The mountains of Boone have long been a refuge for Charlotteans itching to get out of town for a day trip or a long weekend. We all know things look different as North Carolina communities continue to recover after Hurricane Helene.

"While our community retains the familiar warmth and spirit you may have experienced previously, some areas are still in the process of recovery," said Explore Boone, the town's tourism bureau.

As Boone continues to reopen, we’re sharing a guide to hitting the road to the "Heart of the High Country," plus a few resources to follow ahead of your trip.

📍 Essential info

Drive time: ~2 hours
Year town was established: 1872
Est. population: 19,000

A highlight for Grandfather Mountain visitors is the Mile-High Swinging Bridge. | Photo via Wikimedia Commons

🎟️ Experience

Grandfather Mountain
Get a taste of adventure by trekking the highest peak on the eastern escarpment of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Downtown Boone
Immerse yourself with southern charm and history by touring dozens of local shops and restaurants.

Mast General Store
Since 1883, this general store provides a step back through time while touring a huge selection of antique goods, food, apparel, and outdoor gear.

App State Football
Be part of one of the most loyal fanbases in college football by spending Saturdays rooting for the Mountaineers.

Horse and carriage ride
Enjoy a leisurely (and retro) ride through Blowing Rock’s Moses H. Cone Park at single-horsepower.

You won't leave Betty's Biscuits hungry. | Photo via Betty's Biscuits

🍔 Eat

Sunrise Grill
This family-run spot offers a classic American breakfast, from pancakes to biscuits and gravy.

Betty's Biscuits
Feast your eyes (and stomachs) on delicious Southern cooking, from the "butterbuster" to the hot chicken plate.

The Local
This upscale-casual restaurant and bar serves mouth-watering wood-fired pizza and morphs into a late-night club on weekends.

Coyote Kitchen & Lost Province Taproom
This local favorite has served Southwest and Caribbean soul food since 2003.

The Pedalin' Pig
This casual hangout offers BBQ platters, tacos, and sandwiches + is a perfect spot to watch sports.

Chetola Resort & Spa is a world-class, full service resort, found in walking distance of the village of Blowing Rock. | Photo via Wikimedia Commons

🏨 Stay

Chetola Resort
Found in nearby Blowing Rock, prepare for a luxury experience. This four-star hotel offers first-class dining, spa treatments, fishing and kayaking, and an outdoor reserve.

The Horton Hotel & Rooftop
Spend a night in one of 15 uniquely decorated guest rooms in the heart of downtown Boone + savor a drink on the rooftop lounge.

Graystone Lodge, Ascend Hotel Collection
This 101-room boutique hotel is nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Banner Elk Winery & Villa
Located in nearby Banner Elk, stay in a suite or villa astride some amazing wineries.

Wooded Wanderlust Cabin
Found about 20 minutes from downtown Boone, this quaint getaway offers ample outdoor porch space and mountain views, perfect for a couples' or friends' getaway.

📝 Know before you go

Before you hit the road, we recommend confirming all of your plans + following these accounts for the latest news, opening announcements, and ways you can support the Boone community.

AVLtoday | Just like you lean on Editor Maria at home, our colleague Grace will help you find the best spots in Asheville.

Explore Boone | The town's tourism bureau is updating its site daily to provide accurate information on getting there, openings, and closures.

DriveNC.gov | Visitors are encouraged to stay on primary routes and follow posted advisories to ensure a smooth and safe trip. Many secondary roads are still undergoing repairs.

🚗 Cruise

No matter where the highway takes you, our road trip must-haves will ease your journey as you make your way to your destination.

With more than 23,000 location-based audio stories, Autio’s Unlimited Plan: Lifetime Subscription is your perfect companion, offering mini podcasts about the history, culture, and geology of areas you drive through.
You’ll stay fully charged up and connected with this 4-in-1 retractable car charger that has iPhone compatibility and secure plug-in capability.
Rock a comfortable sweatshirt and pants set for the road featuring a cozy elastic waistband and side-seamed pockets to store your valuables.
Keep your tailbone supported during lengthy drives with a thick memory foam cushion that is machine washable and gives complete postural support.
Avoid getting stranded with a dead battery by packing this portable car jump starter that gives up to 50 jumps in a single charge — no flagging down a stranger needed.
Easy to clean and leak-proof, this collapsible car trash can gives you 2 gallons of storage capacity to keep your vehicle free from clutter.