9 Charming Small Towns in the Blue Ridge Mountains of WNC
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
Western North Carolina is a beautiful natural region which is home to hundreds of mesmerizing waterfalls and endless miles of tranquil forest trails for hiking and mountain biking. This region is populated by many small towns, most notably Asheville. All of these quaint towns make for a great base location for exploring the wonders of the Blue Ridge mountains. Along with being an easy daytrip away from endless outdoor activities, each small town in WNC is home to many of its’ own unique amenities. From coffee shops and foodie restaurants, to art galleries and museums, there’s more than enough to explore after a long day working up a sweat on the trails.
While living in Asheville, I explored many of these towns via an easy daytrip. Here are a few wonderful small towns to add to your bucket list.
1. Asheville
- Known for: The Biltmore Estate, River Arts District, Foodie and Craft beer scene
- Top attractions: Woolworth Walk, Grovewood Village, Biltmore Village, North Carolina Arboretum
- Best restaurants: Andaaz, Chai Pani, High Five Coffee, Biscuit Head, Blue Ridge Buffet at the Omni, Nine Mile, Vinnie’s
The most famous Western North Carolina city is Asheville, the largest and most popular tourist destination in the state. Tours of the massive 8000 acre, 250 room Vanderbilt Estate draw almost 2 million visitors per year. The enchanting Blue Ridge mountains surround the city, and many gorgeous hiking trails lie an easy daytrip away. With multiple entrances to the Blue Ridge Parkway, there’s no excuse not to enjoy a cruise. From scenic overlooks to dazzling waterfalls, you could easily spend the entire day exploring. After enjoying the great outdoors, there are plenty of amazing local restaurants where you can refuel and relax. Around town, a variety of local galleries, craft breweries, and coffee shops give you plenty of entertainment options off the trails. Woolworth Walk, featuring amazing handcrafted works from over 175 local artists, is a must visit.
My ful guide to exploring Asheville
2. Hendersonville
- Known for: Historic downtown district, Orchards, Labor Day Apple Festival
- Top Attractions: Grandad’s Apples, Jump Off Rock, Appalachian Pinball Museum, Dupont State Forest
- Best restaurants: Black Bear Coffee, Mountain Deli, White Duck Tacos
The second largest city in Western North Carolina, Hendersonville, is most notably home to a charming Main Street. Incorporated in 1847, this old-fashioned downtown is lined with independent cafes, restaurants, and antique & boutique shops. Nicknamed “The Apple Capital of North Carolina,” the city is located within close proximity to many great orchards. During the fall season, you will definitely want to visit a U-pick farm like Sky Top Orchards or Grandads. Great daytrips for fitness buffs include hikes within the Pisgah or Dupont State Forest. Triple Falls is a wonderful 2.2 mile trail to 3 incredible waterfalls. Another great destination for nature lovers is Jump Off Rock, a quiet overlook which overlooks the dazzling Blue Ridge mountains. After a long day out enjoying the fresh mountain air, shop and dine local in the historic downtown.
Find out what else you can do and see in Hendersonville
3. Brevard
- Known for: Easy access to waterfalls, Quaint downtown, Mountain biking trails, Farmer’s Market (May-Oct)
- Top attractions: Looking Glass Falls, Courthouse Falls, Transylvania Heritage Museum, Black Balsam Knob, Aluminum tree museum
- Best restaurants: Quotations Coffee Cafe, Sully’s Steamers, Quixote
Smithsonian recently named Brevard one of the “Coolest small towns in America.” Brevard sits amidst the beautiful Blue Ridge mountains in Transylvania County, “The Land of Waterfalls.” With easy access to more than 200 waterfalls, you will never run out of outdoor adventures. Looking Glass Falls (an easy 30 min drive) is a mesmerizing 60 foot waterfall located right off the road. It’s busy year-round – but thankfully no hiking is required! For those looking to work up a sweat, check out the Art Loeb, Pink Beds, or Log Hollow Falls trail.
After a day exploring the great outdoors, you will want to take a stroll around the charming downtown. Local restaurants, coffee shops, antique stores, breweries, and galleries line the small, yet vibrant Main Street. Keep an eye out for the white squirrel (the city is home to a high population of eastern grey squirrels with an albino gene mutation).
My full guide of what to do adn see in Brevard
4. Black Mountain
- Known for: Quirky downtown, Art galleries, Beautiful mountain scenery
- Top attractions: Town Square, Lake Tomahawk Park, Europa Gifts, Mountain Nest Gifts, Seven Sisters Gallery
- Best restaurants: Veranda Cafe, The Dripolator Coffeehouse
Trip Advisor users recently ranked Black Mountain as one of the “prettiest small town vacations.” Beautiful Lake Tomahawk Park is the oasis of the gorgeous Town Square. The half mile path circles around the lake and features mesmerizing views of the mountains. Downtown Black Mountain is an eclectic place with a variety of interesting local shops and restaurants to enjoy. Here, you will find lots of touristy gift shops and galleries to browse through. The arts community here is very vibrant. Numerous art related events and festivals take place throughout the year. Stop by the Black Mountain Center for the Arts to further explore the local art scene. The best easily accessible hike is Catawba Falls, a moderate 1.5 mile trail to a stunning 100 foot multi cascade waterfall. This one is best enjoyed during the colorful fall season.
5. Boone
- Known for: Ski resorts, Appalachian State University, Charming downtown, Easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway
- Top attractions: Appalachian Ski Mountain, Foggy Mountain Gem Mine, Grandfather Mountain, Mast General Store
- Best restaurants: Casa Rustica, Coyote Kitchen, Mellow Mushroom
Boone, a small quirky college town, is quite popular with tourists seeking to ski or hike. Several ski resorts and hundreds of miles of trails are easily accessible via a short drive. The lively downtown is home to a number of coffee shops, local restaurants, and a popular old-time general store. Main St. is a great place to stroll around and enjoy local foods and drinks. Summer is the perfect time to enjoy a hiking adventure (Grandfather Mountain is well worth visiting) or take a leisurely drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Greenway Trail loop is a great choice for beginners. Avid mountain bikers will want to take a ride at the Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park. Waterfall lovers will want to check out Glen Burney and Linville Falls. During the winter season, take a quick drive over to Appalachian Ski Mountain for a day of skiing, ice skating, or snowboarding.
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