Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Banner Elk, NC is a charming town located between the Sugar Mountain Resort to the south and the Beech Mountain Resort to the north. This mountain town features a number of unique attractions, including the Banner House Museum, which displays period furnishings in a restored 1860s home. Nearby Wildcat Lake offers a pristine beach and a nature museum, while Grandfather Mount is a popular attraction with hiking trails and a scenic Mile High Swinginging Bridge.
During the summer, visitors can visit Banner Elk’s Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster, which is the first in the state. Skiing is another popular activity and Grandfather Mountain is only 20 minutes away. Fall foliage is also a popular time to visit this charming mountain town. The Wooly Worm Festival attracts over 20,000 visitors and celebrates the town’s native wooly worm. The area is also convenient for visitors during the holidays and can be visited throughout the year.
The town of Banner Elk has a small population of about 1,000 people, but is a thriving hub for tourism. There are many nice shops and restaurants in the downtown area, and visitors can sample a wide range of wines and local cuisine. The Woolly Worm Festival is one of the main events in the town, marking the onset of winter and combining art, craft and music. For a memorable holiday, plan to spend a few days in the area.
A must-visit for the wine lover is Erick’s Cheese and Wine Shop, a landmark in the town for almost 25 years. Today, Erick’s offers a great selection of fine collectible labels from France and California. The boutique features spectacular wines from all over the world and offers wine tastings. Whether you enjoy a glass of a fine vintage or a simple bottle of local brew, this local hangout is a must-see.
If you’re looking for a place to drink a glass of wine, the oldest winery in Banner Elk is the Grandfather Winery & Villa. This historic landmark has been a popular destination for visitors since the early 1700s and offers a luxurious stay with beautiful views of the mountains. The Pedalin’ Pig is a great barbecue restaurant. The restaurant is located on a picturesque hill, and guests can watch the ducks swimming around.
Visitors to Banner Elk can find many unique souvenirs and upscale restaurants. Shopping is a great way to unwind while enjoying the natural beauty of the High Country. The town is home to several quaint boutiques and wineries. You can also enjoy authentic Italian cuisine at Sorrento’s Italian Bistro, which opened in 1983. If you’re looking for the ultimate place to eat while in town, you’ll find the downtown area of the town very charming and quaint.