Located only 13 miles from Hemlock Hill Cabin, Boone, NC is a vibrant mountain town with an active spirit, offering a perfect mix of natural splendor, outdoor adventure and community. At 3,333 feet elevation, Boone is the highest county seat in the eastern US and home to Appalachian State University. The town is named after Daniel Boone, the famous frontiersman who frequented this pass by Howards Knob. This is an outdoor lover’s paradise, surrounded by landscapes that change with the seasons. Rachel grew up in Boone and still enjoys visiting her mother’s porch taking in views of her hometown and Grandfather Mountain in the distance.
Boone is the hub to the smaller communities in the High Country, including Blowing Rock, Valle Crucis, Banner Elk and Linville.
At the heart of Downtown Boone, King Street is a lively, walkable area filled with unique shops, local galleries, restaurants, and craft breweries.
Here are some of our favorites:
Just 8-miles from the original Mast Store in Valle Crucis, the Boone location opened in 1988 and is still one of the most popular locations today. At this outfitters and general store, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time with creaky wooden floors and an original staircase dating back to the 1920s. Don’t forget to check out the Candy Barrel for the sweet tooth.
Common Good
A beautiful, brightly light store where you’ll find unique local art and handmade goods, including home decor, baby items, and clothing, plus an espresso bar.
Footsloggers: Serving the High Country since 1971, Footsloggers Outdoor and Travel Outfitters is the best resource for outdoor and travel gear. Check out their climbing wall.
Appalachian State Apparel shops: Appalachian State University (App State) has a few places along King Street where you can pick up university gear, clothing, and various supplies.
Boone, NC, has a vibrant and diverse food scene that caters to a variety of tastes, from casual bites to more upscale dining experiences.
Vidalia: A great place to enjoy North Carolina cuisine with locally sourced ingredients in a casual, upscale space right on King Street.
Wild Craft Eatery: Highlighting diverse flavors with wholesome and fresh ingredients sourced from local farmers. They’re proud to only use styrofoam-free, plastic-free and biodegradable products for all of our take out dishes.
Lost Province: Craft beer pairs with wood-fired pizzas & seasonal fare in a hip space offering frequent live music.
The Local: Upscale-casual New American eatery was designed to be a place where friends and family could come to have fun. Stick around because they have a bar that morphs into a late-night DJ club scene on weekends
Melanie’s Food Fantasy: Fresh fruits, farm-raised eggs, local produce, organic coffee, made to order juice, all come together for your dining pleasure. You won’t find a lot of pretense or fuss about our food, but what you’ll taste is simply delicious, especially for breakfast.
The Horton Rooftop Bar: The best sunset cocktails are found at The Horton roof deck with vistas of the town and the surrounding ridgelines.
Downtown Boone has a lively event calendar throughout the year.
App State Football: The Appalachian State Mountaineers have built a strong football program, known for their passionate fanbase, memorable games, and successful seasons. Kid Brewer stadium, also known as The Rock, is the homefield and walking distance to downtown Boone.
Boonerang Music Festival: Started in 2022, this multi-day, free music and arts festival in downtown Boone has become incredibly popular between locals and visitors alike. The festival includes numerous concert stages, local food and beer, artisan market, children activities, silent discos, and afterparties. This year’s event is on June 19-22.
Appalachian Theater: In the heart of King Street this restored independent, non-profit theatre featuring live performances, movies, and other events.
Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts: Located on Appalachian State University’s campus, this performing arts center features year-round, including an annual series of performances called ‘An Appalachian Summer’. This event features showcasing an eclectic mix of music, dance, theatre, visual arts and film programming.
Beyond its downtown charm, the town of Boone has some must-visit locations include:
Boone Greenway Trail: This scenic and family-friendly trail offers an easy and relaxing way to explore Boone’s natural beauty. The well-maintained pathway winds along the South Fork of the New River, providing a peaceful environment for walking, biking, and even birdwatching. Perfect for a morning stroll or an afternoon picnic, the Boone Greenway Trail is an excellent option for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors without strenuous hiking.
Howard Knob Park: Rising high above Downtown Boone, Howard Knob Park offers one of the most stunning panoramic views in the High Country. A short, but steep, drive up the mountain leads to a small park where visitors can soak in the breathtaking sights of Boone and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s an ideal spot for photography, a quiet escape, or simply admiring the vast landscape of Western North Carolina.
Daniel Boone Native Gardens: A peaceful retreat in the heart of Boone, the Daniel Boone Native Gardens showcase a beautiful collection of native Appalachian plant species. Visitors can wander through winding pathways, admire seasonal floral displays, and learn about the region’s rich botanical diversity. These gardens provide a lovely escape from the busy downtown. They are perfect for gardening enthusiasts and those looking for a quiet place to unwind.
Boone offers countless ways to connect with nature. You can hike, bike, or simply enjoy the crisp mountain air.
After an exciting day exploring Boone, return to the comfort of Hemlock Hill Cabin, a luxury retreat nestled in Blowing Rock. Offering spacious accommodations, modern amenities, and a peaceful setting, it’s the perfect place to unwind, recharge, and plan your next adventure.
With its unique mix of shopping, dining, and outdoor activities, Downtown Boone is the perfect addition to your High Country getaway. If you’re here for a weekend escape or a more extended stay, this charming town has something for everyone. What’s the first thing you’ll explore in Boone?
