Things to do in Boone

Things to do in  Boone

Escape to the mountains

Deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains, switchbacks snaking to town in all directions, Boone feels like a high-elevation hideaway. Marrying cozy Appalachian vibes with sophisticated, high-country living—think: vineyards, ski slopes, and 5-star bistros—you’ll find a million things to do in Boone, a small-town hotspot. Take a scenic drive along the Linn Cove Viaduct, cross the swinging bridge at Grandfather Mountain, and be back in Boone’s bustling downtown by nightfall for sudsy pints, plates of Southern fare, and that classic Carolina hospitality.

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Top activities in Boone

Blowing Rock Bash Scavenger Hunt

Blowing Rock Bash Scavenger Hunt

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1
From
$27.00
Horse and Carriage Ride through Moses H. Cone Park

Horse and Carriage Ride through Moses H. Cone Park

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41
From
$125.00
Boone Bash Scavenger Hunt

Boone Bash Scavenger Hunt

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$27.00
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All about Boone

When to visit

While there’s no bad time to stay and play in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone’s claim-to-fame is autumn. At 3,333 feet in elevation, Boone explodes into a rolling quilt of reds, gold, oranges, and copper when peak leaf season hits. The colors usually arrive around late October or early November. Enjoy it from one of the many state parks or natural areas, like Grandfather Mountain, from the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, or from an outdoor patio off Hwy 421.

Getting around

You could manage a trip to Boone without a car. There’s a shuttle from Charlotte’s airport as well as a bus service, and the town is compact, wedged into a mountain valley (and ride-sharing services are accessible). This mountain enclave’s spirit is built into its winding roads, and to see all the area has to offer—hiking trails and vineyards to museums and art galleries—you’ll want four wheels. The more scenic drives you take in Boone, the better.

Traveler tips

You have choices when it comes to relaxing and recharging with a good meal in Boone. Around tiny Howard Street, you’ll find a handful of Boone stand-outs, like CoBo Sushi, Cafe Portofino, and Black Cat Burrito. Once you tire of all the hot spots on the main drag, low-key Blowing Rock Road (with spots including Stick Boy Bread Company, Red Onion Cafe), is another go-to hangout.

Local Currency
US Dollar ($)
Time Zone
EDT (UTC -5)
Country Code
+1
Language(s)
English
Attractions
0
Tours
3
Reviews
42
EN
4a2a2464-01a4-4bc7-b81d-6f62b67a8b63
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People Also Ask

Is Boone worth a visit?

Boone is absolutely worth a visit—it’s one of the most notable towns in western North Carolina, tucked deep in the scenic Appalachian Mountains. Home to Appalachian State University, the city also boasts small-town university vibes, a walkable downtown, countless trails for outdoor exploration, a vibrant food scene, and plenty of fodder for day trips into the mountains.

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What is Boone NC known for?

Home to Appalachian State University, Boone is known for being a cultural hot spot in the often sleepy Appalachian Mountains (which means it’s ultra scenic, too). Just off the winding Blue Ridge Parkway, visitors will find a thriving downtown, endless outdoor adventures, and plenty of tangible history—this is Daniel Boone country, after all.

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Does Boone NC have a downtown?

Yes, Boone has a downtown—and it’s picturesque and walkable, too. The main thoroughfare is King Street, and that’s where you’ll find all the best shops and attractions, like Macado’s, Turchin Center for the Visual Arts, Black Cat Burrito, and more. Don’t miss the Boone Mast General Store while you’re there—it’s an institution.

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How close are Boone and Blowing Rock?

Boone is just 8 miles (12.9 kilometers) from Blowing Rock via US-321 S—that’s less than 20 minutes by car. It’s a twisty road that will take you near Appalachian Ski Mountain, the Tweetsie Railroad, and Mystery Hill. If you want to visit Blowing Rock, Boone’s a decent option for your overnight; Boone is larger and tends to have more affordable lodging.

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Is Boone close to Asheville?

Boone is just under 2 hours from Asheville, and there are three main routes to get there: The westernmost route has you going north of Mt. Mitchell through Mars Hill; the central route takes you by the stunning Linville Gorge; and the easternmost route goes through the cute towns of Blowing Rock and Black Mountain.

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What is there to do in Boone at night?

As North Carolina’s high-country hub, Boone has a lively nightlife scene—at least for a small university town in the mountains. You’ll find live music (often bluegrass), plenty of bars and restaurants, and an especially vibrant brewery scene. To find the party, check out Appalachian Mountain Brewery, Boone Saloon, Lost Province Brewing Co., The Town Tavern, and more.

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Frequently Asked Questions
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