Take a hike up the trail at Howards Knob County Park for breathtaking views of the entire city. This high-altitude park features picnic tables, trails and observation points that are great for family recreation. The park closes by 7:30 so plan your day accordingly.
Located inside the Appalachian State University campus, the Turchin Center For The Visual Arts was opened in 2003, and named after its benefactors Robert and Lillian Turchin. Comprising a well-equipped lecture hall, 2 charming sculptured gardens and 6 galleries, this center boasts a choc-a-bloc calendar of events each season. Though admission is free, donations are heartily encouraged.
Not far from the original Mast General Store in Valle Crucis, lies the Boone branch. Selling everything from clothes, sports equipment, local products and coffee, the store is a great example of traditional businesses before corporations took over.
Moses H. Cone Memorial Park preserves the extensive country estate of its namesake, a noted conservationist whose dedication to the preservation of the region's natural heritage drove him to plant the white pines, hemlock hedges and apple trees that form a part of the estate. Several carriage, horse-riding and hiking trails traverse the expanses of the 3600-acre (1457-hectare) estate, centered around the majestic Flat Top Manor. Open seasonally, the historic manor is now the home of the Parkway Craft Center, which showcases the work of regional artists and hosts quilting, glass-blowing, weaving, pottery and other craft demonstrations. Visitors can also fish for bass and trout at the estate's artificial lakes, or join in a guided tour of the manor.
The Tweetsie Railroad is a family-oriented theme park that has something in store for all ages. Featuring old steam engine trains, carousel rides, live entertainment, a zoo and an interactive wild west experience complete with bandits, the place makes for a must-visit attraction, especially for children. When in town, head over to the Tweetsie Railroad with your folks to have a blast and capture your special moments in the lens. Special events at the destination make the experience even more exciting.
Appalachian Ski Mountain is a popular winter sports destination in Watauga County. This historic ski mountain features multiple ski trails for all skill levels, including beginners, intermediates, and advanced. The longest trail is known as the Orchard Run, which is about 0.5 miles (0.80 kilometers) long. Activities at the Appalachian Ski Mountain include skiing, snowboarding, snowmaking and outdoor rink skating. They also offer plenty of exciting lodging and dining options. An amazing attraction for families, the mountain is an unmissable site to be visited in Blowing Rock.
The House of Mugs is exactly what it sounds like, a house covered in mugs! The Sisk Family bought a few mugs and decided to hang them up outside their home, then they added a few more, and then a few more. Today, the house is covered with over 25,000 mugs and cups! Head down a country road and discovered this unique sight. Visitors should note that this is private property, but the Sisk Family is usually happy to show off their uniquely charming house.
Doc's Rocks Gem Mine is an antique geology store in Blowing Rock. The historic store and fossil museum aims to educate visitors about the intriguing geology of the Appalachian Mountains. When in town, pay a visit to this exciting attraction and learn more about the formation of the majestic mountains and the rocks that form its terrain. The stunning fossil museum is home to rare fossils, minerals and gemstones collected from all over the country along with toys, specimens, puzzles, candy, souvenirs, and other memorabilia that are sure to delight the little ones.
Part of Appalachian State University, this venue hosts a variety of live music events throughout the year.
This spectacular suspension bridge in Grandfather Mountain State Park enthralls visitors with the breathtaking vistas it has to offer. Measuring 228 feet (69.5 meters), the Mile High Swinging Bridge lies at an elevation of 5,305 feet (1,616 meters). A scenic road through the park winds along lush green foliage to reach the summit area, where visitors can further take a short road that leads to the magnificent bridge. While its name may suggest otherwise, the Mile High Swinging Bridge hardly swings but when the wind blows high, it can be heard "singing" like a harmonica. A souvenir shop located next to the entrance offers gifts, snacks, and other tidbits.