This area might just be my favorite part of North Carolina. It’s charming, full of outdoor adventures, cute wildlife, great food, and lots of local stores to check out. Here’s a detailed guide with everything you need to know about how to spend a weekend in Banner Elk. I’ve included a range of things, some I did and some I didn’t, so you have a broad list of things to add to your weekend itinerary. No matter what you do, I hope you enjoy this gorgeous area of North Carolina as much as I did.
Your Complete Guide On How To Spend A Weekend In Banner Elk
Disclaimer
There are affiliate links included in this post. This means at no extra cost to you, I earn a commission if you book through the link.
Where to stay
I stayed a little outside Banner Elk and this vacation home. It was just fantastic!
The views on the balcony, especially at sunset, are worth it alone. Each day I saw deer strolling through the backyard without a care in the world which was also a really cool bonus. One day I even stood in the kitchen washing dishes and watched as Elk wandered by the front of the house.
It was a dream mountainscape location.
The home itself is spacious, cozy, and has everything you need for a comfortable stay. We were able to prepare our own food in the kitchen to save a little money, and even get a load of laundry done before we left which was super convenient.
Another option would be to stay in the main area of Banner Elk for easy strolling around town.
Wherever you choose, I recommend using Booking.com. This is what I use to book accommodation when I travel and it’s been good to me over the years. I can always find a good deal there and/or a unique place to stay.
Cozy living room
Views from the balcony
What to do
Rough Ridge
If you’d like to do a hike with incredible Blue Ridge Mountain views, Rough Ridge is a great choice. Despite the name which sounds a little intense, it’s actually a fairly simple hike that leads to a lookout with views of the iconic layers of mountain tops.
Here’s my full guide for hiking the Rough Ridge trail for more information.
Views from Rough Ridge
Linville Gorge
Another good place to visit is Linville Gorge. There’s not only one hike you can do here – you have a huge range of hikes choose from.
We went to the Linville Falls Visitor Center and hiked a couple of the trails around there before driving home. The trails were easy to follow, and the maps at the visitor center made it easy to get our bearings and assess the options before starting.
Grandfather Mountain
Banner Elk serves as a great base for visiting the iconic Grandfather Mountain.
This is another area where you have a lot to choose from. There are a number of hikes with varying ranges of difficulty, cliffside ladders, and even a cool swinging bridge. If you want a full day adventure, here’s my full guide on hiking Profile Trail to Macrae Peak.
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Alpaca Hill Farm
Step onto a local working farm and get up close with the animals at Alpaca Hill Farm. Here you can see donkeys, cows, goats, and alpacas while learning all about them.
They also have a store where you can take home something made at the farm.
You need to book a tour to see the animals and you can get all the details on their website here.
Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster
For a little adventure, take a spin on the Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster.
Go fast (speeds up to 27mph) or go slow, you’re in control as you cruise the track. It’s fun for the whole family and will add an adventurous local attraction to your stay.
Here’s their website for more information.
Land of Oz
If the dates of your visit line up, you could check out the Autumn at Oz festival – the largest Wizard of Oz themed festival in the world. It’s certainly looks like a unique event to experience!
This former Wizard of Oz theme park is only open for private tours and annual events.
Here’s their website for more information.
Browse the town and local stores
The main part of town is so charming that you could also spend some time strolling up and down the street while stopping at the cute stores.
You can also get a photo of the Elk statue which is by the connection of Central Way SW and Shawneehaw Ave S.
I’m also throwing in a 100% recommendation for the nearby Banner Elk Soap and Candles. Pick up one of their candles and your house will smell amazing. Special recommendation for the wild blueberry – which is the best smelling candle ever, and grandfathers pipe.
The best candles you’ll find!
What to eat
The Pedalin Pig
For some ah-mazing BBQ food, check out The Pedalin Pig. With so many good meats to choose from, I recommend getting the platter and trying a bit of everything.
If you’ll be traveling with a dog, they have outdoor seating that is pet friendly which is handy too.
Banner Elk Cafe and Tavern
Check out this spot for “the best burger in the mountains”, big range of sandwiches, and more in a cozy setting.
Bayou Smokehouse & Grill
Visit the Bayou Smokehouse and Grill for Texas-Louisiana style food right there in the mountains.
There is also pet friendly outdoor seating here too.
Side of the road stall
I’m a real sucker for a side of the road stall, and there’s a good one located on the way to the Rough Ridge hike.
I picked up some local honey and jam which has been delicious!
My Best Friend’s Barkery
For the four legged friend in your life, check out this local dog bakery and pet boutique.
Other guides you might enjoy
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