I grew up visiting Blowing Rock, N.C. One of my favorite childhood memories is sitting in the park gazebo and eating chocolate ice cream in a waffle cone from Kilwin’s. Blowing Rock is a special place to me (& not just because of the ice cream).
It’s small, so it’s perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway. It’s located about 15 minutes from Boone, N.C. and is close to the Blue Ridge Parkway.
The Park
The parking area is right next to the park (and the bathrooms FYI), so we normally take a stroll around the lake first. My favorite time to go to Blowing Rock is during Christmas. The decorations are gorgeous, the lake is frozen, and most of the time there’s snow. Be sure to drive through the light show at Chetola Resort if you visit during the Christmas season.
Take Heart Boutique
Take Heart, a small purple boutique across from the park, is by far my favorite shop in Blowing Rock. One time I walked in wearing a beret and pink sweater, and the lady behind the register told me I looked like I belonged in a snow globe. Best. Compliment. EVER. The shop has so many cute things to buy for yourself or for gifts.
The Last Straw
The Last Straw is a great place to take your mom. I honestly used to hate it. When I was little, it felt like a billion years before my mom and maw maw were finally finished shopping in there. I have a greater appreciation for it as I’ve gotten older. Although the memories still kind of haunt me.
Neaco
Another fun store is Neaco. It has a modern twist, so it’s different than your average mountain shop. It’s an omg-this-is-so-cool-why-didn’t-I-think-of-this kind of place. It’s funky, and I like it.
High Country Candles
Did you really go to Blowing Rock if you didn’t go in a candle or pottery shop? My favorite candle shop is High Country Candles. Imagine if Willy Wonka was a mountain man and owned a candle shop. That’s what it’s like.
What to Eat
Stopping by Kilwin’s for some chocolate ice cream (they have the best) or a caramel apple is a must. For a quick coffee run, I recommend Camp Coffee Roasters. When we go during Christmas, we always eat at Six Pence Pub. They have the best French onion soup, and it’s perfect on a cold day. Southern Comforts is my go-to place for breakfast. Other places I recommend are Bistro Roca if you’re in the mood for something different, and Mellow Mushroom for pizza.
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