Including scenic views, outdoor fun, and small-town spots not to miss.
Banner Elk
Courtesy Todd Bush
Mountain getaways are often best when big-city activities accompany the small-town feel.
Such is the case with Banner Elkdon’t let the fact that it has one stoplight deceive you.
Credit:Peter Frank Edwards
The newly renovatedRhodes Inn Motor Lodgewill set the tone with its cozy rooms and retro-modern charm.
Vintage lovers will enjoy perusing the many antique shops and vintage clothing stores.
Visitors can also hike, visit the farmers market, go antique shopping, and savor the local cuisine.
Credit:Courtesy Todd Bush
Local farms provide seasonal you-pick events where you might collect apples, lavender, and strawberries to take home.
There’s also a local playhouse with Broadway-style shows and a pedestrian-friendly downtown.
Theirlive webcamalso gives a peek into daily life in Brevard.
A scenic riverfront detour on The Greenway Trail.Credit:Cameron Reynolds
Highlands
When you hear “highlands,” your thoughts may go to the Scottish mountains.
The town also has many eco-friendly initiatives, including its Tree Walk, which showcases over 50 species.
Of special interest are the community’s many equine-related events.
Whitewater Falls.Credit:Getty Images/Dennis Govani
With brick sidewalks and boutiques housed in historic buildings, this town provides a true glimpse into the past.
Natural areas like hiking trails and rushing waterfalls also satiate the appetite of outdoor lovers who visit.
The walkable downtown houses artisan shops and culinary delights set against historic buildings.
Credit:Courtesy Visit NC; Photo by Ryan Donnell
Beverage connoisseurs will enjoy locally produced spirits, ciders, and beers on tap.
Shoppers will also delight in the local boutiques, galleries, and antique shops.
If you enjoy water activities, plan to boat onFontana Lakeor raft down the Nantahala River.
Credit:Courtesy Visit NC; Photo by Jared Kay
It is also handicap accessible so that all family members can enjoy the scenery.
Morganton focuses on the arts with live shows, creative artists, and cultural events at the helm.
Looking Glass Rock.Credit:Sean Pavone/Getty Images
Highlands, North Carolina.Credit: WerksMedia/Getty Images
Credit:Courtesy Visit NC; Photo by C2 Photography
Credit:Courtesy Visit NC; Photo by Jared Kay
Credit:Getty Images/zimmytws
Credit:Courtesy Visit NC; Photo by Kate Warren
Boutique in Blowing Rock, North Carolina.Credit: Robbie Caponetto
Burke County Courthouse In Morganton, North Carolina.Credit:Getty Images/traveler1116
