Things To Do
Grandfather Mountain
Who doesn't want to walk over a swinging bridge 6,000 ft in the air? A part of the United Nations' Southern Appalachian Biosphere Reserve, Grandfather mountain is estimated to be 300 million years old with certain rock formations dating back 1.2 billion years. Johnny Cash and Dale Earnhardt Sr and Jr all visited Grandaddy Mtn and so should you!
Rough Ridge Lookout
If you're looking to spend time in nature, the Rough Ridge trail is a super popular short-ish hike. With a crazy overlook and photo opp to stand out on a rocky ledge over the Blue Ridge, it's about 2 miles round-trip and accessible via the Wilson Creek parking area.
Julian Price Memorial Park
Wonderful park with a lake to stop and look at or take a dip in on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
King Street Farmers' Market
Amazing outdoor Farmers Market every Saturday morning in Boone!
Ashe County Farmers Market
If you'd like to stay local to the area the morning of the wedding, there's a great farmers market in downtown West Jefferson Saturday mornings from 8am-1pm. Grab a coffee from Bohemia and head over to see local vendors.
Melanie's
Best breakfast spot in Boone if you're looking to get a morning bite and enjoy the sunshine. Both indoor and outdoor seating and fresh, local ingredients.
Bohemia Coffee
Cute little coffee shop in downtown West Jefferson. Very frequented by bridesmaid Anna Canipe! (Or visit Hatchet Coffee in Boone, basically run by other bridesmaid Frances Costello!)
Mount Jefferson State Natural Area
Great park for scenic views, short hikes, and picnicking!
Old Barn Winery and Vineyards
Wine tastings in the mountains surrounded by Christmas tree farms, super beautiful with a great selection. Fun fact: Ashe County is the largest Christmas tree producing county in the entire country!
Boone Saloon
Best lil bar in Boone hands-down! Grab a beer here and walk the rest of King Street, checking out the shops and restaurants near Appalachian State, Lauren's alma mater.
Boondocks Brewing - Taproom & Restaurant
Good local bar and restaurant in West Jefferson!
Zaloo's Canoes, Kayaks & Tubes
If you get to town a couple days early, you should definitely go take a float on one of my favorite rivers in the state, the New River. The water will still be cool and crisp since it flows through the mountains, and you can catch a tan before the party!