Partner News Archives ⋆ Blowing Rock, NC

Tweetsie Railroad Announces Promotion of Stephanie Robinett to General Manager

Tweetsie Railroad has announced the promotion of Stephanie Robinett to General Manager, recognizing her leadership, professionalism, and extensive experience in human resources and operations management. Robinett joined Tweetsie Railroad in June 2022 as Human Resources Director, quickly becoming an integral part of the leadership team. With more than 25 years of administrative and management experience, she brings a strong background in staff development, safety, and organizational operations. In her new role, she will oversee park operations and guest experience, helping ensure that Tweetsie Railroad continues to deliver exceptional family-friendly entertainment and service. “We are excited to have Stephanie step into the General Manager role,” said Chris Robbins, President of Tweetsie Railroad. “Her professionalism, attention to detail, and ability to lead with both empathy and efficiency make her the perfect choice to guide our team and operations.” “We are thrilled to have Stephanie take on the General Manager position,” added Cathy Robbins, Vice President of Tweetsie Railroad. “From day one, she’s been a great team player who connects easily with everyone around her. The staff respect her professionalism and appreciate her approachable, down-to-earth style. She brings great energy to everything she does, and we know she’ll help ensure that Tweetsie continues to provide the welcoming, family-friendly environment it’s been known for generations.” Her career includes a decade as Assistant General Manager for an international retail company, followed by roles as IT Administrator for a North Carolina-based home furnishings company and Human Resources Manager for a 200-employee contract manufacturer. Outside of work, Robinett enjoys spending time with her blended family and volunteering for her children’s sports and school activities. She is an avid reader and lover of the outdoors; she brings the same passion and energy to her professional life. “I am honored to serve as General Manager of Tweetsie Railroad,” said Robinett. “This park holds special memories for me from childhood and family visits. I look forward to helping others create their own unforgettable experiences here.” About Tweetsie RailroadSince 1957, Tweetsie Railroad has been North Carolina’s first theme park, offering families unforgettable Wild West adventures. Guests can enjoy an interactive three-mile train journey aboard a historic narrow-gauge steam locomotive, live shows, classic amusement rides, the Deer Park Zoo, panning for gold and more. For more information visit tweetsie.com or call 877-893-3874.

A group of people walk toward an outdoor event tent on a wide lawn surrounded by trees.

Meris Gantt Joins Chetola Resort as Senior Manager of Catered Events

As a 20-year Blowing Rock resident and lifelong hospitality aficionado, Meris Gantt is joining the team at Chetola Resort as their Senior Manager of Catered Events, overseeing their wedding and social events department. With over 16 years of experience planning weddings across the North Carolina High Country, including many at Chetola, Meris brings a unique perspective to her new role. Meris is focused on elevating the catered events experience through crafting thoughtful client journeys, reimagining catered events’ structure, and focusing on delivering smooth and seamless event days that leave a lasting impression. Chetola Resort offers impeccable event spaces, both indoor and outdoor, for events of all sizes, and is continuing to elevate their offerings. Having spent years immersed in the rhythm of weddings and events across the High Country, Meris understands that the magic of a celebration often comes from what guests don’t see: the flawless timing of service, the perfectly set room, and the seamless collaboration between teams. In her new role, she’s focused on refining those details behind the scenes, from catering operations to venue logistics, ensuring every event at Chetola Resort feels effortless and memorable. With the vision of General Manager Albert Mertz, Gantt is inspired by the commitment to preserving Chetola’s spirit while continuing to evolve. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside such dedicated leaders as we invest in Chetola’s bright future. This feels like a legacy project, an opportunity to honor what has made Chetola so beloved, while helping it grow into what’s next.” Meris looks forward to strengthening relationships with local vendors and event partners, continuing Chetola’s tradition of collaboration across the NC High Country’s hospitality community. To learn more about weddings and events at Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock, or to connect with Meris and her team, visit the link here. Top photo: A fall celebration at Chetola Resort in the Lakeside Tent, Photo by Megan Sheppard Photography. Bottom photo: Meris Gantt, Sr. Director of Catered Events, Photo by Chetola Resort

Call for Holiday Participation!

Seasonal Promotion for Blowing Rock 10/28/2025 Holiday promotions will begin soon! In a combination of paid advertising, e-blasts, social media, web posts, and more the Blowing Rock TDA will promote the festive season to potential visitors. All Blowing Rock businesses are encouraged to participate in several ways to be part of these promotions! Holiday Window Contest Favorite Things Holiday Gift Guide Holiday Stroll on Dec 12 (easy sign-up here!) Holiday Packages & Specials Blowing Rock Christmas Parade Please contact Amanda @ visitblowingrock.com to let us know how your business is participating or with any questions. Keep a lookout for additional communications about holiday promotions! Holiday Windows: Best Holiday Glow Contest This friendly competition creates more buzz around local shops! It’s also a fun way for shoppers to engage with their fave businesses. The TDA gathers images of each participating shop window and creates a public survey where anyone can rate each window. We create QR codes for shops to display for quick access to the survey, and we also promote the shops and their windows on social media. We encourage you to share the survey, too! The public rating survey opens on Wednesday, November 26 and closes on Thursday, December 11, 2025. The shop that gets the highest rating in the survey will be awarded with the recognition of Best Holiday Glow just before the Holiday Stroll on December 12. The recognition also comes with individual promotion on social media and this website. The 2024 winner was Christmas in Blowing Rock. Favorite Things Holiday Gift Guide Shopping and Gift Guides are big during the holiday season, and you don’t want to miss this free opportunity to gather some great SEO with postings on BlowingRock.com! This promotion is coordinated by Lindsay here at the TDA and it’s so simple to participate. Just select a special item for the season- your “favorite thing” in the shop – and send us the details. Each shop will have a post on our Gift Guide, featuring an image (send or ask us to take one), information about what makes it special, and a direct link back to your shop. Be sure to select something unique and fresh. We promote this Gift Guide all season. Send your details to Lindsay @ visitblowingrock.com. Blowing Rock Holiday Stroll The Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce is once again coordinating this magical night of downtown fun! The Friday, December 12 date is selected to be between Thanksgiving and Christmas- especially attractive to locals who might avoid the hustle and busyness of the Thanksgiving weekend festivities. Mr. & Mrs. Claus will be in town, shops will stay open late, and special offers, events, and activities will make our glowing streets even more festive! This event is growing in popularity, and is promoted heavily with Holiday Glow Time advertising. (Also note: the Boone Christmas Parade is on the following day: Saturday, December 13, so this is a great holiday weekend for locals and visitors!) Learn more about opportunities and get ideas for participation in the simple sign-up form! Blowing Rock Christmas Parade Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of the Christmas Parade! It’s a great way to show off your holiday spirit and get in front of a big crowd. Register with Parks & Recreation to secure your parade entry/float: go to blowingrockparks.recdesk.com/Community/Program or call their office at 828-295-5222 ext. 1. It’s free! Holiday Packages & Specials This website has dedicated pages for Lodging Packages and Specials at dining and retail businesses. Are you creating a special offer this season? Let us know and we’ll help get the word out for free! Reach out to one of the TDA staff with any questions. Find detailed contact info here >>

National Park update during government shutdown

Blue Ridge Parkway Remains Open The Blue Ridge Parkway will remain open during the federal government shutdown, according to Blue Ridge Parkway staff and supporting organizations. Additionally, the Forest Service reports that the forestry entrance to Linville Falls on Old NC 105 will remain open, as well as other entrances and trails. Here are some local Blue Ridge Parkway details confirmed by High Country Host: The motor road, overlooks, hiking trails, restrooms, and picnic areas will remain open. The Southern Highland Craft Guild will continue to operate regular hours inside the Manor and their porch demonstrations will continue as scheduled. Both Price Lake and Doughton Park campgrounds will remain open to walk-up reservations and (as of now) online reservations at Doughton Park. Private concessionaires (Price Lake Boat Rentals, Bluffs Restaurant, horseback trail ride and carriage ride operators) will stay open regular hours. The Moses Cone Manor will NOT have a ranger at the visitor desk, leading tours of the Manor or providing programming. . The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation reports that, due to donor support, Foundation is providing funding for operations at the Blue Ridge Music Center, Minerals Museum of North Carolina, and Parkway Visitor Center in Asheville through Nov. 2, unless the shutdown ends earlier. See their comprehensive Guide for Exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway during the government shutdown HERE. * The High Country Host Visitor Center remains open, just off the Parkway here in Blowing Rock. There, folks can find open restrooms and helpful information seven days a week! *Note that the federal government shutdown does not impact the operation of our State Parks like Grandfather Mountain State Park, Elk Knob State Park, and Mount Jefferson State Natural Area. These will operate as usual. *And, though it’s further south, you may have some folks asking about The Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is fully open and operational, per an agreement for local funding that will ensure that staff are on duty to service restrooms, respond to visitors in need, and provide essential services to protect wildlife. Stay Updated The motor road will remain open, with the exception of the stretches where continuing road updates and Hurricane Helene recovery projects are taking place. For the most up-to-date information on closures, see the Blue Ridge Parkway’s Road Status Page. For those interested in the full contingency plans for the National Park Service, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management and more, see them all at DOI.gov/shutdown. Plan Ahead The Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation encourages everyone to drive to scenic overlooks, hike trails, camp out, and enjoy a picnic surrounded by autumn colors! At the same time, it’s important for folks to plan trips carefully in consideration that some facilities will be closed. When visiting our National Parks and Forests, please do your part to care for the park. Be prepared to pack out any items you bring in, specifically trash. This is especially important as staff and services are limited. Stay on designated trails, and follow the Leave No Trace Principles. Visitor Services Potentially Impacted While the Blue Ridge Parkway motor road and recreational areas will remain open, travelers may see limited services in different areas or other National Parks, or see closures of some facilities if the shutdown continues for an extended time. Parkway officials have said that they will continue to provide restrooms and trash removal as long as they have the funds to do so. According to the National Park Service Contingency Plan, visitor services will not be provided in National Parks during the shutdown and “as a general rule, if a facility or area is locked or secured during non-business hours (buildings, gated parking lots, etc.) it should be locked or secured for the duration of the shutdown.” Locals may note that facility closures won’t impact as much in our immediate area of the Parkway, as the Linn Cove Visitor Center and Cone Manor restrooms have already been closed for repairs for some time (portable toilets are available at Cone). Several activities and attractions on this section of the Parkway operate independently of the National Park Service and will not discontinue operations due to the shutdown, like The Southern Highland Craft Guild, Price Lake Boat Rentals, trail ride operators, and the Bluffs Restaurant.

A person stands in front of a room of people seated at a long table, leading a discussion in front of a whiteboard.

Blowing Rock TDA Begins Research & Branding Project

The Blowing Rock Tourism Development Authority (BRTDA) invited several local stakeholders to take part in a series of focus groups and interviews last week. Over four dozen participated, comprising a diverse group of hoteliers, property managers, retailers, real estate agents, artists, volunteers, restauranteurs, municipal leaders, and non-profit representatives. This was the first step in the BRTDA’s current branding development project, a major initiative for its 2025/2026 fiscal year. Through this work, the BRTDA seeks to refine their promotions to build more effective campaigns and programs. The timing isn’t coincidental. From sharply-increased visitation post-Covid to financial losses due to Helene, local tourism and its related impacts have become a focal point for economic health. Additionally, the BRTDA’s campaigns have more visibility than ever. As the tourism marketing organization for Blowing Rock, the BRTDA must have a strong understanding of Blowing Rock’s identity to be able to connect with potential visitors. “We are all in the hospitality industry, here,” says Tracy Brown, Executive Director of the BRTDA. “We’re a community and everyone has a vested interest. So, it’s not about what I think, or what our board thinks, when it comes to telling the Blowing Rock story. To remain authentic and protect what we have, we need to take a step back and listen, maybe make some adjustments. This isn’t a rebrand, it’s about gaining clarity to continue to move forward.” The organization knew that expansive research and evaluation had to be at the core of this effort. To that end, the BRTDA sought out the assistance of a research-based branding company to guide a deep dive into Blowing Rock’s identity and distill fundamental elements for strong promotion. Chandlerthinks LLC of Nashville, TN was selected to conduct this work. The company also prioritizes community engagement to help destinations understand what makes them truly unique to visitors. “Blowing Rock is already an amazing destination,” says Steve Chandler, owner and brand strategist at Chandlerthinks. “This branding process is as much about preserving its great story as anything else. This allows tourism marketing to be a reflection of the Blowing Rock community. Its people and the character of the place matter, which is why we first placed an emphasis on listening to what the community has to say.” More work remaining In addition to conducting focus groups and interviews last week, the team from Chandlerthinks also enjoyed an immersion into Blowing Rock. A tour of town and the local area, and lots of impromptu conversations with everyone they met along the way, was part of the process. A Resident Sentiment survey will follow soon, so all Blowing Rock residents should keep an eye out for that in September. Additionally, Chandlerthinks will conduct a visitor study and a digital audit to examine perceptions and representation of Blowing Rock. These research elements are expected to be completed by the end of the calendar year. From there, the BRTDA and Chandlerthinks will use the results to build strategies for the Blowing Rock promotional brand. The BRTDA would like to thank all of the stakeholders and partners who have given their time and insights to assist in this process so far. About Chandlerthinks Founded in 2010 in historic Franklin, TN, Chandlerthinks LLC is a destination place marketing firm known for providing cities, regions, communities and tourism destinations with marketing based solutions that create a strong identity and a purposeful, sustainable direction. Having worked collectively on more than 200 place marketing initiatives, their team of highly experienced professionals specialize and excel in research, strategic brand positioning, place marketing, creative development and direction, design, marketing plan development, media strategy and digital marketing. About the Blowing Rock Tourism Development Authority The Blowing Rock Tourism Development Authority is the official tourism department for Blowing Rock, NC. The BRTDA provides leadership and primary funding for marketing, developing, and supporting year-round travel and tourism to and within the town of Blowing Rock, to increase lodging sales and visitor spending. Connect with them on social media and visit blowingrock.com to view their promotions and explore exciting travel opportunities in and around Blowing Rock, North Carolina. Photo above: Greg Fuson of Chandlerthinks leads a group discussion about tourism assets in Blowing Rock.

Mustard Seed Home Wins Retail Award!

Ian & Madeline Stuart of Blowing Rock, NC accepted the Best Home Decor Store Award at the Retailer Excellence Awards in Dallas, TX this week for Mustard Seed Home.

Hospitality Student Tours

Next Student TourFriday, March 28, 20259am-3pm Tour the hospitality industry in neighboring Blowing Rock Meet hospitality business owners & employers Operations Q&As Ideal for Hospitality & Tourism Management Students FREE TOUR!Transportation and lunch included. Itinerary & Featured 2025 Businesses Chetola Resort– view the resort and learn about the scale of operations at a full-service resort. Meadowbrook Inn– see rooms & event spaces and hear how much (or how little) operations differ from retro motor inns also owned by the hotel group.Town Tavern– hear about expansion challenges and dining trends, plus enjoy lunch.Blowing Rock Art & History Museum– short tour of the Museum to learn about the unique approach for the museum in this market/community.Attractions Panel– hear from several local attractions owners about seasonality and how attractions change or adapt services to remain competitive. Featuring Grandfather Mountain, Hawksnest Ziplines & Tubing, and Tweetsie Railroad.The Blowing Rock Attraction– tour at the town’s namesake to get some history of the industry, plus photo ops. Transportation provided by Air Haven Limo. Pick-up and drop-off is on AppState campus. Student sign up link(Contact Dr. Carol Kline if you have issues using the registration form: klinecs @ appstate.edu) The Blowing Rock Tourism Development Authority (BRTDA) is excited to continue its partnership program with the Hospitality and Tourism Management Program at Appalachian State University. This program features annual academic tours of tourism-related businesses in Blowing Rock, designed for students studying Hospitality and Tourism. On this tour, students can expect to meet several local business owners and managers at their businesses throughout the afternoon. This fast-paced dive into the Blowing Rock tourism economy offers a unique learning experience where students can see various locations, ask questions, and gain insights on operations. Students will also experience potential work-places first hand, for regular employment or internships. The High Country is a vibrant tourism destination and an ideal community classroom for students in Hospitality Management. Blowing Rock in particular offers a number of models for how small businesses meet ever-changing challenges and opportunities in a resort town. Blowing Rock is full of successful hospitality businesses. The people behind them have so much expertise to share and we’re proud to highlight them as the business leaders they are. Hospitality students are potential employees and interns; they are also the next travelers and future business leaders! Tours locations vary slightly each year, with an emphasis on variety and relevance to current studies. This tour program is part of increased efforts by the BRTDA to improve community communication and rapport. In keeping with its values of promoting economic growth and providing leadership in the local tourism industry, the BRTDA believes this program will help enhance the local tourism industry through improved connections. At a time when the service industry is struggling to maintain an adequate workforce, the BRTDA is also looking for ways to promote hospitality employment opportunities in Blowing Rock. The BRTDA is grateful for the support of local businesses, and for each individual that generously shares their time and expertise for these tours! Tour guide: Amanda Lugenbell, Assistant Director of the BRTDA and 2005 graduate of the Hospitality & Tourism Management program at Appalachian State University

Meadowbrook Inn Unveils Stunning Guestroom Transformation

September 2024- Meadowbrook Inn is thrilled to announce the completion of an extensive renovation project that has transformed its guest rooms to offer an unparalleled blend of comfort and style while visiting the North Carolina High Country. Nestled in the heart of Blowing Rock, Meadowbrook Inn has long been a favorite escape for travelers seeking the perfect mountain escape. Now, with the unveiling of 62 fully redesigned guest rooms, the boutique hotel is setting a new standard for upscale mountain accommodations. “We can’t wait for our new and returning guests to enjoy our newly renovated rooms!” says Ali Borchardt, General Manager of Meadowbrook Inn. “New flooring, specially designed furniture, and artwork make our rooms a relaxing and peaceful retreat after a day of exploring.” The renovation showcases a harmonious color palette of soft blue hues, evoking the tranquil skies and misty mountains of the Blue Ridge Mountain region. Each room features:• Newly updated furniture, combining rustic charm with contemporary elegance• Enhanced lighting fixtures that create a warm, inviting ambiance• Stunning new flooring to ensure both comfort and functionality• Thoughtfully curated art pieces Guests will find themselves in a setting of exceptional relaxation, where every detail has been carefully curated to ensure a memorable stay. The redesign seamlessly blends functionality with comfort, offering the perfect retreat after a day full of adventure in Blowing Rock and North Carolina’s Blue RidgeMountains. “Our aim was to design spaces that instill a sense of serenity and draw inspiration from the surrounding mountains,” said Vishal Savani, Managing Director of Savara Hospitality. “We believe these renovations will enhance the overall experience of staying at Meadowbrook Inn, reinforcing its position as the premierchoice for those seeking a truly special mountain getaway.” The newly renovated rooms are available for booking, allowing visitors to experience this fresh take on mountain magnificence. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a family vacation, corporate retreat or a solo adventure, Meadowbrook Inn’s revitalized accommodations promise to provide the perfect backdrop for your stay. About Meadowbrook InnMeadowbrook Inn is a 62-room boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Downtown Blowing Rock, a charming town in the breathtaking North Carolina Blue Ridge Mountains. Guests can enjoy the indoor swimming pool, fitness center, complimentary hot breakfast and wireless internet, as well as lovelylandscaped grounds all just one block from the center of downtown. Meadowbrook Inn is managed by Savara Hospitality, along with sister properties Mountainaire Inn & Log Cabins, Azalea Garden Inn and Blowing Rock Inn located in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. To learn more about Meadowbrook Inn, visitmeadowbrook-inn.com.

Christmas in Blowing Rock Wins “Best Holiday Glow” 2024

Christmas in Blowing Rock has been awarded the title of “Best Holiday Glow” for 2024! Twenty shop windows were part of a public rating poll, available via QR codes in the windows and announcements on social media. This poll is always fun for our shops and helps spread holiday cheer with festive displays! Leading up to the Holiday Stroll on December 13th, over 700 people rated shop windows to crown the “Best Holiday Glow” in Blowing Rock. The team at Christmas in Blowing Rock created a sweet and festive window with wrapped gift boxes, a candy cane pajama set and sweater, a peppermint snowman, frosty garlands, and a candy-strewn Christmas tree. Christmas in Blowing Rock got the highest rating, with Barks & Co coming in second, followed closely by neaco. A big thank you to everyone who participated and voted in this year’s poll. What fun window displays will next year bring? Stay tuned, the search for “Best Holiday Glow” will be back in 2025. Click here to see the 2025 Poll Page!

Blowing Rock is a NC Trail Town

Blowing Rock is thrilled to announce its designation as a Outdoor NC Trail Town and celebrate the launch of the Official North Carolina Trail Town Guide! Join us and Outdoor NC in celebrating 15 destinations across the state offering beautiful trails and championing efforts to encourage responsible travel and outdoor recreation.

Category: Partner News