Deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains, switchbacks snaking to town in all directions, Boone feels like a high-elevation hideaway. Marrying cozy Appalachian vibes with sophisticated, high-country living—think: vineyards, ski slopes, and 5-star bistros—you’ll find a million things to do in Boone, a small-town hotspot. Take a scenic drive along the Linn Cove Viaduct, cross the swinging bridge at Grandfather Mountain, and be back in Boone’s bustling downtown by nightfall for sudsy pints, plates of Southern fare, and that classic Carolina hospitality.
While there’s no bad time to stay and play in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone’s claim-to-fame is autumn. At 3,333 feet in elevation, Boone explodes into a rolling quilt of reds, gold, oranges, and copper when peak leaf season hits. The colors usually arrive around late October or early November. Enjoy it from one of the many state parks or natural areas, like Grandfather Mountain, from the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, or from an outdoor patio off Hwy 421.
You could manage a trip to Boone without a car. There’s a shuttle from Charlotte’s airport as well as a bus service, and the town is compact, wedged into a mountain valley (and ride-sharing services are accessible). This mountain enclave’s spirit is built into its winding roads, and to see all the area has to offer—hiking trails and vineyards to museums and art galleries—you’ll want four wheels. The more scenic drives you take in Boone, the better.
You have choices when it comes to relaxing and recharging with a good meal in Boone. Around tiny Howard Street, you’ll find a handful of Boone stand-outs, like CoBo Sushi, Cafe Portofino, and Black Cat Burrito. Once you tire of all the hot spots on the main drag, low-key Blowing Rock Road (with spots including Stick Boy Bread Company, Red Onion Cafe), is another go-to hangout.
