Attractions

Anchoring the High Country's National Appeal

From one of the most iconic drives in America to an internationally recognized biosphere reserve, the area's attractions are sure to impress. Consider Boone your unofficial base camp to explore geological formations with fascinating histories, hit the slopes at local resorts, shop at a rural emporium, and check out roadside oddities with the family.

^{Jump to: All Area Attraction Listings}

Signature Area Attractions

Blue Ridge Parkway

One of America's great road trips! The road was started and completed in the High Country region, arguably the scenic apex of the experience.

A man stands in the distance on a rocky peak, with a cloudy sunset behind him.

Grandfather Mountain

A spectacular drive to the Mile-High Swinging Bridge, a world-class museum, and animal habitats. Trails lead to high adventure in the State Park.

Mast General Store

This rural emporium that once carried "everything from cradles to caskets" is a trove of Americana and unusual merchandise.

A scene from "Horn in the West" depicts a group of townspeople watching a hunter display a fresh bear kill.

Horn in the West & Hickory Ridge Museum

A Revolutionary Outdoor Drama & Museum. Don't miss the adjoining attractions, including the Daniel Boone Native Gardens and Farmers Market.

A pointed rock extends over a sprawling mountain valley.

The Blowing Rock

The Blowing Rock's dramatic views from this cliffside perch, open since 1933 as "North Carolina's oldest travel attraction."

Mystery Hill

This High Country family favorite amusingly defies the forces of gravity and physics.

An open-air train full of passengers glides along a wooden trestle with smoke billowing above it.

Tweetsie Railroad

Take a western-themed ride on an authentic steam train-actually the Boone Area's first high-tech link to the outside world from the late 1800s to...

Linville Caverns

Some of the Boone area's scenic vistas are inside a mountain!

An adult holds a child's hand as they stand on a snowboard at a ski slope.

Ski Resorts

These are the East's highest ski areas, bringing national quality winter fun and summer adventure to the Boone Area.

The Appalachian Theatre

Built in the 1930s, this beautiful Art Deco style theatre has been entertaining High Country visitors and residents for decades.

A young couple sifts ore at Mystery Hill's gem mine.

Gem Mines

Try your hand at discovering a hidden treasure at a local gem mine.

Ziplines

Zipline thrills are fun for all ages - and the Boone Area has three outstanding zipline adventure parks. Soar above-it-all.

You May Also Enjoy . . .

A sign reads "Welcome to the Garden at Mast Farm Inn" in front of several green garden beds and an old barn.

Learn More