Things to Do
North Carolina's High Country is full of things to do. These are some of the many activities we enjoy doing together.
Grandfather Mountain State Park
Cross the mile-high swinging bridge for panoramic views from the peak of Grandfather Mountain. Watch otters play at the zoo on your way down.
Rough Ridge Hiking Trail
Just off the Linn Cove viaduct on the Blue Ridge Parkway, this rocky trail with craigy rocks and stunning views is one of our favorite hikes.
Mast General Store
This historic general store is recognized as one of the best remaining examples of the type. They carry everything from plaid shirts to bottles of ice cold Cheerwine. Don't forget to stop for the candy shop in the Annex, down the street.
The Greater Foscoe Mining Co
Sift through emerald mine trailings for gems and geodes. Be sure to take your findings next door to be appraised.
Main Street, Blowing Rock
Downtown Blowing Rock features quaint shops and cozy restaurants. We love getting ice cream and free fudge samples at Kilwins or a cold drink from the Market Gas Station.
Price Lake Boat Rentals
Rent canoes, kiakas, or paddle-boards on this peaceful lake. Our trip around the lake took about an hour. Head out to the left side of the dam for a view of Cone Manor.
Accomodations
We will be providing limited shuttle service to the reception venue at the Camp at Eseeola in Linville, NC.
New Public House & Hotel
A cozy bed & breakfast off Main Street, NPH is also one of our favorite places for Sunday brunch. Please call (828) 295-3487 and mention the Cain/Baarbe Wedding when booking.
Eseeola Lodge
Located at the foot of Grandfather Mountain in Linville, this bark-shingled resort will host our ceremony and reception. Please call (800) 742-6717 and mention the Baarbé/Cain wedding when booking.
The Village Inns
Hillwinds, Ridgeway, and the Village Inn are located in the heart of Blowing Rock.
Holiday Inn Express - Blowing Rock South
Minutes from Main Street and the Blue Ridge parkway. Please call (828) 295-4422 and mention the Cain Wedding when booking.
Chetola Resort
This 87-acre resort is a 5 minute walk from Main Street, Blowing Rock. In addition to hotel rooms Chetola offers condos with 2 to 4 bedrooms.
VRBO
There are a number of beautiful homes available to rent. We recommend looking for homes around Main Street Blowing Rock, Alpine Ski Mountain, or Sugar Mountain
Travel
By car, Blowing Rock, NC is a three hour drive from Raleigh and a 13 hour drive from Toronto. The closest airports are about two hours away. We recommend renting a car for the weekend.
Charlotte Douglas Intl Airport
We recommend flying into CLT. It is the closest airport, located about 90 miles away from Blowing Rock.
Piedmont Triad Intl Airport
This airport is located in Greensboro, NC. Because it is a smaller airport, international flights may be limited. Domestic discount flights, however, can often be found for as little as $29 one way.
Restaurants
Bistro Roca
We celebrated our first dinner date at Bistro Roca. It is one of our favorite places in Blowing Rock. We highly recommend the prosciutto wrapped figs. Check out the bar full of dog photos including Cameron's dog, Winston!
Camp Coffee Roasters
This little coffee shop is part of our daily ritual in the mountains. We often begin our day with a stop here for coffee, espresso, and local news before heaing out on our next adventure.
Village Cafe
This breakfast and lunch spot is a hidden treasure. Visitors will find the garden patio and historic workshop building down a narrow path behind Kilwins off Main Street. Say hi to Annie for us!
Old Hampton Store & Barbeque
This old-time general store and resturant is just around the corner from Eseeola Lodge in Linville. Enjoy North Carolina smokehouse barbeque and browse locally made art.
Sunny Rock and Foggy Rock
These two restaurants are located next to each other. Sunny Rock Eggs and Things serves some of our favorite breakfast food. We love the Avocado Spring Rolls and Bang Bang Shrimp Salad at Foggy Rock Eatery and Pub.
The Town Tavern
This Main Street watering hole is the center of the community. Sample their large selection of craft beers while watching the game or listening to live music.
Dan'l Boone Inn
Enjoy a southern meal in this historical building. Staff in period costume serve breakfast and dinner family-style. Only the country ham biscuits are limited.
Artisanal
Possibly one of the best restaurants in the state. Artisanal offers a fully farm to table menu and an extensive wine cellar. We recommend reserving a table on the covered porch looking Business casual dress code, reservations are recommended.