Blowing Rock NC Attractions

A historically popular vacation destination, Blowing Rock is home to many of the High Country’s most beloved attractions. Here I have included information on some of the most well-known; a trip to Blowing Rock is never complete without a visit to some of these exciting places. When you own buy North Carolina Mountain real estate in and around Blowing Rock then you can visit these wonderful places anytime you like.

The Blowing Rock

The Blowing Rock is the oldest, continuously open attraction and the home of the rocky outcropping for which the town is named. Today, The Blowing Rock is a natural area where you can look out over the observation deck across the Johns River Gorge; the same gorge where, according to Native American legends, a young Indian brave tried to jump to his death after being forbidden to see the young maiden he loved. He plunged over the side, but the strange and almost supernatural wind gusts that flow over the rock brought him back up and over the rock to where the young maiden waited. Kids and adults love to visit this Blowing Rock Attraction and explore the visitors center nearby.

Hayes Performing Arts Center

The Hayes Performing Arts Center is a magnificent auditorium where shows, plays and other events take place in Blowing Rock. At times, it has served as the home of the famed Blowing Rock Stage Company.

Tweetsie Railroad

Blowing RockTweetsie Railroad is a historic family theme park that operates as a Western railroad town. Kids love to ride the old train, which was the original locomotive that carried people and cargo on the East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad (ET&WNC) that traveled from our region of NC all the way to Johnson City TN. Folks back then would hear the train’s whistle and nicknamed it “Tweetsie,” and as such, the theme park is aptly named. A chair lift, as well as numerous kids’ and young adult rides entertain the masses here.

Appalachian Ski Mtn

Appalachian Ski Mountain, Blowing Rock’s only ski resort, was the first ski resort to open in the state of North Carolina and it is the home of the premier ski school in the Carolina’s, the French Swiss Ski School. Locals and visitors alike flock to the resort’s fabulous ski runs in the winter to enjoy snow skiing and snowboarding. Appalachian Ski Mountain also features a nice outdoor ice skating rink as well.

Mystery Hill

Mystery Hill is a peculiar place. Visit this home just off of Hwy 321 and you will notice quite a few things right away. Things most certainly are never what they seem here. Gravity seems to have been suspended, and the usual laws of nature do not apply here. This is a fun place for kids and adults and it is often educational.

Moses H. Cone Manor & Southern Highland Craft Guild

Explore the trails and estate of the late Moses. H Cone. Cone and his wife Bertha built a massive mountain estate just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the home and its lands have been masterfully preserved. The Southern Highland Craft Guild’s showroom and museum is located here along with more than 20 miles of hiking, biking and horseback riding trails. Fishing is also permitted here in the numerous streams and small ponds.

Westglow

Westglow Spa is probably the most luxurious spa destination in Blowing Rock. Located in a restored historic home listed on the National Register, Westglow Spa & Salon is often a top pick among ladies who want to be pampered for the day. While there are many spas in and around the town, Westglow Spa is the only Blowing Rock Spa located on the enormous, historic property that was built by artist Eliot Daingerfield.

I invite you to read more about the scenic region of Blowing Rock. I have also included tons of helpful information for those looking to buy real estate here. I list and sell Blowing Rock Real Estate, so checking out my property listings might be a great place to start looking for real estate near this region. As a native of Ashe County, I have a deep love and respect for these ancient mountains and want to show you all of the best parts. Learn more about Watauga County, or if you are looking or property that is a bit more secluded and away from things, browse for Ashe and Alleghany real estate as well. I can help you no matter what your real estate needs are.