Places to Shop and Other Activities for Ashe County and the Surrounding Area

Museums Other Activites Shopping

Museums

Mountain Farm Life Museum: Located at 527 Ashe Park Rd, Jefferson, NC 28640. Limited hours so call 336-982-2401

The Frank T. Williams Railroad Museum: PO Box 388, Blowing Rock, NC 28605. Phone: 1-800-526-5741 Description: Located at Tweetsie Railroad on Hwy 321 between Boone and Blowing Rock. Named after a former employee of the East Tennessee and Western North Carolina railroad, the museum has artifacts from the original trains and Tweetsie’s early years. Tweetsie Railroad admission charge must be paid before visiting this museum. http://tweetsie.com/

Land Of Oz: Emerald Mountain, 2669 Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mtn, NC 28604 Phone: 828-222-0770 Description: 400 acre area where you'll find The Coolest Summers and The Whitest Winters. This Mile-High perch boasts Miles and Miles of Views. In winter, walk to Ski Beech's slopes. In summer, visit the private Land of Oz a truly magical place. In spring and fall, enjoy the quiet and colorful change of seasons. 

Wilkes Art Gallery: 913 C Street, North Wilkesboro, NC 28659. Phone: 336-667-2841 Description: Regional Art Museum. No Admission www.wilkesartgallery.org/

Other Activities

Ashe Civic Center: Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Ashe Civic Center encourages citizens young and old to be involved together in the community and to nurture heritage and traditions. Phone: 336-246-4483 www.ashecivic.com

Ashe County Cheese, Inc: North Carolina’s only cheese factory, free tour, founded in 1930; open daily 8:30AM-5:00PM, Monday through Saturday, located in West Jefferson, NC. Phone: 336-246-2501 www.ashecountycheese.com/

Ashe County Farmers Market: Produce, nursery plants, jellies, cakes, breads, handmade items and more, all home grown and handmade. Saturdays 8:00am - 1:00pm (April 12-December 13) this will include at least three special Holiday events. Back Street of Downtown West Jefferson. Phone: 336-877-4141 www.ashefarmersmarket.com

Blue Ridge Parkway: One of America’s most scenic drives with 469 toll free miles of awesome natural beauty. The most visited national park with spectacular views and vistas as you drive along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. For more information you can write the Blue Ridge Parkway Association at PO Box 453 Asheville, NC 28802 www.blueridgeparkway.org/

Christmas In July: A timely celebration of arts, crafts, music, Christmas trees and tradition in July!! Located on the Main St in Downtown West Jefferson, NC. Phone: 336-246-5855

Heritage Homestead Goat Farm: Come see how Goat cheese is made. Heritage Homestead produces farmstead goat cheese. For more information call 336-982-4753 or 828-773-8319 www.heritagehomestead.net/

Florence Arts School: Open to the public for Art Workshops. For all ages and skill levels. 10 South Jefferson Ave, West Jefferson, NC 28694. Phone: 336-846-3827 https://www.florenceartschool.org/

The Church Of the Frescos- West Jefferson: The exquisite, luminous life-size Blue Ridge frescoes created by world-famous fresco artist Benjamin F. Long, which include: Mary Great with Child, John the Baptist, and Mystery of Faith, St. Mary's Episcopal Church, West Jefferson, NC

The Church Of the Frescos- Glendale Springs : The exquisite, luminous life-size Blue Ridge frescoes created by world-famous fresco artist Benjamin F. Long, which include: The Last Supper, Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, Glendale Springs, NC.

The Church Of the Frescos- Wilkesboro: The exquisite, luminous life-size Blue Ridge frescoes created by world-famous fresco artist Benjamin F. Long, which include: St. Paul's Conversion and St. Paul Writing His Epistles, St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Wilkesboro, NC.

Appalachian Challenge Guide Service: Outdoor fun for the entire family. Rafting, caving, climbing, rappelling or hiking. We can help you plan your perfect outdoor adventure. Toll Free 888-844-RAFT.

The Blowing Rock: An immense cliff 4000 feet above sea level, overhanging Johns River Gorge 3000 feet below. Views, trails and more, located on Hwy 321 South, Blowing Rock, NC. Phone: 828-295-7111 www.theblowingrock.com/

Blue Ridge Discovery Center: Blue Ridge Discovery Center inspires creativity, discovery and critical thinking through the interest-driven and hands on activities focused on the Blue Ridge Mountains. Located at 6402 Whitetop Rd. Troutdale, VA 24378. View our calendar of activities: http://blueridgediscoverycenter.org/

Center 45 Climbing & Fitness: Check out our indoor climbing center. 200 Den Mac Dr, Boone, NC 28607. Phone: 828-386-1550 www.center45.com

Daniel Boone Native Gardens: Daniel Boone Native Gardens features a collection of North Carolina native plant material in an informal landscape design, for education and preservation. See the Wrought Iron Gates made by Daniel Boone VI, a direct descendant of the great pioneer, Daniel Boone. Located at 651 Horn in the West Dr, Boone, NC. Phone: 828-264-6390 -Seasonal operation.

Echos Of The Blue Ridge: Tour Company specializing in birding and natural history tours of the High Country and state of North Carolina. Group bookings and step on services available. Phone: 828-265-0198

Grandfather Mountain: Drive to the top, enjoy the nature museum, natural wildlife habitats, picnic areas, hiking trails, and cross the mile-high swinging bride, located 17 miles south of Boone and Blowing Rock, US 221 and Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 305, Linville, NC. Toll Free 800-468-7325 www.grandfather.com/

High Gravity Adventures: For the adventurous persons of all ages. Get harnessed and begin your climbing adventure here with us. You will love this aerial climbing adventure course and want to come back. 215 Tweetsie Railroad Rd, Blowing Rock, NC 28605. Phone: 828-386-6222; www.highgravityadventures.com/

High Mountain Expeditions: Whitewater rafting, funyaking, mountain bike tours and rentals, caving and hiking. Offering the highest quality wilderness trips available. An entire fleet of self-bailing rafts and funyaks, state-of-the-art equipment and gear, comfortable, well-maintained vehicles, gourmet meals and professional guides. Fun for all ages and abilities. Toll Free: 800-262-9036 www.highmountainexpeditions.com

Horn In The West: Stage plays reliving the struggles of the early mountain settlers. Hickory Ridge Homestead – demonstrations of eighteenth century mountain life. Daniel Boone Native Gardens – a display of mountain flora, dedicated to the preservation of Earth’s treasures. All located together in Boone, NC. Open mid-June through mid-August. Phone: 828-264-2120.

Images Salon & Spa: Enjoy a relaxing time at a day spa. 1104 Oak Grove Church Road, Millers Creek, NC 28651.    336-667-8141  https://www.bestprosintown.com/nc/millers-creek/images-salon-and-spa-/  

Linville Caverns: North Carolina’s only cavern, located on Hwy 221 between Linville and Marion, 4 miles south of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Open June 1 through Labor Day 9:00AM-6:00PM, April, May, September, October 9:00AM-5:00PM, November, March 9:00AM-4:30 PM, December, January, February weekends only. Phone: 828-756-4171.

Merlefest: Merlefest Music Festival is held last weekend (Thursday-Sunday) in April of every year on the campus at Wilkes Community College. 10 stages, crafts, commercial and food vendors and contests.

Moses Cone Estate: 25 miles of guided trails on the Moses Cone Estate, located off Hwy 221 South in Blowing Rock on Laurel Lane. Open May-November 9AM-5PM. Group rates available, reservations required for all riding, no children under 9. Phone: 828-295-7847.

Mystery Hill: Scenic optical illusions and natural phenomena. Located on Hwy 321 between Boone and Blowing Rock. Open all year long. Summer: Monday-Saturday 8:00AM-8:00PM, Sunday 1:00PM-6:00PM winter: Monday-Saturday 9:00AM-5:00PM, Sunday 1:00PM-5:00PM. Phone: 828-264-2792.

Old Orchard Creek Blueberry Farm: Blueberries are available from mid-June to mid-August. Please check this site or contact us for specific opening and closing dates. If you would like your blueberries ready-picked, call ahead to reserve as ready-picked berries sell out quickly. Local delivery is available. Old Orchard Creek Farms and Cottage: 410 Swansie Shepherd Rd, Lansing, NC 28643.  Phone: 336-384-1599  https://www.oldorchardcreek.com/farm

Orchard At Altapass: Historic Orchard At Altapass (founded in 1907) on Orchard Rd Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 328.4. Open late May to early November. Fresh baked goods, homemade fudge, ice cream, sundries, crafts made locally, tours, hay rides, history, tall tales, live local music, craft demonstrations and fresh apples in season. Phone: 828-765-9531

Parkway Craft Center: Located at Moses Cone Manor, on the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 294. For nearly 50 years, the Southern Highland Craft Guild has showcased here, the best crafts from a nine state region. Weaving, basketry, pottery, woodcarving, glass and metal work. Open 9:00AM-6:00PM May – October and 9:00AM-4:00PM, other months, call to verify. Phone 828-295-7938

Saloon Studios:  This is not just any saloon. This is an 1860’s-style saloon complete with authentic western artifacts, and even the bar stools are saddles.  Most importantly, this saloon doubles as a live performance stage & recording venue with state-of-the-art recording equipment, technology, & sound engineering, presenting music legends & rock’n roll hall of famers.    saloonstudioslive.com  Phone: 336-877-2374 

Tweetsie Railroad: Wild West Theme Park, authentic steam engine train ride, fair rides, petting zoo and shows. Located between Boone and Blowing Rock on Hwy 321. Toll Free 800-526-5740

Westglow Spa: A secluded luxury spa located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. 224 Westglow Cir, US Hwy 221 S., Blowing Rock, NC 28605. Phone: 828-295-4463

Westhaven Aesthetics & Wellness: Offering a complete line of spa services. 875 Mt Jefferson Rd, West Jefferson, NC - 336-846-7546    

Shopping

1st Tracks: Boone's most complete ski shop is equipped with skis, skates and snowboards and ready to serve you in sales, service and rentals. Located on Hwy 105 South. Phone: 828-264-7368 www.1sttracks.com

Antiques On Main: Wide assortment of antiques. Located at 842 South Jefferson Avenue West Jefferson, NC 28694. Phone: 336-846-1231

Becky & Company: unique boutique that focuses on the modern woman. From head to toe our team will work to make you feel beautiful. 424 E Main Street, Jefferson, NC 28640 Phone: (336) 846-2159

Bolick Family Pottery & Traditions Pottery: Produce handmade pottery in traditional shapes such as face jugs, Rebekah pitchers, candlesticks, mugs, bowls, and teapots. Pottery Studio Number: 828-295-5099. www.traditionspottery.com

Bull's: Boots and western clothing and much more! 13 N Jefferson Ave, West Jefferson, NC 28694 Phone: 336-846-2855 https://bulls-boots-and-western-wear.business.site/

Crossroads Harley Davidson: Providing motor clothes, collectibles, parts and accessories, new and used bike sales with financing and factory-trained technicians in the service department. Off Hwy 421 in Wilkesboro. Phone: 336-667-9158 www.crossroads-hd.com

DeWoolfson's Fine Linens: Featuring goose down pillows and comforters, and European linens including Italian cotton, Lechlade cotton blankets and flannels from Lancashire. Located on Sunset Drive in Blowing Rock. Open 10-6 Monday through Saturday and Noon-5 on Sunday. Telephone- 828-295-0504 www.dewoolfsondown.com

Double A Boot (AA Boot Store): 1750 NC Hwy 88 West, West Jefferson, NC 28694. Phone: 336-246-4343

Farmers Ski Shop: Located in downtown Boone at 140 Depot St, Boone, NC. Phone: 828-264-4565

Florence Thomas Art School: Open to the public for Art Gallery and art supplies. 10 South Jefferson Ave, West Jefferson, NC 28694. Phone: 336-846-3827

Foggy Pine Books: Local book store for the lover of all books. 471 W King St., Boone, NC 28607 828-386-1219   https://www.foggypinebooks.com/

Footsloggers: Shop here to find apparel and shoes for the adventurous type. 8 A South Jefferson Ave, West Jefferson, NC 28694. Phone: 336-846-5888 https://footsloggersnc.com/

Greenhouse Crafts Shop: Specializing in fine local and regional crafts, as well as a large selection of acoustic tapes and CD's, books, herb plants, collectables, cards and jewelry. Located in Glendale Springs. 248 J.W.Luke Rd, Glendale Springs, NC. Phone: 336-982-2618 www.greenhousecrafts.com

Happy Tails of West Jefferson: Thrift store supports the Animal Rescue. 431 E 2nd Street, West Jefferson, NC 28694. Phone 336-846-1727

Incredible Toy Company: Specializing in toys for the older child including science and nature, books, puzzles, toys and games. Located between Boone and Tweetsie Railroad. 3411 Hwy. 321 S. Blowing Rock, NC. Phone: 828-264-1422 www.incredibletoycompany.com

Libby's: "We've got the look" Clothing Boutique. Located at 205B Shamrock Square, Jefferson, NC. Phone: 336-246-9551 www.libbyslook.com

Mast General Store: An old general store listed in the National Register of Historical Places. Retail and mail order. Open year round. Hours at the historic store NC-194, Valle Crucis, NC 28691: Mon-Sat 9am-6pm; Sunday 12pm-6pm OR located: West King Street, Boone, NC. Call or check online for updated location business hours: 828-963-6511 www.mastgeneralstore.com

McB's Mercantile & Ice Cream: This locally owned business specializes in embroidery, screen printing, t-shirts, sweatshirts, and variety items for great gifts. Enjoy the ice cream too! 103 S Jefferson Ave, West Jefferson, NC 28694. Phone: 336-846-3360

Mountain Outfitters: Providing you with outdoor clothing, shoes, camping & hiking gear. We sell Columbia, Woolrich, North Face, Danner, Merrell, Burt's Bees and Native eyewear. Specialize in Ashe County T-shirts, sweatshirts & caps. Located in downtown West Jefferson. 102 S Jefferson Ave, West Jefferson, NC. Phone: 336-246-9133

Mo's Boots: 02 N. Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson, NC. Phone: 336-846-2668 www.mosboots.com

Northwest Trading Post: Gift shop on the Parkway helps to keep alive crafts that are now almost a thing of the past. Closed November-April. Located at Milepost 259. 414 Trading Post Rd. Glendale Springs, NC. Phone: 336-982-2543  www.blueridgeparkway.org/v.php?pg=673 OR https://gofindoutdoors.org/northwest-trading-post/

Old Orchard Creek General Store:  General store, café, coffee, and tea. 9350 NC 194 Lansing, NC 28643 336-384-9350  https://www.oldorchardcreek.com/general-store

Old Boone Mercantile: An old general store listed in the National Register of Historical Places. The Boone location of Mast General Store. Retail and Mail order. Open Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm and Sunday 1pm-6pm. West King Street, Boone, NC. Phone: 828-262-0000  www.mastgeneralstore.com

Parkway Craft Center: Southern Highland Craft Guild features crafts from a nine state region including weaving, basketry, pottery, woodcarving, glass and metal work. Located at the Moses Cone Mansion at Milepost 294. 667 Service Rd, Blowing Rock, NC. Phone: 828-295-7938 www.blueridgeparkway.org

Pretty n' Pearls: Beautiful locally owned boutique and special events store offering prom dresses, wedding dresses, tuxedo rentals, and more! 112 N Jefferson Avenue, West Jefferson, NC. 28694, USA. Phone: 336-846-LOVE (5683) or 336.877.0364. https://prettynpearlsboutique.com/

Ski Country Sports: Featuring ski equipment and apparel for sale and rent. 3149 Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk, NC. Phone: 828-898-9786 www.skicountrysports.com

Tanger Shoppe's On The Parkway: Outlet stores featuring something for everyone. Clothing, shoes, housewares, Christmas items and more. Located off Hwy 321 in Blowing Rock, NC. Phone: 828-295-4444 www.tangeroutlet.com/blowingrock

The Cabin Store: The cabin store is the ultimate expression in mountain décor. It's more than furniture-it's a lifestyle. Create your own Rustic elegance by choosing furnishings & accessories from the largest showroom in the High Country. 1101 S. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson, NC. Phone: 336-264-5647 www.thecarolinacabinstore.com

Todd Mercantile: 3899 Todd Railroad Grade Rd Todd, NC. Phone: 336-877-5401 www.toddmercantile.com

Wilcox Emporium: A historic 60,000 square foot renovated warehouse featuring more than 180 vendors. Four retail Shoppe's, a food court and the only brewpub in the area. Featuring crafts, antiques, collectables, home furnishings and food. Located on Howard Street. 161 Howard St Boone, NC. Phone: 828-262-1221