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Upcoming Events in Marion
Marion, N.C. - Where Main Street Meets The Mountains
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"Where Main Street Meets the Mountains"
With it's historic buildings set against the backdrop of picturesque Mount Ida, Marion is the heart of our county and a great middle point for your next Blue Ridge Mountain adventure. Get a taste of local flavors in our eclectic downtown, or explore the surrounding mountains by foot, bike, RV, or 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.
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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.
![People walking in downtown Marion](https://www.blueridgetraveler.com/media/images/102620-03301-mcdowell-county.width-500.jpg)
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.
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Explore Marion Attractions
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Bad Fork
2940 Ft. /8 Miles. Primitive trail connects Woods Mountain & Armstrong Creek Trails. NC 226-A to Armstrong Fish Hatchery Rd.…
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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.
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The Lucky Strike Gold and Gem Mine
Plan a stay at The Lucky Strike Gold and Gem Mine campsite in Marion and enjoy a recreational mine, diner, gift shop, concert hall and so much more!
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The Heathen's Den -Axe Throwing and Ales
Heathen's Den is an axe throwing venue located in downtown Marion inside the Miller Building Complex. Customers may call ahead…
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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…
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Catawba River at Joseph McDowell Greenway
Easy walk in access, handicap accessible fishing piers and canoe/kayak access available from three points along the greenway. This section…
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Marion Lake Club
If you're looking for a special event venue, look no further than the Lake James Golf Course and Marion Lake Club House. It is the perfect spot for your event!
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Killough's Music & Loan
An array of guitar strings and musical instruments line the wall inside Killough’s Music & Loan on South Main Street…