Welcome back to American Nomad Traveler! Our journey through North Carolina’s High Country continues today in Banner Elk. This heavenly town, surrounded by the towering Blue Ridge Mountains, lies in the shadow of two major ski resorts, Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain. Banner Elk is more than just a mountain town; it’s a base camp for adventure, a vibrant artistic hub, a culinary hotspot, and the gateway to Grandfather Mountain. Only about twenty minutes from Boone and with close proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway, it’s a place I find myself returning to again and again.
In this edition of American Nomad, we’ll explore the history, culture, and fun things to do in this treasure of North Carolina’s High Country.
Surrounded by some of the highest peaks east of the Rockies, Banner Elk lies in a fertile valley carved out by the Elk River. Its charming main street is lined with cool shops and inviting eateries, as well as a downtown park and arts center where you can catch local plays and concerts throughout the year. The community is anchored by Lees-McRae College, a liberal arts school with charming stone buildings adjacent to the downtown area.
“No matter the season, Banner Elk always has something going on. One of its most famous events is the beloved Woolly Worm Festival. It’s a full-on celebration of the woolly worm, with a street fair, delicious food, live music, and plenty of games and activities that are a blast for the whole family.
Fun fact: If you want to see the woolly worm in action, don’t seek them out at night. Remember, worms are nocturnal for the most part, not caterpillars. The woolly worm is very active during the day. It is not uncommon to spot them in groups of hundreds, all of them with one common goal – to find a place to hide. (source)
Fall in Banner Elk is breathtaking, when the leaves put on a show of fire reds and burnt oranges.
Winter is ski season, where you can enjoy snow packed days in the area ski resorts before cozying up for a delicious meal at one of Banner Elk’s restaurants.
Spring and Summer, these mountains are alive with glorious flowering rhododendron blooms and fresh air that replenishes the soul.
The best part about Banner Elk is the people – you’ll be greeted with hometown hospitality as you shop downtown or stay in area inns. This region has a thriving arts community…
Here are a few of my favorite things to do in Banner Elk:
Downtown Fun: Banner Elk’s Main Street is the perfect combination of a cozy small town and mountain upscale charm. It’s easy to spend an afternoon here, wandering the meandering pathways through green spaces dotted with brilliant flowers, discovering delicious eats, and enjoying some funky shopping perfect for any budget or style. One of my favorite places to stop is the pet shop (My Best Friend’s Barkery) across from Banner Elk Cafe. They have tons of fun cat and dog toys, and my own cat, Cezanne, absolutely loved the one I brought back for her. It was the purrfect gift.
Other favorite downtown shops include Footsloggers (also in Blowing Rock) – the place in the High Country to buy camping and hiking gear. I purchased a lightweight backpack here in 2022 and it is still my go to daypack. I also love the Banner Elk Trading Company for tee-shirts and souvenirs. Readers will fall in love with the Banner Elk Book Exchange…as well as the many clothing and art galleries with the core shopping districts.
For a complete guide to Banner Elk shopping click here.
Grandfather Mountain:
While you’re in Banner Elk, a visit to Grandfather Mountain is an absolute must. Just about eight miles away, this is a place where wonders truly never cease. It’s the pinnacle of North Carolina’s High Country—a true gem that combines natural beauty, conservation, and educational opportunities. You can even visit its mini-zoo, which is home to rescued black bears, elk, mountain lions, eagles, and playful otters. Grandfather Mountain’s unique topography makes it a true geological and natural wonder, with species of flora that you’ll find nowhere else.
Read about our American Nomad Grandfather Mountain Adventure here (Nov. 24) and also check out their official website here. To help preserve the natural protections of the biosphere preserve, the North Carolina government, with the help of The Nature Conservancy, purchased land connected to the private, non-profit Grandfather Mountain. This partnership led to the creation of Grandfather Mountain State Park, which now protects the mountain’s rugged backcountry. Learn more about the state park here.
- Not far from Grandfather Mountain, you’ll discover the hamlet of Linville, North Carolina. Linville, along with Grandfather Mountain, serves as the base camp for the Highland Games every July—a major event that celebrates Scots-Irish heritage in the Carolinas. Throughout the year, you can get a taste of the Scottish life with a meal at the Tartan Restaurant (laid back American cuisine with Scottish decor)
Wilderness Alpine Coaster: For a truly unique adventure, you have to check out the Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster, North Carolina’s first alpine roller coaster. This gravity-fed coaster is modeled after popular European designs, featuring 3,160 feet of track with three loops, waves, twists, and turns. The best part? You’re in control! Each cart has its own brakes, so you can choose to go as fast or slow as you like, with top speeds reaching up to 27 miles per hour. Website
Wildcat Lake: Discover the serenity of this popular lake in the heart of Banner Elk. This 13 acre lake is a popular swimming and recreation area in the summer months, where you can enjoy a fun day at the lake surrounded by the scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Plan your visit here.
Hike to Elk River Falls:
Just a short drive outside of Banner Elk, you’ll discover one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the North Carolina mountains: Elk River Falls. Also known as ‘Big Falls,’ this powerful cascade drops 40 feet over a rock cliff into a picturesque pool. The waterfall is accessible via a relatively easy, third-of-a-mile trail. Just be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the gravel and roots on the path. For safety, swimming is not allowed. Website
Explore the area Arts Scene:
Banner Elk is a thriving artist community with local galleries, theatrical productions by Lees-McCrae as well as the Ensemble Theatre...a personal favorite is perusing art vendors at the seasonal Art on the Greene festival days.
Learn about Banner Elk’s History at The Banner Elk House Museum:
Banner Elk’s town history begins with Martin Banner moved to the area in 1848. This historic museum, allows you to experience 19th century life in Banner Elk and the High Country in the home of Samuel Henry Banner, one of Banner Elk’s early settlers and his his wife, Jane Hyder Banner, and their seven children. The circa 1870 house has been furnished with period heirlooms donated and loaned by area residents to tell the story of Banner Elk life from the 1870’s to the 1900’s. Additionally, an Exhibition Room highlights local history. Website
Spend a day at Beech Mountain – Highest City on the East Coast
While Beech Mountain is known for it’s superb ski slopes, my favorite time to visit is actually in the summer and fall. The drive the summit of this mountaintop community is breathtaking, and a cool spot to relax on hot summer southern days. Beech Mountain offers visitors a variety of local restaurants, shopping and alpine views. I recommend stopping at Fred’s Mercantile, an amazing general store and souvenir stop that’s ‘Mile High’ fun. In the summer, Beech Mountain has a summer concert series, which has recently featured major artists like Sheryl Crow. To plan your Beech Mountain Adventure click here.
Drive to Linn Cove Viaduct and explore Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway drive from Grandfather Mountain (mile marker 305) to Blowing Rock and Boone is one of the most stunning stretches of highway in America. You’ll be hard pressed to find more beautiful views and this section of the parkway is open after Helene. To plan your Blue Ridge Parkway adventures I recommend referring to the Official NPS page for guidance on road access post Helene.
Day Trip to Linville Caverns: Reopened after the devastation of Helene, you can now explore North Carolina’s only ‘show caverns.’ I still remember my dad taking me as a kid (around age four) and the shock and awe I felt when they turned the lights off in the cavern to so us how dark it was. I can’t wait to return to this geologic wonder next time I’m in the area. Plan Your Visit Here
Other fun day trips from Banner Elk:
- Roan Mountain State Park (NC/TN border)
- Mitchell County Adventures in Little Switzerland, Bakersville and Spruce Pine
- Boone and Blowing Rock areas (don’t forget to subscribe to American Nomad for upcoming blogs about these areas)
- Historic Valle Crucis and Mast General Store – You can also hike to beautiful Crab Orchard Falls from the Valle Crucis Community Park
- Apple Hill Farm – Visitors to Apple Hill Farm find joy and connection through encountering their animals and the experience of a real working farm. Their tour guides lead the way for you to leave with a smile on your face and memories to share.
- Linville Falls (partially closed, but some trail access opened as of 8/25) – Mile 316 on Blue Ridge Parkway
Dining Guide
Banner Elk is home to a number of amazing restaurants, each with their own unique culinary stamp. Here are a few of my favorite places to eat in Banner Elk:
Destination Coffee:
Fred & Larry’s – Discovered them in 2021- delicious coffee and treats, with a short drive from downtown.
Mountain Coffee – Grounds and Tea – This local coffee shop pours its passion for quality coffee and service into every cup.
Delicious Eats:
First up, a local favorite: Banner Elk Cafe. Located right in the heart of downtown, this place has it all. Whether you’re in the mood for pizza or sandwiches, their diverse menu has something for everyone. And for a little pick-me-up, they also have a wonderful in-house coffee shop.
Now, for a personal favorite of mine, Stonewalls Restaurant. For over forty years, this community-focused restaurant has been known for its delicious food and exceptional service. While they specialize in fine dining, I’ve got to tell you, their burgers are absolutely fantastic—they’re so flavorful and juicy!
A few other favorites include:
Town Tavern – laid back tavern with live music, good eats and spirts
Sorrento’s – Sorrento’s is an upscale bistro known for its authentic Italian cuisine. The chefs use family recipes that will tempt any palate.
Bayou Banner Elk: Louisiana and Texas style inspired dishes located in a cozy corner of downtown Banner Elk.
Williams Deli and Bakery: Williams Deli is a great lunchtime find in Banner Elk for sandwiches created with gourmet meats and artisan breads, plus treats from the bakery.
Artisanal – Opening seasonally in the summer months, serves fine-dining with a rustic ambiance
Bella’s Breakfast and Lunch: Savory a variety of homemade breakfast dishes from platters, biscuits & gravy, steak-n-eggs, omelets, pancakes & Belgian waffles.
For a complete Banner Elk dining guide click here
Where to Stay: Banner Elk has a variety of local bed and breakfasts and boutique accommodations like condo rentals, VRBO and mountain chalets for rent. Here are a few of my favorite spots to stay.
Little Main Street Inn: A personal favorite – this cozy inn is only half a mile from main street restaurants and shops and provides serenity and comfort for travelers. The condo-style suites are spacious homey and the perfect base camp for Banner Elk and the region. Book here
Lodges at Elkmont: When it comes to a place to stay, you can’t beat The Lodges at Elkmont. I’ve returned here again and again because it truly is mountain comfort at its best. Each lodge features a perfect blend of beautiful mountain decor and all the modern amenities, along with stunning views right from your window. Plan your getaway here.
Perry House Bed and Breakfast: The historic Perry House, circa 1903, has been restored into a lovely country inn with furnishings designed by master craftsmen. The inn is perched at 3,745 feet in elevation on a knoll overlooking downtown Banner Elk, with easy access to shops, restaurants and Lees-McRae College. Book your reservation here
For additional lodging options click here.
Ready to plan your retreat to Banner Elk? I recommend these official resources to get your started:
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Hi, I’m Adele Lassiter, the travel enthusiast behind American Nomad Traveler. This is where I share my love for history, cool museums, art, and travel tips. When I’m not writing, I’m a singer-songwriter with a passion for Americana music. You can find my new album here: adelelassiter.bandcamp.com
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