best nc mountain towns to live
We are surrounded by wonderful small towns throughout North Carolina (especially historic ones! This gives the area a hip youthfulness that many find appealing. Read More: The North Carolina Bucket List. Downtown, youll find vintage motels, lots of motorcyclists, and the best pancakes of your life at Joeys Pancake House! Set on the edge of the Yadkin Valley, there are also an array of award-winning wineries nearby. Table Rock Mountain is one of the best hikes around. Once a mining hub has now become a top vacation destination as part of the Plateau region of western North Carolina. Old Fort is set at the foot of the Black Mountains and surrounded by Pisgah National Forest. You can visually plan your adventures around these NC mountain towns with our travel map or keep reading our individual spotlights on these places. The South's Best Mountain Towns 2022 - Southern Living Thanks for commenting. See our article on the Best Ski Resorts in North Carolina for ideas to help plan your ski vacation. Let us know what piques your interest or just tell us what your dream home looks like in your vision. The Museum of NC Handicrafts offers distinctive displays of work by a range of North Carolina artists. This is the best of the North Carolina mountain towns to soak all your worries away. Valdese was settled by 19th-century Waldensians from Italy, giving it a unique identity apart from its neighbors. Read More: The Best NC Blue Ridge Parkway Hikes. Lovely homes line the slopes overlooking ravines, making this one of the prettiest towns in this area of the Blue Ridge Mountains. 6. Retail shops and restaurants can be found on Sylva's Main Street. Read More: 20+ Amazing Things to Do in Maggie Valley. text-decoration: none At an elevation of 3,500, the town is surrounded by mountain peaks of 5,000 feet or more and is within close proximity to a number of natural resources to enjoy. Summer is the real draw, when the surrounding mountains turn a blissful green and offer up a wealth of natural treasures. Each village brings its own delightful draws and unique allure. Boone Boone boasts a vibrant and active outdoor adventure scene. Sylva is a special little destination of the North Carolina mountain towns that makes for a romantic trip in the state. Market Square, is a popular tourist stop that is impossible to miss as you drive through town. Historic Biltmore Estate is one of the. It is easily one of the best mountain towns in North Carolina and is less than an hour away from Winston Salem, making it a fabulous day trip. Upon graduation, she met her partner, Cameron, and they traveled the world together crossing 85 countries and six continents. The Murphy River Walk is an idyllic stroll around the scenic town. Its easy to relocate to North Carolina and youll be convinced of that after talking to our. The relatively low elevation, 1,991 feet, means it's warmer here in spring, which can be a real advantage. Copyright 2023 PlanetWare Inc. All rights reserved. Morganton is one of the easternmost North Carolina mountain towns well mention. Residents enjoy natural settings with a wellness center with a pool and tennis court, parks, playgrounds, trails, outdoor/indoor gathering spaces for community . Lake Glenville has the distinction of being the lake with the highest elevation east of the Mississippi River. IDX information is provided exclusively for consumers' personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Stay at the historic Green Park Inn or luxurious Chetola Resort, but make sure you stop by the oldest attraction in North CarolinaThe Blowing Rock. Designed by the same landscape architect responsible for the grounds at the Biltmore Estate, the North Carolina Arboretum, located just outside downtown Asheville, offers 426 acres of groomed gardens and lush trails. You'll find the Great Smoky Mountains on the Eastern side of Tennessee. Every time we visit, we dream of our next home on a hillside in the High Country! Best Places to Live in Black Mountain, North Carolina 17 Best Towns in Western North Carolina (in 2023) Between the Great Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains, visitors will find charming downtowns with local shops and restaurants as well as cozy inns and cabins. It's an outstanding alternative for those . Accommodation: Where to Stay in Maggie Valley. Visit Tour Wheels Through Time for a unique display of classic cars and motorcycles. This is the best of the North Carolina mountain towns to soak all your worries away. Skiing in North Carolina: With elevations that exceed 5,000 feet and extensive snowmaking equipment, the mountains of North Carolina offer excellent opportunities for skiing. 3 Brevard at No. Sylva is one of the most interesting and quaint NC mountain towns youll find. Just recently voted in the top 10 places to retire in North Carolina, Black Mountain is nearby Asheville and has a tiny population of just under 8,000 residents. Its proximity to many NC ski resorts makes it especially alluring for the winter seasons as well. Hendersonville hosts the annual NC Apple Festival. 11 Most Beautiful Mountain Towns in North Carolina - Trips To Discover These studios open twice a year for Weaverville Art Safari, for which art lovers and makers alike travel from all over to be a part of. Greenville, South Carolina From fine dining and shopping to live music and festivals, downtown Greenville has it all. 10 Best Rural Towns To Live In North Carolina - OnlyInYourState You can track severe weather with us by checking out these WXII . Burnsville is an authentic mountain experience with an artistic flair. The busy Main Street is lined with covered sidewalks, and is an ideal place for a bit of retail therapy. We dont want to leave out North Wilkesboro, the countys largest town, before moving on. height: 100%; document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Welcome to the Carolinas, as seen through the eyes of Cameron Seagle and Natasha Alden. If youve heard the saying From Murphy to Manteo, then you might already know that the former is the western end of US-64 in North Carolina. Several Western NC towns made the list, including Fletcher (#3), Woodfin (#12), and Black Mountain (#20). the inspiration for Mayberry in The Andy Griffith Show, is a time capsule of midcentury small-town America. Land of Oz (held in September) is one of many great reasons to come here with its warmer outside. The old-fashioned charm of Maggie Valley is a refreshing escape to a slowed-down era of simplicity. If you prefer to spend your day being pampered, there are some excellent spas in the area. text-decoration: none Some describe the area like a country-club environment within a short drive of other amenities like shopping and dining. Old Fort is another of our North Carolina small towns off I-40, best known for gold and Catawba Falls. The town's lovely architecture and historic buildings set it apart from others in the area. The town itself is nice for a stroll from the county courthouse. North Conway, New Hampshire. It is a small community of approximately 2,500 people, and the main industries in this area are skiing and tourism. The 10 Best Places To Live In North Carolina For 2022 - HomeSnacks Let us know in the comments section, as always. Among the top contenders is the beloved Sliding Rock. Its main attractions, including the darling historic downtown, the . Right next door to the happening city of Asheville, Weaverville has become its own desirable destination. The majestic peaks of the Blue Ridge Parkway, charming towns offering luxurious properties with panoramic beauty are just a few of the reasons that many seek out the best place to live in the North Carolina mountains. Its downtown is home to nice shops, a cozy atmosphere, and great restaurants. This area is considered to be one . Best non-touristy mountain & coastal towns in North Carolina On the edge of the town is Soco Falls. We mentioned Valdese earlier and thought you should know about this truly interesting place. } 1 Sylva. Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, Bryson City is well-known for hiking and river recreation. Youll enjoy walking on its brick sidewalks while admiring the towns historic buildings. Its downtown is packed with shops and restaurants galore (Old World Baking Company for starters), but theres also some outdoor fun to find here. Facebook. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s){if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function(){n.callMethod? The national park on the Tennessee and North Carolina border is the most popular in the country, so picking the right place to stay in the Smokies can mean the difference between traffic and bright lights or the sounds of birds chirping and streams rushing. jQuery && jQuery( function( $ ) { It has just enough diversity within its quaint downtown to attract plenty of visitors, from eclectic eateries to art studios to specialty shops. Grandfather Vineyard is one of many nice spots along the water. Known as the apple capital of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hendersonville is a great central stop for all the scenery of the area. In early September, the Morganton Festival is a huge event with big name bands, celebrations, games, and arts and crafts vendors set up in the streets. Cashiers is the gateway to one of our favorite NC mountain escapes, Bear Lake Reserve. 25 Best Mountain Towns in the U.S. - PureWow - PureWow: Women's Bridal Veil Falls, which is between Highlands and Dry Falls, offers North Carolinas only drive behind the waterfall. One of the largest North Carolina mountain towns on this list, we absolutely love all the fun things to do in Hendersonville. Flat Rock. padding-right: 10px !important; The Trail of Faith explores this heritage through a collection of preserved monuments and buildings. North Carolina is bracing for severe weather headed our way. Dont forget to visit our favorite waterfalls in Cherokee: Mingo Falls and nearby Soco Falls. Morganton is charming town in the foothills surrounded by beautiful scenery and outdoor adventure opportunities. Climb to the top of Mount Jefferson to take in the views overlooking the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway. Home of the Davidson College Wildcats, Lake Norman, and great prices on real estate, the #3 best place to live in North Carolina, Davidson, is one of the Tar Heel State's best kept secrets. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Carl and Christina started NC Tripping. Banner Elk Avery County NC Official Website There are also plenty of Blowing Rock Restaurants to grab a bite to eat at! .search .content-area a { Just 15 minutes from two of the best ski resorts in North Carolina, Banner Elk is a popular winter destination. Take in the views overlooking the charming downtown from Sunset Rock. Best Small Towns To Live In, North Carolina Edition Burnsville offers an authentic small-town experience, with a cute downtown area, where you can find shops, restaurants, and galleries lining the town square. Here are the best places to live near the mountains! Asheville, NC - One Of The Best Mountain Towns In NC Because Of Its Culture. Black Mountain. To help narrow down that search, one website has chosen three cities in North Carolina as some of the best lake towns in the country to live in. Its one of many falls along the famed Waterfall Byway. For more ideas, see our list of the Top Attractions in North Carolina. "version": "7.4.0", This vacation destination is located on the eastern edge of the Plateau region near Sapphire Valley. NC Mountain Towns You Can Actually Afford to Live In - YouTube Dont miss walking across the Flowering Bridge, a beautiful blooming garden that spans the Rocky Broad River. 20 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina - Home - Sunlight Living Flat Rock is also where you can find one of the most popular places for apple picking in North Carolina, Sky Top Orchard. At 5,506 feet, Beech Mountain is home to awesome views but also, some pretty great ski resorts. This is also a popular area for trout fishing in North Carolina, particularly in the fall, with the Watauga River presenting a great opportunity for anglers. The Valdese Recreation Department oversees five parks in the area but we think you must visit McGalliard Falls. As a university town, the population reaches heights of around 20,000. "agent": "woocommerce-7.4.0-3.0.12" .inside-article{ If you brought kids, theyll want to check out the fire engine outside! n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; A massive aquarium, a mountain coaster and. text-decoration: underline The selection and quality of its culinary scene are impressive given its size, so be ready to enjoy some fine foodie fares during your stay here. Each of our 12 Best Small Mountain Towns around Asheville has its own great Visitor's Center where you can plan your day. Youll also enjoy walking around and stepping into local shops, art studios, and more here. Youll encounter galleries galore downtown, among specialty shops, fine fares, and craft beverages. Mitchell Crafts Fair and the Burnsville Metric, a popular bike ride held in late April. Some of North Carolina's mountain towns are highly seasonal, with major attractions open only during the summer months, but a few, particularly those near the ski resorts, lend themselves more towards winter visits. At, For a relatively small town, there are some fantastic restaurants in Waynesville, North Carolina. Explore the hiking trails and waterfalls, and if you are here on a weekend, check the local events calendar to see the complete lineup of festivals. } ); Cashiers is the gateway to Bear Lake Reserve. This is a haven for hikers to set off on the trails of either Gorges State Park or in a portion of the Panthertown Valley. The city is named after pioneer Daniel Boone and has breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. One of the big attractions, just outside of town, is Grandfather Mountain and its mile-high swing bridge, one of the top sites in North Carolina. .ai-viewport-0 { display: none !important;} Read More: The Best Black Mountains Hikes near Burnsville. You can see Table Rock Mountain, one of the most incredible hikes in the area, from downtown Morganton. Get the latest Severe Weather Alerts. As a former railroad outpost, the towns historic charm offers a vintage vibe, enhanced by establishments such as Paces General Store, the oldest grocery store in the state. North Carolina Mountain Towns To Escape the Summer Heat ), 25+ Beautiful North Carolina Road Trips (Scenic Byways and Highways), Max Patch Trail (A Short Hike to Beautiful 360-Degree Views! A little over an hour west of Asheville, Bryson City calls itself the gateway to the Smokey Mountains, and is, in fact, a great option for travelers looking to visit the park. Its a town with a rich cultural heritage and an amazing area to learn more about these native peoples. Mountain Communities | Best Places to Retire in the Mountains Located in western North Carolina on what is known as the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau in the Nantahala National Forest, Highlands has been called "the Aspen of the East.". The old brick buildings have been restored in a thriving downtown that offers all the amenities you could need. This quaint mountain village at 3,700 feet elevation has great restaurants, breweries, shops, Wildcat Lake beach, and many events including the Woolly Worm Festival in October. Banner Elk. There's a lot to do here, such as hiking the famous Appalachian Trail and rafting down the Cheoah River. About Catawba Falls, we think youll love the 2.3-mile hike that leads to the 100-ft tall waterfall with beautiful cascades. Cashiers is in the heart of the Nantahala National Forest and provides a front row view to the spectacular annual fall foliage. While its a rare admission-required waterfall, the area around the 90-foot falls remains well-maintained. The 15 Best North Carolina Mountain Towns to Visit Blowing Rock and Boone are often talked about together because they are so closebut so different! The Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster is a newer attraction nearby, sure to provide you with a year-round thrill! Home to Appalachian State University, Boone is a thriving college town with plenty of High Country hikes, delicious restaurants, trailblazing breweries, and more things to do. Set on the banks of the Tuckasegee River, its a tiny treasure trove for local art, as this community lives and breathes creativity. 3 North Carolina Lake Towns Among The Best To Live In The U.S. Streets here are rampant with a retro nostalgia, for a unique feel unlike anywhere else. 2. Affordable Mountain Towns for Retirement - US News & World Report And while private, the close proximity to explore other North Carolina mountain towns is a plus. The North Carolina mountains are renowned for offering up a charming slice of small-town life and local culture, including everything from moonshine and bluegrass music to country cooking and . The fresh air calls most outside to enjoy nature. Can some one tell me where the goats are in the Flat Rock picture? If you are looking for something a bit bigger in a small-town getaway, Boone is a lively university town with a little less than 20,000 people. A perfect getaway in an idyllic private setting welcomes all to the tranquil Lake Toxaway. Mountain town named top place for retirees in North Carolina Top 9 Mountain Towns to Live in Tennessee While Nashville, Knoxville, and Memphis may grab all the attention, Tennessee has some incredible, more rustic places to live. Except here, you can taste delicious wine and take some home with you. Read More: 50+ Great Things to Do in Asheville (Downtown, Biltmore, and More!). You'll also find some of the best retirement communities in North Carolina. Sylva is a picturesque small town with a population of around 2500, and it's one of the best places to live in North Carolina. Its a hotspot for entertainment, with music at the Folkmoot, the acclaimed HART Theater, and Mountain Street Dances every Friday night. Read More: How to Find 20+ Haywood County Artists on Blue Ridge Craft Trails. Read More: Hendersonville NC Map of Attractions (+ 5 Surrounding Counties!). Its a setting rich with rocks and minerals, ideal for any geology buffs looking for a scenic retreat. The population is larger than most of the area, and as such, the downtown provides plenty of quaint amenities without any of the hustle and bustle of bigger city crowds. The town is an eastern equivalent of the many mountain resort towns that dot the American west, particularly in the Rocky Mountains. Sitting on the North Carolina-Tennessee border, right before the Tuckasegee River runs right, Bryson City is definitely one of our favorite North Carolina mountain towns! This stunning area is home to nearly 520,000 acres of forested mountains. Grandfather Vineyard is one of many nice spots along the water. Browse the bustling Main Street; brick sidewalks dotted with historic homes and many storefronts ideal for a day of shopping until you drop. There is a draw for every season, with plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities to partake in. The 20 Best Places to Live in the Mountains in the U.S. - Money Inc Murphy is loaded with natural wonders, with mountains, lakes, and rivers all around it, and is one of the best mountain towns in North Carolina. $( document.body ).append( '
' ); You're 20 minutes away from Raleigh, 20 minutes away from Durham, and 10 minutes away from Cary. Views over the rolling mountains are spectacular, and some of the best in the area. If youre feeling adventurous, you can even visit the nearby ghost town of Henry River. Real Estate Rankings Best Places to Live Best Places to Retire Rankings Category Population Size X-Large 2.5M+ Large 1M - 2.5M Medium 500K - 1M Small 50K - 500K Average Rent < $500 -. Creekside cabins, glamping tents, resort hotels you can find them all in the best Smoky Mountain towns. Each of our North Carolina mountain towns has its own personality and charm, offering an authentic Appalachian experience unlike any other. For a tasty and unique treat any time, stop in at the Toasted and Rolled Ice Cream and Bakery, where you can watch your custom ice-cream creation being made right in front of you. Cameron grew up in Charlotte and spent his childhood traveling around this great region. Lake Glenville is a very popular summer vacation spot with several vacation homes available in Glenville and in the nearby Cashiers and Highlands communities.