The old brick buildings have been restored in a thriving downtown that offers all the amenities you could need. 12 of the Best Towns and Cities Near Smoky Mountains National Park 14. You can turn in a circle to see the mountains. You can take a side-trip to the not-mountain town of Charlotte and learn about its history at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. ), these are the best mountain towns in America. If youve heard the saying From Murphy to Manteo, then you might already know that the former is the western end of US-64 in North Carolina. Properties are provided courtesy of Highlands-Cashiers Board of REALTORS. The various festivals and several golf courses is what residents have come to love about Sapphire Valley along with the peaceful scenery that attracts many to the area. You might say its a Foothills or Piedmont town, but well argue otherwise. 22 BEST Small Towns In North Carolina - Lost In The Carolinas You're 20 minutes away from Raleigh, 20 minutes away from Durham, and 10 minutes away from Cary. 2. Not to be outshone by the National Park, Bryson City manages to be an experience all its own! Hope you get to see them sometime! Right next door to the happening city of Asheville, Weaverville has become its own desirable destination. Weve created many more NC travel guides that include these mountain towns in more detail. (NC), Hanging Rock State Park Ultimate Travel Guide, 10 BEST Things to do in Waynesville (North Carolina), 15 Amazing Things to Do in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. "version": "7.4.0", The Valdese Recreation Department oversees five parks in the area but we think you must visit McGalliard Falls. Its all here and Landmark Realty can help find your dream North Carolina mountain home. Black Mountain has a little bit of something for everyone. For example, here are some facts about Crestline in the San Bernardino Mountains: Population: 10,770. If you are looking for easy access to the Smoky Mountains, it doesn't . A significant number of people living in Cali go to a higher altitude. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s){if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function(){n.callMethod? The history of Cashiers showcases the rich heritage of several buildings circa 1800s that have been restored overtime and are still in use today. text-decoration: underline } Be sure to stop by the scenic Lake Sequoyah and of course, the many natural wonders that surround Highlands. Each of our 12 Best Small Mountain Towns around Asheville has its own great Visitor's Center where you can plan your day. 15 Cutest Small Towns In North Carolina (Mountains, Beaches, And More Banner Elk is a very interesting town with quaint little stores, wineries, and restaurants! Let us know what piques your interest or just tell us what your dream home looks like in your vision. Its also home to New River Brewing for the finest craft beer and pub grub. One of the best small towns near Asheville - well, technically a village with a population under 3,400 people as of 2020 - Flat Rock is home to history, apples, and hiking. You can enjoy an array of eateries, breweries, boutiques, and galleries on Main Street, and the historic buildings add an additional old-school charm. Grand Highlands encompasses 300 acres of woodlands and meadows. Morganton is charming town in the foothills surrounded by beautiful scenery and outdoor adventure opportunities. Access to Roan Mountain goes through Bakersville and you can also enjoy the Toe Rivers waters here. Black Mountain. Some describe the area like a country-club environment within a short drive of other amenities like shopping and dining. Just a few miles from Sylva (see below) is Dillsboro, an artist community that is one of the coolest North Carolina mountain towns. 5 Pinehurst at No. Of course, we cant forget about the famous Christmas Fraser Firs youll see around Ashe County. All of these mountain towns in NC possess something unique, which is why we cant choose our favorite. You can view Fontana Lake in Graham County, too, though another spot is near Bryson Citys Road to Nowhere. A perfect getaway in an idyllic private setting welcomes all to the tranquil Lake Toxaway. Best Places to Live in North Carolina in 2022-2023 - U.S. News & World While much of the Blue Ridge Parkway closes during inclement winter weather, Otter Falls near Boone is a beautiful hike, especially if theres snow down there! #right-sidebar { There are many magnificent properties to select as a summer vacation home or a cozy winter getaway for the holidays to relax and recharge. Affordable Mountain Towns for Retirement - WTOP News Hi Marguerite, the goats are at the Carl Sandburg home in Flat Rock. America's 50 Best Small Towns in the Mountains | Far & Wide Skiing in North Carolina: With elevations that exceed 5,000 feet and extensive snowmaking equipment, the mountains of North Carolina offer excellent opportunities for skiing. 12 Best Small Towns in North Carolina for Southern Hospitality - Travel All this wonderful scenery might be a reason why many movies, including The Fugitive and Nell, were filmed in the area. Be sure to spot their most famous residents as well, the thriving population of White Squirrels. .ai-viewports {--ai: 1;} WRITER: WNC Staff PHOTOGRAPHER: WNC Staff ILLUSTRATOR: WNC Staff Written by Jonathan Ammons, Jon Elliston, Tim W. Jackson, Randy Johnson & Melissa Reardon Sometimes, smaller is better. While in the area, dont miss out on Apple Hill Farm, an ethical and working alpaca farm! This quaint mountain village at 3,700 feet elevation has great restaurants, breweries, shops, Wildcat Lake beach, and many events including the Woolly Worm Festival in October. Listing information last updated on March 4th, 2023 at 4:24am EST. Its a small town that harkens back to simpler times with vintage signs and brick buildings. Sylva is a special little destination of the North Carolina mountain towns that makes for a romantic trip in the state. 9. Can some one tell me where the goats are in the Flat Rock picture? Brevard has a pleasant feel about it. 4. ), and one of our favorite North Carolina distilleries (Oak & Grist). 15 Best North Carolina Mountain Towns You Must Visit Black Mountain features quaint shops, impressive restaurants (including Phils Bar-B-Que Pit! Its easy to relocate to North Carolina and youll be convinced of that after talking to our. The university, one of the more popular ones in the North Carolina system, has brought more and more young people to the area, so there's always something cultural to do on the weekends. Whether drawn to the fresh mountain air, top dining, award-winning art galleries and unique shopping boutiques all and more can be found in the mountains of North Carolina. Browse the bustling Main Street; brick sidewalks dotted with historic homes and many storefronts ideal for a day of shopping until you drop. If you want to immerse yourself further in the scenery, take a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway or head over to Linville Falls, about 30 minutes away. Set in the Blue Ridge Mountains, on the doorstep of great hiking trails, scenic drives, and spectacular waterfalls, the location is hard to beat. Hendersonville Main Street, Hendersonville | Photo Copyright: Lana Law Asheville may be the best-known destination in the mountains of North Carolina, but Hendersonville is a wonderful small-town alternative. We receive compensation if you make a purchase, but it won't cost you anything extra. If youve heard of the Ashe County Cheese Factory, then you already know why West Jefferson is on this list. Mountain town named top place for retirees in North Carolina For a tasty and unique treat any time, stop in at the Toasted and Rolled Ice Cream and Bakery, where you can watch your custom ice-cream creation being made right in front of you. Tryons reputation as an equestrian haven and arts enclave is revered. Just outside the town, you can find the famous Grandfather Mountain and its Mile High Swinging Bridge. For rare historical mountain artifacts, check out Swain County Heritage Museum. We mentioned Valdese earlier and thought you should know about this truly interesting place. In 2020, we decided to share more about our home in the Carolinas. Its truly a unique experience. } For example, its right on the outskirts of Pisgah National Forest and very close to Mount Mitchell (the tallest mountain east of the Mississippi). Bakersville is the Mitchell County seat and one of many arts-heavy communities in the area. 1 Sylva. Just outside of Hendersonville is the North Carolina mountain town of Flat Rock. Known as the moonshine capital of the world, this foothills haven is spirited in more ways than one. Boone is a no-brainer when it comes to top mountain towns in North Carolina, as this lively university town is close to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Blowing Rock's downtown has the look and feel of a true mountain town, with a mix of restored historic buildings and modern structures designed to fit in with the town's village atmosphere. } Appalachian Ski Resort is just minutes away and is a top destination for snowboarders and young skiers. This is the highest town in elevation in all of the east. Top 9 Mountain Towns to Live in Tennessee - ezhomesearch.com We have been writing about travel for the last decade. The Tuskegee River runs right through town, offering ample opportunity for tubing, rafting, and paddleboarding. Burnsville offers an authentic small-town experience, with a cute downtown area, where you can find shops, restaurants, and galleries lining the town square. Dillsboro is one of the coolest mountain towns to discover. Wilmington was also founded in the first half of the 18th century by colonists, so it has a number of historical buildings. 2023 Compare Cities : Black Mountain, NC vs Elizabethtown, NC For local beer and live music, hit Nantahala Brewing, one of the best breweries in North Carolina, before enjoying some amazing Bryson City restaurants. Mica Gallery is one of a few spaces that showcase local artists from here and surrounding counties. They have a tiny population of residents but a vast number of visitors each year. Youll encounter galleries galore downtown, among specialty shops, fine fares, and craft beverages. It's an outstanding alternative for those . The 10 Best Places To Live In North Carolina For 2022 - HomeSnacks 1. Be sure to check out the historic courthouse and the wonderfully restored mansion that now houses Morganton Savings Bank. The downtown area has many restored buildings and interesting shops, and you'll have no trouble finding a place for lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants. On the edge of the town is Soco Falls. With only about 500 people living here, its main draw is the eponymous natural thermal mineral baths. Some of North Carolina's mountain towns are highly seasonal, with major attractions open only during the summer months, but a few, particularly those near the ski resorts, lend themselves more towards winter visits. The outskirts of Highlands are known for spectacular waterfalls, but the downtown of Highlands is equally beautiful! Did you know North Carolinas Beech Mountain is the highest town in the Eastern United States? Spread over 78 acres but within walking distance of downtown Blowing Rock, this resort offers three lodging choices to suit everyone, from couples to families. Real Estate Rankings Best Places to Live Best Places to Retire Rankings Category Population Size X-Large 2.5M+ Large 1M - 2.5M Medium 500K - 1M Small 50K - 500K Average Rent < $500 -. This is an isolated outpost at a high elevation and a hidden gem of the high country. 30+ of the Best North Carolina Mountain Towns to Visit Now! - NC Tripping The tallest dam in the Eastern US, Fontana Dam, is one of the more popular spots in Graham County, too. According to Trico Long Distance Movers, the best place to live in the mountains in the United States is Telluride in Colorado. There are museums, an arts center, a variety of shops, and over 30 restaurants, all quite impressive for their small stature. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Bryson City. You can tour exciting educational museums and villages and browse many locally hand-made arts and crafts. Access to enjoy kayaking, canoeing, waterskiing or just spending a day out on the boat is what most love about Lake Glenville. max-width: calc(100% - 320px); 80+ Great Small Towns in North Carolina (+ Top 10 Best) - NC Tripping Its been a retreat for tourists since the 1890s and continues to be as refreshingly retro as ever. It's also the apple capital of North Carolina and one of the largest apple-producing counties in America. text-decoration: none My favorite is Flat Rock because I am a resident. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Morganton. ), 25+ Beautiful North Carolina Road Trips (Scenic Byways and Highways), Max Patch Trail (A Short Hike to Beautiful 360-Degree Views! The Ramble Biltmore Forest, Asheville. Copyright 2023 PlanetWare Inc. All rights reserved. Read More: How to Find 20+ Haywood County Artists on Blue Ridge Craft Trails. The thriving healthcare sector will give you access to all the medical resources you might need. The Ashe County Cheese factory and store are two great places to visit in West Jefferson, one of the cutest mountain towns in NC! The town is named after an old train stop, being located at the southern edge of the Black Mountain Range within the Blue Ridge Mountains. Climb to the top of Mount Jefferson to take in the views overlooking the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway. .ai-viewport-0 { display: none !important;} There are also plenty of Blowing Rock Restaurants to grab a bite to eat at! The North Carolina mountains are renowned for offering up a charming slice of small-town life and local culture, including everything from moonshine and bluegrass music to country cooking and . In summer, you might want to head to the coast to experience the best beaches in North Carolina or have some fun in the Outer Banks. Ranging in size and shape, North Carolina mountain towns come packed with unique attractions and wait with warm, welcoming smiles. We enjoyed renting a cabin house with our grandson & children, the young children walking in the New River & my husband & I kayking. Stay at the historic Green Park Inn or luxurious Chetola Resort, but make sure you stop by the oldest attraction in North CarolinaThe Blowing Rock. For a traditional lodge experience, stay at the Chetola Lodge looking out over Chetola Lake. Its original town limits are now a historic district where tourists can visit historical homes. Spruce Pine is about 15 minutes away from Little Switzerland and is full of fun to explore. There are a plethora of charming small towns nestled among the majestic Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains of western North Carolina. The Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster is a newer attraction nearby, sure to provide you with a year-round thrill! North Carolina: Live Skycams as severe weather moves in The national park on the Tennessee and North Carolina border is the most popular in the country, so picking the right place to stay in the Smokies can mean the difference between traffic and bright lights or the sounds of birds chirping and streams rushing. Downtown, youll find vintage motels, lots of motorcyclists, and the best pancakes of your life at Joeys Pancake House! It's a hot spot for mountain biking, mountain climbing, hiking, and waterfall chasing. As a university town, the population reaches heights of around 20,000. Here are a few of them. There is a happening scene of Boone breweries and Boone bistros to indulge in and an overarching focus on sustainability. For more ideas, see our list of the Top Attractions in North Carolina. The 15 Best North Carolina Mountain Towns to Visit .rll-youtube-player, [data-lazy-src]{display:none !important;}. Lake Glenville Lake Glenville is hidden away in the mountains of western North Carolina, surrounded by hiking trails that wind through natural mountain beauty to waterfalls. Sitting on the North Carolina-Tennessee border, right before the Tuckasegee River runs right, Bryson City is definitely one of our favorite North Carolina mountain towns! Best Towns to Live in the Smoky Mountains - MountainJobs.com Read More: How to See the EPIC Rainbow Falls. 5. Tryon International Equestrian Center is a world-class facility for horse racing and riding. Set on a high plateau, some of its surrounding peaks boast breathtaking views. Livability Asheville, NC Read the Magazine. This stunning area is home to nearly 520,000 acres of forested mountains. Its a town with a rich cultural heritage and an amazing area to learn more about these native peoples. As such, it offers an amazing assortment of natural feats to discover. text-decoration: underline Thanks for commenting. Enjoy creekside beers at BearWaters Brewing, dance at Stompin Ground, and zoom through the iconic Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum. Please visit our Disclosure and Privacy Policy pages for further explanation. 2. These affordable towns could be your next home or vacation home! The mountains of North Carolina are dotted with quaint towns but it seems that Highlands gets much of the acclaim. Read More: National Parks Sites in North Carolina. Whether Cashiers is the ideal location or an elegant private estate on the shores of Lake Toxaway beacons, contact any of our Landmark real estate brokers to help you explore the area and find your next North Carolina dream home. One of the largest North Carolina mountain towns on this list, we absolutely love all the fun things to do in Hendersonville. /***Mediavine Sidebar Fix***/ Best Places to Live Near the Mountains - Extra Space Storage Asheville, NC Bend, OR Boise, ID Denver, CO Flagstaff, AZ Salt Lake City, UT South Lake Tahoe, CA Tacoma, WA Asheville, NC Photo via @jared_kay Population: 87,531 Home Price: $212,000 median purchase price; $910 median monthly rent Crime Rate: Safer than 3% of U.S. cities From the mountains to the coast, North Carolina's charming cities and stunning natural areas lure visitors and residents from around the world. The 3,800-acre development has nearly half the land set aside in conservation areas including lakes, waterfalls, woodlands and hiking trails. Boone is a haven of natural wonders offering an, Warren LeMay from Cincinnati, OH, United States, click for interactive map of the Best North Carolina Mountain Towns, 15 Best Bryson City Restaurants You Need to Try! That last part is why Wilkes County is also home to the first-ever NASCAR track. Read More About Our Journey! The busy Main Street is lined with covered sidewalks, and is an ideal place for a bit of retail therapy.
Cashiers is in the heart of the Nantahala National Forest and provides a front row view to the spectacular annual fall foliage. While there's a bit of a dispute that we won't get into, Old Fort's Gold Festival typically kicks off each June. Read More: Max Patch Trail (A Short Hike to Beautiful 360-Degree Views!). The town is home to the Great Smokey Mountains Railroad, a popular sightseeing excursion that has several different routes, the most popular is the Nantahala Gorge return trip. Alabama's quintessential mountain town is Mentone, which is set atop Lookout Mountain and filled with charming spots, including the Wildflower Caf, Mentone Log Cabin Village, and Mentone Arts and Cultural Center. Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, Bryson City is well-known for hiking and river recreation. Similar lists have been published by other websites, including this one that also includes Boone, Brevard, and Morganton. With Pendleton School of Craft nearby, theres also a thriving community for local art and handicrafts here. Its one of many falls along the famed Waterfall Byway. Its downtown is packed with shops and restaurants galore (Old World Baking Company for starters), but theres also some outdoor fun to find here. Disclaimer: This site uses demographic data, email opt-ins, display advertising, and affiliate links. The Wilkes Art Gallery is one of many reasons to visit NW, along with a variety of events happening throughout each year there. Read More: The Best Black Mountains Hikes near Burnsville. Residents enjoy natural settings with a wellness center with a pool and tennis court, parks, playgrounds, trails, outdoor/indoor gathering spaces for community . Cities across North Carolina round out the top 10, including several in the western part of the state: Hickory at No. Address: Pinehurst, NC, USA Address: Davidson, NC, USA Address: Winterville, NC, USA Address: Trent Woods, NC 28562, USA Address: Apex, NC, USA Address: Cary, NC, USA Address: Black Mountain, NC 28711, USA Address: Valdese, NC, USA At 90-feet high, Pearsons Falls is an exciting natural attraction. Once a mining hub has now become a top vacation destination as part of the Plateau region of western North Carolina.