In Boone, otherwise known as the “Heart of the High Country,” the shared identity revolves around two things: the area’s natural beauty and Appalachian State University.
You can’t miss
Book a room at Rhode’s Motor Lodge, a renovated mid-century motel that opened in October 2023.
Lace up your hiking boots or sneakers — Boone has numerous trails for all activity levels.
Browse the antique stores, art galleries, and boutiques on King Street in downtown Boone.
Indulge in a fresh pastry (or two) from Stick Boy Bread Co., and follow it up with a cold drink from Appalachian Mountain Brewery.
Plan your trip during the summer, fall, or winter, as there’s technically no bad time to visit Boone.
Best Hotels and Resorts
Rhode’s Motor Lodge
Rhode’s Motor Lodge serves as the perfect base camp for a weekend adventure in Boone. From Loden Hospitality — the team behind The Longleaf Hotel in Raleigh — the property is thoughtful and well-appointed, providing guests with a comfortable place to return after a day of hiking or exploring. Named after the rhododendrons that bloom in the mountains, it’s also home to Canteen, a restaurant that currently serves weekend brunch and dinner to both guests and visitors.
Horton Hotel
The building itself was once a Studebaker dealership, but today, it houses 15 uniquely decorated guest rooms (a few of which are dog-friendly).
The Mast Farm Inn
If you want something a little more remote, consider The Mast Farm Inn, a historic homestead in nearby Valle Crucis. Solo travelers or those traveling in a pair can opt for a room in the farmhouse, but some of the cabins can sleep up to six guests.
Best Things to Do
Explore Daniel Boone Park.
To be in the thick of Boone activity, head to Daniel Boone Park, a 36.5-acre space used for education, recreation, and historical purposes.
Float the New River.
Cool off on a hot summer day by getting out on the New River with Wahoo’s Adventures.
Bring the whole family to Tweetsie Railroad.
Go for a hike in the mountains.
You can’t come to Boone without exploring the mountains on foot.
Grab a drink at a local brewery.
Once you’ve completed your hike, it’s time to reward yourself with a locally brewed craft beer and above-average bar food. You have a few options in Boone, including Appalachian Mountain Brewery, Lost Province Brewing Co., and Booneshine Brewing Co.
Best Time to Visit
Summer and fall tend to reign supreme as the best times to visit Boone, but winter refuses to be overlooked.
How to Get There
Tri-Cities Airport (TRI) in Blountville, Tennessee — which is served by Allegiant Air, American Airlines, and Delta Air Lines — is the closest major airport to Boone, but you’ll need to rent a car and drive the remaining 68 miles. Other airport options include Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO), which are 95 and 108 miles from Boone, respectively.
How to Get Around
Like most towns in Western North Carolina, Boone is a destination best experienced with a car, especially if you plan on exploring the surrounding mountains. If you’re staying downtown, however, you can plan to walk.
