Winter is a great time to visit Boone; the downtown streets are aglow with sparkling snowflakes and wisps of smoke from cozy cabin fireplaces that can be seen winding through the snow-capped mountains. Next time you’re on a wintertime adventure in Boone, you may find yourself in need of a place to warm your hands and grab a quick bite. This list of locales is perfect for relaxing by a crackling fire or on a pleasantly warm patio – and a snack or toasty beverage doesn’t hurt either!
Lost Province Brewing Co. Gastropub
Located in the heart of downtown Boone, this family-owned and operated brewpub features an impressive wood-fired pizza oven and an intimate fireplace seating area. Between the craft brews, delicious dishes, and large windows for snowfall viewing, you may find it difficult to leave such an enchanting atmosphere.
The Horton Hotel Lounge & Rooftop
This boutique hotel’s speakeasy-style lounge and panoramic rooftop bar are open to the public, making for the perfect stop after a day of strolling through downtown shops and galleries. Unwind by the fireplace in the lobby area or make your way to the rooftop fire pit and cuddle up with one of their complimentary blankets.
Booneshine Brewing Co.
The heated patio at this East Boone hangout is a popular gathering place for skiers and snowboarders after a thrilling day on the slopes. Booneshine Brewing Co. has a great craft beer selection with seasonal offerings that’ll have your tastebuds tingling.
The Beacon Butcher Bar
The Beacon Butcher Bar’s impressive stone fireplace offers a romantic backdrop to your winter getaway to Boone. As one of the premiere event spaces in the area, make sure you call ahead and make a dinner reservation – this upscale eatery is in high demand.
Timberlake's at Chetola
From November through January, Chetola’s Festival of Lights is free and open to the public. Drive the resort’s main thoroughfare and see lighted displays of carolers, a Nativity scene and other holiday symbols. Warm up by the nightly bonfire after a stroll around Chetola Lake and complete the experience with toasted marshmallows, free of charge.
Gamekeeper Restaurant
Voted second-best overall restaurant in WNC by OpenTable’s 2022 Diners’ Choice competition, Gamekeeper is one of those quintessential High Country dining experiences that can’t be missed. Two indoor fireplaces ensure optimum warmth in this historic cabin, which has seen a century’s worth of winters as of 2022.
Bistro Roca & Antlers Bar
Known simply as ‘the Antlers Bar’ to locals, this upscale eatery is off the beaten path in the village of Blowing Rock. Warm up on their heated, enclosed porch or spark up a conversation with a Roca regular by the brick, wood-fired pizza oven.
Original Mast General Store
Feeling nostalgic? The potbelly stove at this original mercantile has been a gathering place since the 1960s. Today, you can still mail a letter at the corner post office, warm up by the wood-burning stove, and enjoy a 5¢ cup of coffee (paid for on the honor system).
Hellbender Bed & Beverage
Located in downtown Blowing Rock, Hellbender is a casual, yet charming, sister restaurant to Bistro Roca. Enjoy one of their expertly crafted cocktails by the fireplace in the parlor, or soak in a vivid winter sunset by the outdoor fire pit.
Plan your Winter Adventure with Warmth in Mind!
Browse Boone Area Lodging for Accommodations with Fireplaces and/or Hot Tubs.
