Named after the famous American pioneer Daniel Boone, Boone, is a historical and pleasing town in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. It is also known for being the home of Appalachian State University.
Boone is also recognized for being a premier vacation destination in the US. And truly, looking at the activities that can be performed there, it is quite hard for adrenaline junkies to resist the temptation of visiting Boone.
Boone is a beautiful town in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains. There are a lot of places that are worth visiting during your trip to Boone for example, Hickory Ridge Living History Museum, Grandfather Mountain, Mystery Hill, and more. We curated the best things that you can do here in Boone NC.
Attractions in Boone, North Carolina
Here we present the list of best things that can be done at Boone, NC:
1. Daniel Boone Native Gardens
The Daniel Boone Native Gardens is a unique, naturally landscaped garden that features some rare and extensive plants and flowers. The 3-acre garden that was opened in 1963, was built to represent conservation and education effort done to promote botany.
There are hundreds of plants and ever-blooming varieties of flowers. There are different gardens in the main garden, each one having unique species: bog garden, rhododendron garden, and fern garden.
If you are a nature lover or want to learn about unique species of flowers then visit this place in Boone NC.
Address: 651 Horn in the W Dr, Boone, NC 28607, Phone: 828-264-6390
2. Appalachian Ski Mountain
With 11 slopes, three terrain parks, and five lifts, Appalachian Ski Mountain is an area dedicated to skiing. Its located between Boone and Blowing Rock. It doesn’t matter if you are a novice, they have special measures for each kind of person. For example, they have a separate conveyer belt that can take you to the top of the terrain. Appalachian Ski Mountain is also suitable for night skiing.
The best season to visit this ski mountain lasts from mid-November to late March. You can also enjoy night skiing every night that makes it the only ski area in the Southeast with late-night skiing.
Address: 940 Ski Mountain Rd, Blowing Rock, NC 28605
3. Art of Living Retreat Centre
So, you can’t go to the Himalayas for a peaceful retreat? Don’t worry, you can head to The Art of Living Retreat Center on the Blue Ridge Mountains in Boone. You can attend workshops, practice guided meditation, and yoga. You can also indulge in spa treatments.
This place is all about exploring your inner self and is a must-visit for anyone. The environment serves as an ideal ambiance that can’t be achieved in the bustle of the cities.
Address: 639 Whispering Hills Rd, Boone, NC 28607, Phone: 828-263-4910
4. Appalachian Trail
Boone area trails are some of those trails that should be on every hiker’s wish list. Hikers can follow the Appalachian Trail which is across the Roan and Hump mountains. Waterfalls hike is also one good option for hiking. There are many other trails that you can take for hiking. Boone is all about having a sporty lifestyle. Greenway trail is considered to be one of the best-paved trails in Boone.
5. Howard’s Knob
Howard’s Knob is quite a unique place to visit. The reason is its park and mountain. At an elevation of around 4400 feet above the mean sea level, Howard’s Knob is about 1000 feet above Appalachian State University. The magnificent views of the city and the mountains are simply amazing. They are the views of a lifetime.
6. Foggy Mountain Gem Mine
Want to watch and learn about gem mining, welcome to the Foggy Mountain Gem Mine. Different kinds of gems can be found here. Gem mining is not an easy task. It takes patience, equipment, and labor. Luckily, at the gem mine, you can not only see various gems but also buy plenty of them. You can also have jewelry made out of these gemstones at the mine shop.
Address: 4416 NC-105, Boone, NC 28607, Phone: 828-963-4367
7. Unleash your adventurous side
If you are an outdoor enthusiast and have come to Boone, you are in luck. Boone has a lot to offer to outdoor enthusiasts. River and Earth Adventures organizes many exciting and adventurous activities like canoeing, caving, rafting, kayaking, hiking and guided climbing, and day trips. With certified instructors, you can participate in as many activities as you want and unleash your potential.
8. Turchin Center
If you are an art lover, Turchin Center is the right place for you. It is not only a place for viewing arts but also represents the dynamic and living culture of the Appalachian community. There’s something for every age group. You can expect artworks of national, international, and regional artists as well as numerous workshops and exhibitions all around the year. The center’s permanent collection currently holds over 1600 objects, which are viewed on a rotating basis.
Address: Appalachian State University, 423 West King Street Boone, Boone, NC 28608, Phone: 828-262-3017
9. Tweetsie Railroad
Tweetsie Railroad is a railroad-themed family-oriented park. Opened in 1957, the main attraction of the park is the 3-mile long ride in a real steam locomotive, which is quite a rare experience as it is the only surviving of East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad. There are amusement rides and other family-friendly attractions. To spice things a little bit more, various shows were added in the subsequent years in the train ride.
Address: 300 Tweetsie Railroad Ln, Blowing Rock, NC 28605
10. Joy Bistro
Every trip is incomplete without tasting the local delicacies. So, to complete your trip, Boone has Joy Bistro. It is a sophisticated French restaurant with a nice soothing ambiance and delicious food. The menu is a great balance of French and American dishes. The drinks are also up to the mark which makes this restaurant a great option for any meal. They also offer a special brunch that goes by the name of ‘Breakfast Martini’
Address: 115 New Market Ctr, Boone, NC 28607-3992, Phone: 828-265-0500
11. Two Worlds Divers
So you want to dive, huh? But you are afraid about the cold waters in your city, don’t worry, North Carolina can solve this problem for you. Head to Two World Divers and learn diving from experts. Two World Divers is a very compelling attraction of Boone. They specialize in certification classes, trips, and rentals along with all your scuba needs. You can even join their dive trips.
Address: 2482 US-421, Vilas, NC 28692, Phone: 828-265-2255
12. Horn in the West
This drama written by Kermit Hunter is performed each year in Daniel Boone Amphitheatre. Horn in the West is the country’s one of the oldest outdoor dramas. This drama features the American Revolutionary War and describes the life and struggles of the first European settlers. This drama was produced by the Southern Appalachian Historical Association. A must watch for every tourist.
Address: 591 Horn in the West Dr, Boone, NC 28607-4283, Phone: 828-264-2120
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Boone is a natural retreat and a great place to be on a vacation. The enormous amount of activities and its overall vibe make Boone quite enjoyable. The best time to visit the place is from mid-June to early September. But if you love snow and skiing then do visit this place in winter for Appalachian Ski Mountain.
