Boone is a vibrant college town that's ideal for a weekend escape. It is located in western North Carolina, high in the Blue Ridge Mountains, about two hours from Asheville, and close to the Tennessee border. It's the kind of laid-back location where you can enjoy live music while sipping a local craft beer and taking in the panoramic views of the mountains in the area. In Boone, North Carolina, there are so many things to do that choosing what to do first can be difficult.
Even if you've had your fill, there are plenty of outdoor activities in the area. The area is full of rivers that are crystal clear and great for kayaking and whitewater rafting, and the rocky terrain makes you want to put on your hiking boots and hit the trails. A short drive from town, you can find three separate locations where you may soar above the forest on zip lines, which are also very popular in this area.
If all of that sounds nice to you, check out our list to see what else Boone has to offer!
Things to do in Boone, North Carolina
The town is known for its university and beautiful surroundings, but it also has a very interesting history. Daniel Boone, a famous explorer, is thought to have given the name Boone because he camped within what would later become the city's borders. The play "The Horn in the West," which is put on every year, is a tribute to him and his amazing life in the community. The history of the British colonization of the region is brought to life through this outdoor reenactment of historical events. Daniel Boone, of course, makes an appearance!
Even if you aren't visiting for the town festival, there are plenty of things to do in Boone, North Carolina, all year.
1. Hickory Ridge Living History Museum
If you know where to look, remnants of the Cherokee and early explorers like Daniel Boone's presence in the North Carolina mountains can still be felt today. The Hickory Ridge Living History Museum is proud of its role in "keeping yesterday for tomorrow" and offers visitors the chance to experience life here in the 1700s, when the United States was just coming into being.
The Tatum Cabin, which was built in the late 18th century, the Coffey House, which was built in the early 19th century, and a WPA cabin, which was built during the Great Depression, are all among the six original cabins that are spread out across the large grounds. Each cabin is decorated with antiques and artifacts from that time period. Volunteers in period garb who work at the museum are happy to provide you with information on the history of the cabins. They will also show how important it was for settlers to be able to do things like spin, weave, make candles, make baskets, blacksmith, and throw a tomahawk. It's a good idea to double-check their schedule on their website before going if you intend to attend in the spring or late fall.
2. The Native Gardens of Daniel Boone
The Hickory Ridge History Museum is just near the Daniel Boone Native Gardens. The three-acre gardens have a large collection of uncommon native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers that bloom all year.
Visit the bog garden, fern garden, rhododendron garden, a serene arbor covered in vines, the rock wishing wall, or the Squire Boone log cabin that is situated next to a picturesque pond while you are there. The grand wrought-iron gate that marks the entrance to the gardens is thought to have been constructed by Daniel Bonne's ancestors.
The gardens create a space for botanists to grow rare plant species while also protecting the local flora.
3. The Jones House Cultural & Community Center
Built-in 1908 as a family home, the Jones House Cultural and Community Center is now home to a museum and gallery with displays about the history of Boone. Furthermore, it hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year. The community center has created a walking tour that will take you past many of the city's historical structures, monuments, and cultural places.
It feels like the early 20th century when you enter this store. The Mast General Store, also known as the Old Boone Mercantile, has pretty much anything you could want to buy while you're there, from upscale sweets to outdoor gear. It's enjoyable to explore the area and take in all that is on display there. While you're there, be careful to observe the store's tiny design elements, which serve as a reminder of the complex history of the structure.
5. Appalachian Mountain Brewing Company
Beer is often found in college towns, and since 2013, the Appalachian Mountain Brewery has been making craft beer with a southern twist for eager customers. Located in the center of Downtown Boone, their pub offers a delectable selection of beer and cider on tap as well as food options from a nearby food truck. Given how great the cuisine is, make sure to arrive hungry.
The service is excellent, the beer variety is amazing, and there is frequently live music to add to the cozy ambiance. Just a word of caution: you might end up wanting to stay longer than you anticipated or returning each night of your stay!
6. The University of Appalachian
Nearly 20,000 students attend Appalachian State University, which is close to the city center. In 1899, the university opened as a college for teachers. Since then, it has grown to offer more than 150 undergraduate programs and 70 graduate programs. In 1971, Appalachian State University formally merged with the University of North Carolina system.
Visitors are free to explore the campus on their own or take one of the student-led tours. On-campus cultural attractions are some of the best in the country; therefore, we highly suggest checking them out. You can make a reservation at one of the best hotels near Appalachian State University in Boone.
7. Turchin Center for the Visual Arts
The Turchin Center for the Visual Arts is on campus. It has seven galleries where modern works of art by local, regional, national, and international artists are shown in both permanent and changing exhibitions. The building also has art classes, workshops, and talks for kids and adults, as well as a few special events here and there all year long. If you wish to get out of the cool mountain air for a moment, this is the ideal place to spend the day. Entry is based on voluntary payment.
8. Rosen Outdoor Sculpture Exhibition
This interesting show has both the 11 winners of the Rosen Outdoor Sculpture Competition and Display and 40 permanent sculptures. The Rosen Outdoor Sculpture Competition and Display was judged by people from all over the country. It was part of the Appalachian Summer Festival. Pick up a map of the sculptures at the Turchin Center or download one from the Rosen Sculpture website to make sure you don't miss anything.
The African American Mennonite community of Junaluska Village, which has lived there since before the Civil War, is situated in the hills to the north of Appalachian State University. There were only two black men in the original community. During the 19th century, many free, enslaved, and immigrant Africans moved there because they were forced to leave Boone because of segregation. Today, many members of the community may trace their ancestry to these pioneers.
The Boone Mennonite Brethren Church, which is surrounded by only a few houses, is the center of the hamlet. Despite being small, the region is historically significant. The Junaluska Heritage Association, which was set up in 2011 to help keep Junaluska's history and identity alive, has done a lot of work to help people learn interesting things about the area. Before you visit, be sure to look at their website for more details.
Checking out the Greenway Trail is one of the best ways to appreciate Boone's natural beauty. Through a variety of environments, including rolling meadows and lush woodlands, this greenway connects one side of the city to the other as it meanders along the New River. The trail is mainly flat and filled with early Daniel Boone historical monuments, making it a wonderful activity for families. The Watauga County Recreation Complex or the close-by Clawson Burnley Park are two convenient entry points to the route in Downtown Boone. You can easily find hotels in Downtown Boone, NC. Choose Country Inn Suites Boone, NC for better comfort and relaxation.
