Looking for your next weekend getaway? There's no shortage of incredible places to explore right here in our state, so every Friday this month, we’re highlighting one destination that deserves a spot on your itinerary in our Next Stop: NC series. This week, we're taking the hour-long drive to Nebo.

What to do

For us, the main attraction is the inaugural WNC Renaissance Faire, happening this Labor Day Weekend from Friday, Sept. 4 through Sunday, Sept. 6. Expect jousting, archery, artisan vendors, period costumes, and plenty of turkey legs as the fair transforms the foothills into a medieval village.

Travel back from the Middle Ages to spend the day paddling or swimming at Lake James State Park, hike to sweeping mountain views on the Fonta Flora State Trail, or rent a boat and make the lake your home base for the afternoon.

See Linville Gorge from Fonta Flora's stunning farmhouse brewery. | Photo via Burke County Tourism

Where to eat

Hearty, southern breakfast classics are on the menu at Elliot's Diner. For a scenic waterfront lunch, grab some sandwiches and a shady spot at the Bear Creek Marina. And for a casual dinner, grab some pizza and beers from Fonta Flora Brewery's Whippoorwill Farm location.

Where to stay

Nebo is only about an hour from Asheville, making it the perfect day trip, but if you want to really revel in the tktk, there are plenty of cozy cabins right along the shore of Lake James.

This highly-rated home sleeps six, and this newly renovated apartment is great for smaller groups.