COVID-19 Travel Updates
A "Safer at Home" executive order is in effect throughout North Carolina as part of a phased reopening plan. Now in Phase Two of the plan, many Boone Area restaurants, retail businesses, and attractions have opened to 50% capacity. Social distancing is encouraged at all times and is required in some businesses. Gatherings are limited to 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors.
Bars, movie theaters, indoor venues, amusement parks, gyms, museums, public picnic areas and playgrounds are still closed during this phase. North Carolina may move into Phase Three of the reopening plan as early as July 17th.
To learn more about NC's reopening plan: Visit the NC.gov Phase 2 Frequently Asked Questions Page
North Carolina Mask Mandate
Face coverings must be worn in public spaces where social distancing isn't possible, whether inside or outside, in the State of North Carolina effective Friday, June 26th, 2020 at 5 P.M. Exceptions will be made for children under the age of 11, individuals eating in a restaurant, exercising, or those with medical or behavioral conditions preventing them from wearing a mask.
To learn more: NC Phase 2 Extension Frequently Asked Questions Page
Town of Boone Mask Order
Masks, or face coverings, are a requirement inside Boone businesses as of Saturday, June 20th, 2020 at 9 A.M. While indoors in any commercial business, a face covering must be worn by all individuals over the age of 11 occupying the building. There are exceptions for those who have medical or behavioral conditions and for those who are seated at a restaurant.
More information about the face covering ordinance can be found at the Town of Boone's Coronavirus Response Page.
Open in the Area:
Open Restaurants and Retail: The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce has a list of restaurants and retail shops offering walk-in, curbside and take-out services in the town of Boone.
Blue Ridge Parkway - The Blue Ridge Parkway roads and hiking trails in the area are open. All visitors centers, picnic areas, and campgrounds are closed at this time. Visit BlueRidgeParkway.org for a list of open facilities.
Grandfather Mountain - Reservations must be made online, in advance.
Hickory Ridge Museum - Open to walk-ins and advanced reservations.
Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park - Park is open; playground is closed. Social distancing is strongly encouraged on the trails.
Mast General Store in Downtown Boone - Open for 50% capacity with masks required. Pickup Available. Mon-Thurs: Noon- 6 P.M., Fri. - Sat: 11 - 7 P.M., Sun: 11 - 6 P.M.
The Original Mast General Store in Valle Crucis - Open for 50% capacity from 12 P.M. to 6 P.M. daily.
Mystery Hill - Open for 50% capacity Sunday - Thursday 9 A.M. to 6 P.M. & Friday and Saturdays 9 A.M. to 9 P.M.
Apple Hill Farm - Open for tours by reservation only, seven days a week.
Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster - Open 7 days a week. Register online for a Check-in time
The Blowing Rock - Open 8:30 A.M. to 6:30 P.M. daily. Masks recommended, social distancing required.
Grandfather Mountain State Park - Trails and restrooms are open. Park office and group campsites are closed. Learn more HERE
Elk Knob State Park - Trails and restrooms are open. Park office, gift shop and amphitheater are closed. Learn more HERE
Closed (temporarily) in the Area:
