Location: Blowing Rock
Top Things to do in Blowing Rock
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10 Things to Do in Blowing Rock That You Shouldn't Miss
Named "the only place in the world where snow falls upside down" by Ripley's-Believe-It-Or-Not, the legendary Blowing Rock geological formation has been attracting visitors to its corner of North Carolina since 1933. The accompanying mountain village of Blowing Rock sits 4,000 feet above sea level along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. The winter brings enough snow to the nearby Blue Ridge Mountain peaks that it is possible to ski the south, staying over at one of Blowing Rocks charming B&Bs.
Restaurants in Blowing Rock
1. Doc's Rocks Gem Mine
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 318 reviews
Reviewed By CeCeatl561
Takes about an hour. You buy your bucket and “pan” for gems. Indoor because of weather, but they also have outdoor flumes. Staff is knowledgeable and can quickly identify gems. No real tour or explanation - an “on your own” kind of place. You can your stones cut for an extra charge. Plenty of gems/rocks available for purchase or to make your own jewelry.
2. Julian Price Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 239 reviews
Reviewed By LKNCHOWHOUND - Cornelius NC
Beautiful venue close to Grand Father Mountain on the Blue Ridge Pkwy. Drove up today to catch some of the autumn color but about a week early. Still very beautiful with lots of yellow and red coming in.
Still even without autumn foliage, this is a special place.
Good place to unwind. Look at the lake and vistas, rent a kayak or canoe, camp out, fish, take a hike, picnic etc.
The things we did when we were younger and not because we were trying to get back to nature but because it was something that we enjoyed naturally.
Great place to unwind and just enjoy.
3. Moses H. Cone Memorial Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 706 reviews
The home and grounds of textile manufacturer Moses Cone.
Reviewed By Steve N - Greensboro, North Carolina
Our family recently visited the historic Cone manor located on the Blue Ridge Parkway a mere 10 minute drive up from Blowing Rock, NC and loved it. The mountain retreat called Flat Top Manor was constructed at the turn of the century by Moses H Cone has a commanding view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The 3,500 acre estate is now maintained by the National Park Service. The Southern Highland Craft Guild has fine handmade crafts for sale in the parlor and 1st floor of the manor. Other portions of the manor are open to visitors during the summer months. The history of the Cone family and the development of the estate is very interesting. Many locals come to the manor to walk or run on the miles of well maintained carriage roads with unbelievable views. Relax in a rocking chair on the covered porch and imagine a time long ago when Flat Top Manor represented the pinnacle of Southern culture and status in the area. The Moses H Cone Memorial Park is well worth the visit for those traveling on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
4. Tweetsie Railroad
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 890 reviews
Currently closed during the daytime hours. Will be open every Friday and Saturday evening beginning November 24 through December 30, 2017, for Tweetsie Christmas. Then we will re-open for daytime operation April 6, 2018. As North Carolina’s original family theme park, Tweetsie Railroad is a unique attraction that allows children and families to explore their imaginations and a whole lot more. Be a cowboy, cowgirl or an engineer. Shop along Main Street, pan for gold, or visit the animals in the Deer Park. Tweetsie has amusement rides for all ages and live entertainment throughout the park. And, of course, hop aboard our historic train for a fun-filled three-mile Wild West journey through the scenic mountains. Located in Blowing Rock, NC.
Reviewed By Brittany P - Colcord, West Virginia
This was a great holiday train ride (I have been on others). The decorating was probably the best part along with the activities like the snowglobe. The train ride itself was a bit chilly and I would recommend them getting some closed coach cars but I do realize it was below average temps and that this is their first season doing a Christmas train. All the workers were friendly and helpful. Also I want to say that most of the merchandise is fairly priced. My father forgot a coat and bought one inside the gift shop at a very reasonable price. it was a magical experience and I highly recommend it.
5. Flat Top Manor
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 424 reviews
This 3,600-acre estate, managed by the National Park Service, features the historic mansion that was owned and built by the antebellum aristocrat Moses Cone.
Reviewed By Karen M - Blowing Rock, North Carolina
This is the Cone Manner - Moses Cone invented denim fabric. Absolutely beautiful grounds and Miles of hiking trails. The best local crafts you will find any where in the area.
6. Appalachian Ski Mountain
Overall Ratings
4 based on 286 reviews
Reviewed By TripleG - Boca Raton, FL
We left South Florida for a ski getaway. Family of first time skiers. We had a fantastic time! Everything was well organized. Took ski lessons at the on-site French-Swiss Ski School. Instructor was patient and friendly, although I would make sure to request more instruction on turning and how to get up when you fall (you will fall). We gained a lot of confidence throughout the 2 days we spent here. There was plenty of powder and trails were manageable. We were conveniently able to rent everything on site, which is a big plus over other places around town. Everything here was well thought out, the conveyor belts on the greens were easy to get on and off, multiple ski lifts, and rentals were all central and easy to navigate. Even the snow patrol was helpful (our kid was over enthusiastic about her ski skills and may have gotten stuck on a black diamond). The food lounge was meh, but you aren't going here for fine dining. Parking was $1 and plenty available spots this late in the season. There is a cute gift shop on site that also sells ski gear.
7. Glen Burney Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 134 reviews
Reviewed By UKPP2014 - Raleigh, North Carolina
Access to this trail is right behind the Memorial Park in Blowing Rock. The trail descends about 650 feet and is quite steep at times, worth remembering as you have to come back up afterwards. We took it slow and steady and did the round trip in 2 hours. Well worth it for the views.
8. Blowing Rock Brewery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 82 reviews
Blowing Rock Brewery is a custom designed, state-of-the-art boutique brewing facility located in the heart of Blowing Rock. It is Blowing Rock's 1st brewery and has the capabilities to make both standard and high gravity ales and lagers. This brewery was specifically designed to bring modern, cutting-edge technology to a scale small enough for our team to give each brew the attention it deserves. The brewing system includes a 5BBL mash/lauter tun, a 5 BBL direct fired brew kettle, a 15 BBL hot liquor tank, 2*5 BBL fermenters, 2*10 BBL fermenters, one 5 BBL and one 10BBL bright beer tank. This brewery incorporates new methods of equipment customization and energy efficient systems to assure better quality brews. This brewery has won awards and recognition for being one of the nicest breweries of its size, and for its ability to create fantastic representations of new and existing styles of beer. The brews crafted here make up our Ale House Series and are sold on-site at our Blowing Rock Ale House Restaurant by the pint, growler and keg. Several of our Ale House Series beers are available at off-site at select locations as well. Brewery tours are available on Saturdays from 1pm-5pm.
Reviewed By Kim B - Evans
Brewery tours are offered on Saturdays from 1p-5p. We were able to do the tour while waiting for a table in the restaurant. The tour was very informative and interesting. The assistant brew master really did a fantastic job describing the process and answering questions. Our kids ranging from 7-15 years old enjoyed learning about the equipment. The restaurant called me when our table was ready. Instead of rushing us, they said to take our time and they'll hold the table for us until after the tour. We were very impressed with their customer service.
9. Bass Lake
Overall Ratings
5 based on 38 reviews
Reviewed By MGordonCharlotte_NC - Charlotte, NC
Bass Lake is beautiful anytime of the year however Spring and Fall is splendid. The walk around the lake is well paved, wide, flat and gentle - easy for youngsters and not so young alike. You will likely encounter walkers, joggers, Mom's and Dad's with strollers or toddlers and very likely at least a few dog walkers.
Should you decide on a bit of a longer walk the Apple Barn trail is a delight too. A few trails are open to horses however those trails are clearly marked and can be avoided if you so choose.
Very nice and always clean restrooms are available as are a few picnic spots. Take your camera along because there is always something to shoot/capture while walking around and near the lake. On especially nice weather days and weekends parking may be a bit of a challenge however adequate (and FREE) parking is available. Enjoy!
10. The Blowing Rock
Overall Ratings
4 based on 1 reviews
Reviewed By Gmittens - Limassol, Cyprus
We visited this place as we'd heard about the great views with which we were not disappointed, but what I didn't expect was the range of unusual shops in the Main Street. There is also a good range of bars and restaurants, and there is plenty of parking available. We also visited Bass Lake which is close by, and enjoyed a quiet stroll around the lake, with beautiful scenery.
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