Location: Boone
Top Things to do in Boone
What to do and see in Boone, United States: The Best Places and Tips
Named for legendary explorer, Daniel Boone, Boone, North Carolina retains the pioneer spirit, despite having grown into a busy college town, the home of Appalachian State University. The surrounding area is one of the country's best destinations for outdoor adventures. Walk across the Mile High Swinging Bridge to Grandfather Mountain's Linville Peak, the highest point in the Blue Ridge Mountains, or grab your bike and head to Pisgah National Forest, featuring over 200 miles of exciting trails.
Restaurants in Boone
1. Mast General Store
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 455 reviews
An old-fashioned country store with many unique items for sale.
Reviewed By Sarah M - Fort Myers, Florida
This store is a must if you are visiting the area for the first time only. It is a bit touristy and expensive but does have unique and old-fashioned items to over. The store is usually crowded and their is not very good spacing with the merchandise so it often feels very cramped.
2. Doc's Rocks Gem Mine
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 318 reviews
Reviewed By CeCeatl561
Takes about an hour. You buy your bucket and “pan” for gems. Indoor because of weather, but they also have outdoor flumes. Staff is knowledgeable and can quickly identify gems. No real tour or explanation - an “on your own” kind of place. You can your stones cut for an extra charge. Plenty of gems/rocks available for purchase or to make your own jewelry.
3. Foggy Mountain Gem Mine
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 383 reviews
Foggy Mountain Gem Mine has been family owned and operated for generations. We are located in the mountain community of Boone, which is in the beautiful High Country of North Carolina. We are the choice Gem Mine in our area because of the experience that is offered our guests by our knowledgeable staff, and because we offer buckets of the finest gem ore from the best gem mines in the world. You are invited to come and satisfy your craving for a gem mine adventure and experience the thrill of discovery as you pan for gems. Just like miners from the old days, you will sift through dirt and rock using water flumes to find your treasures in the safety and comfort of our year round location on Hwy 105 in Boone. Regardless of the weather, you can search for gems since we have both outside and inside flumes. Each bucket of our gem stone mix contains genuine rough gems. We guarantee a gem find every time.
Reviewed By PonyMan132 - Denver, North Carolina
What a fun way to spend an hour or two. the employees are very knowledgeable. There is an outdoor and an indoor sluice for cold or rainy weather. after you mine your gems, they will educate you on what you have found. our grand kids found fossils, gems, rubies, and other beautiful rocks. We will definitely do this again.
4. Appalachian Mountain Brewery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 153 reviews
Reviewed By Bill S - Centreville, Virginia
Excellent beers, friendly staff, and nice outdoor area. I'm a homebrewer and appreciate good beer. They have it. Many different styles that will please almost anyone. Bartender Andrew knows what he is serving and is pleased to discuss them with you. Will give you a generous taste, too. Prices very reasonable.
5. The Valle Crucis Community Park
Overall Ratings
5 based on 59 reviews
The Valle Crucis Community Park is a nonprofit organization. We depend on visitors like you: 80% of our operating budget comes from donations. The suggested donation is $2 per day. You can donate in the Welcome Center or in donation boxes located around the park. We offer a 1-mile paved path for walking, jogging, biking, or skating, as well as playground areas for children and lots of open space for sports, yard games, or a nap in the sunshine. The Watauga River runs the length of the park and offers incredible fly-fishing as well as a perfect place for little ones to get their feet wet. There are two large covered picnic shelters in the park, as well as several picnic tables. Shelters are available on a first-come, first-served basis unless they have been reserved in advance. Reservations are required for parties of 15 or more. Leashed dogs are welcome.
Reviewed By Ken G - Key Largo
What a nice place to spend some time! Picnic tables for a creek side lunch in a perfect setting! A mile circular pathway for exercise or a leisurely walk. Trees labeled with descriptions.
Swings for children.
Fishing and tubing in the creek.
A perfect place for a picnic ! Buy some sandwiches at the Ham Shoppe and enjoy this place.
6. Moses H. Cone Memorial Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 706 reviews
The home and grounds of textile manufacturer Moses Cone.
Reviewed By Steve N - Greensboro, North Carolina
Our family recently visited the historic Cone manor located on the Blue Ridge Parkway a mere 10 minute drive up from Blowing Rock, NC and loved it. The mountain retreat called Flat Top Manor was constructed at the turn of the century by Moses H Cone has a commanding view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The 3,500 acre estate is now maintained by the National Park Service. The Southern Highland Craft Guild has fine handmade crafts for sale in the parlor and 1st floor of the manor. Other portions of the manor are open to visitors during the summer months. The history of the Cone family and the development of the estate is very interesting. Many locals come to the manor to walk or run on the miles of well maintained carriage roads with unbelievable views. Relax in a rocking chair on the covered porch and imagine a time long ago when Flat Top Manor represented the pinnacle of Southern culture and status in the area. The Moses H Cone Memorial Park is well worth the visit for those traveling on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
7. Tweetsie Railroad
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 890 reviews
Currently closed during the daytime hours. Will be open every Friday and Saturday evening beginning November 24 through December 30, 2017, for Tweetsie Christmas. Then we will re-open for daytime operation April 6, 2018. As North Carolina’s original family theme park, Tweetsie Railroad is a unique attraction that allows children and families to explore their imaginations and a whole lot more. Be a cowboy, cowgirl or an engineer. Shop along Main Street, pan for gold, or visit the animals in the Deer Park. Tweetsie has amusement rides for all ages and live entertainment throughout the park. And, of course, hop aboard our historic train for a fun-filled three-mile Wild West journey through the scenic mountains. Located in Blowing Rock, NC.
Reviewed By Brittany P - Colcord, West Virginia
This was a great holiday train ride (I have been on others). The decorating was probably the best part along with the activities like the snowglobe. The train ride itself was a bit chilly and I would recommend them getting some closed coach cars but I do realize it was below average temps and that this is their first season doing a Christmas train. All the workers were friendly and helpful. Also I want to say that most of the merchandise is fairly priced. My father forgot a coat and bought one inside the gift shop at a very reasonable price. it was a magical experience and I highly recommend it.
8. The Greenway Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 136 reviews
Reviewed By gatorgal1972 - Matthews, North Carolina
We took our Frenchie to the Greenway recommended by the hotel and really enjoyed the experience. It was difficult to find the parking area, but it was close to the walking trails.There are benches to rest on should the need arise and flowers to brighten your path.
Turned out to be a nice experience for exercise and fresh air.
9. Flat Top Manor
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 424 reviews
This 3,600-acre estate, managed by the National Park Service, features the historic mansion that was owned and built by the antebellum aristocrat Moses Cone.
Reviewed By Karen M - Blowing Rock, North Carolina
This is the Cone Manner - Moses Cone invented denim fabric. Absolutely beautiful grounds and Miles of hiking trails. The best local crafts you will find any where in the area.
10. Appalachian Ski Mountain
Overall Ratings
4 based on 286 reviews
Reviewed By TripleG - Boca Raton, FL
We left South Florida for a ski getaway. Family of first time skiers. We had a fantastic time! Everything was well organized. Took ski lessons at the on-site French-Swiss Ski School. Instructor was patient and friendly, although I would make sure to request more instruction on turning and how to get up when you fall (you will fall). We gained a lot of confidence throughout the 2 days we spent here. There was plenty of powder and trails were manageable. We were conveniently able to rent everything on site, which is a big plus over other places around town. Everything here was well thought out, the conveyor belts on the greens were easy to get on and off, multiple ski lifts, and rentals were all central and easy to navigate. Even the snow patrol was helpful (our kid was over enthusiastic about her ski skills and may have gotten stuck on a black diamond). The food lounge was meh, but you aren't going here for fine dining. Parking was $1 and plenty available spots this late in the season. There is a cute gift shop on site that also sells ski gear.
TAGS
