any other U.S. city.
Here’s a taste of
what’s on tap.
ASHEVILLE
5
Biltmore House
The 250-room chateau,
America’s largest private
home, reveals French
Renaissance opulence, plus
gardens to explore.
North Carolina
Arboretum
Trails for hiking and biking
and countless garden areas
make this a must-see
for nature-lovers.
River Arts District
Local artwork adorns the
interiors and exteriors of
old industrial and historical
buildings living second lives
as galleries and studios.
BETWEEN EAT S
VORTEX DOUGHNUTS
Beer-glazed, bacon-topped
and coconut with caramel are
just a few of the fl avors. The
industrial-chic shop supports
local and regional farmers.
OLD EUROPE
Pair lemon Bavarian sponge
cake or hazelnut Napoleons
with robust espresso drinks
from local Mountain City
Coff ee Roasters.
FRENCH BROAD
CHOCOLATE LOUNGE
Bars, brownies, cakes and
truffl es await at Asheville’s
green-certifi ed bean-to-bar
lounge. Pair your choice with a
cup of drinking chocolate.
SWEET
SPOTS
visitnc.com 41
Krispy Kreme doughnuts
started in Winston-Salem,
as did Texas Pete hot sauce.
STEEPED IN
TRADITION
In the Piedmont, the Triad cities
of Winston-Salem, Greensboro
and High Point embrace comfort-food
roots while crafting a
restaurant scene that goes far
beyond standard menus.
Penny Path Cafe and
Crepe Shop, High Point
Sticks and Stones, Greensboro
Furniture shopping
Furniture manufacturers
and showrooms draw
thousands of designers and
buyers to High Point twice
a year. You can shop year-round
in more than 50 stores
and outlets (and they ship).
International Civil
Rights Center
and Museum
Get a sobering look at the
struggle for civil rights,
including the actual lunch
counter where Greensboro
sit-in protests took place.
Wet ’n Wild
Emerald Pointe
In Greensboro, get soaked in
more than 3 million gallons’
worth of water attractions,
including slides, kiddie areas
and a pool that creates
100-foot-wide waves.
BETWEEN E AT S
THE TRIAD
North Carolina holds its food
traditions dear. Stamey’s
Barbecue in Greensboro serves
their meat Lexington-style
(chopped pork shoulder prepped over
hickory coals). At BBQ Joe’s Country
Cooking in High Point, try chicken
pie, a Saturday specialty that has
centuries-old roots. The Kitchen Sink
crepe at High Point’s Penny Path Cafe
and Crepe Shop is fi lled with veggies,
spreads and cheese. At Carolina’s
Diner (in High Point, Greensboro
and Archdale), taste nostalgia along
with burgers, onion rings and shakes.
Fans of classic pizza broaden their
horizons at Greensboro’s Sticks
and Stones, where toppings include
chèvre and walnut pesto. At
Winston-Salem’s Spring House
Restaurant, Kitchen & Bar, classic
Southern fi xings become inventive
new dishes, such as beignets with
shrimp, corn and crab.
PHOTOGRAPHS: (STICKS, PENNY PATH) NATALIA WEEDY, (WHISKEY KITCHEN, TOAST, TOBACCO) BRETT AND JESSICA DONAR
42 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
Raleigh’s Trophy Brewing Co .
gets creative with pizza and
beer, serving drinks like Milky
Way—a salted caramel stout—
and pies featuring ghost pepper
salami. Nearby Whiskey Kitchen
off ers rare bourbons and other
whiskeys alongside Southern dishes
like crackling biscuits and an NC
shrimp boil. Raleigh’s Angus Barn
keeps it classy with a wine cellar and
a dozen cuts of house-aged steaks.
Near Durham, Rock of Ages
Winery & Vineyard produces
40 wines on its 26-acre vineyard.
Toast gives Durham diners a
paninoteca (sandwich shop) where
every bite is loaded with Italian
cheeses and meats. Nearby Scratch
bakes pies and treats, plus it off ers a
menu of fresh bites like avocado toast
and buttermilk biscuits. Chapel Hill’s
Lantern stars James Beard Award-winning
chef Andrea Reusing,
who turns local fl avors into Asian
masterpieces like the Vietnamese-style
summer rolls. Students and
alumni crowd the town’s Top of the
Hill Restaurant & Brewery for craft
brews and elevated pub grub such as
whiskey-braised short ribs.
COLLEGE CLASS
The trifecta of Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill
means visitors can explore three college towns with
equally stellar dining options in a single weekend.
Order from the
counter at Toast in
Durham. Try a grilled
chicken panini with
heirloom tomato
puree or a crostini
and salad combo.
American Tobacco
Historic District
This campus surrounding
a renovated Durham
tobacco factory houses
restaurants, shopping,
the offi ces of the Full
Frame Film Festival and
the Durham Bulls minor
league ballpark.
North Carolina
Museum of
Natural Sciences
A globe 70 feet in
diameter houses a
theater at the Southeast’s
largest natural sciences
museum, in Raleigh.
Southern Season
Chapel Hill’s most
popular gourmet shop
off ers an abundance of
food gifts in addition to
cooking classes and
a restaurant.
BETWEEN EAT S
THE
TRIANGLE
Whiskey Kitchen, Raleigh
visitnc.com 43
Along the southeastern coast,
Wilmington and its adjacent
beaches teem with history
and seafood-centric menus.
COASTAL FLAVOR
Enjoy a glass
of wine at
one of the
restaurants on
the Wilmington
Riverwalk, such
as Le Catalan.
WILMINGTON
&
BEACHES
Waterfront dining in and around
Wilmington covers many tastes
and moods. At Catch, twinkling
mirrors and sea blue walls make
guests feel like they’re beneath the waves.
The crab cakes with lobster cream are a
favorite. Ceviche’s takes inspiration from
seaside shacks in Panama, where fresh
fi sh is marinated in citrus juice and
spices to make the namesake dish. Set
in a former bank downtown, Circa 1922
has the dark wood and low lights ideal
for an intimate evening. The menu
features shareable plates and cuisines
with a New American focus. Dock Street
Oyster Bar serves oysters steamed by the
dozen or half-dozen and shrimp caught
the same day. Bring a friend to share the
steamer platter. If you visit Michael’s
Seafood Restaurant only once, try the
seafood chowder with its perfect blend
of spices and herbs. And if you want to
make your own seafood feast (with a
little help), purchase their steam pot s.
Watch the waves at Oceanic, which looks
out over Wrightsville Beach from the
Crystal Pier. Try the Calabash-style
fi sh (lightly fried in a cornmeal batter).
Only purchasing the freshest fi sh,
Rx Restaurant and Bar draws on classic
Southern dishes for inspiration, infusing
them with bold twists. Non-seafood
dishes include braised chicken with farro
and purple kale. Ocean breezes cool the
dance fl oor at SeaWitch Cafe & Tiki Bar, a
party paradise with live music every
night. Sample the ahi tuna nachos with
wonton chips and wasabi aioli.
44 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
CAROLINA
BEACH
Before hitting
the sand and
surf, visit Britt’s
Donuts, on the
boardwalk since
1939. Solitude-seekers
love
Freeman Park at
the north end of
the beach.
KURE BEACH
Rental homes line
the shore, putting
you steps away
from the Kure
Beach surf. When
you tire of playing
in the water, walk
the ramparts of
the Civil War-era
Fort Fisher.
WRIGHTSVILLE
BEACH
Families fl ock to
Blockade Runner
Beach Resort’s
prime location,
but anyone
can walk along
the 1,200-foot
Johnnie Mercer’s
Pier jutting into
the Atlantic
Ocean, or jog The
Loop fi tness trail.
PHOTOGRAPHS: RYAN DONNELL
GREAT
BEACHES
Just a short drive
from Wilmington,
three beautiful
beaches await,
each with its own
personality.
3
Battleship North
Carolina
Across the Cape Fear River
from downtown Wilmington,
walk the same passageways
as WWII sailors. The ship
participated in every major
Pacifi c off ensive.
Wrightsville Beach
Museum of History
Exhibits on the early days
of the beach include a
history of the swimsuit.
A bathing suit inspector
used to decide if swimwear
was suffi ciently modest.
Carolina Beach
State Park
It’s a great spot for hiking,
fi shing and camping. Check
out rare Venus fl ytraps at
one of the only places in the
world where you can see
them in their native habitat.
BETWEEN EAT S
(Clockwise from top left) Chocolate Fantasy Dessert with a pecan crust, chocolate
ganache and fresh whipped cream at Catch in Wilmington. Marinated beets with
blackberries, basil and bleu cheese at Wilmington’s Rx Restaurant and Bar.
Waterfront dining at Oceanic in Wrightsville Beach.
visitnc.com 45
Jackson County’s Western
North Carolina Fly Fishing
Trail lists 15 spots for catching
brook, brown and rainbow trout
in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Sites vary from small creeks
and streams to large rivers. The
Tuckaseigee River near Dillsboro
off ers the best chance to catch
all three species, a feat known
as the Tuckaseigee Slam.
F O R F I S H I N G O N T H E F L Y
EPIC
TRAILS
ONLY
in NC
North Carolina stretches 543 miles
from Manteo, on the banks of the
Atlantic Ocean, to Murphy, in the Great
Smoky Mountains. The highways in
between lead to small-town treasures
and renowned cities. Project 543 tells
the stories of many of these
unique attractions. Here’s a taste.
Pisgah National Forest and
DuPont State Recreational Forest
near Brevard and Hendersonville
combine for more than 300 miles
of singletrack in Transylvania
County, Cycling Capital of the
South. The region embraces
mountain biking culture with
destinations such as The Bike
Farm, which provides guide
services and on-site camping.
F O R A S T A T E W I D E T O U R
Stretching 1,175 miles from
mountain peak to sandy dune, the
Mountains-to-Sea Trail attracts
hikers, backpackers and paddle rs.
The westernmost point of the
trail sits atop Clingmans Dome in
Great Smoky Mountains National
Park near Bryson City, while the
eastern stretch (which includes
waterways) ends at Jockey’s
Ridge State Park in Nags Head.
F O R S C E N I C C Y C L I N G
BY LEAH HUGHES
46 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
Frontiersman Daniel Boone
hunted and fi shed in the state’s
northwest for 21 years. The
Daniel Boone Heritage Trail
traces his time around the region .
Visit a replica of his cabin along
Beaver Creek near Ferguson, and
stop by the Fort Dobbs State
Historic Site in Statesville to see
where his family sought refuge
during the 1760 Cherokee War.
F O R H I S T O R Y B U F F S
DELIGHTFULLY
QUIRKY
Discover literal hidden gems within
some of the 12 historic mines at
Emerald Village in Little Switzerland.
Tour Bon Ami Mine (home of the NC
Mining Museum), pan for gold and
embark on a Black Light Mine Tour
on select evenings.
T H E S U B T E R R A N E A N S E C R E T
In 1880, Jule Gilmer Körner, a
designer and decorator, completed
Körner’s Folly, his lavish Kernersville
home with 22 rooms and ceiling
heights ranging from 5.5 feet to
25 feet. Körner raised two children
in the house, and they kept Bob the
raccoon as their pet.
T H E F A N C Y F U N H O U S E
Snaking through 20 towns across
this state dubbed the Cradle of
’Cue, the North Carolina Barbecue
Society Historic Barbecue
Trail showcases institutions
representing two iconic styles of
pit-cooked ’cue: Lexington and
Eastern. All of the spots cook
over wood or charcoal, make
their own sauce, and have been
around for at least 15 years.
F O R P O R K - L O V E R S
Pack trowels for a trip to the Aurora
Fossil Museum, celebrating 40 years,
and its Pit of the Pungo, where
you can unearth fossils. Take home
ancient shells—or even a shark bone.
T H E B I G D I G
visitnc.com 47 For more unique North Carolina stories, visit
Hickory Furniture Mart combines
more than 1,000 manufacturers
under one roof, with factory outlets
and custom showrooms. It’s the
centerpiece of Hickory’s furniture
shops, which draw more than half a
million visitors annually.
F U R N I S H E D P A R A D I S E
BEAUTIFULLY
CRAFTED
More than 11 million pieces of
china, crystal and collectibles sit
on display racks at McLeansville’s
Replacements, Ltd., dubbed the
World’s Largest China Shop. Take a
behind-the-scenes tour that shows
the restoration process.
N O B U L L S A L L O W E D
The waiting list for 88-year-old
Max Woody’s straight-back
wooden chairs stretches as long
as four years. Swing by Marion on
Friday night to hear the seventh-generation
chair-maker play fi ddle
during a weekly jam session.
S I T W H I L E Y O U W A I T
SIPS AND BITES
One of 14 remaining Dentzel
Menagerie Carousels in the
world, the Burlington City Park
Carousel features 46 hand-carved
wooden animals. Riders choose
from horses, cats, ostriches,
rabbits, pigs and other creatures.
ME R R Y M E N A G E R I E
The Market on Oak launched after
Gloria Houston promoted the
town of Spruce P ine with her book
The Year of the Perfect Christmas
Tree. Visitors head to the Blue
Ridge town to seek the perfect
tree—and shop for gifts made by
more than 120 local craftspeople.
O C H R I S T M A S T R E E
48 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
48 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
Eastern North Carolina native
Vivian Howard churns out
remixes of dishes she grew up
on at Chef and the Farmer,
where traditional cobblers
might share menu space with
gazpacho. On her PBS show,
A Chef’s Life, Vivian shares
the stories of the Kinston-area
farmers who grow the
ingredients she uses.
SM A L L- T O W N C E L E B R I T Y
For nearly 40 years, the
restaurant at AAA Five
Diamond The Fearrington
House Inn has elevated
Triangle cuisine. The Pittsboro
draw serves dishes made with
ingredients grown in on-site
vegetable and herb gardens.
While menus evolve with the
seasons, the chocolate souffl é
remains a welcome constant.
C O U N T R Y M O R S E L L I G H T N I N G I N A B O T T L E
Piedmont Distillers in Madison
made history in 2005 when it
became the state’s fi rst legal
distillery since Prohibition.
Its Midnight Moon moonshine
(in original and fruit-infused
varieties) came from a
partnership with early racing
legend Junior Johnson, who
learned his moves by running
moonshine on back roads.
Among the state’s 200-plus
breweries, Aviator Brewing
Company in Fuquay-Varina
has one of the more unusual
venues. The company brewed
its fi rst batch in an airplane
hangar and now houses a
taproom in a 1910 train depot.
The Devils Tramping Ground
Tripel draws its name from a
local ghost tale.
S O A R I N G B R E W S
For more unique North Carolina stories, visit visitnc.com 49
Our state’s golf scene stretches from wooded mountainside tracks to
windswept seaside links. World-famous Donald Ross courses and
small-town favorites provide unique challenges for all skill levels.
PHOTOGRAPHS: PATRICK SCHNEIDER
GOLF LEGENDS
BY DANNY LEE
50 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
When golf icon Donald Ross became
club pro at North Carolina’s Pinehurst
Resort in 1900, he was only 27, and golf
in America wasn’t much older.
As golf grew and matured in the
early 1900s, Ross helped shape
it, designing about 400 courses
across the country, including 55
in North Carolina. Ross’ best-known
layout is the fabled No. 2 at
Pinehurst, where he crafted three
additional courses. The site of
many championships, No. 2 takes
players through native wiregrass
and fast, domed greens. Like
all Ross designs, Pinehurst
No. 2 demands patience, accuracy,
fi nesse and careful club selection.
3 MORE DONALD ROSS COURSES
THE WAYNESVILLE INN
GOLF RESORT AND SPA,
WAYNESVILLE
Set in a valley in the
shadow of the Blue
Ridge Mountains,
this relaxed resort
dates from golf’s
heritage era of the
1920s, teasing players
with tricky mounded
greens and straight
fairways that look
easy—until you
actually have to hit
the ball straight.
PINECREST COUNTRY
CLUB, LUMBERTON
Golfers rave about
this friendly little
course designed in
collaboration with
Dick Wilson. Built to
the walkable scal e of
Ross’ day, the fairways
lined with towering
pines are accessible,
but they put a premium
on keeping the ball in
play . Ross’ challenging
crowned greens make
shot control crucial.
WILMINGTON
MUNICIPAL
GOLF COURSE,
WILMINGTON
A $1.5 million
renovation in
2014 restored this
community club to
Ross’ 1926 design,
doubling the size of
greens and bringing
back the old bunkers.
Wilmington also
provides a three-hole
kids’ course and
driving range.
< SWING AWAY >
Learn more
about the Donald
Ross Experience.
visitnc.com
visitnc.com 51
LINVILLE RIDGE COUNTRY
CLUB LINVILLE
A redesign by architect Bobby Weed
made the course more accessible
to all skill levels while blending
elements with the mountain
landscape. One highlight: making
smooth bunkers more jagged to
mirror the terrain of Grandfather
Mountain. Thanks to the course’s
semiprivate location 4,945 feet
above sea level (the highest east of
the Mississippi River) , the average
summer high is just 75 degrees.
TANGLEWOOD GOLF
CLEMMONS
Two Robert Trent Jones Sr. designs
enchant golfers with their tracks
through the Piedmont. Broadleaf
trees and weeping willows frame
fairways known for their unique
rust-color bunkers. The Reynolds,
completed in 1970, is shorter
with fewer bunkers than the 1958
Championship course, which
earned its name after hosting the
1987 Vantage Championship won
by Al Geiberger.
Part of golf’s appeal is the escape
from everyday cares and same-old
scenery. These courses await
discovery in out-of-the-way retreats.
DORMIE CLUB
WEST END
The state’s only
original Bill Coore
and Ben Crenshaw
design, the Dormie
Club rambles
along rustic dirt
paths and split rail
fences through
pristine landscapes,
delighting purists
with an essence-of-
golf atmosphere.
Sand hazards and
scrub grass spice the
holes, and the woods
enfold you as you
visualize shots onto
true-rolling greens.
< YOUR GOLF GETAWAY >
Find videos, stories and
trip ideas to help you
plan your trip.
visitnc.com/golf
52 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
PHOTOGRAPH: (DORMIE CLUB) PATRICK SCHNEIDER
RIVERS EDGE GOLF CLUB
SHALLOTTE
Coastal wetland scenery
highlights this Arnold Palmer
design tracing the marshes and
bluff s of the Shallotte River.
Almost half of the course off ers
water views: lovely to look at,
tough to hit across.
SCOTCH HALL PRESERVE
MERRY HILL
Arnold Palmer designed this
2008 maritime course to give
golfers a taste of surf and turf,
with 11 holes overlooking
Albemarle Sound. Long par 5s and
par 4s make length off the tee a
plus, but shot-making ability is
crucial around fi rm, fast greens.
MOUNT MITCHELL GOLF
CLUB BURNSVILLE
Flat-course play and rugged
scenery meet at the South Toe
Valley layout in the Blue Ridge.
The course runs between a rustic
two-lane and a trout-fi lled stream
as Mount Mitchell towers in the
background. Roomy fairways
make the front nine a comfortable
warm-up, but 12, 13 and 14
raise the bar before yielding to
friendlier fi nishing holes.
PUTTING AROUND
Even a small course
can off er a big
challenge. Putting
courses, miniature
golf and Putt-Putt
(yes, they’re all
slightly diff erent)
each have origins in
North Carolina.
THISTLE DHU
PUTTING COURSE
In 1916, a steamship
millionaire built his own
grass course in Pinehurst.
“This’ll do,” he said. The
name evolved to Thistle
Dhu, and Pinehurst Resort
honors the original with
a giant rolling green
featuring 18 small fl ags
for practice or friendly
competition.
MINIATURE GOLF
Thistle Dhu is also
credited as being the
nation’s fi rst miniature
golf course, although
the whimsical obstacles
came later. The coast
abounds with themed
courses, including
Tropical Adventure Mini
Golf in Calabash and
Golfi n’ Dolphin in
Cape Carteret.
PUTT-PUTT
Don Clayton developed
Putt-Putt as miniature
golf, minus the kitschy
obstacles, allowing players
to focus more on their
putting skills. While the
1954 Fayetteville original
no longer exists, the
state’s six Putt-Putt
Fun Centers contain
18 holes each, plus other
family amusements.
visitnc.com 53
An eclectic playlist of cultural experiences awaits North Carolina
visitors, who discover world-class art museums in the Piedmont, music
legends in the mountains and waterfront festivals along the coast.
NORTH CAROLINA MUSEUM OF ART RALEIGH
With a sprawling 164-acre campus, this destination boasts the nation’s largest museum art park. Miles of
trails connect the Rodin Garden (featuring a reflecting pool with water lilies), a whimsical wind machine, a
forest of suspended wooden chairs and other creative displays. Inside the museum, stroll through more than
16 centuries of art history, including the largest collection of Rodin sculptures in the American South.
BY SHAWNDRA RUSSELL
PHOTOGRAPHS: (BECHTLER) COURTESY OF BECHTLER MUSEUM OF MODERN ART, (WATERCOLOR) COURTESY OF GREENVILLE MUSEUM OF ART
ART STATE of
going
PUBLIC
In 1947, the North
Carolina General
Assembly appropriated
$1 million for the
purchase of artwork,
making North Carolina
the first state in the
country to buy art
with public funds.
This helped the
North Carolina Museum
of Art launch its
permanent collection.
54 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
WORKS
Creative
Soak up famous
artwork and locally
made gems at these
art museums.
name
GAME
Joan Miró, Pablo
Picasso and Edgar
Degas are a few of the
names you’ll encounter
at the Bechtler, which
opened in Charlotte
in 2010. Because the
collection was privately
owned, most of the 1,400
artworks were on public
view in the United States
for the first time when
the museum opened.
BECHTLER MUSEUM
OF MODERN ART
CHARLOTTE
Swiss architect Mario Botta
designed the Bechtler to be
a work of art in itself, with a
striking terra-cotta exterior
and a cantilevered gallery set
above an outdoor terrace. The
17-foot-tall Firebird, a Niki de
Saint Phalle sculpture covered
in mirrored and colored glass,
greets guests to the Southeast’s
only museum exclusively
showing modern art.
GREENVILLE MUSEUM
OF ART GREENVILLE
Housed in a Classical Revival
home, this diverse lineup
features 20th-century American
art along with eastern North
Carolina’s largest collection
of Jugtown Pottery, a popular
line of handcrafted jugs and
tableware made in the Piedmont
town of Seagrove.
CAMERON ART MUSEUM
WILMINGTON
History and art coexist
peaceably on the site of a Civil
War battleground. A historical
entrenchment, sculpture
park and nature trails share
the 9-acre grounds. Rotating
exhibitions keep the experience
fresh for returning visitors.
See former Greenville
resident Sarah Blakeslee’s
1989 watercolor View
from the Highway at the
Greenville Museum of Art.
visitnc.com 55
MOUNTAINS
Two notable hot spots beckon
local, regional and national
talent: Brevard’s 185 King Street
and Asheville’s The Orange Peel.
The former boasts a relaxed,
299-person listening room plastered
with autographed album covers
and photos spanning decades. The
latter—a skating rink-turned-rock
club—revels in hosting industry
legends like Bob Dylan.
PIEDMONT
Urban areas as well as small towns
impact the indie music world with
help from classic venues like Moun t
Airy’s Historic Earle Theatre,
an 80-year-old movie house and
concert hall in the hometown
of Andy Griffi th. The Fillmore
Charlotte remixes an old textile
mill into a replica of the famed San
Francisco lounge of the same name,
with acts such as Foster the People
and Kesha. Standing-room-only
crowds rock out at Raleigh’s Lincoln
Theatre and Carrboro’s Cat’s
Cradle—a cozy must-stop for rising
artists (drawing the likes of Nirvana
before they were world-famous).
COAST
Few venues draw more attention
than Backstreet Pub, a century-old
bakery-turned-bar in Beaufort.
Vintage life preservers and other
nautical objects form the backdrop
of its pint-size stage, and a spacious
new outdoor patio serves as another
music-listening haunt.
Known for its impact
on American music and
homegrown talent (John
Coltrane, James Taylor, Randy
Travis and many more), North
Carolina’s playlist includes an
eclectic mix of music halls.
fun
FACTORY
Reimagined industrial
buildings in Charlotte’s
Third Ward contain the
AvidXchange Music
Factory, with 14 music
venues, restaurants
and clubs. It’s the
best place in town
to catch a comedy
act, jazz musicians,
Latin cuisine and
EDM —all in one
high-octane night.
VENUES
Iconic
AvidXchange Music Factory, Charlotte
185 King Street, Brevard
Historic Earle Theatre,
Mount Airy
56 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
FESTIVALS
Right-note
Experience premier jazz and blues, roots music, and a chill
songwriting showcase at these events around the state.
celebrating
COLTRANE
Jazz musician
John Coltrane spent
his first 17 years in High
Point. The city honors
his legacy with a music
festival and a bronze
statue downtown.
MERLEFEST
WILKESBORO
April 26–29*
Celebrating 30 years,
this roots festival at
Wilkes Community
College pays homage to
Appalachian musicians
with songwriting contests
and bring-your-own-instrument
jam sessions.
MOOGFEST
DURHAM
May 17–20*
Inspired by electronic
music pioneer
Dr. Moog and the South
by Southwest festival,
Moogfest explores the
future of music, art
and technology.
OCEAN CITY JAZZ
FESTIVAL NORTH
TOPSAIL BEACH
July 7–8*
The contemporary jazz
fest showcases budding
artists and seasoned
musicians. A shuttle bus
takes visitors to and from
the beachside venue.
JOHN COLTRANE
INTERNATIONAL
JAZZ AND BLUES
FESTIVAL
HIGH POINT
September 1–2*
The NC Coltrane All Star
Band includes some of the
best jazz players in the
region at this homage to
the local jazz legend.
NORTH CAROLINA
FOLK FESTIVAL
GREENSBORO
September 7–9*
This gathering features
the state’s most talented
musicians, dancers and
craftspeople—plus great
Southern eats and brews.
* Verify dates before
making travel plans.
PHOTOGRAPHS: (AVIDXCHANGE) PATRICK SCHNEIDER, (185 KING) KENNETH VOLTZ, (MERLEFEST) WILLA STEIN, (COLTRANE) COURTESY OF JOHN COLTRANE INTERNATIONAL JAZZ AND BLUES FESTIVAL, (EARLE) COURTESY OF MOUNT AIRY TDA
visitnc.com 57
HOME
HISTORY
to
These three cities chronicle
the state’s story—including
the birth of Pepsi-Cola, the
heritage of its native people,
and the pride and grit of a
bustling military town.
BY LEAH HUGHES
PHOTOGRAPHS: RYAN DONNELL
SIP THE LEGEND
The Birthplace of Pepsi-Cola store invites
customers to savor a fountain drink (or fl oat) and
munch popcorn in the pharmacy that started it all.
It’s easy to feel sophisticated
on a stroll through the
meticulously kept gardens
surrounding Tryon Palace,
the state’s fi rst capitol in
this Swiss-infl uenced coastal
town. While the original
structure burned down
in 1798, a rebuilt palace
hosts visitors who can
imagine entertaining George
Washington on his 1791 trip.
Next door, the North Carolina
History Center tells of early
settlers through exhibits
where visitors sail a ship or
write a newspaper story.
A diff erent discovery
unfolded at Middle and
Pollock streets, where
Caleb Davis Bradham
invented Brad’s Drink,
which he renamed Pepsi-
Cola in 1898. For a boozy
kick, visitors head to
nearby Circa 1810 at
The Harvey Mansion
for craft cocktails.
Additional spirits await
during Ghosts of New Bern
walking tours through the
historic district.
(Left) Designed
in the style of
18th-century
Britain, 16 acres
of gardens
surround Tryon
Palace in the
coastal town of
New Bern.
WHY IT
MATTERS
The original capital
also provided the
f irst taste of Pepsi-
Cola. Explore more
coastal “ f irsts” at
the North Carolina
History Center.
New Bern
North Carolina History Center
visitnc.com 59
PHOTOGRAPHS: (CHEROKEE) JOHN NOLTNER, (FAYETTEVILLE) PATRICK
SCHNEIDER, (WELCOME) COURTESY OF NC DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
This year marks the
50TH ANNIVERSARY
of North Carolina’s fi rst
welcome centers. Stop for
a personal greeting and
helpful tips from more
than 60 travel counselors.
Weavers make baskets,
hunters shoot blowguns and
workers hull canoes at the
Oconaluftee Indian Village.
While this living-history site
re-creates the sights, sounds
and smells of an 18th-century
Cherokee community, there
are still 14,000 tribal members
living here in the Great Smoky
WHY IT
MATTERS
Get new perspective on the
Native American journey.
On the state’s western
edge, the ancestral home
of the Eastern Band of
Cherokee Indians provides
an inside look.
Cherokee
Mountains. The Museum of
the Cherokee Indian tells their
13,000-year-old story. A somber
mural depicts the Trail of Tears,
when the Cherokee were forced
to leave their homeland for
Oklahoma in the 1830s.
Each summer, the Cherokee
story hits the outdoor stage
in Unto These Hills. The drama
begins with Spanish explorers’
1540 arrival and follows the
Cherokees’ struggles and
triumphs with song and
dance. Qualla Arts and Crafts
Mutual, Inc.—the oldest Native
American cooperative in the
country—stars handmade
Cherokee crafts, including
pottery, toys and beadwork.
The first centers opened
along I-85 in Warren County
and I-95 in
Northampton
County in
a
HISTORICAL
welcome
9
9.3
centers at on Each daily 8 million visitors swing by the
welcome centers each year.
60 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
operate
the state line
all interstates.
is open
from
a.m. to 5 p.m.
More than 50,000 active
duty personnel call Fort
Bragg home. Southeast
of the Army base, visitors
get a taste of the town’s
military pride at the
Airborne and Special
Operations Museum.
Across the street, 50 pillars
adorned with hands cast
in bronze at the North
Carolina Veterans Park
honor Tar Heels supporting
those who have served .
All of the breweries
in town are owned by
veterans. Pair craft beers
with hot dogs and sliders
at Airborne Brew, or opt
for British-style
pub grub and
brews at Huske
Hardware
House.
WHY IT
MATTERS
Home to Fort Bragg,
one of the nation’s
largest mi litary
compl exes , thi s
Piedmont c ity has
commit ted to its local
heroes by becoming the
nation’s f irst Mi litary
Sanctuary Community,
providing support to
mi litary members and
their families.
Fayetteville
(Above) At the
Museum of the
Cherokee Indian,
visitors see stone
tools used for
hunting during
the Pale o-Indian
period and
watch occasional
live dance
performances.
(Left) It’s hard to
top the groovy
beige-and-brown
uniforms donned
by welcome center
employees in 1968.
(Above, below) Exhibits at the Airborne and Special
Operations Museum detail tactics and tools used by
America’s elite soldiers. Visitors stop at the 16-foot Iron
Mike statue and memorial outside, then head indoors to
fl y into Normandy inside the museum’s Pritzker Simulator.
62 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
ZONE
PH O T O G R A PH: R YA N D ONNE L L
BY JASON FRYE
SPLASH
visitnc.com 63
Wrightsville Beach
OCEAN WAVES,
PEACEFUL PIEDMONT
LAKES AND WHITEWATER IN
THE WESTERN MOUNTAINS
MAKE YOUR NORTH CAROLINA
GETAWAY AS
AS YOU LIKE.
SOAKED
64 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
Splash pads and 30 water slides ensure a full day of water fun at
the new H2OBX water park near Powells Point, home to some of
the largest artifi cial waves on the East Coast. A drive west takes
visitors to calmer waters along Edenton’s Queen Anne Creek.
Cypress trees wave in the breeze as paddlers pass historic
sites like the Edenton Cotton Mill Museum of History.
Others stay above it all, donning parachutes to jump with
Skydive Coastal Carolinas in Southport at the coast’s
southern end. They drift over lighthouses and beaches,
making a soft landing instead of a splash.
WILD COAST
On the coast, slide, paddle or ride a parachute
to adventures on and above the water.
PH O T O G R A PH: B R U C E D E B O E R
Kitty Hawk Kites
Kiteboarding Resort in
Rodanthe provides an
opportunity to hit the surf,
with lessons on skimming
across the waves and
getting serious air. Rent
kiteboarding gear before
checking into spacious
three-bedroom units
that allow for the perfect
getaway for families or a
bunch of your besties.
KITEBOARDING
surf city
910.328.2716
tourism@visitsurfcitync.com
THE GATEWAY TO
TOPSAIL ISLAND
VisitSurfCityNC.com
129 Mecklynn Road, Suite C
@wendymjordan
@emco103
Experience quiet moments on the
river
art galleries and museums, local
craft breweries, whole hog barbecue
restaurants wher e treated like
, stadiums filled with enthusiastic
sports fans, boutique and antiques
shops, delicious restaurants, and
much mor
Gr
(800) 537-5564
www.visitgreenvillenc.com
Knee Deep Adventures
66 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
BADIN LAKE
TROY
After a day of
hiking, biking,
or riding horses
or ATVs on
designated trails
through Uwharrie
National Forest,
take a refreshing
plunge into
this 5,000-acre
lake. Fish for
bass, unwind at
the swimming
beach and stay
at Badin Lake
Campground,
with sites near
the shoreline.
HIGH ROCK LAKE
LEXINGTON
Tournament
anglers come to
the state’s second-largest
lake
(nearly 24 square
miles) in search of
huge largemouth
bass (and striper,
white bass and
catfi sh). But the
calm waters also
draw boaters,
swimmers and
campers. High
Rock Mountain
provides the
backdrop.
LAKE GASTON
LITTLETON
This lake’s
350-plus miles of
shoreline straddle
the state border
in the north.
Swimmers love
the pristine water,
and adrenaline-seekers
of all skill
levels head to
either the
AF Wake school
(opened by
world champion
boarder Adam
Fields) to learn
wakeboarding or
WakeSurf NC to
learn wakesurfi ng.
LAKE NORMAN
TROUTMAN
Nicknamed North
Carolina’s Inland
Sea, the state’s
largest man-made
lake draws
boaters, paddlers
and hunters of
Normie, the Lake
Norman Monster.
Mountain bikers
conquer 30 miles
of trails in Lake
Norman State
Park, which
contains a 13-mile
sliver of the lake’s
520 shoreline
miles.
LAKE WACCAMAW
LAKE WACCAMAW
The largest
Carolina Bay (a
unique depression
known for its
rich biodiversity)
contains shallow
water that reveals
the sandy bottom
below, where fi sh
dart about in the
vegetation. Paddle
or sail over to
Big Creek, where
water fl ows from
the swamps, or
walk part of the
Lakeshore Trail
looking for fossils
(a whale skull was
found here).
LAKE
LIFE
Fishing. Paddling. Relaxing on a pontoon. Zipping around on
a personal watercraft. There’s a lake here for every style.
P H O T O G R A P H: J O H N N Y A U T R Y
ncstateparks.gov NMP
Economic Development Chamber of Commerce .
Visitor Services
“The Billy Graham Library was very inspirational,”
Brian also wrote. “It was on my bucket list.”
Monday to Saturday, 9:30–5:00 • BillyGrahamLibrary.org
704-401-3200 • 4330 Westmont Drive • Charlotte, North Carolina
A ministry of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association
“One of the highlights
of my life!”
Visit Charlotte and discover what God can do through
an ordinary life surrendered to Him. Admission is free,
and exhibits are state-of-the-art. Come—just as you
are. The experience is unforgettable.
©2017 BGEA
—Brian from
Tennessee
68 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
THE
WHITEWATER
GETAWAY
MOUNTAIN RUSH
Experience tame-to-raging whitewater,
40-story waterfalls and some of the
country’s speediest ziplines.
World-class whitewater paddlers (including
Olympians) and Appalachian Trail hikers know
Nantahala Outdoor Center, but so do families
who want to experience the wilds of the Great
Smoky Mountains. Head to Bryson City for the
NOC’s lodging, river excursions and renowned
paddling school. Start with a day of whitewater
rafting on the Nantahala, French Broad or
Pigeon rivers. Pros challenge themselves with
big Class IV rapids on the Nolichucky River.
After your adventure, grab a bite at one of NOC’s
two restaurants before checking in for the night.
You’ll fi nd plenty of beds (or cots) in platform
tents, a hiker-friendly bunkhouse, private cabins
and the on-site Dogwood Motel. In the morning,
head to NOC’s nearby Adventure Park , a complex
with more than a dozen aerial obstacles, such as
tightropes, sky bridges and a 600-foot zipline.
PHOTOGRAPH: JOHN NOLTNER
68 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
88 Tunnel Rd. • I-240, Exit 6 • Asheville, NC 28805
(828) 252-5400 • (800) CALL-HOME®
www.asheville.homewoodsuites.com
We are now ALL-NEW! Full renovation completed
in the spring of 2017. We invite you to come
experience our modern all-suite hotel located
within minutes of vibrant downtown Asheville,
Biltmore®, and the city’s finest dining. Each all-new
suite is equipped with all the luxuries of home,
including a full size kitchen. Enjoy a free hot daily
breakfast and evening social (M-Th). Our free
area shuttle allows you to explore all of downtown
Asheville. We look forward to hosting you soon!
Check Project543.com often for
more inspiration or to purchase
Project 543 merchandise.
Inspire wanderlust
from the mountains
to the coast.
WAT E R FA L L S
GORGES STATE PARK
In the state’s southwest,
hit up two favorites among
Transylvania County’s
250-plus waterfalls. Begin at
the Rainbow Falls trailhead in
Sapphire’s Gorges State Park.
A 3-mile loop takes you to the
150-foot fall, which creates a
rainbow-making cloud of mist.
Farther along, you’ll quickly see
how 20-foot Turtleback Falls
got its name. A curved, shell-like
rock lends itself to sliding into
the swimming hole below.
You’ll also want to have your
swimsuit handy for nearby
Sliding Rock, a natural water
slide in the Pisgah National
Forest, where visitors splash
into a pool below for a $2 fee.
Looking Glass Falls is for
wading, too, in the pool below the
60-foot fall. Stay dry at Bridal
Veil Falls by hiking to the recess
behind the falls, shown in
The Last of the Mohic ans.
CHIMNEY ROCK STATE PARK
Hickory Nut Falls is a
showstopper with its 40-story
plummet off a cliff . The falls start
as a narrow creek at the top and
become a wide fan at the base.
DEEP CREEK
Near Bryson City, hike a 5-mile
loop in Great Smoky Mountains
National Park to see a falls trio:
fi rst, Juney Whank Falls, a
90-foot split cascade; then
80-foot Toms Branch Falls,
combining cascades with true
waterfall drops; fi nally, 45-foot
Indian Creek Falls. Afterward,
grab an inner tube for a leisurely
fl oat along a section of
Deep Creek.
Fly above, around and near the water
at these four zipline favorites.
Six family-friendly zips among
towering tree s star at Canopy Ridge
Farm Zipline Tours in Lake Lure.
Twin zips race between platforms
at Navitat Canopy Adventures in
Barnardsville, hitting speeds of
65 mph on zips up to 3,600 feet long.
At Hawksnest in Seven Devils,
4 miles of zips stay open through
the winter, sending riders through a
snowy forest and over a tubing park.
Steep and fast—you’ll lose 1,100 feet
in elevation—Saluda’s Gorge at Green
River Adventures has 11 ziplines with
360-degree views of the mountains.
FALL
IN LOVE
4 EPIC ZIPS
Sliding Rock,
Pisgah National Forest
Navitat Canopy Adventures,
Barnardsville
PHOTOGRAPH: (ZIPLINE) COURTESY OF NAVITAT CANOPY ADVENTURES
70 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE
• Minutes from downtown
Asheville and Biltmore®
• Complimentary downtown
shuttle
• Microfridges® in every room
• Cozy outdoor fire pit
• Complimentary full hot
breakfast
• Indoor pool and fitness center
(828) 255-9220
AshevilleTunnelRoad.hamptoninn.com
ASHEVILLE
HOW WILL YOU SPEND YOUR VACATION?
Andrews, Murphy & Brasstown
Come for the views,
stay for the adventures!
FIND YOUR BALANCE OF
REST & ADVENTURE
www.VisitCherokeeCountyNC.com
info@visitcherokeecountync.com
828­557­0602
\
/ NH
*HP
Enjoy theeeeeeeeeäeDiscover theeeeee
visitfranklinnc.com
visitnantahalanc.com
800-336-7829
Franklin & Nantahala
Cataloochee Guest Ranch, Maggie Valley
PHOTO Chip Henderson
visitnc.com 73
74 2018 NC TRAVEL GUIDE Green Property
AT T R A C T I O N S Mountains
Regional Attractions
Appalachian Trail, (828) 254-3708.
Approximately 300 miles of this Maine-to-
Georgia primitive hiking trail run through
North Carolina. Wilderness trail intended
for foot travel only. Rustic shelters, with no
services, are 8-12 miles apart. Numerous
access points. nctg.co/bf2rP
Blue Ridge Parkway, (828) 298-0398. Called
“America’s Favorite Drive,” this recreation-oriented
scenic byway connects the Great
Smoky Mountains National Park in North
Carolina with the Shenandoah National Park
in Virginia. In North Carolina, the parkway
extends 252 miles with numerous scenic
views beckoning you to slow down and enjoy.
nctg.co/bF9N8
French Broad River, (828) 258-6109.
Perfect setting for river excursions, running
through Madison, Buncombe, Henderson
and Transylvania counties. Scenic canoeing,
kayaking and tubing with sections ranging
from whitewater to gentle trips. Provides
homes to a variety of wildlife and waterfowl
including ospreys, bald eagles, mink,
muskrat, deer and bear. nctg.co/bY32m
Great Smoky Mountains National Park,
(865) 436-1200. The largest protected land
area east of the Rocky Mountains includes
276,000 acres in North Carolina. This
national treasure is world-renowned for
the diversity of its plant and animal life and
recreational opportunities. Designated an
International Biosphere Reserve and World
Heritage Site. nctg.co/bMFNs
Nantahala National Forest,
(828) 524-6441. Lying in mountains and
valleys of southwestern North Carolina with
elevations ranging from 1,200 in Cherokee
County to 5,800 feet in Jackson County.
Numerous water activities and trails,
including a hike to Whitewater Falls, the
highest waterfall east of the Mississippi River.
“Nantahala” is a Cherokee word meaning
“Land of the noon-day sun,” a fi tting name
for the Nantahala Gorge, where the sun
only reaches to the valley fl oor at midday.
Nantahala River is popular for whitewater
rafting. With more than a half million acres,
this is the largest of the four national forests
in North Carolina. nctg.co/bUBGW
New River, (336) 982-2587. Renowned as the
second oldest river in the world, the New is
a National and State Wild and Scenic River
and one of the fi rst American Heritage Rivers.
North Carolina maintains three parks along
the river, each a day’s canoe ride apart.
nctg.co/bwmH9
Overmountain Victory National Historic
Trail, (864) 461-2828. Follows the
Revolutionary War route of patriot militia to
the Battle of Kings Mountain, SC. Part of the
National Trails System. While there are hiking
segments, the primary public access is by car
along the commemorative motor route.
nctg.co/bPdHB
Pisgah National Forest, (828) 257-4200.
Comprised of more than 500,000 acres,
primarily a hardwood forest with waterfalls
and hundreds of miles of trails. Nolichucky
River pours through one of the deepest
canyons in the East and creates challenging
whitewater rafting. Wide variety of outdoor
recreation amid the natural beauty of the
mountains. nctg.co/bwTuc
Andrews
Calaboose Cellars, 565 Aquone Rd.,
(828) 321-2006. Legend has it our old stone
building was once used by the local lawman
to lock up hooligans. Now we incarcerate our
wines and beers. Stop by for a tasting and
tour at the smallest winery in the state.
nctg.co/ba7G6
RidgeRunner Ziplines, 750 Wakefi eld Rd.,
(828) 421-8119. Experience a bird’s-eye view
ziplining through the trees in the southern
Appalachian Mountains. Course has a
suspension bridge and 11 lines, some as long
as 600 feet. nctg.co/baDqK
Asheville
Adventure Center, 1 Resort Dr.,
(828) 225-2921. Enjoy expansive views of the
Asheville skyline via a zipline or hop on a
mountain bike on rolling terrain. Head up
into the trees on an elevated obstacle course
or bring the kids to America’s fi rst zipline
adventure designed for kids under 10.
nctg.co/bH22t
Asheville Outlets, 800 Brevard Rd.,
(828) 667-2308. Save up to 70 percent off on
America’s most desired brands at this open-air
center with about 70 stores.
nctg.co/bBk5v
Biltmore, One Approach Rd., (828) 225-1333.
Begin with a tour of the 250-room Biltmore
House—America’s largest private home—
and century-old gardens. Explore the 8,000-
acre backyard via a variety of activities, from
horseback riding to rafting. Antler Hill Village
features Biltmore Winery. nctg.co/bf8EH
Botanical Gardens, 151 W. T. Weaver Blvd.,
(828) 252-5190. This 10-acre nature preserve
with trails features a variety of plants native
to the Southern Appalachian region.
nctg.co/bwrha
Folk Art Center, Blue Ridge Parkway, MP
382, (828) 298-7928. Home of the Southern
Highland Craft Guild, representing craft
artists from Southern Appalachia. Three
fi ne art galleries and seasonal craft
demonstrations. Home to Allanstand, the
oldest continuously operating crafts shop in
the United States. nctg.co/brgvM
Gray Line Trolley Tours, 36 Montford Ave.,
(828) 251-8687. Hop aboard our red trolley
for a narrated journey through Asheville,
highlighting history, homes and hot spots of
this “City of Surprises.” nctg.co/bxRSR
Grove Arcade, One Page Ave.,
(828) 252-7799. A public market in 1929,
this fanciful building has been restored to
its original splendor, now a mix of galleries,
shops and restaurants. nctg.co/b8frs
Highland Brewing Company, 12 Old
Charlotte Hwy., Suite 200, (828) 229-3370.
We brew the fi nest and freshest ales in the
Southeast from the best-selling Gaelic to our
popular winter seasonal. Learn about our
brewing and packaging processes with a daily
tour. nctg.co/b7GMs
LaZoom Tours, 14 Battery Park Ave.,
(828) 225-6932. Hop aboard our purple bus
for a variety of tours, with comedy skits,
loads of area information and incredible
views. nctg.co/bsb4S
Attractions
The following list of attractions in the Mountains region is arranged
alphabetically by city. You may fi nd more detailed information on
any of these attractions online at visitnc.com or the individual
attraction’s website. An index to attractions is on page 166.
MOUNTAINS PIEDMONT
C0AST
See page 161 for local information sources. visitnc.com 75
AT T R A C T I O N S Mountains
New Belgium Brewing Company, 21 Craven
St., (828) 333-6900. Enjoy a 90-minute tour
of the brewery then relax at the Liquid Center
or on our river deck overlooking the French
Broad River. nctg.co/bGcJX
North Carolina Arboretum, 100 Frederick
Law Olmsted Way, (828) 665-2492. This 434-
acre campus features 65 acres of cultivated
gardens, 10 miles of hiking and biking trails,
garden tours, and changing exhibits.
nctg.co/b9jE4
River Arts District Studios, Triangle of
Clingman, Lyman and Depot Sts.,
(828) 552-4723. Vast array of artists and
working studios set in an urban scene of old
factories and historical buildings. Explore
artist studios and watch while they work,
or meet the artists and discuss the creative
process. nctg.co/bCkjs
Smith-McDowell House Museum, 283
Victoria Rd., (828) 253-9231. Built in 1840,
the rooms are showpieces reflecting different
decades in the house’s history.
nctg.co/bRgUb
Smoky Mountain Adventure Center,
173 Amboy Rd., (828) 505-4446. Indoor
climbing plus outdoor boat, tube, standup
paddleboard and bike rentals. nctg.co/bbD27
Southern Appalachian Radio Museum,
A-B Tech CC, Elm Bldg., Rm. 315, 340
Victoria Rd., (828) 298-3992. Collection of
early amateur and home radios, as well as
short-wave “ham” radios, plus important
communications memorabilia. nctg.co/bzJVS
Thomas Wolfe Memorial State Historic
Site, 52 North Market St., (828) 253-8304.
Boyhood home of author Thomas Wolfe,
fictionalized as Dixieland in his first novel,
Look Homeward, Angel. Provides a glimpse
into Asheville’s early rise to prominence as
a resort for health and recreation, as well as
the stories associated with Wolfe’s colorful
and turbulent childhood here. nctg.co/b2JgN
Western North Carolina Farmers Market,
570 Brevard Rd., (828) 253-1691. Farm-fresh
fruits and vegetables, jellies, flowers,
ornamental plants, Christmas trees and
crafts, plus a restaurant and garden center.
nctg.co/byWUj
Western North Carolina Nature Center, 75
Gashes Creek Rd., (828) 259-8080. Numerous
exhibits feature more than 60 species of
animals native to Southern Appalachia, such
as red and gray wolves, bobcats, cougars and
coyotes, plus domestic animals commonly
found on Appalachian farms. nctg.co/bjskF
Bakersville
Dellinger’s Mill, Cane Creek Rd.,
(828) 688-1009. Established in 1867 and
now the last water-powered, stone-ground
grist mill of its kind in the state. Still family-owned,
it still produces cornmeal, grits
and polenta using the same time-honored
techniques and methods. nctg.co/bSkmx
Roan Mountain, Hwy. 261, (828) 682-6146.
Famous for being the largest naturally
growing gardens of Catawba rhododendrons
in the world, this high ridge stands 6,285 feet
at the highest point. Beyond the gardens are
spruce-fir forests and treeless grassy balds.
nctg.co/bNERR
Banner Elk
Banner Elk Winery, 60 Deer Run Ln.,
(828) 898-9090. We process locally grown
grapes into excellent wines reflecting the
unique characterizations of the Appalachian
Mountains. nctg.co/bTMyW
Grandfather Vineyard & Winery, 225
Vineyard Ln., (828) 963-2400. Nestled on the
Watauga River at the base of Grandfather
Mountain. Warm breezes during the day and
cool, crisp nights help develop the flavors
and balance of our wines. nctg.co/bhh6U
Sugar Mountain Resort, 1009 Sugar
Mountain Dr., (828) 898-4521. Enjoy 125
skiable acres with 21 trails, from beginner to
expert, plus snowboarding and ice skating
and snowshoeing. Summer activities include
scenic lift rides, mountain biking and hiking.
nctg.co/bvFg5
Watauga River, Shawneehaw Ave.,
(828) 898-9550. Whitewater rafting and
canoeing on this scenic river. nctg.co/bEhu7
Barnardsville
Navitat Canopy Adventures, 242 Poverty
Branch Rd., (828) 626-3700. Two zipline
tours: 10 ziplines, 2 bridges, 2 rappels, and 3
short hikes, or 3 side-by-side “racing-style”
ziplines, the longest of which stretches more
than 3600 feet and is 350 feet above the
forest floor. nctg.co/b8kkh
Beech Mountain
Beech Mountain Resort, 1007 Beech
Mountain Pkwy., (828) 387-2011. Highest
ski resort in eastern North America, with
16 slopes and 7 lifts for the beginner to
seasoned expert. Outdoor ice-skating rink
and snowboarding. In the summer, we’re a
mountain biking mecca. nctg.co/b54wE
Black Mountain
Pisgah Brewing Company, 150 Eastside Dr.,
(828) 669-0190. We specialize in brewing
handcrafted, certified organic beer. Stop by
for a tour on Saturdays. nctg.co/bNRs9
Swannanoa Valley Museum, 223 W. State
St., (828) 669-9566. Exhibits reflect the
pioneer history of western North Carolina,
interpreted in photos and artifacts from the
region. nctg.co/bhRZd
Blowing Rock
Appalachian Ski Mountain, 940 Ski Mtn.
Rd., (828) 295-7828. High Country’s first
ski area with 3 terrain parks, 12 ski slopes,
snowboarding and outdoor ice-skating arena.
nctg.co/bnAst
The Blowing Rock, 432 The Rock Rd.,
(828) 295-7111. Scenic views abound at this
immense cliff 4000 feet above sea level,
overhanging Johns River Gorge 3000 feet
below. nctg.co/bQFty
Blowing Rock Art & History Museum
(BRAHM), 159 Chestnut St.,
(828) 295-9099. Exhibits range from works
from the permanent collection to exhibitions
on loan with a focus on American artists and
the history of the mountain region.
nctg.co/bfusX
Doc’s Rocks, 129 Mystery Hill Ln.,
(828) 264-4499. Gem mining and rock-hound
fun at North Carolina’s only education-based
gem mine. Indoor heated flumes and local
North Carolina ore. nctg.co/bGMqF
High Gravity Adventures, 215 Tweetsie
Railroad Ln., (828) 386-6222. Harness up and
climb through 75 different aerial challenges
ranging from 15 to 50 feet off the ground.
nctg.co/bCyhA
Julian Price & Moses H. Cone Memorial
Parks, Blue Ridge Pkwy., MP 297 & 294,
(828) 963-5911. These two parks make up the
largest developed area set aside for public
recreation on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Lake
with fishing and canoeing and kayaking, plus
numerous walking and hiking trails. Visit the
Parkway’s official craft center at Flat Top
Manor at the Moses Cone estate and watch
mountain handicraft demonstrations. Family
cemetery, carriage and apple barn, and an
extensive system of carriage trails.
nctg.co/bRCDm
Fontana Lake, Great Smoky
Mountains National Park
76  NC TRAVEL GUIDE Green Property
AT T R A C T I O N S Mountains
Mystery Hill - Heritage & Native Artifact
Museums, 129 Mystery Hill Ln.,
(828) 264-2792. Self-guided tour of four
fun-fi lled areas. Mystery House off ers the
challenge of a gravity room. Hall of Mystery
includes more than 40 mind-bending
puzzles, hands-on experiments and illusions.
Appalachian Heritage Museum gives an
idea how mountain families lived in the
early 1900s. With more than 50,000 relics,
Native American Artifacts Museum houses an
extensive collection of artifacts.
nctg.co/bhtmR
Sky Valley Zip Tours, 634 Sky Ranch Rd.,
(855) 475-9947. A leap of faith via 9 ziplines,
a cliff jump, swinging bridge, and countless
views later, you’ll have an experience you
won’t soon forget. nctg.co/bxwU2
Tanger Shoppes on the Parkway, 278
Shoppes on the Parkway Rd., (828) 295-4444.
Buy direct from more than 30 brand-name
manufacturer and designer outlet stores.
nctg.co/bW3dr
Tweetsie Railroad, 300 Tweetsie Railroad
Ln., (828) 264-9061. Be a cowboy, cowgirl,
Indian or engineer at this family-friendly
theme park. Hop aboard our historic steam
locomotive, pan for gold, visit animals in the
Deer Park, enjoy amusement rides or take in
a live show. nctg.co/b5wPn
Boone
Daniel Boone Native Gardens, 651 Horn in
the West Dr. Collection of North American
native plants in an informal landscape
design, along with an authentic log cabin that
once belonged to the Boone family. Self-guided
tours with on-duty gardeners happy
to answer questions. nctg.co/bm82F
Foggy Mountain Gem Mine, 4416 NC Hwy.
105 S, (828) 963-4367. Emeralds, sapphires,
rubies, aquamarine, tourmaline, garnet,
amethyst, citrine, smoky quartz, topaz, and
many others are waiting to be discovered.
nctg.co/b7ubY
Horn in the West Outdoor Drama, 591
Horn in the West Dr., (828) 264-2120.
Follow frontiersman Daniel Boone and the
hardy settlers on their journey westward to
overcome adversity and spark the fi res of a
new nation. Summer performances, except
Mondays. nctg.co/bKcGF
Turchin Center for the Visual Arts, 423
W. King St., (828) 262-3017. Blend of new
and historically important art with works
of nationally and internationally renowned
artists, as well as many of the fi nest artists of
the region. nctg.co/bWEBq
Bostic
Bostic Lincoln Center, 112 Depot St.,
(828) 245-9800. There is substantial
evidence that Abraham Lincoln wasn’t born
in Kentucky, but near Bostic. Visit this one-of-
a-kind museum and learn fi rsthand about
Lincoln’s North Carolina roots. nctg.co/bfHRv
Defi ant Whisky Distillery, 228 Redbud Ln.,
(828) 245-2041. Only the best ingredients,
Mother Nature and our intuition guide the
distilling crew. Enjoy a guided tour and
culminate your visit with a sampling amid our
breathtaking surroundings. nctg.co/bUkZc
Washburn’s General Store, 2426 Bostic/
Sunshine Hwy., (828) 245-4129. Established
in 1831 as a tavern/inn/store that served
stagecoaches, today this fi fth-generation,
old country store has both the usual and the
unusual. nctg.co/bzA6Q
Brasstown
John C. Campbell Folk School, One Folk
School Rd., (828) 837-2775. Self-guided tour
of the campus includes the studios, nature
trails and History Center. The Craft Shop
showcases juried work of more than
300 craftspeople. nctg.co/bbT7Z
Brevard
Land of Waterfalls, 175 E. Main St.,
(828) 883-3700. More than 250 scenic
waterfalls are in Transylvania County,
including Looking Glass and Bridal Veil falls.
Many are easily accessible. Others involve a
hike, but you’ll fi nd any eff orts worthwhile.
nctg.co/bzQZB
Oskar Blues Brewery Southeast, 342
Mountain Industrial Dr., (828) 883-2337. Stop
by for a tour and visit our tasting room, which
features a variety of our outstanding brews.
nctg.co/bpP38
Silvermont Park, 364 E. Main St.,
(828) 884-3156. Anchored by Silvermont
Mansion, a Colonial Revival built in 1902,
the second-fl oor museum refl ects the era of
the original family. Park off ers a variety of
themed gardens and walking trail.
nctg.co/btrDc
Transylvania Heritage Museum, 189 W.
Main St., (828) 884-2347. Temporary and
permanent displays of heirlooms, artifacts,
genealogical exhibits, vintage photographs
and other exhibits refl ective of the history
and heritage of Transylvania County.
nctg.co/bGc5w
Bryson City
Carolina Outfi tters Whitewater Rafting,
12121 NC Hwy. 19 W, (828) 488-6345. Choose
guide-in-boat, guide-assisted or non-guided
whitewater rafting trips on the Nantahala
River. Infl atable Funyak/Ducky rentals, too.
nctg.co/bhHvA
Darnell Farms, 2300 Governors Island Rd.,
(828) 488-2376. Year-round educational tours
explore farm life, farming methods and the
history of the land; open-air local produce
store. nctg.co/bjfgb
Fly Fishing Museum of the Southern
Appalachians, 210 Main St.,
(828) 488-3681. Exhibits and videos tell of
legendary “stream blazers,” the evolution of
rods and reels, basic knots, fl y-tying, types
of gear and gamefi sh, regional fi shing waters,
and the history of fl y-fi shing in the Southeast.
nctg.co/bTstF
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, 45
Mitchell St., (828) 586-8811. Journey across
fertile valleys and through river gorges during
a round-trip excursion with a wide array of
ever-changing vegetation, landscapes and
whitewater scenes. Special themed rides,
also. nctg.co/b2Mq6
Nantahala Gorge Ruby Mine, 11900 US
Hwy. 19/74 W, (828) 488-3854. A favorite
activity for all ages. Rain or shine, as we have
a covered sluice. Professional gem-stone
consultation on-site. nctg.co/bsp6G
Looking Glass
Falls, Brevard
PHOTOGRAPH: JOHN NOLTNER
See page 161 for local information sources. visitnc.com 77
AT T R A C T I O N S Mountains
Nantahala Outdoor Center, 13077 US
Hwy. 19 W, (828) 622-3625. Family-friendly
adventure rafting and paddling on the
Nantahala River. Mountain bike rentals,
ziplining, lake kayaking, wilderness medicine
training and our world-famous paddling
school. nctg.co/banQh
Smoky Mountain Trains Museum, 100
Greenlee St., (828) 488-5200. Collection of
7,000 Lionel engines, cars and accessories,
plus an impressive operating layout and
children’s activity center. nctg.co/bNAW3
Swain County Heritage Museum, 2 Everett
St., (828) 488-7857. In the 1908 historic
courthouse, learn through photos, exhibits
and video about the life of early settlers,
and how the creation of the Great Smoky
Mountains National Park and Fontana Dam
rewrote the landscape and changed lives.
nctg.co/bGbfJ
Wildwater Ltd., 10345 US Hwy. 19 W., (828)
488-2384. Complete adventure destination
with zipline canopy tours, half-day jeep tours,
full-day rails & trails, and raft & rail options.
nctg.co/b5kev
Burnsville
Black Mountain/South Toe Basin, US Hwy.
19 Bypass, (828) 682-6146. Two recreation
areas with hiking and wild trout fi shing, plus
swimming and tubing. Most of the trails lead
from the river valley to ridgetop of the Black
Mountains, the highest range in the East.
nctg.co/bxRKr
McElroy House & Museum, 3 Academy
St., (828) 678-9587. Highlights traditional
mountain culture and the fascinating
local history. Historic house served as
headquarters for the Western North Carolina
Home Guard during the Civil War.
nctg.co/bp5Xq
Mount Mitchell State Park, 2388 NC Hwy.
128, (828) 675-4611. Highest peak, at 6,684
feet, in the eastern United States. Those who
ascend this mighty peak fi nd breathtaking
views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, rolling
ridges and fertile valleys. Forested and
forever misty, surrounding park provides
some of the most tranquil moments you’ll
ever experience. nctg.co/b7CJg
Canton
Canton Area Historical Museum, 36 Park
St., (828) 646-3412. Aspects of early life at
this mountain-heritage museum told through
artifacts, records and pictures of earlier
times. nctg.co/bAMRk
Cedar Mountain
DuPont State Recreational Forest,
Transylvania & Henderson counties,
(828) 877-6527. More than 10,000 acres of
forest feature numerous waterfalls, including
High Falls, Triple Falls and Bridal Veil Falls.
Excellent hiking, horseback riding and
mountain biking. nctg.co/bzKSA
Cherokee
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino, 777 Casino
Dr., (828) 497-7777. Live table games with
blackjack, roulette, craps and more of your
favorites, plus the latest Vegas-style slots.
nctg.co/bkK9Q
Mountain Farm Museum & Mingus Mill,
150 US Hwy. 441 N, (828) 497-1900.
Collection of 10 historic farm buildings
gathered from throughout the Great
Smoky Mountains, including a house, barn,
springhouse and smokehouse. Built in 1886
and still on its original site, the historic grist
mill uses a water-powered turbine instead of
a water wheel to power all of the machinery
in the building. nctg.co/bnVHd
Museum of the Cherokee Indian, 589
Tsali Blvd., (828) 497-3481. Multisensory
trip through Cherokee history combines
computer-generated images, holographic
imaging, specialty lighting and audio with a
solid artifact collection. nctg.co/brHPD
Oconaluftee Indian Village, 218 Drama
Rd., (828) 497-2111. Interactive journey
through Cherokee lifestyle and history, your
Cherokee guide shows you through winding
paths fl anked with traditional Cherokee
dwellings, work areas and sacred ritual sites.
Experience cultural dances and interact with
the villagers as they craft and work.
nctg.co/b7qJv
Oconaluftee River, (800) 438-1601. Enjoy
an easy canoe trip down the river or a picnic
at Oconaluftee Islands Park, which features
a walking trail highlighted by a Talking Tree
that tells of the signifi cance to the Cherokee
culture. nctg.co/beZhc
Qualla Arts & Crafts Mutual, 645 Tsali Blvd.,
(828) 497-3103. Oldest and leading Native
American arts cooperative in the country,
featuring weaponry, decorative beadwork,
intricate fi nger weaving, or sublime wood and
stone carving. nctg.co/b4eP8
Santa’s Land Fun Park & Zoo, 571 Wolfetown
Rd., (828) 497-9191. Family fun with a
Christmas theme. In addition to rides, visit
Santa and his elves, and watch craftsmen at
work. nctg.co/btU3A
Smoky Mountain Gold & Ruby Mine, US
Hwy. 441 N, (828) 497-6574. Emeralds,
rubies, sapphires, amethysts, garnets, topaz
and more, at Cherokee’s fi rst and largest gem
mine. nctg.co/b6SPS
Unto These Hills Outdoor Drama, 564 Tsali
Blvd., (828) 497-2111. Traces the Cherokee
people through the zenith of their power,
heartbreak of the Trail of Tears and to present
day, where they continue to rewrite their
place in the world. Summer performances.
nctg.co/bR5Hu
Chimney Rock
Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State
Park, 431 Main St., (828) 625-9611. Hike the
499-step Outcroppings Trail to the 315-foot
Chimney Rock and see amazing 75-mile views
of Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. Unique
hiking trails range from family-friendly with
discovery stations to the more adventurous,
which climbs more than 400 feet; Hickory
Nuts Falls Trail leads to the 404-foot
waterfall. nctg.co/bVtH7
Columbus
Green Creek Winery, 413 Gilbert Rd.,
(828) 863-2182. We believe wine is an
essential part of gracious living, so we invite
you to enjoy our tasting room and winery. Sip
wine on our patio and enjoy the vineyard and
distant mountain vistas. nctg.co/bn6Hc
Qualla Arts & Crafts
Mutual, Cherokee
78  NC TRAVEL GUIDE Green Property
AT T R A C T I O N S Mountains
House of Flags, 33 Gibson St.,
(828) 894-5640. Unique and comprehensive
historical collection of more than 300 United
States, military, state and international fl ags,
including all 27 full-size offi cial U.S. fl ags from
1776 to 1960. nctg.co/bDjc2
Polk County History Museum, 60 Walker
St., (828) 894-3351. Explore the area’s past
via an early 1800s stagecoach, antique farm
tools and implements, school display, home
setting, doctor’s offi ce, and beauty parlor,
plus many pictures from the past.
nctg.co/bfdVD
Russian Chapel Hills Winery, 2662 Green
Creek Dr., (828) 863-0541. We use only our
own grapes, which allows us to control
the quality from the vine’s bud break to
the sorting table. From our estate-grown
varietals, we produce several dry European-style
wines as well as a muscadine dessert
wine. nctg.co/bdZF3
Shunkawauken Falls, White Oak Mountain
Rd. Flows the length of White Oak Mountain.
Main portion is 150 feet high. The winding
White Oak Mountain Road crosses the falls in
two places for easy, drive-by viewing. Sunset
Rock Overlook off ers beautiful views.
nctg.co/bgUjC
Connelly Springs
South Mountains State Park, 3001 South
Mountains State Park Ave., (828) 433-4772.
One of the state’s most rugged parks, with
elevations up to 3,000 feet, High Shoals
Falls drops 80 feet, and more than 40 miles
of trails for hiking, mountain biking and
horseback riding. nctg.co/bTbMS
Crossnore
Crossnore Weavers & Fine Arts Gallery,
205 Johnson Ln., (828) 733-3144. Weavers
craft intricate designs in the Weaving Room.
Gallery off ers works by regional painters,
sculptors and fi ne crafters. nctg.co/bddbx
Cullowhee
Judaculla Rock, Judaculla Rock Rd.,
(828) 586-2155. Huge soapstone rock with
numerous Native American symbols etched
throughout. View the markings and develop
your own theory on its origin. nctg.co/bAAUw
Ennice
Cumberland Knob, Blue Ridge Parkway,
MP 217.5, (800) 372-5473. Site where
construction of the Blue Ridge Parkway fi rst
began and still a favorite destination. Mixture
of lush woodlands and open fi elds houses a
variety of birds and other wildlife. Ideal for
leisurely walks or a more demanding hike to
nearby Gully Creek. nctg.co/bpPD7
Ferguson
Whippoorwill Village, 11928 NC Hwy. 268 W,
(336) 973-3237. Chapel of Peace, 1864 Yadkin
River jail, 1880 schoolhouse, blacksmith shop
with a weaving room displaying an antique
loom, and a good ol’ country store as well.
Also, a replica of Daniel Boone’s c. 1760
home. Hear the intriguing love story of Wilkes
County legend Tom Dula (Dooley).
nctg.co/bYe67
Flat Rock
Carl Sandburg Home National Historic
Site - Connemara, 81 Carl Sandburg Ln.,
(828) 693-4178. Sandburg published more
than one-third of his works during his 22
years at Connemara. Today it off ers keen
insight regarding the Sandburg family and
their 262-acre working farm. Hiking trails,
other historic buildings and a small goat
herd, representative of Lillian Sandburg’s
prize-winning goats. nctg.co/bNB5b
Flat Rock Playhouse, 2661 Greenville Hwy.,
(828) 693-0731. The State Theatre of North
Carolina. Top-quality entertainment for
the entire family. The season, May through
December, includes Broadway musicals,
comedies, drama and theatre for young
people. nctg.co/bxRNy
Fontana Dam
Fontana Dam & Visitors Center, 71 Fontana
Dam Rd., (828) 498-2234. Tallest dam east
of the Rockies. Constructed during the early
1940s to supply electricity to fuel the war
eff orts during World War II. The Appalachian
Trail crosses the top of the dam.
nctg.co/bNDyp
Forest City
Bennett’s Classic Antique Auto Museum,
241 Vance St., (828) 247-1767. Preserves
the automobile history for generations to
come. Unrestored originals including Model
Ts, Mack trucks, a Shelby Mustang and an
American Lanfranc fi re truck. Don’t miss the
1963 Ford “Mayberry” sheriff ’s car, signed by
Don Knotts. nctg.co/byNag
Franklin
Franklin Gem & Mineral Museum, 25 Phillips
St., (828) 369-7831. Most comprehensive
collection of native gems and minerals in the
area. Displays from around the world and
popular fl uorescent room. nctg.co/b4h4V
Gold City Gem Mine, 9410 Sylva Rd.,
(828) 369-3905. Outside fl ume or an inside,
heated fl ume for cooler weather, so you can
sluice rain or shine for gems, using native or
enriched gemstone buckets. Or try your luck
with gold panning. nctg.co/bfJUZ
Macon County Historical Museum, 36 W.
Main St., (828) 524-9758. Educational and
fun experience showcasing the county’s
Appalachian culture. nctg.co/bBvXJ
Scottish Tartans Museum, 86 E. Main St.,
(828) 524-7472. Only one of its kind in the
United States. Offi cial registry of all publicly
known tartans. Original and replica kilts
showing styles from the late 16th century to
present day. Other exhibits include Scottish
weaponry, weaving display and details of the
Scottish migration to North Carolina, plus
their relationship with the Cherokee Indians
in particular. nctg.co/b6zYz
Wilderness Taxidermy, 5040 Highlands Rd.,
(828) 524-3677. Studio with a combined work
area, museum and wildlife art gallery off ers
the opportunity to view hundreds of unique
specimens from around the world.
nctg.co/bhMCW
Glen Alpine
Lake James Cellars, 204 E. Main St.,
(828) 584-4551. Enjoy a wine tasting from a
wide variety of wines. Our specialty is our
award-winning dry reds and whites, but we
also off er many sweeter fruit wines.
nctg.co/bGzd2
Glendale Springs
Churches of the Frescoes - Holy Trinity
Church, 120 Glendale School Rd., (336)
982-3076. Features The Lord’s Supper by Ben
Long, a North Carolina native. Other works
include Jeff rey Mims’ The Departure of Christ.
The church dates to the early 1900s.
nctg.co/bGHSq
Hayesville
Eagle Fork Vineyards, 8 Cedar Cliff Rd.,
(828) 389-8466. We wake our grapes every
day with soft, classical music. Sit on the
outdoor pavilion and enjoy the breathtaking
views while trying our fi ne, handcrafted
wines. nctg.co/bJMsw
Hendersonville
Burntshirt Vineyards, 2695 Sugarloaf Rd.,
(828) 685-2402. Magnifi cent views of the Blue
Ridge Mountains from patios overlooking our
vineyards. Savor our award-winning wines
that are estate-grown, produced and bottled
at the state-of-the-art winery. nctg.co/bH5xj
Hands On, 318 N. Main St., (828) 697-8333.
Educational exhibits and programs stimulate
the imagination and motivate learning for
children ages 1 to 10. Hands-on exhibits
include a grocery store, Lego ramp, vet
hospital and costume theater. nctg.co/bFrBD
Henderson County Heritage Museum,
1 Historic Courthouse Square, #4,
(828) 694-1619. Housed in the historic
courthouse are artifacts, collections,
demonstrations and other exhibitions
relating to the area’s culture, heritage and
stories. nctg.co/bMmcz
Holmes Educational State Forest, 1299
Crab Creek Rd., (828) 692-0100. Rugged
terrain, numerous rock outcroppings and
scenic vistas are accessible by a series of
well-marked trails, accented by exhibits
and displays depicting the ecology of the
managed forest. nctg.co/bnzss
Jump Off Rock, 4433 Laurel Park Hwy.,
Scenic overlook provides a panoramic view
of rolling pastures, the Blue Ridge and Pisgah
mountain ranges. Three hiking trials vary in
length and diffi culty. nctg.co/bcMpx
Mineral & Lapidary Museum of Henderson
County, 400 N. Main St., (828) 698-1977.
Features the natural beauty of minerals,
gems, fossils and artifacts found in North
See page 161 for local information sources. visitnc.com 79
AT T R A C T I O N S Mountains
Carolina, the United States and around
the world. Displays include a dinosaur
egg cluster, fl uorescent minerals, geodes,
petrifi ed wood and large logs. nctg.co/bS436
Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards, 588
Chestnut Gap Rd., (828) 685-4002. Nestled
on 10 acres with panoramic views of the Blue
Ridge Mountains. Sample our Riesling blends,
red Cabernets and Chardonnays, each with
dry and semi-sweet versions. nctg.co/bAaCk
Team ECCO Center for Ocean Awareness,
511 N. Main St., (828) 692-8386. Only public
aquarium in western North Carolina. More
than 20 tanks have sea horses, stingrays,
shark pups, lion fi sh and a touch tank.
Interactive programs and displays engage all
ages nctg.co/bSRhg
Western North Carolina Air Museum,
1340 Gilbert St., (828) 698-2482. Award-winning
restored, replica antique and vintage
airplanes, plus aviation artifacts such as
manuals, photographs and airplane models.
nctg.co/bFUmX
Hiddenite
Emerald Hollow Mine, 484 Emerald Hollow
Mine Dr., (828) 635-1126. Dig, sluice or “go
creekin.” Find emeralds, hiddenite, quartz,
garnet, sapphire, aquamarine and more.
nctg.co/bFDtE
Hiddenite Arts & Heritage Center at the
Historic Lucas Mansion, 316 Hiddenite
Church Rd., (828) 632-6966. Victorian
mansion houses antiques and collectibles,
local gem and mineral collection, art gallery
with changing exhibits, and a toy and doll
collection. nctg.co/bAMCZ
Rocky Face Mountain Recreational Area,
3451 Rocky Face Church Rd., (828) 632-1093.
Former quarry operation has sheer cliff
faces popular with rock climbers. Paved ADA
walking track is outside the quarry area, and
5 miles of trails take hikers along the top of
the quarry cliff s and to the mountain peak.
nctg.co/bV6vW
Highlands
Highlands Area Waterfalls, various
locations, (828) 526-2114. Bridal Veil Falls,
located on US 64/28 W., cascades 120 feet
over the highway. Dry Falls also on US 64/28
W. is a 75-foot waterfall that visitors can
walk behind. Glen Falls, on NC Hwy. 106
S., is a series of three large falls, dropping
approximately 60 feet each. nctg.co/bqKK8
Museum of American Cut & Engraved
Glass, 472 Chestnut St., (828) 526-3415.
Collection of antique cut and engraved glass
made in America between 1876 and 1916.
nctg.co/bYBVs
Whiteside Mountain, Whiteside Mountain
Rd., (828) 586-3765. Named for its sheer,
white cliff s, mountain rises more than
2,100 feet above the Nantahala National
Forest. National recreation trail, making a
2-mile loop, winds to the 4,930-foot summit.
nctg.co/bTga7
Hot Springs
Historic Hot Springs, US Hwy. 70,
(828) 622-9932. Located at the junction of the
French Broad River and the Appalachian Trail,
which runs through the middle of the area.
Way station for hikers and magnet for people
who want to experience the therapeutic value
and healing power of the hot springs.
nctg.co/bageb
Hudson
Six Waterpots Vineyard & Winery, 4040
James Dr., (828) 728-5099. Enjoy the Old
World feel of the winery, with its tapestry
ceilings, as you enjoy a glass of your favorite
wine. To suit a variety of palates, we off er
both dry and sweet in each of our wines.
nctg.co/bZXap
Jeff erson
Museum of Ashe County History, 301 E.
Main St., (336) 846-1904. Located in the 1904
Victorian courthouse, displays highlight the
area’s history, from moonshining to military
involvement. Virginia Creeper exhibit features
a model train connecting towns in Ashe
County. Ore Knob Mine exhibit has a diorama
and simulates a 19th-century mine shaft.
nctg.co/bHvqm
Lake Junaluska
World Methodist Museum, 575 N. Lakeshore
Dr., (828) 456-7242. The story of John Wesley,
his family and the formation of Methodism in
the 18th century. World’s largest collection
of Wesleyan Staff ordshire pottery, plus rare
books, manuscripts and autographs. Artifacts
depict the fi eld preaching aspect of early
Methodism, such as Wesley’s traveling pulpit
and Francis Asbury’s trunk.
nctg.co/bckDA
Lake Lure
Beach at Lake Lure & Water Works, 2724
Memorial Hwy., (828) 625-0077. Float on
the water, build sand castles, or picnic with
friends and family. For a soaking good time,
visit our water park for soaking games, a
water slide and water cannons.
nctg.co/bfmGe
Boulderline Adventure Programs, 456
Boland Dr., (828) 625-4913. Six ziplines fl y
ridge to ridge with “bunny slopes” for ages 3
and up, plus a 32-foot climbing tower and a
giant hillside swing. nctg.co/bwFRe
Canopy Ridge Farm, 7115 US Hwy. 64,
(828) 625-4500. Nestled in Hickory Nut
Gorge, ziplines are designed with exhilarating
features, including Zip Zilla, which is more
than 1000 feet long and engineered for
speed. nctg.co/buz4T
Laurel Springs
New River State Park, 358 New River
State Park Rd., (336) 982-2587. Park is base
camp for exploration of this Natural and
Wild Scenic River. Enjoy paddling, fi shing,
picnicking and wildlife viewing.
nctg.co/bDQ3S
Thistle Meadow Winery, 102 Thistle
Meadow, (800) 233-1505. We produce a wide
variety of wines—reds, whites and blushes—
ranging from sweet to dry. Tours include
tastings of wines made from grapes grown
around the world. nctg.co/bRCJm
Leicester
Addison Farms Vineyard, 4005 New
Leicester Hwy., (828) 581-9463. Our elevation
allows for nearly 360 degrees of beautiful
mountain views. Current varieties include
Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc,
Sangiovese, Montepulciano, Petit Verdot and
Petit Manseng. nctg.co/bdF5X
Lenoir
Caldwell Heritage Museum, 112 Vaiden
St., (828) 758-4004. Chronological history
of Caldwell County, from pre-Colonial days
until the present, through a series of exhibits.
Special-interest collections include medicine,
music, military and photography.
nctg.co/bF84G
Carolina Distillery, 1001 West Ave., NW,
(828) 499-3095. Premium brandies using
apples or strawberries, plus apple pie
moonshine. Guided tour on Friday and
Saturday includes a fl ight of samples and a
commemorative shot glass. nctg.co/b9MYG
Fort Defi ance, 1792 Fort Defi ance Dr.,
(828) 758-1671. Restored 1792 home of
Revolutionary War hero Gen. William Lenoir.
Considered to be one of the most unique
restorations in the country, house contains
more than 300 pieces of original furnishings
and artifacts. nctg.co/b3fx2
Tuttle Educational State Forest, 3420
Playmore Beach Rd., (828) 757-5608. Wide
variety of pines and hardwoods, plus rolling
terrain and clear streams. Accessible by a
series of well-marked trails, accented by
exhibits and display that explain the ecology
of the managed forest. nctg.co/bhZsm
Twisted Vine Winery, 487 Legion Rd.,
(828) 726-3185. Handcrafted wines full of
Southern tradition, ranging from dry reds
and whites, such as Merlot and Chardonnay,
to sweet wines, including blackberry, peach,
muscadine and our special chocolate-strawberry.
nctg.co/bkQqP
Linville
Grandfather Mountain, 2050 Blowing
Rock Hwy., (828) 733-4337. Known for
the 360-degree views from our Mile High
Swinging Bridge. Ecologically diverse nature
preserve where you can get eye-to-eye with
bears, cougars, otters and eagles in natural
habitats. Learn about the natural world from
guides, stroll gentle paths or hike