Beech Mountain Resort
At the heart of town, there is the Beech Mountain Resort. In the winter months, people from all over the country come to ski, snowboard, snow tube, and more! Ski classes and rentals are available. For the non-skiers, there are many other options including eateries, a craft brewery, gift shops, and a 4,000 square foot ice skating rink. In the warmer months, the slopes convert to mountain biking trails and they open their 18-hole disc golf course. For more information visit www.beechmtn.com
Buckeye Recreation Center
Beech Mountain’s newest feature Is the Buckeye Recreation Center. This 22,500 square foot facility has many activities to offer! They offer indoor basketball, tennis, pickleball, tennis, a fitness room, conference room, catering area, and even a playroom designed for those 12 and under. They also have many outdoor activities available such as guided hikes, salamander searching, and drive-in movies. Other events include weekly summer camps, trivia nights, crafting events, and a variety of fitness classes. For more information visit www.beechmtn.com/buckeye-rec-center
Emerald Outback
The Emerald Outback is a year-round park open for hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers. With elevations of 4,700 – 5,40 feet, it is on the highest trail parks on the East coast. Boasting nearly 7 miles of pathways, it is a network of five named trails, two grassy roads, a gravel bailout road, and a mountain bike skills area. Admission is free and the park is open 7 days a week from dawn to dusk. For more information visit www.emeraldoutback.com
The Land of Oz
You can follow the Yellow Brick Road to the Land of Oz at this uniquely themed attraction. You can travel to Kansas, travel down the infamous Yellow Brick Road, interact with characters, and visit the Emerald City! Once a fully operating theme park open to the public, the Land of Oz is now open for special events and private tours. For more information visit www.landofoznc.com
Grandfather Mountain State Park
Many guests make sure to plan a visit to Grandfather Mountain in nearby Banner Elk. This park offers more than 12 miles of trails to enjoy! Perhaps the most popular attraction is the Mile High Swinging Bridge – America’s highest suspension footbridge! They also offer a variety of activities including Animal Encounters, Interpretive Talks, and even a Junior Ranger Program! For more information visit www.grandfather.com
Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster
Also in nearby Banner Elk, you will find more shopping, dining, and attractions. One of the most popular is the Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster. This is the very first alpine coaster in the North Carolina Blue Ridge Mountains! The 2,390 feet long track offers great views of the terrain while winding around boulders and trees. They are open year-round so you can enjoy a new experience every season! For more information visit www.wildernessrunalpinecoaster.com
Tweetsie Railroad
Located between Boone and Blowing Rock, the Tweetsie Railroad has a lot to offer! This Wild West theme park adventure offers a unique experience and fun for all ages. There are a variety of rides available, live shows, a petting zoo, gold panning, gem mining, and arcade games. With a variety of shopping and dining options you are sure to find something for everyone. Be sure to take the 3-mile train ride around the park in one of the two historic narrow-gauge steam locomotives. For more information visit www.tweetsie.com