Waynesville is a small town in Haywood County, North Carolina known for its picturesque setting in the Great Smoky Mountains and its close proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway. 4. Home of the Davidson College Wildcats, Lake Norman, and great prices on real estate, the #3 best place to live in North Carolina, Davidson, is one of the Tar Heel State's best kept secrets. Youll also enjoy walking around and stepping into local shops, art studios, and more here. If you decide to walk up the 107 stairs to the courthouse, you'll be rewarded by panoramic views over the downtown and surrounding countryside, including the Blue Ridge Mountains. In 2020, we decided to share more about our home in the Carolinas. the inspiration for Mayberry in The Andy Griffith Show, is a time capsule of midcentury small-town America. Hot Springs is one of the most adorable North Carolina mountain communities, best known for its hot mineral springs. You're 20 minutes away from Raleigh, 20 minutes away from Durham, and 10 minutes away from Cary. .inside-footer-widgets a { Land of Oz (held in September) is one of many great reasons to come here with its warmer outside. Set on a high plateau, some of its surrounding peaks boast breathtaking views. Flat Rock. Spread over 78 acres but within walking distance of downtown Blowing Rock, this resort offers three lodging choices to suit everyone, from couples to families. My son moved to Asheville in 1991 so we moved up here in 2006 after Katrina in New Orleans. Dry Falls along Highway 64 where visitors can walk behind a beautiful 75-foot waterfall. Read More: 75+ Fun Day Trips from Asheville (Within a 2-Hour Drive). } ), Chimney Rock State Park (How to Enjoy an NC Icon), 20+ Amazing Things to Do in Maggie Valley, 75+ Fun Day Trips from Asheville (Within a 2-Hour Drive), 25 of the Most Amazing Winter Hikes in North Carolina, How to Find 20+ Haywood County Artists on Blue Ridge Craft Trails, Christmas in North Carolina (the Best Holiday Events), Craggy Gardens: A Beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway Stop, People of NC: Merlefest Director B Townes, Mingo Falls In Cherokee NC (a Great Waterfall + Easy Hike). The town is named after an old train stop, being located at the southern edge of the Black Mountain Range within the Blue Ridge Mountains. Be sure to stop by the scenic Lake Sequoyah and of course, the many natural wonders that surround Highlands. Read More: Christmas in North Carolina (the Best Holiday Events). Natasha moved to North Carolina for college years ago (but she's not trying to age herself here). This area is also home to the Toe River, a popular place for trout fishing, and artists of all types who have taken up residence in this region. } Regardless of your religious views, Fields of the Wood (a massive representation of the 10 Commandments) is an interesting place to visit. Youll encounter galleries galore downtown, among specialty shops, fine fares, and craft beverages. Originally settled in the 1850's as a health resort, Asheville has an interesting history- in the late 1800 . Fishing in North Carolina: The mountains are also a great place for fishing. Its known for its iconic courthouse; an ascent to the entrance often offers an excellent photo op of the picturesque surroundings. The busy Main Street is lined with covered sidewalks, and is an ideal place for a bit of retail therapy. Climb to the top of Chimney Rock or stroll over the Rocky Broad River through the blooming flora of Flowering Bridge. A walk around the Village Green reveals gardens, outdoor sculptures, and a plethora of pleasing storefronts. 6. Known as the home of the White Squirrel (and annual festival! Home to East Carolina University, it's no surprise that apartments in Greenville are more affordable than in many larger, more professionally-focused cities. Some of North Carolina's mountain towns are highly seasonal, with major attractions open only during the summer months, but a few, particularly those near the ski resorts, lend themselves more towards winter visits. } /***Underline Links***/ Accommodation: Where to Stay in Bryson City. As a former railroad outpost, the towns historic charm offers a vintage vibe, enhanced by establishments such as Paces General Store, the oldest grocery store in the state. 5. /***Mediavine Mobile Fix***/ Old Fort. } ); The shores of Lake Toxaway are known for beautiful properties which date back to the turn of the century when industry giants such as the Fords, Edisons and Rockefellers vacationed here. For local beer and live music, hit Nantahala Brewing, one of the best breweries in North Carolina, before enjoying some amazing Bryson City restaurants. The town's lovely architecture and historic buildings set it apart from others in the area. From old standbys such as Aspen and Stowe to a few spots you've probably never even heard of (what's up, Hamburg? Its a lovely scene, as the falls join a recreated grist mill, perfect to watch during a picnic. ), How to See Elk River Falls (Trail and Safety Tips), 100+ Unique Things to Do in North Carolina, The Asheville Art Museum (How to Visit + 7 Great Things to Do), Winter in Boone (20 Great Activities, Snow Tubing, and More! North Carolina mountain towns have a lot to offer those looking for extraordinary property surrounded by picturesque views to take in the natural beauty of the region and exquisite activities accompanied by top dining options. One contributing factor to the overall safety of Western NC may be the small size of the towns and cities here. Access to Roan Mountain goes through Bakersville and you can also enjoy the Toe Rivers waters here. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops. .right-sidebar .content-area { Not to be outshone by the National Park, Bryson City manages to be an experience all its own! Tryon International Equestrian Center is a world-class facility for horse racing and riding. This gives the area a hip youthfulness that many find appealing. Pearsons Falls is also nearby. My favorite mountain town is Banner Elk. Discover destinations, find outdoor adventures, follow the journeys of our travel writers around the world, and be inspired. Its truly a unique experience. Catering to both the summer crowds who come here to visit the park, and the winter crowds, who are often skiers and boarders who come to enjoy the slopes of nearby Cataloochee Ski Resort, this small town offers everything you need and more. Enjoy creekside beers at BearWaters Brewing, dance at Stompin Ground, and zoom through the iconic Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum. Be sure to check out the historic courthouse and the wonderfully restored mansion that now houses Morganton Savings Bank. Skiing in North Carolina: With elevations that exceed 5,000 feet and extensive snowmaking equipment, the mountains of North Carolina offer excellent opportunities for skiing. Boone is a haven of natural wonders offering an, Warren LeMay from Cincinnati, OH, United States, click for interactive map of the Best North Carolina Mountain Towns, 15 Best Bryson City Restaurants You Need to Try! You can track severe weather with us by checking out these WXII . As a university town, the population reaches heights of around 20,000. With only about 500 people living here, its main draw is the eponymous natural thermal mineral baths. After, six years of international travel they settled down and launched Lost in the Carolinas to share their experiences about and travel tips on South Carolina and North Carolina. This gives the area a hip youthfulness that many find appealing. If you'd like to learn more visit the about us page. // Insert placeholder for events injected when a product is added to the cart through AJAX. Mitchell. There are also plenty of Blowing Rock Restaurants to grab a bite to eat at! Burnsville is one of the best North Carolina mountain towns for exploring the outdoors. A massive aquarium, a mountain coaster and. It also offers some of the best birdwatching around. This is one of those very tiny North Carolina mountain towns that packs big personality. The city is perfect for a winter getaway, thanks to milder weather, great events like Christmas at Biltmore and more! The downtown area has many restored buildings and interesting shops, and you'll have no trouble finding a place for lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants. Franklin is known as the gem capital of the world. These two streets are also home to numerous shops and restaurants. Notably, Flat Rock also has the Carl Sandburg National Historic Site, the famed Pulitzer Prize authors home. Read More: Max Patch Trail (A Short Hike to Beautiful 360-Degree Views!). Summer is the real draw, when the surrounding mountains turn a blissful green and offer up a wealth of natural treasures. From the mountains to the coast, North Carolina's charming cities and stunning natural areas lure visitors and residents from around the world. .search .content-area a { What about you, though? Rolling hills surround the town, and the Tuckasegee River runs through the middle. With a population of about 14,000 people, you can find everything you need here, minus crowds, traffic, and parking hassles. A handful of breweries and Burntshirt Vineyards (one of the states best wineries) is also here and waiting for you to stop by. For such a small town, the selection and quality of restaurants is impressive. 2. Asheville lies at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains, the highest portion of the Appalachian Range. .woocommerce-product-gallery{ opacity: 1 !important; } There's a lot to do here, such as hiking the famous Appalachian Trail and rafting down the Cheoah River. Asheville, NC Bend, OR Boise, ID Denver, CO Flagstaff, AZ Salt Lake City, UT South Lake Tahoe, CA Tacoma, WA Asheville, NC Photo via @jared_kay Population: 87,531 Home Price: $212,000 median purchase price; $910 median monthly rent Crime Rate: Safer than 3% of U.S. cities n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments)};if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n; The attraction to Highlands is the ability to get outdoors on area trails, browse the Highlands Historic Village, or just explore downtown. padding-left: 10px !important; Tryon Fine Arts Center is a cultural institution of North Carolina, hosting eclectic exhibits, community events, TEDtalks, performing arts, classic films, and live music. Read More: The North Carolina Bucket List. Charlotte is one of the best places to live in North Carolina for a few reasons. The heart of the area is the quaint town square. The outskirts of Highlands are known for spectacular waterfalls, but the downtown of Highlands is equally beautiful! In summer, you might want to head to the coast to experience the best beaches in North Carolina or have some fun in the Outer Banks. Cashiers is the gateway to one of our favorite NC mountain escapes, Bear Lake Reserve. Banner Elk, NC 28604, USA. fbq('init', '754829038551418', {}, { With a population of just over 1,000 people, the village atmosphere of Banner Elk makes it an appealing attraction. There are also some amazing hikes and waterfalls near Cashiers, including Silver Run Falls and the Panthertown Valley Trail that leads to Schoolhouse Falls. Its reputation for charm precedes it, known mainly as the hometown of Andy Griffith and the inspiration for the idyllic neighborhood his show was set in, Mayberry. The simple and slowed-down atmosphere of these magical enclaves makes for an ideal relaxing respite from the real world. There is a lot to discover when you live in North Carolina mountain towns. Read More: 50+ Great Things to Do in Asheville (Downtown, Biltmore, and More!). Mitchell Craft Fair, adding to their creative haven atmosphere. Read More: 20+ Amazing Things to Do in Maggie Valley. There are many opportunities for phenomenal hikes, waterfalls, climbing, watersports, and winter sports to engage in here. This is the best of the North Carolina mountain towns to soak all your worries away. Use it as a base for nearby hikes and waterfalls, rides on the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway, or just relax in luxury at Biltmore Estate or The Omni Grove Park Inn. Banner Elk is a very interesting town with quaint little stores, wineries, and restaurants! .ai-viewport-1 { display: inherit !important;} One of our absolute favorite North Carolina mountain towns is Maggie Valley, a consistent family vacation spot. Take a horseback ride at Shady Grove Dude Ranch, see DeSoto Falls, and book a cabin rental to take in the mountain air. Each of our 12 Best Small Mountain Towns around Asheville has its own great Visitor's Center where you can plan your day. Maggie Valley is also a popular stop on motorcycle routes through the mountains, and the Wheels Through Time Museum is one of the town's biggest attractions. Properties are provided courtesy of Highlands-Cashiers Board of REALTORS. These affordable towns could be your next home or vacation home! Cherokee is home to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and one of our favorite small mountain towns in NC. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Banner Elk. .generate-back-to-top:visited { Even though it's primarily known for movie-like beaches, California is also a great mountain destination. Her days were spent reading a book on the beach and enjoying a cold glass of sweet tea in between classes at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. Asheville, NC - One Of The Best Mountain Towns In NC Because Of Its Culture. We welcome you to the North Carolina mountains; we know youll just love it here! Don't miss a chance to see spectacular Dry Falls, about 10 minutes from town, where you can walk behind a curtain of water pouring off an overhanging ledge. "source": "woocommerce", A significant number of people living in Cali go to a higher altitude. Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, you'll find main streets lined with historic buildings, restaurants, family-owned stores and trendy shops. Its original town limits are now a historic district where tourists can visit historical homes. Affiliate links linking to products we love may be found in our articles. If you want to spend a night up in this area, have a look at the Old Edwards Inn and Spa, an incredible European-style, luxury hotel in the heart of downtown. Its been a retreat for tourists since the 1890s and continues to be as refreshingly retro as ever. The various festivals and several golf courses is what residents have come to love about Sapphire Valley along with the peaceful scenery that attracts many to the area. } The Valdese Recreation Department oversees five parks in the area but we think you must visit McGalliard Falls. Tourists travel from all over to soak in the waters. Morganton is charming town in the foothills surrounded by beautiful scenery and outdoor adventure opportunities. With a mere 5,000 residents, this community certainly fits the bill when discussing the places best suited to those seeking a small-town style of living. 13 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in North Carolina, 20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Charlotte, NC, 16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Wilmington, NC, 12 Top-Rated Mountain Resorts in North Carolina, 13 Top-Rated Beach Resorts in North Carolina, 10 Top-Rated Campgrounds in the Outer Banks, NC, 11 Top-Rated Rivers for Trout Fishing in North Carolina, 17 Top Cheap Ski Holidays in North America, 2023, 14 Top-Rated Small Towns in North Carolina, 3 Top Places for Deep Sea Fishing in North Carolina, 11 Top-Rated Romantic Getaways in North Carolina, 12 Top-Rated Waterfalls in North Carolina, North Carolina in Pictures: 15 Beautiful Places to Photograph, 5 Top-Rated Ski Resorts in North Carolina, 2023, 11 Top-Rated Things to Do in Bay City, MI, 16 Top-Rated Things to Do in Brattleboro, VT, 22 Best Places to Visit in the United States, 21 Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts in the World, Photo Source: Burnsville and Yancey County Tourism, North Carolina's most spectacular waterfalls, Top Rivers for Trout Fishing in North Carolina. ), The Best Black Mountains Hikes near Burnsville, 20+ Kid-Friendly Waterfalls In NC (Easy Hikes And Swimming Holes! Join me to explore 5 NC Mountain Towns that you MUST visit! Hi Marguerite, the goats are at the Carl Sandburg home in Flat Rock. Sylva is one of the most interesting and quaint NC mountain towns youll find. Black Mountain has a little bit of something for everyone. Get the latest Severe Weather Alerts. Below are the best North Carolina mountain towns for your next gorgeous getaway. Retail shops and restaurants can be found on Sylva's Main Street. Several streams high in the Nantahala National Forest and the Pisgah National Forest feed the states largest private lake. Disclaimer: This site uses demographic data, email opt-ins, display advertising, and affiliate links. Murphy is loaded with natural wonders, with mountains, lakes, and rivers all around it, and is one of the best mountain towns in North Carolina. A perfect getaway in an idyllic private setting welcomes all to the tranquil Lake Toxaway. Read More: 25+ Beautiful North Carolina Road Trips (Scenic Byways and Highways). One of the best small towns near Asheville - well, technically a village with a population under 3,400 people as of 2020 - Flat Rock is home to history, apples, and hiking. The Ramble Biltmore Forest, Asheville. The university, one of the more popular ones in the North Carolina system, has brought more and more young people to the area, so there's always something cultural to do on the weekends. Nights are much warmer if you are camping, and when the trees at the top of the mountains are just getting their buds, this area is lush and in full bloom. Our weekly newsletter shares weekly updates and tips on upcoming events. Along with multiple parks, the area is the ideal location for camping, boating, fishing, or cycling. .ai-viewport-1 { display: none !important;} Beautiful Boone, North Carolina, is easily one of the most popular NC mountain towns to visit. There is a happening scene of Boone breweries and Boone bistros to indulge in and an overarching focus on sustainability. The town is an eastern equivalent of the many mountain resort towns that dot the American west, particularly in the Rocky Mountains. There is a draw for every season, with plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities to partake in. Its all here and Landmark Realty can help find your dream North Carolina mountain home. Bald Head Island, NC 28461, USA. Known as the apple capital of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hendersonville is a great central stop for all the scenery of the area. They have a tiny population of residents but a vast number of visitors each year. With the smallest population of all, the town consists of just a few quaint shops. ), downtown Brevard is charming and boasts the best toy store in North Carolina, O.P. Address: Pinehurst, NC, USA Address: Davidson, NC, USA Address: Winterville, NC, USA Address: Trent Woods, NC 28562, USA Address: Apex, NC, USA Address: Cary, NC, USA Address: Black Mountain, NC 28711, USA Address: Valdese, NC, USA Banner Elk. Meanwhile, well continue exploring all that these quaint towns have to offer, from fantastic restaurants to mountain hikes to local artist communities! You can take a side-trip to the not-mountain town of Charlotte and learn about its history at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. The Macon County Gemboree is one of the most widely known gem shows in the entire country. The downtown is decked out with colorful murals, reflecting the artistic spirit of the town. RELATED The 12 Most Charming Small Towns in South Carolina Mark Vandenberg 1. It is no wonder that Brevard is one of the best North Carolina mountain towns. The rustic charm of Cashiers honors the regions former prominence in the timber industry. Information is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed. .ai-viewport-2 { display: inherit !important;} In fact, the town is home to the only fly fishing trail in the United States. Nearby Sugar Mountain Ski Resort and Beech Mountain Ski Resort attract skiers from across the state and regions farther south, and many of them make their base Banner Elk. Nearby is Grandfather Mountain with its suspension bridge. Each year, they hold several celebrated events, like the Carolina Mountains Literary Festival and the Mt. We're always looking for hidden gems here in the Tarheel State, and we'd love to hear from you. Median age: 44.7. It's famous for its' "all American" Main Street, but it offers so much more. Asheville is one of the coolest mountain towns in NC and by population, its the biggest in this guide. Brevard is frequently ranked as one of the best small towns in WNC, and it's for good reason. Located in western North Carolina on what is known as the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau in the Nantahala National Forest, Highlands has been called "the Aspen of the East.". .ai-viewport-3 { display: inherit !important;} If you are looking for things to do, the TGIF Summer Concert Series features a wide variety of musicians playing free Friday night concerts in the main square. Each of our North Carolina mountain towns has its own personality and charm, offering an authentic Appalachian experience unlike any other. For a flatter road, check out the Catawba River Greenway in Morganton. .sidebar a { Ensconced at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, youll discover the beauty of Brevard in its bounty of waterfalls. The 5 Best North Carolina Mountain Towns to Live In Real Estate Blog The majestic peaks of the Blue Ridge Parkway, charming towns offering luxurious properties with panoramic beauty are just a few of the reasons that many seek out the best place to live in the North Carolina mountains. The town is also a junction for the Appalachian Trail, which winds through downtown. If you are heading to the coast, you may want to have a read through our article on Deep Sea Fishing in North Carolina. This article may contain affiliate links. Its main attractions, including the darling historic downtown, the . We love the Carolinas and think they are one of the most special areas in the world. .wp-show-posts a { Read More: Western North Carolina Map (400+ Wonderful Places Listed). Stately homes can be found along the residential streets, a few of which have been converted into romantic B&Bs. Its largely known as the Moonshine Capital of the World, with those spirits practically married to our mountains (along with stock car racing). Jump Off Rock is a great scenic overlook that sits in Laurel Park, 15 minutes outside of downtown Hendersonville. .wp-block-button a { But it's far from the only one. Its home to the highest peak east of the Mississippi, the majestic Mt. Experience a mountain resort atmosphere in Sapphire Valley. document,'script','https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/fbevents.js'); Please visit our Disclosure and Privacy Policy pages for further explanation. As a university town, the population reaches heights of around 20,000. This is another popular destination in winter for skiers, particularly families. Our NC travel map will help you visually plan, in case youre ready to start exploring! Read More: How to See Elk River Falls (Trail and Safety Tips). Filled with shops, boutiques, and the beautiful Village Green, there is always something to explore in this lovely town. Youll find stunning waterfalls and spectacular North Carolina hikes all right outside your doorstep in this small mountain town. Beautiful scenery, friendly people, and a great vibe. The Best of North Carolina: Still in the planning stage of your next vacation? For a traditional lodge experience, stay at the Chetola Lodge looking out over Chetola Lake. At the same time, Chattanooga has many urban pleasures, including dining and entertainment options, a wide variety of public. Park the car and wander through small shops, discover local cuisine, and enjoy the fresh mountain air, or take a drive through the spectacular scenery to find waterfalls, lookouts, and hiking trails. This small and gorgeous mountain town in North Carolina is a haven for food, culture, and outdoor adventure, and of course, for those seeking a laid-back mountain life that's not far from awesome attractions. #1 Best Places to Live in North Carolina Morrisville Suburb of Raleigh, NC 79 reviews Niche User: Morrisville is one of my favorite cities in the Triangle Area of North Carolina. Its a picture-perfect pick with plenty of kitsch to go around. Its historic and Swiss-style architecture adds to its charm. Spruce Pine is a nice spot throughout the year, but two events here are really coolthe NC Mineral and Gem Festival in August and SPACE (Spruce Pine Alien Conference & Expo) in June. Its one of many falls along the famed Waterfall Byway. Live like a local and experience a leisurely day of exploration. Blowing Rock and Boone are often talked about together because they are so closebut so different! This is the highest town in elevation in all of the east. Couples may want to book a room at the romantic B&B-style Bob Timberlake Inn, while families looking for more living space can opt for the Chetola Premium Condominiums. With a mix of unique shops and galleries, art festivals, and a charming downtown, this Jackson County NC mountain town lives and breathes local art. While its a rare admission-required waterfall, the area around the 90-foot falls remains well-maintained. From stunning scenery to outdoor adventure to quirky shops and quaint eateries, the North Carolina mountain towns have plenty to offer visitors. All this wonderful scenery might be a reason why many movies, including The Fugitive and Nell, were filmed in the area. The 40-foot falls await after a short walk from the parking lot.

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