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Read MoreA Complete Guide to Family-Friendly Activities in Blowing Rock
Blowing Rock, North Carolina, is the perfect destination for families seeking adventure, relaxation, and breathtaking natural beauty. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this charming town offers something for everyone, whether you're visiting during the vibrant fall foliage, the crisp winter snow, or the lush green spring and summer. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, Blowing Rock is a year-round playground for families.
Attractions Not to Miss
Downtown Blowing Rock: Stroll along Main Street and explore boutique shops and public art installations in Downtown Blowing Rock. In the warmer months, you might enjoy a free concert in the park, craft shows, and other community events.
Tweetsie Railroad: Step back in time at this Wild West theme park, where history comes to life with exciting steam engine train rides, captivating live shows, and classic carnival attractions. Catch a ride on the Ghost Train Halloween event for an extra dose of excitement.
Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park: Named an Ultimate Ride Hotspot by Velo Magazine, Rock Knob Mountain Bike Park is ideal for families who love mountain biking. A short drive from Blowing Rock, Rocky Knob offers trails for a wide range of skill levels, and the Sunset Skills pump track is the perfect place to learn, practice, and master your skills.
Kilwins Ice Cream: Indulge in a sweet treat at Kilwins Ice Cream on Main Street in Blowing Rock. This beloved shop is a must-visit for families, offering a delightful array of handcrafted ice cream flavors, creamy fudge, and fresh-made waffle cones. It's the perfect way to top off a day of exploring Blowing Rock.
Bolick and Traditions Pottery: Step into the storied world of Bolick and Traditions Pottery, where generations of skilled artisans have been crafting beautiful, functional pottery since the early 1800s. From timeless kitchenware to heirloom-quality decorative pieces, this family-run shop offers a unique opportunity to explore traditional North Carolina pottery.
Free Things To Do in Blowing Rock, NC
Blowing Rock Art & History Museum: For a quieter day, visit the Blowing Rock Art & History Museum. Admission is free, and you'll find rotating art exhibits and regional history displays that are both engaging and educational.
Moses H. Cone Memorial Park: The Moses Cone Memorial Park offers a perfect combination of culture and nature. The elegant and historic manor house, previously owned by the textile magnate Moses Cone, now houses the Southern Highland Craft Guild. Visitors can explore over 25 miles of scenic carriage trails perfect for hiking, walking, or horseback riding, all while enjoying beautiful mountain and lake views.
Julian Price Memorial Park: Just minutes from Main Street in Blowing Rock, Julian Price Park is a haven for outdoor family fun. This expansive park features activities like the Price Lake Loop, Green Knob, and Boone Fork trails. Highlights include canoeing or kayaking on Price Lake, picnicking by the river, and exploring the boulders and pools at Hebron Rock Colony.
Grandfather Mountain State Park: Grandfather Mountain State Park boasts some of the region's most challenging and rewarding hiking trails. With rugged cliffs, diverse ecosystems, and panoramic views, the park is a must-visit. Just a short drive from Blowing Rock, the Boone Scout Trail leads to the iconic Calloway Peak, offering an unparalleled mountain experience.
Art in the Park: Art in the Park is a beloved Blowing Rock tradition that showcases the work of talented local and regional artists. This outdoor festival, held monthly from May through October, transforms the town into a vibrant arts community, offering everything from handcrafted jewelry and pottery to fine art and photography. Stroll through the booths, meet the artists, and find unique pieces that capture the spirit of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Seasonal Attractions in Blowing Rock
Winter
Appalachian Ski Mountain: Embrace the winter season with skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating.
Blowing Rock WinterFest: Celebrate the winter with the Polar Plunge, ice carving competitions, and hayrides.
Summer
Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show: Held at the Blowing Rock Equestrian Preserve, the longstanding Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show has celebrated the elegance and skill of equestrian sports since 1923.
Music on the Lawn: A cherished summer tradition in downtown Blowing Rock, Music on the Lawn at the Inn at Ragged Gardens brings locals and visitors together on Friday evenings to enjoy live performances by talented regional musicians.
Spring
Blowing Rock Garden Club's Annual Plant Sale: Attend this popular spring event to browse and purchase a variety of plants, flowers, and herbs, while supporting local gardening initiatives.
Blowing Rock Trout Derby: The Blowing Rock Trout Derby is an annual springtime tradition that invites anglers of all ages to cast their lines in the town's stocked streams and lakes.
Fall
Valle Country Fair: The annual Valle Country Fair in nearby Valle Crucis, is an October tradition filled with local crafts, homemade foods, live music, and family-friendly activities.
Ghost Train at Tweetsie Railroad: From late September through October, Tweetsie Railroad transforms into a haunted adventure with spooky train rides, ghostly attractions, and eerie entertainment.
Dining in Blowing Rock
After a day of exploring, recharge at one of Blowing Rock's many family-friendly restaurants. Whether you're craving a delightful meal at Bistro Roca, fresh flavors at Speckled Trout, or the French-inspired cuisine at Cafe Violette, there's something to suit every taste. For a casual bite, grab takeaway from Fabled Pizza and Myers Kitchen and Pantry, or enjoy a laid-back meal at Mellow Mushroom. Blowing Rock's dining scene has something delicious for everyone.
Tips for Parents While Traveling
Plan for a Variety of Activities: Mix outdoor adventures with cultural and historical sites to keep the whole family engaged.
Pack for the Weather: Even in the summer, Blowing Rock's weather can change quickly. Be prepared for all conditions.
Time Your Visit: When planning your trip, consider seasonal events and festivals to make the most of your visit.
Choose Family-Friendly Lodging: Chetola Resort offers a family-friendly retreat complete with spacious accommodations, a heated indoor pool, and a serene lakeside setting.
Blowing Rock, with its rich history and an endless array of activities, is the perfect destination for families seeking both adventure and relaxation in the Blue Ridge Mountains. From exploring the charming downtown to hiking rugged trails, enjoying seasonal festivals, and savoring delicious meals at local eateries, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning to discover more, Blowing Rock's warm hospitality, natural beauty, and vibrant community will make your family getaway truly unforgettable. Don't forget to stop by and see us at High Gravity Adventures for high-flying family-friendly fun! Start planning your visit to Blowing Rock and create memories that will last a lifetime.
