But, with only 12,920 full time residents, there aren't a lot of people to get the word out. The 5 Best North Carolina Mountain Towns to Live In Real Estate Blog 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. Hike around the Carl Sandburg Home in Flat Rock, NC. Best Towns to Live in the Smoky Mountains - MountainJobs.com best places to live in south carolina mountains text-decoration: underline Awesome to hear, Donna, and thanks for sharing your favorite with us! . Below are the best North Carolina mountain towns for your next gorgeous getaway. You'll find everything from t-shirt shops to ski outfitters and restaurants here. Enjoy Wake Forest's many restaurants, museums, galleries, concerts, and more. Just outside of Hendersonville is the North Carolina mountain town of Flat Rock. This article may contain affiliate links. Known as the apple capital of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hendersonville is a great central stop for all the scenery of the area. Cities across North Carolina round out the top 10, including several in the western part of the state: Hickory at No. You can visually plan your adventures around these NC mountain towns with our travel map or keep reading our individual spotlights on these places. 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. Tryons reputation as an equestrian haven and arts enclave is revered. The Dry Falls are the claim to fame of the Highlands, a stunning waterfall you can walk behind and stay completely dry. The rustic charm of Cashiers honors the regions former prominence in the timber industry. We mentioned Lake Junaluska earlier and thought you should know that it is only 3 miles away from Waynesville. 32 BEST North Carolina Mountain Towns - Lost In The Carolinas At Lake Lure, get the best of mountain and lake life by going boating, biking the trails at Buffalo Creek Park, or climbing to the top of Chimney Rock. We're always looking for hidden gems here in the Tarheel State, and we'd love to hear from you. It is a popular tourist destination as well, so developing tourism . One of our absolute favorite North Carolina mountain towns is Maggie Valley, a consistent family vacation spot. While there's a bit of a dispute that we won't get into, Old Fort's Gold Festival typically kicks off each June. Spruce Pine is a nice spot throughout the year, but two events here are really coolthe NC Mineral and Gem Festival in August and SPACE (Spruce Pine Alien Conference & Expo) in June. The town is home to the Great Smokey Mountains Railroad, a popular sightseeing excursion that has several different routes, the most popular is the Nantahala Gorge return trip. About Catawba Falls, we think youll love the 2.3-mile hike that leads to the 100-ft tall waterfall with beautiful cascades. See: Palmer-Marsh House, Bonner House, Pamlico River, Goose Creek State Park, Bath Creek Dine: Blackbeard's Slices & Ices, Old Town Country Kitchen Stay: The Inn on Bath Creek 03 of 19 Beaufort Charlotte Observer/Getty Images Population: 4,382 30+ of the Best North Carolina Mountain Towns to Visit Now! - NC Tripping Take a walk down Main Street past the Swain County Heritage Museum and then turn up Everett Street to cross the bridge and look out over the river. Listing information last updated on March 4th, 2023 at 4:24am EST. ), Maggie Valley draws tons of tourists each year. text-decoration: none Morganton is one of the easternmost North Carolina mountain towns well mention. Market Square, is a popular tourist stop that is impossible to miss as you drive through town. Its known for its iconic courthouse; an ascent to the entrance often offers an excellent photo op of the picturesque surroundings. Cashiers is the gateway to Bear Lake Reserve. The town of Cashiers is centrally located in the Plateau region and attracts thousands of visitors between May to October each year. From old standbys such as Aspen and Stowe to a few spots you've probably never even heard of (what's up, Hamburg? Of course, they can serve as the perfect base for some of the best hiking trails and the most beautiful waterfalls in North Carolina. Beyond ski season, we love hanging out in this town. @media (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 979px) { }); Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, you'll find main streets lined with historic buildings, restaurants, family-owned stores and trendy shops. Cherokee is home to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and one of our favorite small mountain towns in NC. The old brick buildings have been restored in a thriving downtown that offers all the amenities you could need. Grand Highlands encompasses 300 acres of woodlands and meadows. 21 Best Mountain Towns to Visit in the USA | U.S. News Travel Tourists travel from all over to soak in the waters. The Museum of NC Handicrafts offers distinctive displays of work by a range of North Carolina artists. Downtown, youll find vintage motels, lots of motorcyclists, and the best pancakes of your life at Joeys Pancake House! Its surrounding landscape makes it one of the prettiest mountain towns and also one of the most popular. Rolling hills surround the town, and the Tuckasegee River runs through the middle. If you want to spend a night up in this area, have a look at the Old Edwards Inn and Spa, an incredible European-style, luxury hotel in the heart of downtown. It's no wonder Asheville is consistently voted as one of the best places to live in the Blue Ridge Mountains. But it's far from the only one. - 5/13/2022 I lived in Black Mountain for about ten years and loved it! We also love that town and cant wait to go back:). There are many magnificent properties to select as a summer vacation home or a cozy winter getaway for the holidays to relax and recharge. At 5,506 feet, Beech Mountain is home to awesome views but also, some pretty great ski resorts. 2023 Compare Cities : Black Mountain, NC vs Elizabethtown, NC Read More: Western North Carolina Map (400+ Wonderful Places Listed). We love the latters overlooks almost as much as the Blue Ridge Parkway, if not more. You can tour exciting educational museums and villages and browse many locally hand-made arts and crafts. From the mountains to the coast, North Carolina's charming cities and stunning natural areas lure visitors and residents from around the world. 2022 Best Places to Live in North Carolina - Niche The Best of North Carolina: Still in the planning stage of your next vacation? @media (max-width: 767px) { "pluginVersion": "3.0.12" Browse the bustling Main Street; brick sidewalks dotted with historic homes and many storefronts ideal for a day of shopping until you drop. It includes some of the top wild places in western North Carolina, such as Catawba Falls, Andrews Geyser, and Point Lookout. bottom: 80px; /* 80px from the bottom of your screen */ 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. Looking Glass Falls and Moore Cove Falls are stunning sites as well. Please visit our Disclosure and Privacy Policy pages for further explanation. Spend some time wandering around, stop in at the Mountain Fresh Grocery to pick up a quick bite or fresh coffee, or enjoy a lunch at one of the many restaurants. 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. @media only screen and (min-width: 769px) { Main Street is a mix of restaurants and retail shops, including a disproportionate number of bookstores considering the size of the town. The town is also a junction for the Appalachian Trail, which winds through downtown. Its historic and Swiss-style architecture adds to its charm. Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, Bryson City is well-known for hiking and river recreation. /***Mediavine Mobile Fix***/ Dont forget to visit our favorite waterfalls in Cherokee: Mingo Falls and nearby Soco Falls. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Maggie Valley. Best Places to Live Near the Mountains - Extra Space Storage This mountain town in NCs Main St is lined with studios and galleries, great restaurants (including Zuma Coffee), and lovely shops. Did you know North Carolinas Beech Mountain is the highest town in the Eastern United States? } You can enjoy an array of eateries, breweries, boutiques, and galleries on Main Street, and the historic buildings add an additional old-school charm. Hot Springs is one of the most adorable North Carolina mountain communities, best known for its hot mineral springs. Asheville, NC Bend, OR Boise, ID Denver, CO Flagstaff, AZ Salt Lake City, UT South Lake Tahoe, CA Tacoma, WA Asheville, NC Photo via @jared_kay Population: 87,531 Home Price: $212,000 median purchase price; $910 median monthly rent Crime Rate: Safer than 3% of U.S. cities Filled with shops, boutiques, and the beautiful Village Green, there is always something to explore in this lovely town. Emerald Outback has plenty of trails to trek through dense old-growth forests, lush fields, and babbling mountain brooks in the warmer months. Great place to visit! At an elevation of 4,118 feet, the temperatures, even in the peak of summer, rarely get above the high 70s. There's a lot to do here, such as hiking the famous Appalachian Trail and rafting down the Cheoah River. There is a lot to discover when you live in North Carolina mountain towns. Were ending this list of beautiful mountains towns in NC with perhaps the most well known Asheville. Its bustling with incredible restaurants, shops, and an iconic courthouse on a hill. As a university town, the population reaches heights of around 20,000. 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. .ai-viewport-2 { display: none !important;} There are also plenty of Blowing Rock Restaurants to grab a bite to eat at! If you are in town on a Friday, be sure to catch one of the free summer musical events taking place at Concerts on the Creek at the Bridge Park. It also helps that you can refuel at one of Asheville's many innovative restaurants and breweries. A Short List of the Best Mountain Towns to Raise a Family The town's lovely architecture and historic buildings set it apart from others in the area. Youll find stunning waterfalls and spectacular North Carolina hikes all right outside your doorstep in this small mountain town. RELATED The 12 Most Charming Small Towns in South Carolina Mark Vandenberg 1. Ayden wasn't even in the top 40 cheapest places to live in North Carolina last year, so this jump up to the #2 spot is quite impressive. Brevard is frequently ranked as one of the best small towns in WNC, and it's for good reason. Known as the moonshine capital of the world, this foothills haven is spirited in more ways than one. Take in the views overlooking the charming downtown from Sunset Rock. You can see Table Rock Mountain, one of the most incredible hikes in the area, from downtown Morganton. Each of our North Carolina mountain towns has its own personality and charm, offering an authentic Appalachian experience unlike any other. The Emerald Village complex hosts 12 mines for gem and gold panning seven days a week from spring through fall. Throughout the year, we think youll love eating and walking around downtown, tasting some of NCs finest beer at local breweries, and exploring the areas arts scene. The town offers a surprising amount of accommodation and has a number of family-focused attractions. We are surrounded by wonderful small towns throughout North Carolina (especially historic ones! These affordable towns could be your next home or vacation home! Its known as the gateway to the Blue Ridge mountains. You can easily immerse yourself in local art, browse unique shops, and dig into each places amazing food scene. Ride the trains through majestic mountains on the local railroad. Asheville may be the best-known destination in the mountains of North Carolina, but Hendersonville is a wonderful small-town alternative. Since way back, Maggie Valley has been a mountain resort and maintains its allure through vintage motels and gift shops. Right down the road from Maggie Valley is Lake Junaluska, a lovely community with a trail that takes you around its namesake lake. 12 of the Best Towns and Cities Near Smoky Mountains National Park 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. We love the Carolinas and think they are one of the most special areas in the world. Advertisement. Home to East Carolina University, it's no surprise that apartments in Greenville are more affordable than in many larger, more professionally-focused cities. Several streams high in the Nantahala National Forest and the Pisgah National Forest feed the states largest private lake. Mount Airy is a tiny town at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Streets here are rampant with a retro nostalgia, for a unique feel unlike anywhere else. // Insert placeholder for events injected when a product is added to the cart through AJAX. North Carolina mountain towns have a lot to offer those looking for extraordinary property surrounded by picturesque views to take in the natural beauty of the region and exquisite activities accompanied by top dining options. Little Switzerland is a Blue Ridge Parkway NC mountain town that packs quite the punch! document.addEventListener( 'DOMContentLoaded', function() { Stowe, Vt Getting There: 45 minutes from Burlington International Airport Do you have a favorite place you like to go or is there one that stands out among the rest? Greenville, South Carolina From fine dining and shopping to live music and festivals, downtown Greenville has it all. My favorite is Waynesville because I live there. Nearby is Grandfather Mountain with its suspension bridge. Access to Roan Mountain goes through Bakersville and you can also enjoy the Toe Rivers waters here. } 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. If you decide to walk up the 107 stairs to the courthouse, you'll be rewarded by panoramic views over the downtown and surrounding countryside, including the Blue Ridge Mountains. Here are a few of them. If you simply want a relaxing getaway, you can find it here any time of year. } The top of Lookout Mountain is just a 15-minute drive from downtown. Home to the Woolly Worm Festival in October, we can't get enough of this town, the amazing restaurants and shops here, and its gorgeous surroundings. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Morganton. For a traditional lodge experience, stay at the Chetola Lodge looking out over Chetola Lake. Highlands attracts those looking for a quaint atmosphere, in this hidden mountain gem. Just outside of the Great Smoky National Park sits the home of the eastern band of the indigenous Cherokee tribe. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Best Places to Live in Black Mountain, North Carolina With the smallest population of all, the town consists of just a few quaint shops. Our love story begins in Wilmington, where we met while attending UNCW. Bald Head Island, NC 28461, USA. Blowing Rock, North Carolina is one of the best small North Carolina towns and located just 10 minutes from Boone, it has a small village vibe. There's only one "big" city within an hour of the coast and that's Wilmington, with a pop of about 200,000 in New Hanover County, or 260,000+ in the Wilmington MSA.All the beach towns rely on a tourist-driven economy. It's also the apple capital of North Carolina and one of the largest apple-producing counties in America. You can also walk to Blannahassett Island and fish or enjoy views of the French Broad River. Grandfather Vineyard is one of many nice spots along the water. Best Lakes in North Carolina: Where Should You Buy Your Vacation Home? Affordable Mountain Towns for Retirement - US News & World Report The Valdese Recreation Department oversees five parks in the area but we think you must visit McGalliard Falls. 14. Catch some incredible views from Lovers Leap, a 2-mile loop with a gain of 500 feet in elevation. Its one of many falls along the famed Waterfall Byway. 2. Asheville is a city thats well known across the country for its charismatic charm, fantastic breweries, grand estate, proximity to waterfalls, and delicious restaurants. Her days were spent reading a book on the beach and enjoying a cold glass of sweet tea in between classes at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. This is another popular destination in winter for skiers, particularly families. Its also known for The Diamondback, a road full of dangerous curves and beautiful vistas, popular among many daring drivers. Boone is a haven of natural wonders offering an, Warren LeMay from Cincinnati, OH, United States, click for interactive map of the Best North Carolina Mountain Towns, 15 Best Bryson City Restaurants You Need to Try! 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. America's 50 Best Small Towns in the Mountains | Far & Wide You might say its a Foothills or Piedmont town, but well argue otherwise. Distance: 74.3 miles from Gatlinburg TN (2-hour drive) Robbinsville is a rural mountain town in the Smoky Mountain foothills that takes you back to a time of solitude and natural beauty. A perfect getaway in an idyllic private setting welcomes all to the tranquil Lake Toxaway. 13 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in North Carolina, 20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Charlotte, NC, 16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Wilmington, NC, 12 Top-Rated Mountain Resorts in North Carolina, 13 Top-Rated Beach Resorts in North Carolina, 10 Top-Rated Campgrounds in the Outer Banks, NC, 11 Top-Rated Rivers for Trout Fishing in North Carolina, 17 Top Cheap Ski Holidays in North America, 2023, 14 Top-Rated Small Towns in North Carolina, 3 Top Places for Deep Sea Fishing in North Carolina, 11 Top-Rated Romantic Getaways in North Carolina, 12 Top-Rated Waterfalls in North Carolina, North Carolina in Pictures: 15 Beautiful Places to Photograph, 5 Top-Rated Ski Resorts in North Carolina, 2023, 11 Top-Rated Things to Do in Bay City, MI, 16 Top-Rated Things to Do in Brattleboro, VT, 22 Best Places to Visit in the United States, 21 Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts in the World, Photo Source: Burnsville and Yancey County Tourism, North Carolina's most spectacular waterfalls, Top Rivers for Trout Fishing in North Carolina. Just outside the town, you can find the famous Grandfather Mountain and its Mile High Swinging Bridge. Read More: 20+ Kid-Friendly Waterfalls In NC (Easy Hikes And Swimming Holes!). That scenic route is another reason we rank Highlands among the best mountain towns in NC! Our aim is to help you get the most out of your travel around the Carolinas. It is no wonder that Brevard is one of the best North Carolina mountain towns. Beyond chasing tall hairy creatures, Marion is situated at the base of Mount Mitchell with many waterfalls nearby, such as Linville Falls and Toms Creek Falls. Taylor. With only about 500 people living here, its main draw is the eponymous natural thermal mineral baths. There is a happening scene of Boone breweries and Boone bistros to indulge in and an overarching focus on sustainability. This small and gorgeous mountain town in North Carolina is a haven for food, culture, and outdoor adventure, and of course, for those seeking a laid-back mountain life that's not far from awesome attractions. Is there anything more magical than a lakeside mountain town in NC?! Youll encounter galleries galore downtown, among specialty shops, fine fares, and craft beverages. The Wilkes Art Gallery is one of many reasons to visit NW, along with a variety of events happening throughout each year there. The last town before the Nantahala National Forest and Parks, Bryson City pops up out of nowhere in a valley between some of North Carolina's most incredible outdoor spaces and stunning waterfalls.. North Carolina is bracing for severe weather headed our way. 4 Roxboro at No. .archive .content-area a { 17 Best Towns in Western North Carolina (in 2023) Our Favorite Small Towns in North Carolina - Southern Living 5 Gorgeous Mountain Towns You Can Actually Afford - Livability Surrounded by rolling hills, it has many hikes for sweeping sights, such as the Nantahala Gorge. "version": "7.4.0", fbq('init', '754829038551418', {}, { The 10 Best Places To Live In North Carolina For 2022 - HomeSnacks The downtown is chock full of charming shops, restaurants, and Brevard breweries. } It makes a great base for travelers passing through this area of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Many small towns in North Carolina claim to be the gateway to the Smoky Mountains, but Bryson City has a serious argument. the inspiration for Mayberry in The Andy Griffith Show, is a time capsule of midcentury small-town America. Its truly a unique experience. Head here for one of the most romantic weekends in North Carolina. The university, one of the more popular ones in the North Carolina system, has brought more and more young people to the area, so there's always something cultural to do on the weekends. Our NC travel map will help you visually plan, in case youre ready to start exploring! Sapphire Valley is tucked away in a scenic niche of the North Carolina mountains but offers visitors an experience like none other. The Trail of Faith explores this heritage through a collection of preserved monuments and buildings. Its reputation for charm precedes it, known mainly as the hometown of Andy Griffith and the inspiration for the idyllic neighborhood his show was set in, Mayberry. North Carolina's 6 Best Mountain Towns - This Is My South The compact downtown is replete with restored old brick buildings housing interesting restaurants, art shops, and stores. Known as the states oldest attraction, there is plenty to see and do within, Nestled in North Carolinas Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone is a quaint and charming borough with surprisingly plenty of things to do! .wp-block-button a { These two streets are also home to numerous shops and restaurants. People dont just come here for that bucket list-worthy accomplishment. /***Mediavine Sidebar Fix***/ We welcome you to the North Carolina mountains; we know youll just love it here! Grandfather Vineyard is one of many nice spots along the water.