Go prospecting for North Carolina gemstones at Sugar Creek Gem Mine, where customers have come to expect quality service, top-notch mining equipment and a staff of experienced gemologists.
Sugar Creek Gem Mine is open year-round and guarantees the discovery of precious and semi-precious gemstones in every bucket. Buckets of gemstone "rough" range in size from one to seven gallons, allowing multiple options based on the size of your group and how long you want the experience to last.
Before each adventure, the staff provides instruction on how to use the mining equipment and the best methods for mining. The outdoor flume is covered to accommodate gem mining rain or shine.
Afterward, the staff helps you evaluate the gemstones and is available to cut the stones and/or incorporate them into pieces of jewelry.
Walk-ins are welcome. However, to avoid wait times, particularly in summer, the staff recommends calling in advance to reserve a time.
The phone number for reservations is: 828-898-4367.
Banner Elk Trading Company offers an upscale selection of fashion, accessories, home décor and unique finds.
When shopping in downtown Banner Elk, this is an excellent boutique for all things local, trendy and stylish.
A great waterfall hike near Banner Elk can be found along the Crab Orchard Falls Trail.
There are actually two trails to the waterfall. Both start behind Johnson Hall on the campus of the Valle Crucis Conference Center, and both are open to the public.
The old trail measures about 1.3 miles and the new trail is just over 1.5 miles. They have a total elevation gain of 324 feet and are considered moderate to slightly strenuous in difficulty.
The new trail, which opened in 2024, provides a gentler slope up the mountain, as well as more sustainable surfacing and opportunities for native plants to flourish near the trail. The old boardwalk to the falls has been replaced with stone steps. Hikers can choose an up-and-back path on the new trail, or use the old trail to return to the main campus, for a total loop of 1.3 miles.
For years, Crab Orchard Falls Trail was considered a locals' secret until its popularity soared during the Covid pandemic as tourists sought outdoor experiences away from major population bases. It remains popular today.
Key Points for Visitors
--- Park in the parking area for the Church of the Holy Cross.
--- To access the trails, walk past Johnson Hall and up the gravel path. The old trail starts to the left and the new trail is on the right.
--- Wear dependable hiking shoes. The trails are known to be muddy and slippery after a rain or snow.
--- There is a portable bathroom at the beginning of the trail. No other public toilets are available.
--- VCCC is a non-profit reliant on donations to maintain/improve its trails. Please consider making a contribution via the QR code on the trail sign.
--- Those seeking an extended hike may follow the main trail another two miles past the waterfall to Bishop’s Ridge.
July 30, 2025
On Animal Enrichment Day, guests learn how Grandfather Mountain cares for the nature park’s furry and feathered residents. An enrichment is a special treat, new toy or even an unfamiliar scent given to the animals to break up their routines and help keep them active and intellectually stimulated.
The day serves as a fun and educational way to highlight animal enrichment and its importance in caring for Grandfather Mountain's native inhabitants. Watch enrichment demonstrations, talk directly with keepers and participate in family-oriented games and crafts.
The schedule typically includes activities such as: behind-the-scenes tours, animal olympics, animal knowledge contests, a creepy critter corner, enrichment tables, animal encounters, and an animal enrichment parade.
Grandfather Mountain Animal Enrichment Day activities are included with park admission and take place at the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery and adjacent wildlife habitats.
Always the second weekend in OctoberOct. 11-12, 2025
Sugar Mountain Resort brings a taste of Bavaria to North Carolina's High Country each fall with its Oktoberfest celebration. This two-day, family-friendly event features Bavarian music, a Bavarian costume contest, great food, regional artists, a children's fun area and barrels of Oktoberfest beverages for partaking.
It's a weekend of beautiful fall foliage and comfortable mountain temperatures providing yodels and yodels of fun. And best of all, there is no charge for admission, parking and shuttle service.
The children's fun center includes hayrides, corn hole, pumpkin bowling, water balloon tossing, play time with Sugar and Sweetie Bear, and an array of bounce houses. Meanwhile, all members of the family can enjoy chairlift rides to the mountain's 5,300-foot summit.
Shopping is available at the Sugar Mountain Sports & Gift Shop and the Oktoberfest souvenir tent.
Hours are 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. both days and the event takes place rain or shine.
Experience a one-of-a-kind mountain retreat that sleeps up to 14 people. Originally built as a girls' camp in the 1920s, this six-bedroom, five-bathroom property accommodates entire families or groups of friends, including pets.
The interior of the three-story home is rivaled only by the expansive outdoor amenities, indulging a large yard, a stream with a bridge, a fishing pond, tennis courts, and a covered picnic area with grill and wood-burning fireplace. The home's extensive rock work, wooden shakes and manicured landscaping make you feel as if you're at a mountain resort. Beech Haven is located at the base of Beech Mountain; downtown Banner Elk is five minutes away.
The kitchen offers a large selection of cooking utensils and dinnerware, as well as a butcher-block bar and stainless-steel appliances. Beyond the kitchen is a dining area featuring a long dining table with room for 12 people. The dining area leads to a spacious living room with a wall of windows looking out to the Blue Ridge Mountains and a rock-encased gas fireplace.
There are two bedroom suites on the main level, each with a queen bed and attached full bathroom. The top floor comprises the master bedroom suite, which features a king bed and a private bathroom with a shower.
Another large gathering space is located on the lower level, with a sectional sofa, large TV, poker table, and laundry area with two sets of washers and dryers. An adjoining room has a pool table, shuffleboard table, arcade table and ping-pong table. Three additional bedrooms are located on this level, one with a queen bed, one with two twin beds, and one with two sets of built-in twin bunk beds. These three bedrooms share two bathrooms; each has two side-by-side showers in a modern nod to the house’s beginnings as a girls’ camp.
Pets require an additional fee. Location is approximate. Exact address provided upon booking.
Nature's Blessings at Elk Creek is a two-bedroom, 2.5-bath vacation rental just minutes from Sugar Mountain Ski Resort and downtown Banner Elk.
Guests enjoy lots of amenities, including a hot tub, gas fire table, gas grill, tank-less water heater, heated toilet seats and fire pit.
A gourmet kitchen on the main level has a six-burner gas range, stainless steel appliances, dishwasher, prep sink and multiple coffee makers.
Both king suites are on the upper level. The primary king suite has a gas fireplace, custom shower and its own deck for taking in the mountain views. The second king suite has a walk-in closet and attached bathroom with custom tile glass shower.
The hot tub is on the lower covered deck with a privacy screen that can be pulled down.
This vacation rental can sleep up to six using the sleeper sofa on the main level.
Perched on top of a hill and surrounded by mountain views, this picturesque three-bedroom, three-bathroom home is the ideal mountain retreat for families or a group of couples traveling together.
One standout feature is a view of Beech Mountain from all main living areas. A fully equipped kitchen allows for easy meal preparation, and the open floor plan marries the kitchen with the living room and dining area. Enjoy outdoor meals on the deck with sweeping views, and retreat to the fire pit in the evenings.
The master suite has a king bed, and two additional bedrooms have queen beds. The master bedroom boasts a grand bathroom suite with dual sinks and an open shower, an oversized walk-in closet, and a private deck with rocking chairs.
In the additional upstairs space, there is a twin bed and a trundle bed. In the living room, the leather sectional sofa is ideal for relaxing by the stone-encased gas fireplace and playing one of many games. A washer and dryer are provided, and the garage has an electric vehicle charging station.
Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park is a challenging playground for mountain bikers in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The park occupies 185 acres just east of Boone. Eight miles of custom-built trails weave through the forest, offering a one-of-a-kind way to explore the High Country.
Single-track trails accommodate all skill levels, from the moderate 1.5-mile Rocky Branch Loop to the three-quarter-mile Ol’ Hoss Trail exclusively for experts. The trails are also accessible to hikers and trail runners.
A pump track with rollers, berms and other features allows riders to learn and improve their bike-handling skills. The Rocky Knob pump track is one of the first in the country to incorporate informational signs to teach riders the skills required to master the track. Necessary skills vary from beginner to advanced, including such things as proper body position, pumping, bunny hopping, “manualing” and wheel lifts. Cyclists can practice at four skills parks on the property.
Kids enjoy the adventure playground, where they climb ladders, slip down slides and teeter across a ropes course. The park also includes a picnic shelter and bathrooms. For those who want to visit the park but don’t have a bike, two local shops in Boone — Boone Bike and Touring, and Magic Cycles — offer rentals. The park often plays host to races and special events.
In 2014, Rocky Knob Park was designated a National Recreation Trail system by the U.S. Department of the Interior. Volunteers from Boone Area Cyclists, a local nonprofit, contributed more than 3,500 hours of work to establish the park. Volunteers meet once a week for “dirty Thursday” to work on trail maintenance.
For an "axe-citing" adventure during your visit to the NC High Country, head to Hero's Axe House.
Hero's features six lanes of axe throwing fun. Every lane has digital, state-of-the-art projected targets that offer a variety of games with digital scoring. Games include tic-tac-toe, black jack 21, duck hunter, standard targets and more.
Owned by first responders, Hero's Axe House is designed with safety in mind. Each throwing lane is built with no-bounce borders and end-grain targets, which are safer, and all participants must wear closed-toe shoes. Hero's sells non-alcoholic beverages only.
A standard session is 75 minutes. That includes 15 minutes of instruction and one hour of axe throwing.
Individuals, couples and groups are welcome, and reservations are strongly recommended.
Banner Elk Mountain Cabins lets you choose from a selection of cozy, upscale vacation cabins that sleep from four to eight people.
Each cabin is meticulously cleaned and cared for by local management. Amenities include multi-person hot tubs, secluded locations, cathedral ceilings, lofts, fireplaces, full kitchens, satellite TV and air-conditioning.
Some cabins are walking distance to town, others are a short drive.
Banner Elk Mountain Cabins also offers Grandfather Mountain lodging packages. These packages have a two-night two-night minimum and include two adult tickets to Grandfather Mountain. Additional tickets may be added for a fee.
Ask about the packages when contacting Banner Elk Mountain Cabins at the links above or by calling 828-387-1209.
Enjoy sunrises over a mountain backdrop at this vacation rental home in a gated community just minutes from downtown Banner Elk.
Morning Star features a spacious floor plan, two master suites, two kitchens, stone patio with outdoor fireplace, built-in gas grill, and hot tub.
The expansive gourmet kitchen has an oversized fridge, granite countertops and built-in ovens. A large kitchen island has two bar stools, while a dining table plus auxiliary tables can seat up to 16.
Off the kitchen is a large study with office space and an oversized laundry room with counters, shelves, and hanging racks. Also on the main level is a two-car garage where you can shed ski boots, store equipment, and hang coats or other gear.
The king master suite on the main level includes a walk-in closet, and sitting area near the French doors to the patio. The master bathroom contains a soaking tub, a seated vanity, tiled shower for her, and a separate counter, sink, and tiled shower for him.
Upstairs are three guest bedrooms beyond the sitting area. The first is a queen suite with a four-poster bed, desk, and an ensuite bathroom. Down the hall are a king bedroom and a bedroom with two twin beds.
Morning Star's lower level features a second living room with a second full kitchen and dining table for four. The second king master suite boasts a large floor plan with walk-in closet and access to lower-level parking. A king bedroom and queen bedroom share a full bathroom with custom shower and soaking tub.
Pets are not allowed and guests must be at least 25 YEARS of age to book.
Address is approximate. Exact address provided upon booking.
Puerto Nuevo is known for its Mexican dishes, seafood entrees and vegetarian selections. All meals are prepared fresh daily with quality ingredients.
Menu selections range from pollo asado to tacos San Felipe to chilaquiles Mexicanos to fresh grilled tilapia. A kids’ menu available as well.
The restaurant says its biggest surprise is that the Guacamole dip tastes fresh, and tastes like avocado!
Enjoy the game or relax with friends in the bar at Puerto Nuevo, which offers a large selection of margaritas and tequilas.
Nestled in the village shops in the heart of town, Sorrento’s is an upscale bistro known for its authentic Italian cuisine. The chefs use family recipes dating back to the family’s roots in Sicily.
Menu includes salads, pastas, veal, chicken, seafood pizzas and gourmet sauces. Also open for lunch and Sunday brunch. Contemporary artwork inside and a large patio garden with fire pit open seasonally.
On the snow or in the air, a thrilling winter experience awaits at Hawksnest Resort.
Hawksnest is home to the East Coast’s largest snow tubing park for those who wish to play in the snow, and a special Snowbird Zipline Tour for those who want to fly through the air.
On the ground, the Hawksnest snow tubing park has four interconnected areas consisting of more than 30 tubing lanes. The lanes are 400 to 1,000 feet in length with two moving carpet lifts that continuously take tubers back to the top for more fun. The tubing park has 100% snowmaking and lighting on all lanes, providing the best possible conditions for the whole family.
Hawksnest is open seven days a week throughout winter (weather permitting) with sessions lasting one hour and 45 minutes. There are four daily sessions Monday through Thursday, five sessions on Fridays, Saturdays and holidays, and three sessions each Sunday. Tubing is open to anyone age three and older.
[Related content: Top 4 snow tubing spots in NC mountains]
Hawksnest also offers an opportunity for zip lining high above the tubing lanes. Each winter the resort operates a Snowbird Tour that traverses four cables above the snow. The four cables are part of the larger Hawk Tour, which is comprised of 11 cables in warmer months.
The Snowbird Tour takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete and participants must be five years or older.
Also, don't forget to enjoy the coffee bar, Carolina barbecue and tasty pizza before, during and after your tubing and zipping sessions.
Trains are the stars of this Wild West theme park. Located between Boone and Blowing Rock, Tweetsie Railroad has entertained families with old-fashioned fun since 1957.
The park operates two vintage steam locomotives: No. 12 “Tweetsie” and No. 190 the “Yukon Queen.” As you ride the rails, keep an eye out for train-robbing bandits. Then, head to the Tweetsie Palace Saloon to watch Diamond Lil’s renowned can-can dancers, or tap your toes along with the country cloggers in the Pavilion Theater.
The Ferris wheel, Tilt-A-Whirl and carousel at the park’s Country Fair area allow kids to make memories and parents to relive childhood days.
Afterward, hop on the chairlift and enjoy the scenery on your ride up to Miner’s Mountain. The miniature Mouse Mine Train is a favorite for younger children. While on the mountaintop, you can pan for gold and explore the deer park habitat with 90 animals, including pygmy goats, turtles, miniature horses, llamas, emus, fallow deer, goats and potbellied pigs.
Back down the mountain, Tweetsie offers a variety of food from hot dogs, pizza and burgers to Tweetsie’s famous fudge made right before your eyes. Throughout the year, Tweetsie holds special events, such as the Ghost Train Halloween Festival in the fall and Railroad Heritage Weekend in late summer. No trip to Tweetsie is complete without a stop by the gift shop for a souvenir coonskin cap or cowboy hat.
Park is open from early May through October.
Shop for hiking boots, outdoor footwear, apparel, backpacks, camping supplies and travel gear at Footsloggers in downtown Banner Elk.
The shop, located on the edge of the Lees-McRae College campus inside the Cannon Student Center, also carries a full line of Lees-McRae shirts, apparel and accessories. it is open year-round with dedicated parking in front of the building.
Footsloggers has served the needs of outdoor enthusiasts in the NC High Country since 1971. The Banner Elk store is the fourth location for the retailer, which also has stores in Boone, Blowing Rock and West Jefferson.
Footsloggers carries well-known brands like Patagonia, Salewa, Oboz, Sherpa, Salomon, Nemo and Arc'teryx.
This downtown Banner Elk outfitter specializes in white-water rafting, kayaking, rock climbing and rappelling. The family-run business encourages getting outdoors as a family unit.
White-water rafting trips are popular group excursions as groups board buses in Banner Elk and head to Elizabethton, Tenn., about 45 minutes away. Rafting takes place on the Watauga River with the trip downriver lasting about three-and-a-half to four hours, including lunch. The outfitter serves tasty lunches of fried chicken with all the fixings, including homemade trail mix. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are also available.
During white-water trips, guest can take advantage of the "Anaconda Rerun." This special treat allows rafters to go through the largest rapid, Anaconda, as many times as they like.
Torrent kayaks, where riders sit on top of the craft, provide another option for rafting trips, as long as everyone meets the minimum age of 12 years old for kayaking.
Rock climbing and rappelling challenge all skill levels. Children must be 12 years old or at least 100 pounds. The daylong adventure involves a trip to Little Lost Cove Cliffs in the Wilson Creek Wilderness area, featuring views of Grandfather Mountain. Instruction covers three phases: emphasizing safety, building self-confidence and respecting the mountain. Most guests rave about the 60-foot overhanging rappel in which climbers spend time suspended in the air.
All equipment needed for any of the trips is included. Trips can be booked online or by phone. Discounts are available for children and large groups. The season runs from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. Edge of the World also operates a snowboard shop. During the winter, customers can purchase boards, clothing and other gear before hitting one of the nearby slopes.
Gather more information at 800-789-3343 or www.edgeoworld.com/summer.
Take a piece of the mountains home with you when you purchase souvenirs from Banner Elk Soap & Candle Co. With fragrances named after area icons, such as McRae Medows, Grandfather’s Pipe and Elk River Morning, the soaps and candles bring back fun memories of mountain trips. The most popular scent, a Fraser fir aroma called Appalachian Lumberjack, nods to local Christmas tree farms.
The candles and soaps are handmade using local ingredients when possible. The shop also stocks bath bombs and salts, T-shirts, jewelry, and mugs. The store’s building is a destination in itself with a 16-foot working water wheel on one side.
Superb fine dining experience open seasonally (May-October).
Artisanal features contemporary American cuisine in the upscale rustic elegance of a converted barn. The menu stands out with an innovative and progressive farm-to-table approach. The cuisine rotates in accordance with the season.
Artisanal has been named a Top 100 restaurant in the United States by OpenTable.com and has received the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence.
Located inside the dining rooms of Sorrento’s, Chef’s Table and Barra restaurants in the heart of Banner Elk, Studio 140 showcases the artwork of painter Kent Paulette.
Enjoy the paintings while dining, or feel free to walk inside and view the paintings even if you are not eating there. All paintings are for sale, and staff members are happy to answer questions about the artwork.
Paulette, a local artist, is known for bold brushstrokes and bright colors. He works in a studio with a view of the mountains, which provides inspiration.
He also conducts live painting demonstrations around town. Find him on the patio at Sorrento's on Saturday evenings when the weather is nice. When Paulette paints along with live music, it becomes a multi-sensory experience.
Keep an eye out for Paulette’s bear, horse and deer paintings, which are particularly popular. He also paints portraits of famous musicians, actors and cultural icons.
This Banner Elk vacation condo at The Lodges at Elkmont is a top-floor, level-entry unit featuring a fully stocked kitchen and dining area. It's a three-bedroom, three-bathroom unit with master suite and a guest bedroom with bath on the main floor.
Great views are available from the living/dining area. Gather 'round the gas log fireplace inside, or step out to the deck for a quiet evening with the stars.
The primary suite is a king bedroom with TV, deck access and tiled shower with double vanity. Across the hall is a second king bedroom with attached bathroom that also opens to the hallway for guests convenience.
Upstairs is a second living space in the loft with sofa, TV and board games. A third bedroom with twin beds is on the opposite wing of the upper level. There's a full bathroom upstairs with a tub/shower combination.
Outside, enjoy the spacious wrap around porch with patio furniture, long-range mountain views and easy walking distance to a community fire pit and picnic area. The Lodges at Elkmont are just around the corner from Banner Elk Winery and only five minutes from downtown Banner Elk.
Guests must be at least 25 years old to reserve, and may bring one well-trained dog.
The Banner House Museum tells the history of Banner Elk and demonstrates what life was like in the North Carolina mountains during the mid to late 1800s.
Built in 1865, the house belonged to the Banners, one of Banner Elk’s founding families: Samuel Henry Banner, his wife, Jane, and their seven children.
As the Banner family grew, the area came to be known as Banner’s Elk. Eventually, the town of Banner Elk was incorporated by the N.C. General Assembly in 1911.
The Banner House Museum — purchased, restored and opened to the public in 2007 by the Greater Banner Elk Heritage Foundation — displays artifacts illustrating the daily lives of those early settlers.
Visitors encounter period furnishings, farm tools, hand-stitched quilts, vintage clothing, photographs and paintings. Rooms are arranged to depict the culture of the late 19th century, and volunteer docents lead daily tours.
There's an interesting collection of maps and other items from the formative years of Banner Elk, and the staff develops a new featured exhibit each operating season. The featured exhibit is located on the ground floor, which is accessible to wheelchairs.
The museum is open mid-June through September.
For rates and hours of operation, call 828-898-3634 or visit www.bannerhousemuseum.org.
April 19, 2025
Head to the Corner Park on Main, directly across from the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce, for photos and selfies with the Easter Bunny.
Edgar the Easter Bunny will pose for pictures at a special Easter-themed selfie station from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Bring your own camera or cell phone to capture Easter memories. Families, pets and children of all ages are invited to get their pictures made, and a chamber volunteer will be available to take the pictures, if desired.
Edgar will also give Easter candy to the kiddos.
Check the Banner Elk Chamber Facebook page and Chamber website homepage for updates on this event.
Elk’s Roost is a beautiful craftsman-style home located in The Farm at Banner Elk. This four-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom vacation rental sleeps 12 people and also welcomes pets.
The name Elk’s Roost was chosen because of the home’s proximity to downtown Banner Elk (a three-minute drive) and the tree-house feeling the home's location and design provide.
The well-decorated home ties in mountain themes throughout with bark accents, rhododendron railings, granite countertops and detailed millwork.
Sip a cup of coffee or cocktail on one of the expansive decks while enjoying long-range mountain views including Grandfather and Sugar mountains. The covered patio off the dining room extends the home's open floor plan to the outdoors with a grill and additional seating.
This home is ideal for multiple families in need of extra space with two master suites and kitchens.
It also works well for groups that include senior members; there is a master suite on the main level with only two small steps to enter.
Beech Mountain Brewing Company is owned and operated by Beech Mountain Resort, making it one of a few craft breweries in the nation to be located at a ski resort. It is open to the public during ski season and also during summer months. Patrons are not required to have a ski pass to visit the brewery.
The brewery produces small batches on-site in the Alpine Village at the base of the slopes. The flagship beer is the 5506’ Pale Ale, named after Beech Mountain’s signature elevation. Other popular brews include the Beech IPA and the Patroller Porter.
Seasonal selections vary, and include such offerings as the Beech Blonde, Tilted Tartan Scotch Ale, One-Eye PA and Ramble-on Rye.
The interior of the brewery is spacious, featuring a mountain lodge feel with stone fireplaces and wooden accents. It spreads across two levels and includes a full kitchen and music stage. The exterior features a large deck overlooking the village commons.
More information is available at (800) 438-2093, ext 291, or by clicking here.
High Country UTV Tours provide guided utility terrain vehicle excursions in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The company built a thrilling off-road course about 15 miles from Banner Elk in Roan Mountain, Tennessee. Guests drive miles of challenging mountain terrain, cross bridges, ride through creeks and climb to the summit of a mountain.
At the summit, enjoy 360-degree views where guides take photos provided to guests at no additional cost.
Choose from two- or four-seat side-by-sides for this exhilarating adventure. High Country UTV Tours are open to families and guests of all abilities and skill levels. No prior UTV riding experience is necessary.
Reservations are required.
Edge of the World became one of the nation’s first snowboard shops when it started carrying boards in 1986, the same year snowboards were first allowed on the slopes at Beech Mountain.
Boarding is first and foremost at this family-owned shop in the middle of North Carolina’s ski town. The store stocks a large selection of the industry’s best brands (new and used), as well as high caliber snowboard rentals, apparel and outerwear. Hit the slopes in style with a new snowboard, or board rental, and all the necessary winter gear and accessories.
Snowboard maintenance and repair services are handled in the back shop by an on-site technician who can wax, sharpen, tune and repair any snowboard in need.
Open year-round, the shop also stocks sunglasses, ballcaps, T-shirts and backpacks.
Check out Edge of the World’s outfitter service for guided whitewater rafting, kayaking, rock climbing and rappelling trips in the summer months.
From early June until October, ski slopes become downhill mountain biking trails at Beech Mountain Resort.
The Beech Mountain Bike Park provides chairlift service to the top of the 5,506 peak, allowing riders to choose from a variety of trails back down to the resort village.
There are 10 trails in total, ranging from easy to intermediate to advanced to expert only. Click here to view the trail map.
Riders may bring their own bike or rent one in the resort village, but all riders must purchase chairlift passes to ride to the top. One-time use and all-day passes are available.
Mountain biking lessons are also available. Hours are days of operation can vary, but are typically 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday through Sunday.
Food and drink can be purchased at Beech Mountain Brewing Company in the resort village.
The Spa is the newest addition to the historic Eseeola Lodge. This luxury day spa offers the public a range of pampering treatments befitting its peaceful location on the grounds of the revered Linville lodge.
Indulge your senses in the elegance of cozy therapy suites with luxurious linens, organic essential oils and top of the line products used in signature treatments that nourish the soul.
Services range from massages and body scrubs to facials, manicures and hair and makeup. The spa's popular body treatments enhance the experience with an ideal combination of indulgences, such as dry brushing, sea salt or sugar exfoliation, aromatherapy steam, and hydrating wraps.
A boutique sells everything from high-end hair care and skin care products, to bath and body products, to luxury robes and bed linens to natural aromatherapy oils.
Enjoy all the benefits of Banner Elk in this A-frame cabin tucked into a neighborhood just off Main Street. Downtown is a half-mile walk or quick drive away.
This cabin is ideal for families with a king bedroom on the main level and a loft with two twin beds, as well as two full bathrooms. Bring along four-legged family members to this pet-friendly property.
Located on a wooded lot, this cabin has a garage underneath, with the main living quarters on the second floor, giving it a treehouse vibe. Amenities include a wood-burning fireplace with complimentary wood for chilly evenings.
Two decks provide plenty of outdoor space, one for gathering as a group to dine or relax with a cup of coffee and the other a private space off of the master bedroom.
This unit is tastefully decorated with decor that's true to the High Country region, ski poles adorning stairway railings, black bears in photos and plush toys, and rock work on the fireplace and chimney.
Enjoy a spacious vacation rental in Banner Elk with this upscale three-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom house. The house has a welcoming floor plan with vaulted ceiling, large fireplace, hardwood floors and a covered porch with plenty of room for relaxing or entertaining.
The house sleeps up to eight with two king beds and four twin beds. There is a loft in addition to the three bedrooms. Tennis enthusiasts can take advantage of the shared tennis court on site.
Amenities include Wi-Fi, gas fireplace, washer & dryer, full kitchen and cable TV.
Nguyens Asian Grill is a hidden gem on the Banner Elk restaurant scene -- an Asian fusion eatery with an extensive menu.
Patrons have a wide selection of appetizers, salads, entrées and rolled sushi rice combinations. Japanese, Vietnamese and Chinese flavors are plentiful.
The restaurant is also a great option for vegetarian meals in Banner Elk.
Kids menu, too.
Grandfather Mountain is a popular tourist attraction located atop one of the highest peaks in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Each year, it attracts about 250,000 tourists who spend the day hiking, viewing animals, visiting the nature museum and picnicking.
One of the mountain’s best-known pastimes is a walk across the Mile High Swinging Bridge. At one mile above sea level, the bridge is the highest suspension footbridge in the country. A journey to the end offers 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The nearby “Top Shop” provides elevator access to the bridge, making it accessible for all visitors.
[Related content: Banner Elk's Grandfather Mountain lodging packages]
The mountain has 11 hiking trails, varying in difficulty from an easy stroll in a meadow or woodland to a rugged trek up challenging terrain. Interpretive rangers are available year-round to lead guided hikes, bird walks and wildflower walks for groups and families. As you hike the trails, you’ll see birds, squirrels and other forest creatures.
The mountain also has several environmental habitats that showcase animals in their natural settings. See black bears, elk, river otters, cougars and bald eagles as they play, pounce and swim. For even closer access to these native animals, behind-the-scenes tours take place on Saturdays and Sundays from April through October. You can also sign up to be a “keeper for a day” and assist with daily animal care.
The Grandfather Mountain Nature Museum contains more than two dozen exhibits about the region’s natural history. See emeralds, rubies and gold pulled from the North Carolina soil, a scale model of Grandfather Mountain and lifelike wax examples of wildflowers, berries and mushrooms that are found here.
Plan to stay for lunch. Pack your own picnic or order something to go from Mildred’s Grill. More than 100 picnic tables are scattered throughout the property. Don’t leave without a sweet treat from the Grandfather Mountain Fudge Shop.
The mountain gets its unique name from pioneers who recognized that from certain vantage points, the cliffs resemble the profile of an old man or a “grandfather.”
Grandfather Mountain is open daily year-round, weather permitting. Hours vary seasonally. Lodging packages that include tickets to Grandfather Mountain are available on our lodging specials page.
A visit to Mountain Emporium reveals an astounding selection of home furnishings and décor.
Shop from an eclectic mix of furniture, art, wood sculpture, craftsman lighting and more. From contemporary to classic, from rustic to whimsical, Mountain Emporium offers unique, one-of-a-kind items in a range of price points.
The showroom is also home to Mountain Studios, which creates custom lighting fixtures and chandeliers featuring mountain motifs.
Hungry for a savory pie?
High Country Pie Company is Banner Elk's go-to spot for fresh-baked New Zealand-style meat pies. These tasty creations feature buttery, flaky crusts filled with meats and farm-fresh ingredients.
In addition to meat pies, High Country Pie Co. offers soups, salads and sweet treats.
Customers can order items to go, or eat in the cafe or on the adjoining patio.
A comfortable three-bedroom, two-bath Banner Elk condo rental in a quiet, secluded area, yet very convenient to restaurants, shopping and the ski resorts.
This unit sleeps up to seven people with two queen beds and three twin beds. The living area features an open floor plan with plenty of views through the sliding glass doors that open to a wraparound deck. Requires a four-wheel drive vehicle in winter.
Amenities include high-speed Wi-Fi, wood-burning fireplace, washer/dryer combo and cable television.
Welcome to Banner Elk Lodge, a six-bedroom, four-bathroom home in a peaceful neighborhood half a mile from downtown. The property sleeps 14 people and allows pets.
From the large parking area, steps lead to the main level. A wood-burning fireplace sets the tone for the living room, with multiple couches and a large TV. The kitchen is updated with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances, and the space leads to a long family dining table.
There are three bedrooms on the main level, each with its own TV. Two bedrooms are kings, and the other is a queen. Three bedrooms are downstairs. One bedroom has a king bed with TV, one room has a set of twin bunk beds, and the third bedroom has two sets of twin bunk beds.
Take the stairs to the loft, which houses one of two game rooms with foosball and shuffleboard. Head to the lower level for the second game room with a wood-burning fireplace. The lower level includes a second kitchen, also with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Four bar stools and a round table provide a place to dine or play one of many board games.
Outdoors, enjoy the chairs on the front deck, fire up the grill on the back deck, or relax in the hot tub on the covered patio.
Spoil those four-legged family members with a visit to My Best Friend's Barkery, a locally-owned pet-supply store that also provides do-it-yourself wash stations for your pets.
A store specialty is a wide selection of made-in-house treats for dogs and cats, complemented by a large selection of healthy, eco-conscious foods. The Barkery carries a full line of accessories, such as collars, chew toys and bowls, along with cute outfits for canines and felines.
A recent expansion added rooms with self-wash stations. This simplifies the pet-washing experience by providing everything you need -- towels, soap, etc. -- in a state-of-the-art setting. A clean pet is a happy pet!
Explore the Blue Ridge Mountains from this three-bedroom, two-bathroom Banner Elk condo. This single-story, second-floor unit makes an ideal home base for your mountain adventures.
The balcony with mountain views is a favorite spot to begin the day with a cup of coffee or unwind in the evenings with a glass of wine. The condo is an easy walk to downtown's shops and restaurants, and a few minutes drive to Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain ski resorts.
The open floor plan features a spacious living room with a wood-burning fireplace and ample windows for admiring the view. An upscale kitchen features granite countertops, stainless-steel appliances and an eat-in bar area. Visitors will find all the kitchen basics needed to prepare a meal.
The three bedrooms have a queen, full and full bunk beds respectively. The living room also has a sleeper sofa. The unit includes a stackable washer and dryer.
Designated parking is available for one vehicle. Must be at least 25 years old to book.
The best in locally-made art can be found at the Banner Elk (BE) Artists Gallery.
Formed by a group of local artists, the BE Artists Gallery features fine arts and crafts for sale to the public. All items are hand-made objects of beauty and utility created by artisans living within a 50-mile radius of Banner Elk.
The gallery was so successful in its first year that its size was doubled to provide display space for more artists.
Displays vary throughout the year and include such mediums as: fabric art, fine furniture, glass works, graphic arts, jewelry, metal works, paintings, photography, pottery and wood turnings.
From mid-April through December, hours of operation are Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Other times, it is by appointment only by calling 828-898-6767.
Tee it up for a round of golf on your choice of 400 courses -- including Pebble Beach -- at The Turn Indoor Golf in Banner Elk.The Turn has three bays utilizing the top-of-the-line Trackman Golf simulator. Each bay allows you to play 18 holes by yourself or with up to three friends.In addition to providing a round on a famous golf course, the simulator tracks each golfer's clubhouse speed, launch angle, distance, spin rate and more.If you're not up for an 18-hole round, dial up the driving range to work on your swing -- rain or shine, daylight or darkness.
A full-service indoor bar awaits, along with an outside lounge overlooking the Elk River.
The Turn is open to the public seven days a week. No membership required and walk-ins are welcome.
**Notice: Due to damage from Hurricane Helene, the Profile Trail access and trail are closed until further notice
A great hiking option on the outskirts of Banner Elk is the Profile Trail at Grandfather Mountain State Park. This 7.6-mile round trip hike is rated strenuous, climbing some 1,775 feet to the top of Grandfather Mountain’s Calloway Peak, at 5,964 feet in elevation.
The trail begins in rolling terrain and crosses the Watauga River, before increasing in difficulty during the ascent. Much of the hike is under hardwood canopy before breaking into a Canadian fir zone near the crest.
The reward for reaching the summit – 360-degree views of the North Carolina High Country.
Oct. 31, 2024 from 4-6 p.m.
One of the more popular family Halloween events in the North Carolina High Country. Children (and adults) come dressed in costumes for a fun trick-or-treat experience from the trunks of vehicles at the Historic Banner Elk School.
Banner Elk businesses and individuals decorate their vehicle trunks and hand out candy to all the little ghosts and goblins.
Banner Elk Winery is situated close to downtown in a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains. Founded in 2006, it was the first commercial winery in Avery and Watauga counties.
Banner Elk Winery is known for award-winning wines from grapes grown on property and sourced from other local vineyards. The Marechal Foch is made from the French-American hybrid grape of the same name. It produces a red wine with intense flavors and color.
Banner Elk Red, a winemaker’s choice blend of Marechal Foch, Sangiovese and Merlot, has won a gold medal at the International Eastern Wine Competition in Sonoma, California, and was named the best red hybrid at the North Carolina State Fair.
Banner Elk Winery also produces a blueberry wine that pays tribute to the property’s history as a former blueberry farm.
Overall, the vineyard produces nine wines on an annual basis: four reds (Cabernet Sauvignon, Marechal Foch, Banner Elk Red, High Country Rosé), three whites (Banner Elk White, Seyval Blanc, Vino Francesco Chianti White) and two dessert wines.
Private tastings for parties of 10 or more are available with advance notice of at least a week. There is also a luxury villa on property that can accommodate corporate meetings and retreats, weddings and private functions.
The winery is open daily on a year-round basis from noon to 6 p.m.
More information is available at 828-898-9090 or www.bannerelkwinery.com.
Bearfoot Lodge is a mountain-contemporary, two-bedroom condo in The Lodges at Elkmont community. This unit offers cozy, one-level living with mountain charm and sleeps up to six.
Sleeping quarters include a king room, queen room and two bathrooms, as well as a pullout sofa.
An open floor plan offers a kitchen with custom cabinets, granite countertops and stainless-steel appliances. An adjacent dining room accommodates six guests and two at the bar, plus four more at the outdoor dining table. The centerpiece of the great room is a stone, gas-log fireplace with a flat-screen television.
Off the main living area is a covered patio with outdoor dining and rocking chairs to enjoy mountain views. The nearby common green space offers mountain views and rippling sounds from the creek below.
The town of Banner Elk is less than two miles away with downtown shops and great restaurants. It's approximately seven or so miles to both Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain ski resorts. Banner Elk Winery is a comfortable 400-yard walk along the creek.
Must be at least 25 years of age to rent this unit.
Ruth Ann is a master certified groomer who uses all-natural shampoos and has been grooming pets since 1986.
The shop is located in the heart of downtown Banner Elk. Walk in or call 828-260-4454 to make an appointment.
The historic Perry House, circa 1903, has been restored into a lovely country inn with furnishings designed by master craftsmen.
The inn is perched at 3,745 feet in elevation on a knoll overlooking downtown Banner Elk, with easy access to shops, restaurants and Lees-McRae College.
The five guest rooms are comfortable and roomy, each featuring individually controlled heating and air-conditioning.
Breakfast can be enjoyed in the dining area or packaged to go for a day in the mountains.
The performing arts department of Lees-McRae College combines with the community each summer to produce a top-notch series of theatrical productions in the Hayes Auditorium on campus.
Since 1985, summer theatre patrons have experience a wide variety of shows, ranging from classic Shakespeare to Broadway musicals to shows written by local playwrights. The casts include professional, local and student actors. This summer series typically begins in late June and runs through early August.
The quality of the productions make the Lees-McRae Summer Theatre one of the best summer theatres in the Southeast.
To purchase tickets, see a list of upcoming shows, or learn more about LMST, call 828-898-8709 or click here
Blue Ridge Mountain Rentals is one of the High Country’s leading vacation rental companies. The company's mission is to be a respite for thousands of guests each year from their hectic lives. We truly care about all guests because we know that most endure stressful lives back home, and they cherish the times that they can escape to a restful haven in these North Carolina mountains. We want to help them find the perfect vacation getaway.
The Banner Elk rentals blend small town relaxation with the amenities of a larger city. In the winter, visitors to Banner Elk are just 10 minutes from the two largest ski resorts in the South: Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain.
From romantic two-bedroom cabins to sprawling estates fit for multiple families to gather together, Blue Ridge Mountain Rentals has a collection of properties to suit groups of various sizes. Common rental amenities include well-stocked kitchens, great rooms with fireplaces, game rooms, hot tubs and, of course, sweeping mountain views.
It’s ski season year-round at this lodge-style shop not far from the slopes at Sugar Mountain Resort.
Whether you’re in the market for the latest in ski and snowboard technology, the finest fashion for the slopes, or simply a pair of rental skis, jacket and bibs for the weekend, this longtime local business has what you need.
The shop is fully stocked and can also pull from its sister locations in Boone, Asheville and Charlotte.
Pro tip: Visit in the summer to take advantage of great sales before the snow begins to fall in Banner Elk..
In downtown Banner Elk, enjoy a rotating selection of beers on tap from more than a dozen craft breweries.
Blind Elk Tap Room is an indoor/outdoor tasting room specializing in craft beer on draft, as well as wine by the glass and prosecco on tap. The two-story space with an open-air bar out front provides plenty of room for gathering around the taps and enjoying a beverage or two with friends and family.
In addition to 15 rotating beers on tap, a fridge features 70-80 labels of hard-to-find beers, hard ciders, and hard seltzers. A snack menu offers a variety of pretzels, cheeses, crackers and nuts that pair well with a pint of beer.
Throughout the summer, the Blind Elk frequently hosts block parties on Thursday and Friday nights. Featuring food trucks and outdoor music, the events are a great way to celebrate the warm season in the High Country.
This woodland themed condo minutes from downtown Banner Elk provides two bedrooms and one bathroom for a cozy mountain getaway. One bedroom has twin-over-full bunk beds, making it an ideal setup for families with kids. Located approximately 10 minutes from Sugar and Beech ski resorts, the condo is a great spot for skiers. It's also an easy walk to shops, galleries and restaurants in downtown Banner Elk.
Wooden furnishings and accents, including a live-edge eat-in bar in the kitchen, give the condo a cabin-like feel. The fully equipped kitchen makes meal prep easy. Gather in the living room around the rock fireplace or outdoors around the fire pit on nice evenings. The unit has a stackable washer and dryer. This property is pet friendly for an additional fee.
Location is approximate. Exact address provided upon booking.
Climb, swing and dangle in the treetops at Wilderness Run Adventure Course in Banner Elk.
Located beside Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster, the adventure course consists of ropes, logs and planks secured to and suspended from giant wooden tripods.
The course features 28 obstacles with three levels of difficulty: easy, intermediate and hard. Activities include scrambling over cargo nets, scaling rock-climbing structures, and traversing swinging bridges and logs. Participants may advance to more difficult obstacles as they navigate the course, or stay on one level. At the highest point, approximately 40 feet above the ground, guests enjoy views from the crow’s nest and can hop in a swing to get the feeling of floating in midair.
A children’s course, recommended for ages 2 to 5, includes netted tubes, bridges and platforms.
Wilderness Run Adventure Course takes an hour and a half and guests must register online for a check-in time. Height and weight restrictions apply. When visitors arrive, they receive a harness and helmet, and the adventure starts with 10-15 minutes of ground school instruction on technique and safety.
If visitors want to book an alpine coaster ride in conjunction with their adventure course session, the adventure course registration should be arranged first.
Wilderness Run Adventure Course is open seven days a week seasonally from April through October.
A hidden gem for shopping in downtown Banner Elk is Reilly's Shop.
Reilly's is a cross between a general store and home goods shop. Find everything from hand-made pottery to blown glass, from mountain honey and soaps to lotions and essential oils, many of which are sustainably produced in the Great Smoky Mountains by Cullowheegee Farms.
Reilly's also carries boutique clothing fashions and assorted other items.
You don't want to miss your chance to stay at this adorable cabin in the trees. Gather around the large, rock fireplace in the great room or on the relaxing, secluded deck. Enjoy the well-stocked kitchen, or take advantage of the gas grill outdoors.
The two-bedroom two-bathroom cabin sleeps six with a sofa bed. Cozy woodlands decor sets the scene for your Blue Ridge Mountain adventures.
The shops and restaurants of downtown Banner Elk are only half a mile away. The greenway walking trail, which leads to a park and downtown attractions, runs right through the neighborhood.
This three-bedroom, two-bathroom condo is all about the views. The wall of windows in the open common area, including kitchen, dining and living areas, provides views of the mountains and downtown Banner Elk in the distance.
This upstairs unit opens to a wrap-around balcony with space to enjoy a cup of coffee while taking in the sunset. Inside, a dining table and bar with stools provide ample space to gather together for a meal.
Abundant natural light and modern furnishings create a welcoming space. Private parking available for two vehicles.
The resort town's shops, restaurants and tasting rooms, as well as the campus of Lees-McRae College, are within easy walking distance.
Location is approximate. Exact location provided upon booking.
June 19-22, 2025
Boonerang is a multi-day music and arts festival held the third weekend of June in downtown Boone. This free festival showcases Boone-connected musicians and artists who boomerang back home to perform on multiple concert stages.
Primary concert venues are street stages on South Depot and North Depot street, a lawn stage at the Jones House and a side stage at Espresso News. Other highlights are local food and craft beer, a vendor market and a kids zone.
Happenings surrounding Boonerang include a dance lot, international fest, silent discos and performances at the Appalachian Theatre.
This ground-floor, corner condo in the Lodges at Elkmont features two king suites, an open great room, and kitchen and dining area in a floor plan designed for comfort and convenience.
Amenities include a stacked-stone, gas fireplace in the great room; large walk-in pantry; and spacious laundry room with full-size washer and dryer.
Outside, enjoy the spacious wraparound porch with patio furniture, long-range mountain views and easy walking distance to the community fire pit and picnic area. The Lodges at Elkmont are located around the corner from Banner Elk Winery and five minutes from downtown Banner Elk.
A seven-night minimum is required for all reservations in this condo. Pets not allowed.
Williams Deli & Bakery is a great lunchtime find in Banner Elk for sandwiches created with gourmet meats and artisan breads.
Choose from a wide selection of hot, cold and build-your-own sandwiches. Hot sandwiches include a mountain Cuban, ham & bacon melt, Carolina Italian and The Southern, made with pimento cheese, bacon, spinach, cucumbers and onions on sourdough bread.
The menu also features rotating soups of the day, such as butternut squash and tomato bisque.
Tasty selections from the bakery include everything from pies, pound cakes and cake pops, to cookies, muffins and bundt cakes.
Eat in or carry out. Deli meats are available by the pound.
Step inside Country Bumpkin Candles & Boutique to shop for locally made candles, as well as women's clothing and fashions.
In addition to Country Bumpkin's signature line of candles, shoppers can select from a variety of candles, soaps, wax melts, body scrubs and bath bombs.
Scents are meant to capture the essence of a small town, from the aroma of a local bakery to the scent of a country meadow. Popular scents include morning coffee, just peachy, lavender fields, clean laundry, small town and cool mountain air.
The shop also carries fun accessories for pets.
Memorial Day weekend, July Fourth weekend, Early August weekend, Labor Day weekendMay 24-25, July 5-6, Aug. 2-3 & Aug. 30-31, 2025
Four times each summer, the green at the Historic Banner Elk School comes to life with Art on the Greene, featuring quality, hand-made arts and crafts from select local and regional artisans.
The shows occur Memorial Day weekend, Fourth of July weekend, an early August weekend and Labor Day weekend. Festivities typically include food vendors and other entertainment.
Art on the Greene takes place in the heart of the walkabout village of Banner Elk, which allows patrons to make a day of it by visiting shops and boutiques in town and selecting from an impressive list of restaurants in the "culinary hot spot of the High Country."
Craft vendors represent a variety of media, such as metal, glass, ceramics, wood, watercolor, acrylics and oil. Attendees can find everything from hand-crafted furniture to a one-of-a-kind piece of art made in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Proceeds from the shows are used for restoration of the historic school, built in 1939 as a Works Progress Administration (WPA) project. The school is a showplace for the arts in downtown Banner Elk. It is home to the BE (Banner Elk) Artists Gallery, Ensemble Stage professional theater, a community book exchange and more.
"Art on the Greene is geared toward artists who are involved in any medium in the Appalachian tradition of hand crafters," says show director Nancy Owen. "We have metal artists, glass artists, potters, and high-quality jewelry from all types of makers. We have wood workers of all varieties from furniture to home decor wood items, as well as painters in a variety of mediums - watercolor, acrylic and oil."
Art on the Greene has no admission fee. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.
Special lodging packages are available that include two tickets to nearby Grandfather Mountain, one of the top attractions in the NC mountains. For details on lodging packages, click here.
For an upscale evening in Banner Elk, the French Quarter at the Bayou offers craft cocktails, tapas-style dining, mingling and dancing to a state-of-the-art sound system.
The French Quarter is located above Bayou Smokehouse & Grill and has a nightlife vibe that includes a cigar lounge.
The menu features items like New Orleans style barbecue shrimp, crab-stuffed mushrooms, lamb lollipops, char-grilled oysters and steak frites.
Days of operation are Wednesday through Sunday, with extended hours for late-night fun on Fridays and Saturdays.
North Carolina’s largest ski area is Sugar Mountain Resort with 125 acres of skiable terrain.
Skiers and snowboarders enjoy 20 trails and nine lifts, including a high-speed detachable six-person chairlift that is the fastest in North Carolina. Sugar Mountain’s peak elevation is 5,300 feet.
NC's Only Double Black Diamond
Ski Sugar boasts the only double-black-diamond slope in North Carolina, as well as the largest vertical drop (1,200 feet) in the state. Upper Flying Mile is an intermediate slope that connects with Lower Flying Mile for a total run of 1.5 miles long.
Recent updates to snowmaking equipment mean fluffy, white powder is now pumped more efficiently to all ski slopes. Fourteen of the 20 slopes are lighted for night skiing.
Snowboarders are welcome on all slopes, as well as the terrain park, which has a variety of features and is serviced by a handle tow.
Snow Tubing and Ice Skating
Other popular activities at Sugar Mountain Resort are ice skating and snow tubing. The skating rink and tubing park are located together in an area just below the ski lodge. That area has its own parking lot, which makes it easy to access for people coming to the resort solely to ice skate and/or snow tube.
Sugar Mountain's 10,000-square-foot outdoor ice-skating rink is the only one in the Banner Elk area. Ice skating sessions are 1.5 hours and take place multiple times each day. Skate rentals are included in the ticket price. Children ages 3-4 skate for free with a ticketed adult.
The snow tubing park at Sugar Mountain features 700-foot tubing lanes serviced by a Magic Carpet lift. The park includes excellent snowmaking equipment and lighting for tubing at night. Sessions are one hour and 45 minutes daily between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m.
A restaurant between the ice skating rink and snow tubing park is a great place to warm up and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate or a full meal.
Ski/Snowboard Lessons
Sugar Bear Ski School offers skiing lessons for ages 5-10, while the Polar Bear Snowboard School teaches snowboard lessons for ages 7-14. Individual and group ski and snowboard lessons are offered for all ages and ability levels.
Relax in the Ski Lodge
The ski lodge is home to a large cafeteria, the Last Run Lounge full-service bar and restaurant, and Sugar Mountain Sports Shop, which sells the finest in ski, snowboard and leisure apparel. Drop-off childcare is available seven days a week.
An online equipment rental system with touch-screen kiosks at the ski lodge streamlines the rental process for skis, boots, poles, snowboards, helmets and winter apparel.
Guided one-hour snowshoe tours lead participants through a winter wonderland along the edges of the ski area.
Insider tip: Grab big savings + more slope time with midweek visits
The typical ski season for Sugar Mountain runs from mid November to late March. For more information, visit www.SkiSugar.com.
Bayou Banner Elk, aka Bayou Smokehouse & Grill, offers a Texas-Louisiana inspired menu and a fun, laid-back atmosphere.
Popular items run the gamut from Texas-style smoked beef brisket to spicy Cajun shrimp gumbo. Cajun pastas are also available, along crawfish etouffee, red beans and rice, po' boys and 16-ounce house ribeye steaks.
Light and airy with beautiful views, this two-bedroom, two-bathroom condo feels happy and refreshing. This upstairs, round-house unit is tucked into the trees on a hillside, yet it's only steps from Banner Elk's charming downtown, with restaurants, shops, parks and the campus of Lees-McRae College. The wall of windows looks out upon the small town and Grandfather Mountain in the distance. The location puts you in between Sugar and Beech ski resorts.
The open floor plan allows for preparing meals in the blue-and-white kitchen, while interacting with other guests in the living and dining areas. A stackable washer-and-dryer is located in the unit. Each bedroom has a queen bed and an en-suite bathroom. One bathroom has a walk-in shower, and the other has a tub-shower combo. All furnishings and decor have a modern feel. The wooden balcony is a great place for taking in the views.
Location is approximate. Exact address provided upon booking.
Westglow Resort & Spa was founded on the idea of relaxation. Originally constructed in 1917, the estate was the summer retreat of artist and writer Elliott Daingerfield. In 1978, Glynda Valentine, a fitness and wellness pioneer, purchased the property for her private residence.
Now on the National Register of Historic Places and designated as one of 36 Relais & Châteaux properties in the country, Westglow is a world-class resort. Its location in Blowing Rock encourages guests to escape daily stresses and refresh the mind, body and spirit.
The Westglow Spa experience conforms to personal interests. For guests seeking exercise and activity, facilities include an indoor heated pool, cardiovascular room, weight room and tennis courts. Participate in cycle class, yoga, Tai Chi or a guided hike. Workshops and seminars teach techniques to manage stress and make healthy decisions.
For those looking to unwind and rejuvenate, the spa has a variety of treatments. Renew your skin with a facial and the help of a skin-care specialist. Choose from calming, resurfacing, anti-aging and hydrating options. An extensive massage menu offers deep tissue, aromatherapy, hot stones, essential oils and treatments especially for prenatal guests and couples. The signature Soul of the Rose treatment involves a loofah warming body wrap to exfoliate and cleanse the skin and a full-body massage.
Other techniques include Vichy rain therapy and acupuncture. The full-service salon pampers guests with hair styling, manicures, pedicures and waxing. Many treatments are available a la carte or as part of a day spa package. Westglow has a three-to-one ratio of staff members to guests and prides itself on customer service. Spa guests enjoy the dry sauna, multiple lounges and patios, a poolside cafe and a retail boutique.
More information is available at 800-562-0807 or www.westglowresortandspa.com.
Thursday evenings, mid-June thru mid-August
Concerts in the Park, sponsored by the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce, are a popular summer activity. Each Thursday, well-known local and regional bands perform live shows at Robbins Amphitheater at Tate-Evans Park.
The fun dance music — from Southern rock to oldies, '70s, '80s, soul, country and funk — is appropriate for all ages.
There is no charge for admission, and attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or a blanket to enjoy the music under the evening stars.
Food, beer and wine vendors set up on site. Small picnic coolers are allowed, and beverages should be in plastic cups.
Pets are not allowed in the amphitheater seating area. However, pets and owners often enjoy the music while sitting or picnicking in the adjacent park.
On show nights, the parking lot opens at 6 p.m. and music begins at 6:30 p.m.
2025 Concert Schedule
June 26 > Adam Church Band
July 3 > The Rewind: A Tribute to the 80s
July 10 > 70's Kids
July 17 > Funkupation
July 24 > The Johnson Brothers
Aug. 7 > The Collective
Aug. 14 > The Extraordinaires
For additional info about the concerts, click here.
The Town Tavern is a casual spot to enjoy a meal, hang out with friends and catch a game on TV. The downtown restaurant is a five-minute walk from the stoplight in Banner Elk, making it an easy gathering spot after a day spent shopping, hitting the slopes or hiking in the High Country.
Bone-in or boneless wings are a staple with 17 different flavors. Other pub fare includes a variety of salads, soups and dips; fries, tots and nachos; wraps, burgers and specialty sandwiches.
Beer aficionados can choose from tried-and-true domestics, as well craft selections from the NC High Country and beyond. The restaurant also has a full bar.
Town Tavern prioritizes the sports-viewing experience. Expect high-end audio-visual equipment, so you don't miss a minute of the action. If enjoying the scenery is more your style, choose to sit on the outdoor patio.
Visitors to the High Country have relied on Erick’s for all their entertaining needs since the late 1970s. The shop carries wines from major regions, along with selections from North Carolina vineyards, and is known for hosting wine & cheese tastings every Saturday.
The cheese selection comes from as close by as Ashe County and Virginia, and as far away as California, England, Holland, Denmark, Italy and France. The cheese tastes vary widely, too, from smooth and subtle to sharp and nutty.
Gifts, snacks, mixers and novelties fill every nook and cranny, so it’s a great place for vacation retail therapy or a last-minute family gift.
Grandfather Vineyard and Winery produces a variety of wines in a relaxing setting beside the Watauga River near the base of Grandfather Mountain. In fact, the property has a frame-worthy view of the profile that gives the peak its name.
The business is a family affair. Steve and Sally Tatum — who opened Tatum Galleries furniture in Banner Elk in 1978 — planted their first grapes in 2003. They completed the winery in 2011. Their son Dylan is the winemaker. He graduated from Surry Community College in Dobson with a degree in viticulture and enology. The vineyard grows vitis vinifera grapes, which thrive on the terraced land with warm days and cool nights.
Dry wines include: Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Rosé, Syrah, Pinot Noir and selected red and white blends.For those who enjoy sweeter wines, the winery uses North Carolina’s native muscadine grapes to produce sweet varieties. When the weather allows, the winery produces ice wine, made from grapes that freeze on the vine.
Grandfather also makes a hard cider that combines heirloom apples and Asian pears. After fermentation, the cider is dry hopped, a process often used in brewing beer.
The tasting room offers sampling flights. Visitors can purchase a glass or a bottle to enjoy inside or out on the patio. Adirondack chairs line the Watauga River that runs alongside the property. The winery doesn’t serve food, but guests are welcome to bring their own. Several spots are ideal for picnics.
Vineyard events include plein air painting, live music and trivia nights. Grandfather also welcomes weddings, parties and corporate events.
More information is available at 828-963-2400 or www.grandfathervineyard.com.
Make memories in the middle of it all at this chic three-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom townhouse. Take an easy stroll to the campus of Lees-McRae College and downtown Banner Elk's top-notch restaurants and shops.
Lilly's Mountain Escape is a corner unit with two wraparound decks that feature a hot tub and a gas grill. The three bedrooms all have king beds.
The master bedroom comes with a spa-like en suite bathroom with jetted tub and gas fireplace, fully surrounded by rockwork.
The other two bedrooms share a bathroom. An upscale kitchen has granite countertops, stainless-steel appliances, a wine bar area and adjacent laundry room.
Stonewalls, a cornerstone of the Banner Elk food scene, is the perfect blend of traditional and modern.
Stonewalls has served steaks and seafood since 1985, and has expanded the menu after a major renovation by owners Scott Garland and chef Tim Heschke. The updated restaurant features a chef-driven menu that blends new entrees and long-standing favorites, like the prime rib house specialty. The salad bar was retained by popular demand.
“We created an environment where our guests can depend on the classics but have the option to venture out with our specials and nightly feature,” says Garland. “Our nightly specials are where Tim really shines and gets to be creative.”
The wine and craft cocktail list is extensive, with offerings from across the globe. Atmosphere is upscale casual.
The Apple Hill Farm Outpost in downtown Banner Elk is an extension of the beloved on-site store at nearby Apple Hill Farm, a farm which raises alpacas, llamas, angora goats and other animals and is open to the public for guided tours.
The outpost presents shoppers with a wide range of alpaca fiber products — socks, scarves, hats, gloves, shawls and vests.
A Kid’s Corner features stuffed animals, engaging toys and hands-on crafts, while fiber enthusiasts should make sure to step into the Fiber Arts Room, bursting with alpaca yarns of many colors, along with high-quality knitting, crochet and needle felting supplies.
Not only does the outpost offer everything that visitors love about the Apple Hill Farm store, it carries a selection of gifts, local foods and other items not found at the farm store.
The most notable addition is the Marketplace, highlighting local agriculture. It features products from Ashe County Cheese, Liar’s Table, Old Beech Mountain Farms, Old Turnpike Farm, Shipley Farms Beef and others. Choose from a selection of ready-to-eat dips, heat-and-serve pies and specialty foods made right here in North Carolina.
July 4, 2025 @ 11:00 a.m.
The Star-Spangled Banner Elk Fourth of July celebration includes one of the most popular (and fun!) Fourth of July parades in North Carolina, followed by the annual Party in the Park and Duck Race.
The day begins at 11 a.m. with a procession that makes Uncle Sam proud, featuring star-spangled vehicles, people and animals parading down Main Street surrounded by huge crowds.
It is open to all and attracts everything from classic vehicles to drum and bugle corps, to an array of furry friends -- not to mention regular appearances by alpacas from nearby Apple Hill Farm. Most participants follow the time-honored tradition of tossing candy to spectators.
The Main Street parade starts at Lees-McRae College and ends in Tate-Evans Town Park, where the Party in the Park and Duck Race begin at approximately 12 noon.
The Party in the Park includes food vendors, old-fashioned games and inflatables. Try your luck in the famed duck race, with hundreds of rubber ducks floating toward the finish line. Proceeds from the Duck Race go to the local Kiwanis Club.
Elevate your July Fourth experience in the resort town of Banner Elk in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
This idyllic ice cream parlor located in the Village Shops in the heart of downtown Banner Elk serves scoops with a smile.
The toughest part is selecting from 20 flavors of ice cream, waffle and cake cones, milkshakes and root beer floats. Once the decision is made, enjoy your treat inside or outdoors on the patio. Pet pals dig the homemade doggy ice cream.
Also, keep an eye out for the mint green BE Scooped truck serving ice cream at concerts and festivals around the High Country.
Hot Toddy is a well-maintained, three-bedroom, two-bath cottage in Banner Elk just west of the downtown area.
This comfy getaway cottage is pet-friendly for up to two mature dogs and has a newly fenced-in yard that's perfect for four-legged family members.
Families enjoy staying at this vacation rental because it sleeps seven. On the main level are two queen bedrooms and two full baths. The primary bedroom has an attached bath, and the second bedroom has access to a bathroom in the hallway.
Upstairs is a bedroom with two twin beds and a twin trundle, which is great for kids. All three bedrooms have their own TV and window AC unit.
The house includes a dining room, remodeled kitchen, breakfast nook with coffee station, and a deck for relaxing outdoors.
Perched on a hillside above downtown Banner Elk, this vacation chalet offers great views of town and Grandfather Mountain.
Guests enjoy a light-filled, open-concept living and dining area, modern kitchen, two bedrooms with comfy bedding and a unique, sunken bathroom.
The private wrap-around balcony is ideal for relaxing and soaking in the fresh mountain air.
This tucked away, downstairs unit is accessed by two flights of exterior stairs and a short, rocky path. It's nestled on steep terrain, which may not be suitable for young children or those with mobility concerns.
Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster is North Carolina's first alpine roller coaster, providing thrilling outdoor adventure in Banner Elk.
Wilderness Run is built by Germany's top alpine coaster company and modeled after popular coasters in Europe. The track's length of 3,160 feet includes three circular loops, a series of waves and several twists and turns for plenty of excitement.
Guests navigate the track in individual carts that are designed to accommodate one adult or one adult and a small child.
Each ride begins with a cable-pulled ascent of 770 feet to the top. At that point, the alpine coaster differs from a roller coaster because the remainder of the ride is gravity-fed with the rider grasping two handles that serve as brakes. Riders can use as little or as much braking as they like.
The top speed is 27 miles per hour, and the average ride takes about five minutes.
"You're looping, dipping or turning. There is no point in the five minutes where you are just riding," says Eric Bechard, who co-owns the coaster with his wife, Tara. "It's very fast and a whole lot of fun."
The six-acre attraction is open year-round and includes a clubhouse, observation deck, gift shop, coffee shop and the Wilderness Run Adventure Course.
Watch a fun video of Wilderness Run on our video page!
Advance reservations are mandatory. This spreads out ridership and reduces wait times.
To schedule a reservation, click here. To learn more, visit the website or call 828-898-7866.
[Related Content: For more outdoor adventure, click here]
Practically everything you need in one location: two restaurants (the cafe and the lodge), an espresso bar, bakery, and smoothie bar. Also features a covered patio and outdoor patio.
Banner Elk Cafe serves breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week. Menu includes American, Italian, seafood and some of the best mountain trout in the High Country.
Take home a reminder of your visit to Banner Elk with a handcrafted, custom-built wood piece from Rustik by Underwood.
Rustik specializes in one-of-a-kind wooden creations designed to highlight the natural beauty of the wood. Options include tables, chairs, frames, candle holders, signs, desks, chandeliers and sculptures.
Not just a home furnishings store, Rustik is a gallery of artistic works. Be sure to check out the "petting zoo," a collection of animal sculptures carved with amazing detail.
Step inside Humpback Mountain with a guided tour through Linville Caverns. The active caverns reveal stalactite and stalagmite formations — points hanging from the ceiling or rising from the floor formed by the minerals in dripping water.
The caverns were first discovered in the early 1800s when fishermen from eastern North Carolina spotted trout that appeared to be swimming in and out of a rock. Their investigation led them to the caverns and an underground stream.
Linville Caverns opened to the public as an attraction in 1937. Since then, the pathways have been upgraded and lighting has improved to make the cavern experience safe and enjoyable. Even during the heat of a Southern summer or the chill of a mountain winter, the caverns maintain a comfortable 52 degrees year-round.
Tour guides lead visitors into the caverns and explain their history. You can still see trout and other wildlife, such as bats, that call the caverns home. Much of the cavern tour is wheelchair accessible. Flash photography and videography (without an external light) are permitted. The tours last about 35 minutes. A gift shop and restrooms are located on site.
Linville Caverns are open daily March through November, and open Saturday and Sunday December through February.
Lost Province Brewing Co. is located in downtown Boone in a historic building that once served as an automobile showroom and later as the offices of a local newspaper.
Owners Lynne and Andy Mason have an interesting story. She is a long-time member of Boone Town Council, while Andy left a career as a forensic scientist to become the head brewer, aka Dr. Beer.
The brewery's name is derived from the moniker given to the NC High Country region in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The area around Boone, West Jefferson and Banner Elk was known as the Lost Province because of its geographical isolation from the rest of the state of North Carolina.
Lost Province typically has about 10-12 beers on tap with seasonal rotations. The Lost Province American IPA is a staple, along with two New England IPAs. German style pilsners and American and Mexican style lagers are also quite popular, as are experimental batches using such ingredients as honey and raspberry.
The brewery earned two gold medals in the 2025 US Open Beer Championships. It took top honors in the Strong Scottish Ale category with its Hammer Throw ale, and also won top honors in the Coffee Beer Light category with its Cowboy Coffee brew.
In addition to beer, Lost Province offers a menu of savory wood-fired fare made in a large copper oven. Live music is a regular feature.
The inn features condo-style suites in both one and two bedrooms, as well as one studio style suite. The suites are spacious, homey and comfortable. Amenities include: wood-burning fireplaces, Jacuzzi tubs, full kitchens and dining areas.
Staying at Little Main Street offers the privacy and personal accommodations of a small resort hotel, along with the charm and feel of a bed-and-breakfast inn.
All this is located just a half-mile east of Banner Elk’s only traffic light. Convenient to town, ski slopes and more.
Contact Little Main Street Inn & Suites at the links above, or call: 828-898-6109
Other lodging options in Banner Elk are available here.
**Notice: Due to flooding damage from Hurricane Helene, most of Tate-Evans Park is closed and will remain closed through 2025. The Banner Elk Greenway is open within the park, but users must stay on the trail at all times. The playgrounds, dog park, lawn areas and picnic shelters are damaged and closed.*Good news: The park's amphitheater will be open in the summer of 2025 for Concerts in the Park. And, an alternative for walkers is the newly formed Banner Elk Mile.
Tate-Evans Park is a multi-activity park that encompasses several acres in the heart of Banner Elk.
One of the park's most popular attractions is the Banner Elk Greenway, a 1.1 mile paved trail that loops through the park and extends into town.
The park is home to two playgrounds, one for smaller children, and Fort VonCanon for older, more active children. There are also wading pools, a volleyball court, picnic tables and a covered picnic shelter.
Restroom facilities are available from April though September.
The park's amphitheater hosts a Summer Concert Series each Thursday night beginning in June. Other festivities include the Party in the Park, which is part of the Star Spangled Banner Elk Fourth of July, and train rides and visits with Santa during A Small Town Christmas.
July 10-13, 2025
Experience a wee bit of Scotland in the High Country of Western North Carolina.
The Grandfather Mountain Highland Games and Gathering of the Scottish Clans, founded in 1956, are considered the grandest Scottish-themed games in America. The mission is to foster interest in traditional dancing, piping, drumming, athletic achievement, music and Gaelic culture, and establish scholarship funds to help local students study at American colleges and universities.
The spectacular scenery in MacRae Meadows at the base of historic Grandfather Mountain provides an ideal setting. The games include brawny athletes, delicate dancers, rousing bagpipe parades, rockin' Celtic music and plenty of kilts. Visit the heritage tent to research your family tree and then head to the merchant tents to find your family tartan.
The Grandfather Mountain Highland Games provide four memorable days of Scottish heritage in North Carolina's High Country.
The Lodge at Banner Elk, formerly the Best Western Mountain Lodge, is a 100-room hotel featuring a mountain motif and lots of amenities.
Guests enjoy updated rooms, seasonal outdoor heated pool, picnic area with gas grills and a deck, 37” flat screen televisions with HBO, meeting facilities, mountain views and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi.
The Lodge at Banner Elk is the only pet-friendly hotel in the Banner Elk area. A hot breakfast is included each morning and a two-room jacuzzi suite is available.
The hotel offers discount packages that include tickets to Grandfather Mountain or Ensemble Stage theater. Tickets also available for Tweetsie Railroad.
Ask the staff about arranging fly fishing guide service or a fly fishing lesson.
Hardin Fine Jewelry eliminates the intimidating stereotype often associated with jewelry stores. Set in a charming cabin-like building with big windows and lots of natural light, Hardin’s salespeople welcome visitors with big smiles and warm hospitality.
The eclectic selection features one-of-a-kind pieces from artisans all over the world. From bold pink, green and blue gemstones to elegant diamonds and pearls, Hardin’s stocks a variety of jewelry to suit any occasion.
This store is a great option for a dazzling gemstone for that special someone, or if you just feel like indulging in a bit of retail therapy.
Maynard Rocks IV in the Elk Creek development is a two-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home. The property overlooks Banner Creek and is central to downtown Banner Elk. It is convenient to skiing at both Beech and Sugar mountain resorts, as well as outdoor exploration at Grandfather Mountain.
The 2018 construction is a two-story, cedar-sided mountain home with lots of natural light and upscale furnishings. The double-story, covered side porch has upstairs and ground-floor access. The outdoor dining area has a gas grill, bistro lights, dining table, live-edge wooden bar and heater for chilly nights. Down by the creek is a fire pit with Adirondack chairs.
Two upstairs king suites have luxury bathrooms attached. The first suite has a cozy reading area with seating for two. A murphy bed downstairs easily accommodates children or additional guests. An open-concept living room connects with the impressive kitchen area, complete with granite countertops, a gas range, generous island space for food prep, and a built-in island sink.
Just a short drive from Banner Elk is one of the best waterfalls in the NC mountains. Elk River Falls, also known as Big Falls, features large volumes of water dropping 50 feet over a rock cliff into a picturesque oval pool. The waterfall was closed for a time due to Hurricane Helene, but is open to the public again.
The hike to the waterfall is on an easy-to-follow trail, but there are many rocks and roots along the way. It is about a third of a mile to get to the bottom of the waterfall (0.6 miles roundtrip).
The falls can be viewed from an area near the top of the falls (never venture too close at this vantage point) or it can be viewed by hiking down the trail to a large rock beside a pool at the bottom of the falls.
Visitors are warned not to swim in the pool because the large volume of water creates an undertow current that pulls everything to the bottom of the pool.
[Related content: For more outdoor adventure in Banner Elk, click here][Did you know? Banner Elk is home to NC's first alpine coaster: Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster]
Bella's is a friendly, cozy cafe serving made-from-scratch breakfasts, along with Angus beef burgers and grilled sandwiches for lunch, six days a week in the heart of Banner Elk.
Breakfast at Bella's includes egg platters, biscuits and gravy, breakfast burritos, steak and eggs, avocado toast, signature omelettes and a quiche of the day. The breakfast menu also features Belgian waffles, pancake stacks and a cinnamon swirl French toast.
Some noted items on lunch menu include: 8-ounce Angus beef burgers, club sandwiches, tuna melts, Reuben sandwiches, Nathan's foot-long hot dogs and tater tots.
Dine-in or takeout available.
The Spa at Crestwood is located on the property of The Inn at Crestwood, which is centrally located between Banner Elk, Boone and Blowing Rock. Its large windows provide forest views and enhance the rejuvenation process. The sunroom is an ideal spot for lounging in robes and slippers.
The spa is open to the general public by purchasing a day pass or spa treatment. Features include a lap pool and fitness center. The lap pool is three-and-a-half feet deep and a comfortable temperature for exercise.
Treatments are generally available in increments of 30, 60 and 90 minutes. Massages come in all varieties. The signature Crestwood option is a Swedish-style massage designed to relieve stress and muscle tension. Other specialties include deep tissue, aromatherapy, hot stone and prenatal. Couples’ massages are also available.
Facials are another popular treatment, with features such as certified-organic ingredients, arm scrub, foot massage, deep pore cleansing, enzyme exfoliation, botanical masks and moisturizers. The gentlemen’s facial is designed exclusively for men. For those who want the total experience, sampler packages pair a Swedish massage with a facial.
Reservations are recommended for treatments. More information is available at 877-836-5046 or www.crestwoodnc.com.
Always the third weekend in October
Oct. 18-19, 2025
Since 1978, this quirky, world-famous woolly worm racing festival has been used to predict the upcoming winter weather for the North Carolina High Country.
According to legend, the 13 bands on the woolly worm (woolly bear caterpillar) represent the 13 weeks of winter. Brown bands indicate a mild week, black bands indicate a cold, snowy week. Since every woolly worm has different colors, the Woolly Worm festival holds races to determine which worm is used to make the forecast.
Saturday's winning worm receives $1,000 and the honor of predicting the upcoming winter. Races continue on Sunday, with that day's winner receiving $500.
[Related content: Year-round things to do in Banner Elk]
The Woolly Worm Festival also includes about 175 craft vendors, food, live entertainment, and games. This two-day family event annually draws more than 20,000 attendees and takes place during the traditional peak weekend for autumn leaf viewing in Banner Elk and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
For lodging options that are either within walking distance or a short drive of the festival, visit our lodging page by clicking here.
In addition to checking out our lodging page and local attractions page, you can learn more about the festivities by visiting the festival website.
Enjoy professional theater in the mountains with Ensemble Stage, a local theater troupe known for high-quality performances with a robust year-round schedule of events.
Ensemble Stage is based at the Historic Banner Elk School, where it entertains audiences with such notable titles as: "It's A Wonderful Life," "The Star Spangled Girl," "Robin Hood," "Dracula" and "Treasure Island." Theater packages, which include a night's lodging and two show tickets, are available by clicking here.
The troupe was founded in 2009 in Blowing Rock to provide visitors and residents of the High Country with a broad range of live theatrical presentations, while inspiring a greater participation in the arts. Ensemble Stage moved to Banner Elk in 2017 to offer year-round theater and provide a better atmosphere for patrons and actors.
Patrons enjoy seeing shows at the historic stone school built in the 1930s. The school is also home to the Banner Elk Artists Gallery showcasing hand-crafted works from local artists.
Ensemble Stage has converted the school's auditorium into an intimate 99-seat theater that provides every attendee with a great vantage point.
To buy tickets, or to get a listing of current performances, click here.
Appalachian State University’s world-class visual arts center occupies a unique location in the heart of downtown Boone, yet within the physical boundaries of the campus. This makes it easily accessible by visitors and students alike.
The Turchin Center is the largest of its kind in Western North Carolina. Its exhibitions focus on a blend of new and historically-important artwork and feature the work of nationally and internationally renowned artists, as well as many of the region’s finest artists.
However, the center is not devoted solely to the viewing of art. It has multi-faceted programs to give it a dynamic, living, breathing presence in the Appalachian community. The goal is to create opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to experience the power and excitement of the visual arts.
The center’s urban location places it at the crossroads between campus and community. The building is designed to visually and physically make the arts more accessible to the community, and to serve as a gateway to the greater campus beyond the center.
A pedestrian gateway features several areas for public sculpture, including the Kay Borkowski Sculpture Garden. Visitors are able to walk through the gardens and access nearby Valborg Theatre, the Belk Library and Information Commons, and the University Bookstore.
Admission is free. For more information, call 828-262-3017 or visit https://tcva.org/
Owned and operated by Lees-McRae College, Wildcat Lake is a premier attraction in Banner Elk. The 13-acre lake includes a white sand beach, designated swimming area and fishing dock.
Many people say Wildcat Lake reminds them of an old-fashioned swimming hole, and it draws thousands of visitors each summer.
The most popular activities at Wildcat Lake are swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and paddling. Lifeguards are on duty during summer hours.
People may bring their own canoes, kayaks and paddle boards, or rent them on site. Motorized boats or vessels of any kind are prohibited.
The North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission stocks the lake with bluegill, largemouth bass, and three varieties of trout. Fishing is open seven days a week from dawn to dusk, and North Carolina state fishing licenses are required for those wishing to fish.
An adjacent park (Tufts Memorial Park) has a playground and picnic areas. Four pavilions with tables are available to rent for $50 a day. Alcoholic beverages and pets are prohibited.
The park is open seven days a week, weather permitting. The lake is open for swimming from Memorial Day to Labor Day, with professional lifeguards provided by the Williams YMCA of Avery County on duty.
Reservations for use of the pavilions are necessary and can be made by emailing: wildcatlake@lmc.edu
For hours and more info about Wildcat Lake, click here[Related content: For other outdoor fun in Banner Elk, click here]
BJ's Resort Wear is one of those pleasant little discoveries in ladies' shopping: a high-end boutique with unique fashion finds. Owner Sally Breslauer opened the shop in 1978 and customers have relied on her keen eye for fashion ever since.
The shop is known for quality garments and personal attention. Breslauer regularly travels to New York to purchase the finest in ready-to-wear ladies’ attire including Bogner, Basler and Belford brands, along with jewelry accessories.
BJ’s hosts regular trunk shows from June through September.
Sky Valley is a treetop zip-line adventure. Located between Boone and Blowing Rock, the property covers more than 140 acres of old-grown forest. The course includes 10 zip lines, as well as a swinging bridge over a 35-foot waterfall and a cliff jump.
The journey starts with an ATV ride through the river and up the mountain. “Ground School” is an informational session before the zip-line tour where rangers explain the equipment, give zipping instructions and allow participants to train on practice lines. Two rangers accompany each tour group.
The first three zips are warm-ups. Then comes Big Mama, a 1,600-foot zip line that’s 300 feet above the ground. That single zip takes about 40 seconds, and riders reach speeds of more than 30 miles per hour. The scenery is the star for the entire tour. Riders zip over and through trees while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Sky Valley is appropriate for beginners and experienced zip-liners. The tours are great outings for families, groups of friends or company retreats. Kids must be 10 years old to participate, and riders must weigh between 70 and 250 pounds. Those younger than 18 must have the signature of a parent or guardian. The tour takes about two-and-a-half to three hours to complete.
A photographer accompanies each tour to capture memorable moments. Closed-toe shoes are required. Tours run rain or shine, so rain jackets are recommended. It’s chillier in the High Country than at lower elevations, so participants should dress in layers.
Sky Valley often partners with other area attractions, such as breweries and river outfitters, so keep an eye out for packages. Advance reservations are encouraged.
Music at FORUM is a curated series of concerts held each summer at Lees-McRae College. It was founded in 1979 by a group of residents to enhance the cultural arts experience in Banner Elk.
This eight-week series brings acclaimed national entertainment to Hayes Auditorium at Lees-McRae College, highlighted by several tribute artists performing the works of the greatest musicians and singer-songwriters.
A typical season includes music from many genres across different eras. Enjoy the great American songbook, the golden age of rock and roll, classic pop and an annual performance by a symphony orchestra.
Each week features a different act playing two shows, back to back, on a Monday evening at Hayes Auditorium. Each show is ticketed separately.
For tickets, a schedule of events or more information, call 828-898-8748 or click here.
