Upcoming Events in Marion
Marion, N.C. - Where Main Street Meets The Mountains
With its historic buildings set against the backdrop of picturesque Mount Ida, you'll find Marion is the perfect base camp for your next Blue Ridge Mountain adventure. Get a taste of local flavors in the town’s eclectic downtown, or explore the surrounding mountains by foot, by bike or by car.
Stroll the sidewalks of Marion’s historic Main Street where you’ll find former banks and warehouses brought back to life as locally-owned restaurants, craft breweries, bakeries, ice cream parlors, unique shopping boutiques and art galleries.
Main Street is the site of several mountain craft fairs and community celebrations throughout the year. Stop by the Historic Marion Tailgate Market on Tuesdays, May through October, to pick up local produce and artisan goods like bread, jams and handmade soaps. And don’t miss the family-friendly WNC Bigfoot Festival in Marion each September. Check the event calendar for more Marion festivals and happenings.
Marion is conveniently located to a variety of outdoor adventures, many accessible all year round. Walk or bike along the river on the Joseph McDowell Historic Catawba River Greenway at the edge of town, or take a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway to see stunning mountain vistas, visit beautiful waterfalls and access many more hiking trails. Just a few miles away is Lake James State Park where you’ll find hiking and biking trails, canoe and kayak rentals and a swimming beach perfect for staying cool on a hot summer day.
At the end of the day, find your home away from home at one of Marion’s accommodations, including hotels, motels, campgrounds and private cabin rentals.
Explore Marion Attractions
Armstrong Creek
3640 Ft./6 mile trail. Primitive hiking on Armstrong Fish Hatchery Rd. Trail begins past hatchery parking lot. Easy-moderate.Including tributaries -game…
Mountain Paradise Campground and Pool
Locally owned RV campground, open year round. Seasonal amenities include waterslide, pool, mini-golf, fishing and playground. Non-campground guests may purchase…
Vintage Market
Antique mall and vintage store with a variety of vendor booths. You'll find custom-made furnishings and The Vintage Market offers…
Woodlawn Fitness Trail
Fitness Trail consists of 7 stations, two exercises per station on a 1/4 mile jogging path. Additional one mile loop…
Spillway Bridge & Company
The Spillway is Marion’s premier music venue with a state of the art sound system showcasing local and regional talent.…
English Farmstead Cheese
Visit English Farmstead Cheese in Marion, NC, a quaint shop that offers a variety of cheeses and local fare. All cheeses are crafted from milk produced on-site!
McDowell Arts Council Association
The McDowell Arts Council offers a variety of classes, hosts a unique gift shop filled with local artisans' works and…
Tom's Creek Falls
Tom's Creek Falls is accessible year round, located south of the Blue Parkway at Milepost 316/Hwy. 221 South, and a…