Experiences for Everyone
Discover the best of Blowing Rock and the surrounding areas with our curated guide to local dining, outdoor adventures, unique shops, and hidden gems—something for every traveler to enjoy.
Eat + Drink
Savor the flavors of the High Country with our top dining and drinking destinations. From craft cocktails to farm-to-table dining and local favorites, these recommendations will help you experience the best of the area’s culinary scene.
Elegant dining featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients and a charming atmosphere.
Contemporary American cuisine with creative twists on classic dishes.
A local favorite with Appalachian-inspired dishes, local trout, and a curated bottle shop.
A cozy spot tucked away in town offering upscale comfort food, wood-fired pizzas, and an inviting atmosphere.
A chic spot offering fresh seafood, steak, and an inviting bar area.
An upscale, rustic dining experience offering unique dishes like bison, elk, and other game meats, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Famous for their baked goods, sandwiches, and coffee. Their cinnamon rolls and Ruben sandwich are local favorites.
A great spot for craft cocktails, fresh local ingredietnts and comfort food with a modern twist.
Right in the heart of downtown Boone, The Social has become one of our favorite spots. It all started with a simple dream: to create a cozy, welcoming place where neighbors, travelers, families, and friends could gather over a great meal and truly feel at home. It's a family-owned restaurant built on community and a genuine love of good food—and you can feel that in every bite and every visit.
Located in the lobby of the 1850 Hotel, Daniel & the Dog is a haven for those who appreciate the art of a well-made drink, the warmth of refined hospitality, and the quiet luxury of an evening well-spent.
Complementing our thoughtfully curated cocktails, our kitchen presents a menu of elevated bites inspired by the rich flavors of the Appalachian Mountains. Guided by the creativity of our esteemed chef Jimmy Smith, each dish is a celebration of the region’s bounty, where seasonal ingredients and time-honored techniques create something both familiar and unexpected
Mountain Dog Coffee is all about good vibes and great flavor. This inviting spot serves up expertly crafted coffee, signature espresso drinks, artisan pastries, waffles, hearty sandwiches, fresh salads, and homemade ice cream. Guests are welcome to relax on the patio, let their pup play in the dog park, or swing through the drive-thru for something delicious on the go. Whether you bring your dog or just yourself, you’ll always be greeted with a warm welcome and a laid-back atmosphere.
Upscale yet comfortable, featuring farm-to-table dishes like duck, trout, and seasonal vegetables.
A farm-to-table gem serving elevated comfort food with fresh, seasonal ingredients in an intimate setting.
A classic steakhouse offering prime cuts, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list.
Authentic Italian fare, from homemade pasta to wood-fired pizzas, with a cozy ambiance.
Casual yet creative dishes with a mix of Southern and Louisiana influences.
Upscale fine dining with a focus on farm-to-table cuisine and a beautiful rustic setting.
Explore
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and vibrant culture of the High Country. Whether you’re seeking scenic hikes, historic landmarks, or unique local attractions, this section offers handpicked recommendations for unforgettable adventures.
A moderate, historic trail in Blowing Rock leading to multiple beautiful waterfalls.
Easy, scenic trails winding around lakes and forests, perfect for a leisurely walk.
Appalachian Ski Mountain in Blowing Rock offers family-friendly slopes, night skiing, snowboarding, ice skating and a cozy lodge with stunning mountain views.
A moderate 5-mile loop with waterfalls, streams, and diverse terrain.
An Appalachian State University football game at Kidd Brewer Stadium is an electrifying experience, with passionate fans, the iconic "App State" chant echoing through the mountains, and a thrilling game-day atmosphere in the heart of Boone.
A short, moderate hike with stunning panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Grandfather Mountain, located near Banner Elk, offers the breathtaking Mile High Swinging Bridge with panoramic views, a nature museum, wildlife habitats featuring bears, cougars, and otters, scenic picnic areas, and a rich history of conservation and natural beauty.
Sugar Mountain Resort in Banner Elk boasts the largest ski area in North Carolina, with diverse slopes, snow tubing, and scenic chairlift rides.
High Mountain Expeditions offers thrilling outdoor adventures, including whitewater rafting, river tubing, canoe and kayak rentals, and caving expeditions in North Carolina. With over 35 years of experience, they provide guided excursions in scenic locations like the Nolichucky River and Watauga River, making them a go-to for family-friendly and adrenaline-pumping activities. They have multiple locations between Boone, Banner Elk and more!
A strenuous, technical hike with ladders and cables, offering epic views. Not for beginners!
Beech Mountain Ski Resort offers the highest ski slopes in the East, a lively alpine village, and a mountaintop brewery with stunning views.
A moderate, historic trail in Blowing Rock leading to multiple beautiful waterfalls.
Shop + Spa
Discover the best of the area's boutique shopping and wellness experiences. From charming local shops filled with curated treasures to exquisite spas offering ultimate relaxation, this guide highlights the must-visit spots for a refined and rejuvenating experience.
A delightful boutique offering unique gifts, accessories, and home goods with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere
A charming shop filled with curated home décor, gifts, and lifestyle items.
A home decor haven with a focus on seasonal accents and gifts.
Shop for hand-crafted pottery pieces that reflect Appalachian traditions.
Franklin & Rose is a charming boutique nestled in the heart of Blowing Rock, offering a curated collection of quilted bags, stylish apparel, and wide collection of charms. Blending Southern charm with effortless style, Franklin & Rose is the perfect stop for those who love thoughtfully crafted accessories and fashion with personality.
A stylish boutique offering chic women’s clothing, accessories, and shoes.
Arcadian offers therapeutic massage services aimed at relaxation, pain relief, improved mobility, and self-care.
Offering a range of rejuvenating spa treatments, including massages, facials, and body therapies. With a tranquil atmosphere, an indoor pool, and a relaxation lounge, it’s the perfect place to unwind and recharge in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Westglow Spa offers a world-class wellness retreat with luxurious spa treatments, breathtaking views, and an atmosphere of pure relaxation.
This iconic historic store offers outdoor gear, candies, gifts, and more!
A charming indoor market featuring local artisans, crafts, and vintage goods.
A modern boutique with sustainable, eco-friendly home goods, stylish décor, and art. They also have a coffee and tea bar!
A chic boutique offering stylish clothing, accessories, and gifts with a curated, trendy vibe.
This iconic historic store offers outdoor gear, candies, gifts, and more!
From First Pour to Last Call
Start your morning with a short stroll to Bald Guy Brew, where locally roasted brews fuel a day of exploring Blowing Rock’s boutiques, trails, and mountain charm. As the evening settles in, sip craft cocktails and savor Appalachian flavors at The Speckled Trout Restaurant & Bottle Shop.
Back at The Windmoor, every suite welcomes you with the glow of your own fireplace. Indulge in the luxury of your spa-style shower or step out onto your private balcony to breathe in the crisp mountain air. Here, warmth, comfort, and modern elegance create the perfect retreat.
Book Your Luxurious Boutique Getaway
In the heart of Blowing Rock, The Windmoor offers 18 thoughtfully designed rooms where timeless charm meets modern comfort. This intimate boutique retreat is your peaceful mountain escape, just steps away from the beauty and charm of the High Country.