If you want to immerse yourself further in the scenery, take a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway or head over to Linville Falls, about 30 minutes away. Views over the rolling mountains are spectacular, and some of the best in the area. One of the big attractions, just outside of town, is Grandfather Mountain and its mile-high swing bridge, one of the top sites in North Carolina.

Whether you ski or not, this small town of approximately 1,000 people, is an appealing destination with a village atmosphere and plenty of reasons to visit.

Nearby Sugar Mountain Ski Resort and Beech Mountain Ski Resort attract skiers from across the state and regions farther south, and many of them make their base Banner Elk. Just 15 minutes from two of the best ski resorts in North Carolina, Banner Elk is a popular winter destination. Highlights: A fun ski town in the winter, trout fishing in the summer, Wilderness Alpine Coaster thrill ride Banner Elk Grandfather Mountain near Banner Elk | Photo Copyright: Lana Law

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in HendersonvilleĢ.

And compared to larger cities in the area, the town offers good value. With a population of about 14,000 people, you can find everything you need here, minus crowds, traffic, and parking hassles. In the fall, U-pick farms like Grandad's Apples N' Such open up and make a fun stop for families.Īdd to that a good selection of restaurants, many with outdoor patios in summer hotels and attractions and it's not surprising you frequently hear people describing Hendersonville as the best small town in North Carolina.

It's also the apple capital of North Carolina and one of the largest apple-producing counties in America. Set in the Blue Ridge Mountains, on the doorstep of great hiking trails, scenic drives, and spectacular waterfalls, the location is hard to beat. Highlights: A lively main street, nearby apple orchards, great diningĪsheville may be the best-known destination in the mountains of North Carolina, but Hendersonville is a wonderful small-town alternative. Hendersonville Main Street, Hendersonville | Photo Copyright: Lana Law

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