Blowing Rock, North Carolina, is a great spot for a vacation or a getaway. It’s the perfect place to stop and stay awhile while traveling along the Blue Ridge Parkway. If you’re looking for unique experiences in Blowing Rock, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get into it.
Where Is Blowing Rock, North Carolina?
Blowing Rock, North Carolina, is a resort town located in western North Carolina on the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. Blowing Rock is home to many iconic North Carolina Blue Ridge attractions. This part of North Carolina is referred to as the “High Country.”
What Is Blowing Rock, North Carolina, Known For?
Blowing Rock was named for The Blowing Rock, a huge cliff and rock formation hanging 3,000 feet over John’s River Gorge. This resort town is known for memorable vacation experiences off the Blue Ridge Parkway. From shopping opportunities and great eats to adventurous outdoor activities, Blowing Rock is a great getaway destination.
9 Unique Experiences in Blowing Rock, N.C.
Are you planning a trip to Blowing Rock? Here are the most unique things to do in this gorgeous North Carolina resort village!
1. Visit Tweetsie Railroad Theme Park
Tweetsie Railroad Theme Park is a family-friendly Wild West adventure theme park located in Blowing Rock. This theme park makes a great stop whether you have the kids in tow or not.
Tweetsie Railroad Theme Park features amusement rides for all ages and operates two historic steam-powered locomotives: Tweetsie and Yukon Queen. Take a ride on a historic steam engine, visit the petting zoo, catch some live entertainment, and more.
2. Visit Moses H. Cone Memorial Park
The Moses H. Cone Memorial Park was the country estate of 20th-century textile magnate Moses H. Cone and his wife, Bertha. The estate is now a memorial park run by the National Park Service. You can visit the estate, hike trails on the property, take a ranger-led tour, and learn about the family.
3. Pan for Gems at Doc’s Rocks
At Doc’s Rocks Gem Mine, you can pan for rocks and so much more. Learn about the unique geology of the Appalachian region, how it formed, and what kind of gems and minerals are in the area. Doc’s Rocks is more than just a fun experience; it’s educational, too.
4. Grab a Beer at Blowing Rock Brewery
No trip to Blowing Rock would be complete without sampling some local brews. Grab a pint and a bite at Blowing Rock Brewery, and while you’re there, get some craft beer to go. The menu at Ale House in Blowing Rock features pub food with an artisan twist. Enjoy hummus, brisket tacos, bison burgers, and more with your locally brewed craft beer.
5. Hike the Blowing Rock
If you’re the outdoorsy type, you can’t visit Blowing Rock without seeing the actual Blowing Rock formation. The Blowing Walk Trail is easy and handicap-accessible. The Blowing Rock area is paved and developed, and the actual rock formation isn’t far from the parking lot. You can also hike to the end of the observation tower and take in the sights.
6. Visit Blowing Rock Art & History Museum
The Blowing Rock Art & History Museum is the perfect place to stop to see local and contemporary art and learn about Appalachian history and culture. If you’re feeling crafty, attend a workshop for adults or kids. Many workshops are appropriate for different skill levels and ages.
7. Take a Canopy Tour at Sky Valley
What better way to see the Blue Ridge Mountains than a canopy tour on a zip line? If you like adventure, this is the perfect Blowing Rock activity for you. Sky Valley has 10 different zip lines to choose from. The canopy tour is for adults only, but there are kid activities available.
8. Take the Kids to Mystery Hill
Mystery Hill is one of the coolest attractions in the area, and it’s sure to blow the kids’ minds. Mystery Hill is a blend of indoor and outdoor adventure featuring gravitational anomalies, ax throwing, weird science in the Hall of Mystery, gem mining, Appalachian history, and more. In addition, Mystery Hill claims to be one of the largest private collections of Native American artifacts in the world.
9. Cross the Highest Suspension Footbridge in America at Grandfather Mountain
Does the idea of walking across a mile-high swinging footbridge in the Appalachian Mountains make you go pale? If so, the footbridge at Grandfather Mountain might not be for you. Otherwise, seize the opportunity to cross the highest suspension footbridge in America while visiting Blowing Rock. The views are unmatched.
Blowing Rock Is an Awesome Vacation Getaway
A trip to Blowing Rock, North Carolina, is sure to be an unforgettable experience. From the beautiful scenery to the quaint downtown, this village makes for the perfect Blue Ridge getaway. Which of these experiences would you be most excited about?
