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Welcome to the Blue Ridge Mountains, where forests, waterfalls, mountain peaks and welcoming small towns await.
Outdoor adventure is all around. This area is home to more than 200 miles (and counting) of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding, plus lakes and rivers for paddling and fishing. Pisgah National Forest — the first national forest unit in the U.S. — is a wonderland of rushing waterfalls and breathtaking mountain vistas.
Take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway as it winds north from Mount Mitchell to Linville Falls, or bring your motorcycle to experience the thrill of The Diamondback. Or trade your car for a canoe as you explore the cool waters of Lake James.
Learn about the natural and cultural heritage of the region at one of our historical attractions, or try your luck at an historic gem mine. Enjoy shopping for unique and handcrafted souvenirs along Main Street and Catawba Avenue in Old Fort and in Marion's historic and vibrant downtown, where you’ll find antique shops, independent boutiques and art galleries. Or wander out to Little Switzerland or the Orchard at Altapass to peruse old-fashioned general stores.
Spend the evening sampling flights of craft beer at a local brewery, or drink in the rhythms of live music at an area venue or winery. And don’t let the rain dampen your spirit of adventure — check out local bowling alleys, arcades and skating rinks to keep the whole family entertained.
Check out the listings below to plan your next Blue Ridge Mountain vacation.
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Green Flash Watersports Lake James
GreenFlash Watersports offers Waterski, Wakeboard, Wake Surf and tubing trips on Lake James. Our USA Waterski & Wakesports certified instructors…
Shops at Switzerland Inn
The Shops at Switzerland Inn offers some of the best, most unique seasonal shopping in the area, with a wide selection of handmade goods from local artisans!
Keeper's Cut Meadery
For traditional and flavored mead, try Keeper's Cut Meadery in Marion! Visit their tasting room or dog-friendly deck, where you can bring your own snacks.
Spillway Bridge & Company
The Spillway is Marion’s premier music venue with a state of the art sound system showcasing local and regional talent.…
The Box Factory NC - Municipal Event Center
Located inside the Larry D. Miller Building in the heart of downtown Marion, NC, the Municipal Events center is soon to be an indoor shopping venue.
Marion Lake Club Golf Course & Slices Bistro
The ONLY golf course on Lake James, dating back to 1923, when it was designed by famed golf course architect…
Point Lookout Trail
Spectacular views of the Royal Gorge and 19th-century railroad tunnels. In 2022, the Point Lookout Trail was included as a…
The Davis Country Store
Inspired by tradition, the Davis family invites you to stop by the "second generation" Davis Country Store located on Main…
Catawba River Park and Canoe Launch
Catawba River Park and Canoe/Kayak Launch is located within one quarter mile of the intersection of Highway 70 West and…
Turtle Island Pottery
Since 1980 Turtle Island Pottery has produced a very popular line of functional stoneware. The pottery has become very recognizable…
Mill Creek Park
Local event area, on Catawba Avenue in downtown Old Fort between Hillman Beer and Whaley Farm Brewery and bordered by…
Old Fort Bike Shop
OFBS is a bicycle repair and service shop located in historic Old Fort NC. OFBS is owned and operated by…
The Pond At Laurel Cove
The Pond at Laurel Cove is owned by Patrick and Lisa Ellis and has been in the Ellis family for…
Marion Hot Wheelz - Skating Rink
Stop by downtown Marion's roller skating rink, offering special events, arcade games and birthday party packages. Click the link for…
All Things Geeky By 2 Nerds
Get your geek on at All Things Geeky By 2 Nerds, Marion's own comic book store. Find all kinds of comics, games, toys, collectors items, and more in one place!
Mountain Laurel Antiques
Moutain Laurel Antiques has a little something for everyone, from furniture to jewelry, accessories, clothing, and so much more. They even buy, sell, or trade!