Boone has stunning mountain scenery, hikes to waterfalls, and themed train rides.

And while collegiate nostalgia may be strong in this 18,000-person town, Boone doesnt rest in the past.

It’s got 19th-century cabins and a farmhouse.

Boone, North Carolina, USA campus and town skyline.

Sean Pavone/Getty Images

It also has an on-site restaurant, says Trafford.

Craig Zerbe/Getty Images

Best Things to Do

Explore Daniel Boone Park.

Float the New River.

Lodge room in Rhode’s Motor Home

Courtesy of Taylor McDonald

Cool off on a hot summer day by getting out on the New River withWahoos Adventures.

Floating the river is such a fun way to spend a summer afternoon.

The views from the river are beautiful as youre slowly floating through the mountains, says McSherry.

Country Farm in North Carolina

Craig Zerbe/Getty Images

Bring the whole family to Tweetsie Railroad.

Trafford describesTweetsie Railroadas a rite of passage in Boone.

Its been here since 1957 and is considered to be North Carolinas first theme park, she says.

Street View of Main Street in Downtown Boone with Mountain in Background. Cars lined up at stoplight in front of storefronts. Blue sky with clouds. Street decorated for holidays.

Visit NC

It might be touristy, but Trafford saysTweetsie Railroadis an institution.

Go for a hike in the mountains.

You cant come to Boone without exploring the mountains on foot.

Male bartender in black flannel at Appalachian Brewery pouring beer from tap with signs of beers on tap in background.

Visit NC

You have to get outdoors and hike.

Explore the parkway and all the native plants unique to the High Country, says McSherry.

Grab a drink at a local brewery.

Winter view of Grandfather Mountain in Boone. Snow covered fir trees as focus of the image.

Visit NC

She adds, Over the years, I have found great holiday decor there.

The original, however, isnt far from Boone.

It has old-timey wood floors and a porch with rocking chairs, explains Trafford.

Pullover on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Boone. Often you get fog in the mornings

Craig Zerbe/Getty Images

[Its] a great new addition to downtown.

Its a small grocery and market that also does sandwiches and coffee, he says.

Best Restaurants

Stick Boy Bread Co. McSherry also says they have the best breakfast and lunch.

The Cardinal

The Cardinalalso comes highly recommended by locals.

It offers classic American food, including lots of burgers showcasing wild game.

Theres emu, bison, and even a rotating wild game burger, says Trafford.

The menu has all the classics Greek fries, moussaka, souvlaki, gyros, and more.

I’ll take a gyro over a burger joint any day, she adds.

Cobo Sushi Bistro and Bar

Who says you cant get sushi in the mountains?

Summer is great because it stays cool in the mountains.

Theres something special about the winter snows and beautiful sunsets through all the bare trees, explains McSherry.

If youre staying downtown, however, you could plan to walk.

King Street in downtown Boone is totally walkable.