Blowing Rock is one of the most charming towns in North Carolina and feels like a village you’d read about in a fairytale. It’s cozy, walkable, picturesque, and historic—everything I want in a town, and why it’s in my top three favorite places in our state.

This blog has been highly requested by my social media followers, which is fair. It was really quite rude of me to constantly tell y’all how much I love this without sharing a guide. My sincerest apologies, and I hope the hours I’m putting into this will make up for it!

Located in the high country, Blowing Rock is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and remains magical all year round. I’ve visited during the summer, Christmastime, and autumn. While all seasons here are dreamy, fall is my personal favorite.
Regardless of when you visit, I’m confident you’ll fall in love with this special town and its cute buildings, tree-lined alleyways, coffee shops, and twinkling lights.

As always, please keep in mind that some people are fortunate enough to call this sweet town HOME. Tourism is heavily relied on here, but I want to remind you to be mindful and respectful during your visit. Support local, tip well, and leave trails cleaner than you found them.

This is one of the most beloved towns in North Carolina, by more than just me, so prepare yourself for crowds and call ahead to make reservations at restaurants. Visiting on a weekday helps tremendously!

One last note before diving in, my blogs focus on my personal experience—restaurants and places I’ve actually tried and genuinely enjoyed. There are countless spots I have no doubt are incredible that won’t be listed, and I can’t wait to try them!
Okay, I think I’ve sufficiently professed my love for Blowing Rock. Here’s my guide— I hope it’s helpful!

STAY in Blowing Rock

The Embers Hotel

The Embers Hotel is one of the newest accommodations in Blowing Rock, and it’s honestly incredible. Located directly in the village, the location simply can’t be beat. There’s nothing better than being able to walk to grab a coffee from your hotel or taking a stroll down Main Street without having to search for parking. The convenience sets this one apart.
It’s also luxurious, hosts delicious onsite dining, and has a balcony in every room.

Chetola Resort

Another stay with a great location is Chetola Resort. This large property has both hotel rooms and privately owned condos for rent that are perfect for families. And for furry parents, they do have pet-friendly rooms!
Chetola offers dining and fun, including an indoor pool, spa, trails, pickleball, kids camps, and a sporting reserve with clay shooting, archery, and more.

Chetola is walking distance to some trails, outlet shopping, and technically Main Street—but I think it’s a tad too far to walk comfortably, and I prefer to drive and park when I stay here.

THEBRHAUS

There are a lot of great vacation rentals nearby, and my favorite is thebrhaus. A newly renovated cabin with stunning details and a black exterior, this rental gives “witchy” vibes in the BEST way. It’s especially gorgeous in the fall with the surrounding trees and hot tub overlooking the mountains. It comfortably sleeps 6-8 and is less than 10 minutes away from Blowing Rock.

Westglow Luxury Resort & Spa

While I haven’t actually stayed overnight at this resort, I have spent time on the property for the spa (more on that to come!) and was so impressed. An artist’s elegant manor, now revived into a boutique hotel, Westglow offers six king rooms with a view, a cottage, and a lodge. You’ll find a beautiful restaurant, piano bar, salon, fitness center, and spa here as well. While not walking distance to the village, its location on top of the mountain with expansive views more than makes up for that! Plus, it’s a quick drive.

EAT in Blowing Rock

Bistro Roca

Bistro Roca is one of the most famous dining options in Blowing Rock for good reason. Their bar, Antlers Bar, is the oldest continuously serving bar in North Carolina. Between the interesting history, spectacular menu, and enclosed porch nestled in the trees, this restaurant is a must-visit. Dining on the porch surrounded by fall leaves is pretty memorable (make a reservation!).

Blue Deer on Main

Harrison once spoke at length about ice cream sandwiches IN HIS SLEEP. It’s safe to say we have a deep love for this treat, and Blue Deer does it so well. Their fresh cookies, local ice cream, and coffee are all superb. The cookie sandwiches pass our important test: Are the cookies soft and chewy enough that the ice cream doesn’t fall out the back when you take a bite? A+ here, y’all. It’s a perfect bite.

Camp Coffee Roasters

Every cozy town needs an inviting coffee shop, and Camp Coffee Roasters checks the box. The talented baristas craft exceptional espresso beverages using coffee beans from around the world that are roasted in small batches. Grab a yummy pastry while you’re there!

The Embers Restaurant

The Embers Hotel isn’t just beloved for its accommodations. Locals and tourists alike enjoy dining here for breakfast, brunch, and dinner. The chef-driven menu features seasonal ingredients, creative takes on classics, and craft cocktails.

Kilwins

I adore Kilwins if for no other reason than the enticing aroma of waffle cones and chocolate that permeates the street outside its doors. I always stop in for a caramel apple when I’m in town.

Speckled Trout

Speckled Trout is a beloved restaurant for their seasonal menu rooted in Appalachian tradition. Their claim to fame: NC mountain trout prepared in a variety of ways, such as cracker-crusted and hickory-smoked. You can also find a delicious wagyu burger, comforting soups, and more.

Storie Street Grille & Sidecar Bar

Storie Street Grille perfectly encapsulates the vibe of Blowing Rock. It’s charming, inviting, and features a New American menu using locally sourced ingredients. It’s the perfect spot to stop by for a sandwich and soup. It not only looks like it was torn out of a Hallmark movie, but more importantly, it crafts delicious food that will keep you coming back.

PLAY in Blowing Rock

Shop the Village

Blowing Rock is one of those towns where its charm alone is entertaining enough. I could spend hours just walking the sidewalks and admiring the architecture and shops.

I always stop into Footsloggers for a Blowing Rock T-shirt and High Country Candles for a new candle to take home. There are so many great boutiques and shops to find clothing, outdoor gear, home goods, antiques, and more!

Memorial Park

Right in the heart of Blowing Rock village, you’ll find Memorial Park, a picturesque setting perfect for picnics, exploring, and playing. The playground is spectacular, and our kids always love spending time there.

Westglow Spa

As I mentioned previously, Westglow is not only a hotel but a luxurious spa. You do not have to be an overnight guest to enjoy this relaxing experience. It’s one of the most beautiful spas I’ve been to and overlooks the Blue Ridge Mountains. The massages and other services are exceptional. Not to mention the indoor pool, snacks, jacuzzi, luxurious showers, and more!

Spa at Chetola Resort

Another great spa option is the one at Chetola Resort. Enjoy complimentary teas and coffees, book a relaxing service, and enjoy the gorgeous indoor pool! Staying at the hotel is not required to enjoy the spa.

Tweetsie Railroad

Tweetsie Railroad is a North Carolina staple and a destination everyone should experience at least once. It’s a family-friendly Wild West amusement park with a historic steam train, amusement rides, seasonal zoo, shopping, and more. Depending on the time of year, you may catch their wildly popular themed experiences like Ghost Train or Tweetsie Christmas (our personal favorite- it’s pure magic!).

Moses H. Cone Memorial Park

An impressive, historic estate built at the turn of the 20th century as a summer home was later donated to the National Park Service. It now serves as a park offering home tours, a seasonal shop, and winding carriage trails perfect for hiking and exploring. The property has more than 25 miles of these trails with breathtaking views, peaceful meadows, and small lakes. It’s a gorgeous setting full of history.

Bass Lake

Located just around the corner from Moses H. Cone, Bass Lake is a beautiful area for walking, fishing, and picnicking. The loop trail around the lake is really beautiful and an easy 0.8-mile flat distance.

Price Lake

Price Lake is another stunner in Blowing Rock, and I especially love it during the fall. The water, sunlight, and type of trees surrounding it create the perfect combination for particularly vibrant autumn leaves. Seeing them reflected off the blue mountain water is pure magic.

Hike about 2 miles around the perimeter of the lake, rent a kayak from Price Lake Boat Rentals, or just do what I do— park at Price Lake Overlook to enjoy the view without breaking a sweat.

Nearby Fun

You can have an exciting, relaxing, and delicious visit to Blowing Rock without ever leaving the village, but if you do want to venture out a bit, we have some recommendations.

Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway

This is one of the most beloved roads in America for a reason. Just hop on and drive where your heart takes you, and bring your camera and a picnic to enjoy at one of the many overlooks.

Our Favorite Hikes Close to Blowing Rock

Just a short drive along the parkway will bring you to multiple hikes you’ll love. Our personal favorites are Rough Ridge and Beacon Heights—both have extraordinary payoffs with views that will blow you away.

Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster

Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster is only a half-hour drive from Blowing Rock, and it’s incredible! As the first alpine coaster in North Carolina, Wilderness Run takes you on a thrilling ride winding through the NC Mountains. You can control your speed to be a slow, relaxing ride or a fast-paced 27mph thrill.

Visit the Original Mast General Store

Mast General Store is an icon in the High Country, and the best location in our opinion is the original in Valle Crucis, under 30 minutes from Blowing Rock.

Explore history, candy, toys, home goods, clothes, and more, and then check out the park behind the store! We love taking our kids to play in the creek after shopping. It makes for a really fun afternoon as a family.

We Hope You Love Blowing Rock

If this guide helped you, let us know! And as always, if we missed your favorite spots, leave a comment so we can be sure to check them out on our next visit. Blowing Rock is pure magic, and we hope you can enjoy a visit soon.