Blowing Rock Blog

Explore our Blog for a glimpse into the many experiences and stories of our beloved mountain town. Be sure to also check out our Itineraries for great travel ideas that are definitely blog worthy!

Serves You Right!

Welcome to Serves You Right! at SouthMarke. This shop has continued to evolve since its opening in 1993, when it began offering merchandise for entertaining in style, as well as high-end collectibles. Over the last decade, the shop has shifted focus to a different kind of entertainment: toys, books, and

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Funky Tulip

Welcome to Funky Tulip, which features a curated assortment of clothing, jewelry, home decor, beauty, intimates, and gifts. The shop is a bright, fun space inside a converted cottage with overflowing window boxes and an inviting lawn. The owner, Lisa, is already a familiar face in Blowing Rock- she and

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Sunset Tees & Hattery

Welcome to Sunset Tee’s & Hattery on Main Street. Jack and Becky Hall opened the shop in 1986 and it has become a central fixture in downtown Blowing Rock. Like the name says, it’s known for the huge selection of hats and fun t-shirts. There are over 1,000 hats at

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The Mountain Thread Company

Welcome to The Mountain Thread Company, which opened in downtown Blowing Rock in 2015. The shop specializes in textile crafts and functions as an open studio and workshop where shoppers can watch art being made.   At The Mountain Thread Company, you’ll find handmade quilts, rope baskets, and decor, as

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Blowing Rock Brewing Co.

Welcome to Blowing Rock Brewing Co., our downtown artisan brewery! The local brewing facility on Sunset Drive was completed in 2013, along with the renovation and opening of the Blowing Rock Ale House & Inn. The Inn has 5 beautiful guest rooms, and the Ale House has become known for

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Mystery Hill

Welcome to Mystery Hill! This local attraction has been in operation for over 70 years, and is operated by the Underwood family. Four generations of the family have worked at Mystery Hill; the current patriarch, Wayne, was 10 years old when his father, RJ, purchased the property in 1958. The

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two kids crouched down on Boone Fork Trail looking at rocks

5 Great Hikes to Enjoy

Hiking is one of the best ways to see the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. There are countless trails in the area, especially along the Blue Ridge Parkway. From the myriad destination hikes and the 26 mile network at Moses Cone Park, to local sections of the Appalachian Trail

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5 Sunset Views in Blowing Rock

The warm light creates the evening “golden hour” when everything is cast in a glow. Sunset light enhances fall colors, too! Check out these beautiful, no-hike sunset spots for a perfect end to your day whether with your friends, your significant other, or alone with your thoughts.  Take your pick

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Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery

Welcome to Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery, celebrating 28 years in business! The gallery represents 25 local artists and has framed over 33,000 works and photos. Owner Tim is a Certified Picture Framer, as is his shop manager, Alex, and they are among the only ones in this part of

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The Green Park Inn

Welcome to the Green Park Inn! This grand hotel was opened in 1891 as a premier destination, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. It was built on the Eastern Continental Divide, utilizing the refreshing mountain spring at the headwaters of the Yadkin River, and offered a ballroom,

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The Last Straw

Welcome to The Last Straw on Main Street. The shop is a Christmas wonderland right now, as it is every year from September through December! The first eight months of each year feature special home interior and garden decor for spring, summer, and autumn.   The Last Straw is a

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Hanna’s Oriental Rugs & Gifts

Welcome to Hanna’s Oriental Rugs & Gifts on Main Street. This shop is celebrating its 103rd year in business- in the same location!   James and Jane Hanna immigrated to the US near the turn of the 20th century and settled in Blowing Rock in 1917. The first shop they

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