Where to Stay, Sip and Play in Boone and Blowing Rock

Stay, sip and play in the heart of High Country

The warm weather is waning, the foliage is falling and the High Country hills are calling. What better way to satisfy the craving for fresh air and elevated experiences than a breather in Boone? 

Nestled in the storied Blue Ridge Mountains—part of the second-oldest mountain range on Earth—the college town serves high-altitude adventure, local flavors and culture galore (think App State, Eric Church roots and Rainbow Kitten Surprise), all just a three-hour-ish drive west. 

Just one glance at the majestic mountain views and vibrant leaves, coupled with a taste of the cool mountain air, and you’ll see why the “Boonerang Effect” is real—making it an instant fave season after season. Here’s where to get high on the High Country. 

DO

King Street
It’s your Grandma’s main street—in the best way. Live like a king amid the historic charm of Boone’s downtown district, where you can stock up on gear before an outdoor excursion at the Mast General Store (or just satisfy your sweet tooth at the candy barrels) or spruce up your home with collectibles like vintage Pyrex dishes and furniture from Appalachian Antique Mall. downtownboonenc.com

Mile High Swinging Bridge 
It’s time to tick off your bucket list and finally join the Mile High Club. Atop a scenic route through the Blue Ridge Mountains hangs America’s highest suspension footbridge, leveling out exactly a mile above sea level. Ooh and ahh at the mountain views, or embark on the trailheads near the bridge. And listen in: Swing turns to sing as the bridge hums like a harmonica when the wind blows. grandfather.com

Appalachian State University Nature Preserve
Tap into your inner Daniel Boone on a hike through the largest contiguous forested area in town, slithering with native creepy crawlies, invasive plants and two spring-fed creeks—all preserved as an outdoor classroom and playroom. appstate.edu 

EAT

Come Back Shack
Born in Boone and bred to reach farther corners of the South, the family-owned burger joint is often the first op for locals to tote their out-of-town friends. The straightforward menu boasting honest ingredients (no freezers here!) also serves up chicken sammies, loaded fries and handspun milkshakes—think flavors like sweet cream, Nutella and coffee. Trust—you’ll be coming back. comebackshack.com

Dan’l Boone Inn 
Taste the memory of your Grammy’s country cuisine at this homecooked High Country eatery with a half-century of history, good eats and even better times under its belt. From fried chicken and country-style steak to buttermilk pancakes and grits, tucking into a meal here—paired with a stroll through the historic halls—is a standard on any visit to Boone. danlbooneinn.com

Stick Boy Bread Co. 
Sticky sitches are nowhere to be found when a fresh loaf of naturally fermented Carolina sourdough is in hand. The standout bakery staff pours their heart, soul and time into the likes of blueberry sourdough and chocolate chip brioche, plus sandwiches, pastries and desserts sure to leave you yearning for more. stickboybread.com

DRINK

Town Tavern
Fun fact: Before making it big, country music star Luke Combs played these hallowed halls during his time at App State. The sports bar, eatery and live music joint still serves as the ideal hub for locals and visitors alike looking to crack open a “long-neck ice cold beer” and catch a game or acoustic set. towntavernbr.com

Grandfather Vineyard & Winery
Like the wisdom of your grandfather, this picturesque hillside winery is rooted in tradition, from the rows of lush grapevines to the care taken and techniques applied to creating unique blends—perfect for sipping on the patio with a locally made charcuterie board under the sweet shadows of the Blue Ridge Mountains. grandfathervineyard.com 

Appalachian Mountain Brewery 
When in Appalachia—do as the Appalachians do: Drink beer. And what better place for a round or two than this local mainstay, what with its airy interior, ample green space and plenty of laidback-lively vibes to boot. While beer and cider take the spotlight, a crafty mix of sours, seltzers and mead are also on tap—all but certain to turn anyone into a certified beer guy or gal. amb.beer 

STAY

Chetola Resort
Dolly Parton said it best: My mountains, my home. Settle in at this sprawling 75-acre mountain haven serving lake views, boating, fitness classes, a tranquil spa, and Orvis-endorsed fly-fishing trips. In short, it’s a rural yet sophisticated retreat thoughtfully curated for deeper connection with nature. chetola.com

The Horton Hotel
Here, historic charm meets modern flair. Equal parts stylish and cozy, the inn’s two buildings outfitted with wood furnishings, a rooftop bar, and a gym and sauna embody the rustic feel of the High Country without bashing the comfort and convenience you yearn for on a getaway. thehorton.com 

Rhode’s Motor Lodge
Camping—but make it a motor lodge… and one of the “coolest new hotels in America” per the likes of Travel + Leisure and Garden & Gun—to name but a couple of accolades. The drive-up motor inn-meets boutique stay invites you to set life on rewind sans the sacrifice of comfort. To wit, all rooms face the Southern sky and mountains, and rustic vibes mingle with modern amenities with rooms outfitted for road trip warriors, casual mosiers and family ramblers alike. Hey, all roads lead here for a reason. rhodesmotorlodge.com