FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANTS (Fine Dining)
One of our absolute favorites!
FOOD AND AMBIENCE:
Local cuisine, Bar, American, Steakhouse, Vegetarian Friendly
Terrific entrees and awesome salad bar
Special occasions, Romantic Dinner, Large groups, Business meetings
ABOUT:
The High Country's Premier Steak and Seafood Restaurant for over 30 years. Featuring an award winning wine list, regional beers and craft cocktails. Indoor and covered outdoor seating available. Private room available for events.
146 locals recommend
Stonewalls Restaurant
344 Shawneehaw Ave SOne of our absolute favorites!
FOOD AND AMBIENCE:
Local cuisine, Bar, American, Steakhouse, Vegetarian Friendly
Terrific entrees and awesome salad bar
Special occasions, Romantic Dinner, Large groups, Business meetings
ABOUT:
The High Country's Premier Steak and Seafood Restaurant for over 30 years. Featuring an award winning wine list, regional beers and craft cocktails. Indoor and covered outdoor seating available. Private room available for events.
Voted the #1 restaurant in the area!
FOOD AND AMBIENCE:
Local cuisine, American, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options
Special occasions, Romantic Dinner, Scenic view, Large groups, Business meetings
ABOUT:
Reservations Recommended, Indoor and Outdoor Seating, Private Dining, On-site Parking, Valet Parking Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Full Bar
85 locals recommend
Artisanal Restaurant
1200 Dobbins RdVoted the #1 restaurant in the area!
FOOD AND AMBIENCE:
Local cuisine, American, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options
Special occasions, Romantic Dinner, Scenic view, Large groups, Business meetings
ABOUT:
Reservations Recommended, Indoor and Outdoor Seating, Private Dining, On-site Parking, Valet Parking Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Full Bar
FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANTS (Moderately Priced)
Puerto Nuevo Mexican & Seafood Restaurant
1944 Tynecastle HwyGreat Mexican Food!
The Pedalin' Pig
4235 NC-105We love this place for BBQ!
Painted Fish Cafe and Beer Bar
2941 Tynecastle HwyComfort food with flair!
Sorrento's Italian Bistro
140 Azalea Cir SEUpscale Italian
Bayou Smokehouse & Grill
130 Main St ECajun and Creole
Bella's
3585 Tynecastle HwyAwesome Pizza and Italian!
Dunn's Deli
134 Main St WGreat sandwiches and homemade soups
Banner Elk Cafe & Tavern
324 Shawneehaw Ave SOur go-to place for breakfast!
Bodegas Kitchen and Wine Bar
488 Main St WWonderful "out of the ordinary" spot!
Cam Ranh Bay
110 High Country SqExcellent food and great sushi!
Nguyens Asian Grill
2015 Cranberry StGreat sushi! About a 20 minute drive from Sugar Top, in Newland, NC
Area Attractions
This is North Carolina’s very first “alpine roller coaster” and opened in May 2020! An alpine coaster is different from a normal roller coaster in that it uses a bobsled-like sled or cart to run down a track built on the side of the mountain. Here’s how it works; while sitting in the sled, you’ll be elevated to the top of the mountain…where gravity will do the rest… and in a very exciting way! The track is 3,160 feet long and each cart can go up to 27 mph. You’ll descend through the forests via banked turns at speeds that you are able to control. The run has plenty of curves around boulders and trees for a very exciting ride – complete with the latest safety technology. If you’re looking for a thrill, you gotta try this…it’s an absolute BLAST!
206 locals recommend
Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster
3265 Tynecastle HwyThis is North Carolina’s very first “alpine roller coaster” and opened in May 2020! An alpine coaster is different from a normal roller coaster in that it uses a bobsled-like sled or cart to run down a track built on the side of the mountain. Here’s how it works; while sitting in the sled, you’ll be elevated to the top of the mountain…where gravity will do the rest… and in a very exciting way! The track is 3,160 feet long and each cart can go up to 27 mph. You’ll descend through the forests via banked turns at speeds that you are able to control. The run has plenty of curves around boulders and trees for a very exciting ride – complete with the latest safety technology. If you’re looking for a thrill, you gotta try this…it’s an absolute BLAST!
As North Carolina’s original family theme park, Tweetsie Railroad is a unique attraction that allows children and families to explore their imaginations and a whole lot more. Be a cowboy, cowgirl or an engineer. Shop along Main Street, pan for gold, or visit the animals in the Deer Park. Tweetsie has amusement rides for all ages and live entertainment throughout the park. And, of course, hop aboard our historic train for a fun-filled three-mile Wild West journey through the scenic mountains. Located in Blowing Rock, NC. Call or check online for schedule and hours of operation.
45 locals recommend
Tweetsie Railroad Ln
Tweetsie Railroad LnAs North Carolina’s original family theme park, Tweetsie Railroad is a unique attraction that allows children and families to explore their imaginations and a whole lot more. Be a cowboy, cowgirl or an engineer. Shop along Main Street, pan for gold, or visit the animals in the Deer Park. Tweetsie has amusement rides for all ages and live entertainment throughout the park. And, of course, hop aboard our historic train for a fun-filled three-mile Wild West journey through the scenic mountains. Located in Blowing Rock, NC. Call or check online for schedule and hours of operation.
The Land of Oz is a magical place! Experience the adventure of Dorothy’s trip from her farm in Kansas through the twister and down the yellow brick road to Oz. You will meet the Tin Man, Dorothy, Cowardly Lion, Scarecrow, Professor Marvel, Auntie Em, Uncle Henry, Glinda the Good Witch and the Wizard. The Wicked Witch of the West is also around with her Winkie guards and flying monkeys. There are spectacular mountain views from several overlook locations. You can even dress like your favorite Oz character. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as you “Follow The Yellow Brick Road” because it’s about a mile in length. Call or check online for schedule and hours of operation.
49 locals recommend
Land of Oz
1 Yellow Brick RoadThe Land of Oz is a magical place! Experience the adventure of Dorothy’s trip from her farm in Kansas through the twister and down the yellow brick road to Oz. You will meet the Tin Man, Dorothy, Cowardly Lion, Scarecrow, Professor Marvel, Auntie Em, Uncle Henry, Glinda the Good Witch and the Wizard. The Wicked Witch of the West is also around with her Winkie guards and flying monkeys. There are spectacular mountain views from several overlook locations. You can even dress like your favorite Oz character. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as you “Follow The Yellow Brick Road” because it’s about a mile in length. Call or check online for schedule and hours of operation.
Grandfather Mountain’s pristine scenery and sweeping vistas rejuvenate mind and spirit. At an elevation of 5,946 feet, Grandfather is recognized as one of the world’s most diverse nature preserves. Be exhilarated by the altitude and panoramic views from the Mile High Swinging Bridge; stand eye-to-eye with bears, cougars and otters in natural habitats. Dine in the restaurant or find a scenic picnic spot, browse the nature museum, wander the trails, go behind the scenes of the animal habitats, visit with knowledgeable naturalists, and stop for a treat at the fudge shop. Fill your day with family memories at place where wonders never cease.
204 locals recommend
Grandfather Mountain State Park
Grandfather Mountain’s pristine scenery and sweeping vistas rejuvenate mind and spirit. At an elevation of 5,946 feet, Grandfather is recognized as one of the world’s most diverse nature preserves. Be exhilarated by the altitude and panoramic views from the Mile High Swinging Bridge; stand eye-to-eye with bears, cougars and otters in natural habitats. Dine in the restaurant or find a scenic picnic spot, browse the nature museum, wander the trails, go behind the scenes of the animal habitats, visit with knowledgeable naturalists, and stop for a treat at the fudge shop. Fill your day with family memories at place where wonders never cease.
Apple Hill Farm is a real working farm that is home to alpacas, angora goats, donkeys, and much more. Guided walking tours of the farm offered year-round and you do need to join a tour to see the animals. On these tours, guests get up close and personal with the animals that work and play at Apple Hill Farm. Every animal has a specific job, and many have a story as well! In addition to farm animals, Apple Hill Farm is also home to the largest selection of alpaca products in the High Country of North Carolina. They have over 20 varieties of alpaca yarn as well as gloves, scarves, socks, sweaters, vests, jackets, hats, stuffed animals and more - all created from luxurious alpaca fiber!
74 locals recommend
Apple Hill Farm - Alpaca Farm
400 Apple Hill RdApple Hill Farm is a real working farm that is home to alpacas, angora goats, donkeys, and much more. Guided walking tours of the farm offered year-round and you do need to join a tour to see the animals. On these tours, guests get up close and personal with the animals that work and play at Apple Hill Farm. Every animal has a specific job, and many have a story as well! In addition to farm animals, Apple Hill Farm is also home to the largest selection of alpaca products in the High Country of North Carolina. They have over 20 varieties of alpaca yarn as well as gloves, scarves, socks, sweaters, vests, jackets, hats, stuffed animals and more - all created from luxurious alpaca fiber!
The Blue Ridge Parkway is pure Heaven on Earth! This 469-mile scenic drive links Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, while protecting the cultural and natural features of the Blue Ridge. Entrance only 15 minutes from Heavenly Grandfather!
11 locals recommend
Blue Ridge Parkway
Blue Ridge ParkwayThe Blue Ridge Parkway is pure Heaven on Earth! This 469-mile scenic drive links Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, while protecting the cultural and natural features of the Blue Ridge. Entrance only 15 minutes from Heavenly Grandfather!
The guided tour of this beautiful cavern takes about 45 minutes. Guides are friendly and knowledgeable. Admission is very reasonable. Take a jacket. It can get chilly in the cave.
317 locals recommend
Linville Caverns, Inc.
19929 U.S. 221The guided tour of this beautiful cavern takes about 45 minutes. Guides are friendly and knowledgeable. Admission is very reasonable. Take a jacket. It can get chilly in the cave.
Hawksnet Zipline an absolute blast and you can zipline all year-round! Hawknest currently has 20 ziplines including 4 mega zips, 2 over 2000 feet long and 2 over 1500 feet long. With 4 miles of zipline riding with heights over 200 feet and speeds up to 50 mph. Ziplines are over trees, through trees, over lakes and creeks with panoramic views on almost every ride. Huge observation deck at mountaintop lodge for after your zipping sessions!
238 locals recommend
Hawksnest Snow Tubing and Zipline
2058 Skyland DrHawksnet Zipline an absolute blast and you can zipline all year-round! Hawknest currently has 20 ziplines including 4 mega zips, 2 over 2000 feet long and 2 over 1500 feet long. With 4 miles of zipline riding with heights over 200 feet and speeds up to 50 mph. Ziplines are over trees, through trees, over lakes and creeks with panoramic views on almost every ride. Huge observation deck at mountaintop lodge for after your zipping sessions!
Ski Resorts and Winter Activities
Enjoy skiing and snowboarding at one of the South’s premier ski resorts, Sugar Mountain Resort. Choose from full day, half day, twilight or night sessions. Come as you are – equipment rentals and sports shop on-site. Beginners will enjoy learning skiing & snowboarding at either the Adult Ski & Snowboard School, or the Children’s Ski & Snowboard School. Groups are welcome and childcare is available. Only a 10 minute drive from Heavenly Grandfather!
295 locals recommend
Sugar Mountain Resort, Inc
1009 Sugar Mountain DrEnjoy skiing and snowboarding at one of the South’s premier ski resorts, Sugar Mountain Resort. Choose from full day, half day, twilight or night sessions. Come as you are – equipment rentals and sports shop on-site. Beginners will enjoy learning skiing & snowboarding at either the Adult Ski & Snowboard School, or the Children’s Ski & Snowboard School. Groups are welcome and childcare is available. Only a 10 minute drive from Heavenly Grandfather!
All-season activities abound at this mountain resort area: skiing, tubing and snowboarding in the winter; hiking, fishing and biking in the summer. About a 25 minute drive from Heavenly Grandfather.
367 locals recommend
Beech Mountain Ski Resort
1007 S Beech Mountain PkwyAll-season activities abound at this mountain resort area: skiing, tubing and snowboarding in the winter; hiking, fishing and biking in the summer. About a 25 minute drive from Heavenly Grandfather.
If you don’t really want to ski, but still enjoy an adrenaline rush, snow tubing and ziplining is A LOT of fun for the entire family! Hawksnest Tubing Park is the largest snow tubing park on the East Coast! With over 30 lanes of snow tubing that span from 400 to 1,000 feet long, Hawksnest Tubing is your family’s destination for a unique winter experience. Their four different snow tubing areas provide an array of terrain that satisfies even the most advanced tubers! And they offer 100% lighting on all lanes, so the fun can continue into the night. About a fifteen minute drive from Heavenly Grandfather.
238 locals recommend
Hawksnest Snow Tubing and Zipline
2058 Skyland DrIf you don’t really want to ski, but still enjoy an adrenaline rush, snow tubing and ziplining is A LOT of fun for the entire family! Hawksnest Tubing Park is the largest snow tubing park on the East Coast! With over 30 lanes of snow tubing that span from 400 to 1,000 feet long, Hawksnest Tubing is your family’s destination for a unique winter experience. Their four different snow tubing areas provide an array of terrain that satisfies even the most advanced tubers! And they offer 100% lighting on all lanes, so the fun can continue into the night. About a fifteen minute drive from Heavenly Grandfather.
Golf Courses
Beautiful golf course! About a 10 minute drive from Heavenly Grandfather.
31 locals recommend
Ole Esval Sugar Mountain Municipal Golf Course
1054 Sugar Mountain DrBeautiful golf course! About a 10 minute drive from Heavenly Grandfather.
Mountain Glen Golf Club
1 Club house DriveAbout 15 minute drive from Heavenly Grandfather.
Boone Golf Club
433 Fairway DrAbout at 25 minute drive from Heavenly Grandfather.
Nice 18 hole course! About a 20 minute drive from Heavenly Grandfather.
7 locals recommend
Linville Land Harbor Golf Club
1665 Goose Hollow RdNice 18 hole course! About a 20 minute drive from Heavenly Grandfather.