Explore Boone

08/03/2026

Plot twist: the kids' favorite part of the trip is free. 💸

We compiled 10 free and low-cost things to do to fill your family's Boone itinerary, no overdraft required. Check it out below:

A resourceful roundup of ideas for stretching your dollar with cheap and free activities near Boone, NC!

08/02/2026

There’s no better way to close out a summer day than with a mountain sunset. 🥹🌄

blue ridge parkway | sunset spots | boone, nc

07/30/2026

No need to overthink it. 🌄 A last-minute trip to the High Country might be the perfect ending to your summer. ⛰️

boone, nc | blue ridge mountains | back to school

07/24/2026

“Football is more than a game at App State—it’s an all-day celebration as the Blue Ridge Mountains keep watch over elaborate tailgates, festive tents, and dedicated fans.” - Lori K. Tate, Our State

If you’ve ever been in Boone for an App State Football game day, you’ll know exactly what Lori is talking about!

The August issue of Our State Magazine (Our State Magazine) features the history of downtown Boone (page 34) and traditions of App State (page 71) that capture the heart of our charming college town. 🏈⛰️🌿

Thanks for the cover feature, Our State!

07/22/2026

Protected land doesn't protect itself. 🌿⛰️🦎

This World Conservation Day, we're celebrating the places that make Boone so special and the people working to keep them that way, like Blue Ridge Conservancy, who've conserved over 22,000 acres across the High Country.

Whether you're exploring a trail, visiting a river access, or taking in the mountain views, remember to leave it as you found it. Small actions help preserve these places for everyone to enjoy, today and for the generations to come.

07/20/2026

Some of the best views here don’t cost a thing. ✨ Just step outside your cabin and let the night sky do the rest.

🌌 Link in bio for our stargazing guide!

📷: Leslie Restivo

boone, nc | dark sky | Milky Way | blue ridge mountains

07/17/2026

Remember when we said a better Howard K**b Park was on the horizon? 👀

Well, now you can actually see the horizon from a brand-new, fully accessible overlook with panoramic views of downtown Boone, Grandfather Mountain, Hawksbill, and Table Rock. We also added more parking, paved walking paths, brand new signage and renovated the picnic shelter. 🎉

A huge thank you to Destination by Design for helping us bring this vision to life. Grand opening still to come!

ℹ️ Open daily 8:30am–7:30pm from now through late October. 🏔️

07/16/2026

Looking for ways to keep the whole family entertained this summer? ☀️

Whether you’re traveling with little explorers or kids who love adventure, Boone offers attractions that make every day a memorable one. Here are a few to add to your list ➡

family trips | fun attractions | blue ridge mountains

📍Mystery Hill

Step into the unexpected at Mystery Hill, where gravity seems to play by its own rules. Explore hands-on experience on exhibits, optical illusions, and the famous Anomaly Room for a family adventure full of surprises. 🌀

📍Tweetsie Railroad

Climb aboard a historicWild West steam engine, enjoy classic amusement rides, meet friendly animals, and spend the day making Wild West memories the whole family will love. 🚂

📍The Children’s Playhouse

Spark creativity through interactive exhibits, imaginative play, and hands-on activities designed for young explorers to learn, play, and discover together. 🎭

📍Yonni’s Clubhouse at Grandfather Mountain

Take a break for nature-inspired play at this outdoor adventure space, where little ones can climb, explore, and enjoy the mountain settting at their own pace. ⛰️

📍Hawksnest Adventures

Soar above the treetops on a zipline adventure while taking in sweeping mountain views. 🌲

📍Doc’s Rocks Gem Mine

Pan for gemstones, fossils, and treasures while learning about geology through a hands-on experience that’s fun for kids and adults alike. 💎

📍Climbing Tower at Rock Dimensions

Challenge yourself on the outdoor climbing tower with routes for a variety of skill levels, an exciting way for families to try something new together. 🧗

07/15/2026

Next time you're in town, check out Howard K**b Park's brand new overlook!

Thanks to our visitors, we're proud to have funded this 100% wheelchair-accessible viewing platform, with views of the High Country that go on for miles. 💙

BOONE — Howard K**b Park has reopened after a nearly $2.2 million upgrade, capped by a horseshoe-shaped overlook that opens the peak’s panoramic views to visitors of all abilities for

07/10/2026

Did you know Boone, NC, sits at the headwaters of two iconic rivers: the Watauga and the New? 🚣💦

From peaceful floats to fly fishing and whitewater adventures, find the perfect way to cool off this summer.

Have an adventure in Boone, North Carolina. Go canoeing, kayaking, whitewater rafting or river tubing on a river, or cool off in a mountain lake.