THE BLIUE RIDGE DIGEST SUMMER/FALL 2012

2012

SUMMER

the most widely distributed travel publication in the mountains

Blue Ridge & Great Smoky Mountains

SUMMER ADVENTURES AWAIT YOU! MUSIC | FUN | FOOD | FESTIVALS

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9:30AM

Hit the Appalachian Trail to McAfee Knob.

1:00PM

Downtown shopping was a big hit.

10:00PM

Hit a comfortable pillow for a good nights rest.

It’s a Blue Ridge Day!

Salem Fair

888.VASALEM www.salemfair.com

Virginia Museum of Transportation 540.342.5670 www.vmt.org

Historic Roanoke City Market

540.342.2028 ext 15 www.DowntownRoanoke.org/City-Market

Salem Red Sox

540.389.3333 www.salemsox.com

Vinton Farmers’ Market 540.983.0613 www.vintonva.gov

Smith Mountain Lake

540.721.1203 www.visitsmithmountainlake.com

Taubman Museum of Art 540.342.5760 www.taubmanmuseum.org

Dixie Caverns

540.380.2085 www.dixiecaverns.com

Franklin County Commerce & Leisure Services 540.483.9293 www.visitfranklincountyva.org

History Museum of Western Virginia 540.342.5770 www.history-museum.org

From a mountain top hike to a downtown shopping spree, the Roanoke Valley in Virginia’s Blue Ridge has the ideal mix of adventure, fun and relaxation.

www.visitroanokeva.com | 800.635.5535

Register online to win a Blue Ridge Mountains Getaway.

CRPad1e_2010_4.47x9.75:4.47x9.25 The Blue Ridge Digest

SUMMER 2012

4/8/10

11:46 AM

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Up Here, The World Is e B a y utifu l p m Si l Blue Ridge Music Center 2012 Summer Concert Series in Galax The Blue Ridge Music Center is located at milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Galax Virginia.

Concerts are at 7pm unless otherwise noted.

Seating opens at 5:30 pm.

Info and tickets are available at: (276) 236-5309 x112 Bring a picnic, folding chairs, your friends and the whole family!

No alcohol or pets. Smokehouse BBQ available on concert nights.

The Blue Ridge Music Center has evening concerts every weekend all summer through mid-September in the outdoor amphitheater at the foot of beautiful Fisher Peak (only 10 miles from Galax).

The Blue Ridge Music Center is open 9am-5pm, 7 days a week through Oct 28th. Mid-Day Mountain Music 12pm-4pm daily - Free. Roots of American Music Museum: 9am-5pm daily (later on concert nights) - Free..

Bring a picnic, folding chairs, your friends and the whole family!

For info on all shows and tickets call: (276) 236-5309 x112 or purchase online at www.BlueRidgeMusicCenter.org

Upcoming events: SAT. July 14 Appalachian Songsmiths: Larry Cordle & Lonesome Standard Time / Lorraine Jordan & Carolina Road. $12/$10 students & seniors.

SUN. July 22 (2pm) Gospel Picnic: Moose Family / Church Sisters / Good Shepherd Quartet $10/$5 students & seniors. 2PM SAT. July 28 Patrick County Tribute: The Country Boys / Slate Mountain Ramblers $8/$5 students & seniors SUN. Aug. 5 James King Homecoming / Cana Ramblers $10/$8 students & seniors SAT. Aug. 18 Country Bluesmen: Dom Flemons / Boo Hanks / Lightnin’ Wells $10/$8 students & seniors SAT. Aug. 25 Hot Pickers, New Bands! Jus’ Cauz / Old-Time Pals $8/$5 students & seniors SAT. Sep. 1 Travers Chandler & Avery County / Dry Hill Draggers $10/$8 students & seniors SAT. Sep. 8 Last Chance to Dance! Jack Krack & The Bing Brothers / Giles Mountain Stringband $10/$8 students & seniors SAT. SAT. Sep. 15 Celebrating 100 Years of Banjo Master Kyle Creed $10/$8 students & seniors Children 12 & under free.

Discover Mother Nature at her best.

Human nature, too. Re-charge.

Re-connect. Expand your horizons.

Enjoy a new perspective on life.

And prepare to be elevated.

25 mi. SE of Asheville in Chimney Rock, NC chimneyrockpark.com • 800-277-9611

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Blue Ridge Digest

P.O. Box 1758 Asheville, NC 28802 Phone: (828) 667-1607 www.blueridgedigest.com All articles and information supplied are printed accurately to the best knowledge of the management. The Blue Ridge Digest is not responsible for errors beyond its control.

THANKS TO THE BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY ASSOCIATION FOR THE USE OF THEIR CENTER-SPREAD MAP

Publisher: Thomas Hardy Design: Imagewerks Productions Need good design? Call (828) 681-8029

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Welcome to the Mountains!

Thank you for making your vacation

Pigeon Forge: Summer fun and not enough time!

S

ummer in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., creates interesting family discussions – there’s so much to do, but there’s not enough time!

That’s why so many people visit “the Center of Fun in the Smokies” more than once each year.

Dollywood and its Splash Country waterpark operate full blast in summer. Dollywood’s famous KidsFest started June 22 and continues through July 29.

Look for lots of special entertainment for the younger set.

The big attention-getter, of course, is Dollywood’s new $20 million coaster, Wild Eagle, which opened this spring as the first

Enjoy your stay!

Thanks for picking up this issue of THE DIGEST!

sweetie while you ride Wild Eagle, Thunderhead or the Tennessee Tornado in the moonlight.

Special events throughout Pigeon Forge add extra layers of activity:

coaster of its design in the U.S. Your During Celebrate Freedom, seats dangle in mid-air. Yep, there’s Aug. 1-31, many businesses offer nothing above or below you as discounts and you fly like special salutes an eagle to active duty through military, veterthe Smoky ans and first Mountain responders. air.

From Old Mill July 30Square’s Aug. 12, Stringtime in Dollywood the Smokies stays presents oldopen until timey music Mountain Cornhole Tournament 10 p.m., Aug. 4. Test meaning your aim the same day at the you can hold hands with your Third Annual Smoky Mountain Cornhole Tournament.

an All-American experience in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain area.

Your vacation dollars go further on U.S. soil and by spending time in the mountains, you not only benefit communities and businesses in your own back yard, but avoid flight delays and exchange rates.

Now more than ever, Americans are looking for ways to stretch their dollars, spend time with family and friends, reconnect to the wonders of the natural world, and, if only for a moment, take a breath of fresh air.

The time you spend in the Blue Ridge Mountain area will provide all of this and more: go whitewater rafting, experience historic and cultural sites, find unique shopping areas, take a hike, taste delicious local foods, and just breathe the clean mountain air. Hopefully this issue of the Blue Ridge Digest will be an aid in planning your trip and a keepsake to remember your vacation in the mountains.

SUMMER 2012

Enjoy a delicious homemade breakfast

Civil War buffs are drawn to the Smoky Mountain Relic Show and Sale on Aug. 24-26. An artillery demonstration called “Thunder in the Forge” explains the booming noises you’ll here then.

Since everyone likes to save money, note that there’s a special holiday in Tennessee from Aug. 3-5.

It’s the Tennessee Sales Tax Holiday, perfect for back-to-school shopping.

Beautiful scenic views

800-538-3508

contact@gladevalley.com Close to the Blue Ridge Parkway, mp 229 330 Shaw Lane Glade Valley, NC 28627

Rustic cabin also available

Country music fans have special concerts on tap – George Jones on July 27 and 28 and Mickey Gilley on Aug. 24. Country Music Hall of Fame member Don Williams is scheduled Sept. 21 and 22.

Go to MyPigeonForge.com for information to help plan a visit, call 1-800-251-9100 for a chat or visit with the staff of the Pigeon Forge Welcome Center while in town. It’s at Traffic Light #0.

SUMMER 2012

Forget your cares...

The Blue Ridge Digest

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… and return to a place and time you thought had passed. Alleghany County and Sparta NC are home to the Blue Ridge Mountain community where Parkway construction began. And it is still home to a relaxed, rural pace of life that retains much of the unspoiled beauty that it shares with the famous scenic byway.

With two state parks,­New River and Stone Mountain, plus Doughton Park, the Parkway’s largest developed recreation area, camping, picnicking, hiking, fishing and bicycling opportunities abound. The New River offers canoeing, tubing, kayaking and fishing and is a welcome respite from summer heat.

Get schooled in mountain music at the Alleghany Jubilee’s weekly barn dance (alleghanyjubilee.com), the Monday jam at Crouse Park (coolsparta.com/ pickers) and at the big Fiddlers Convention (alleghanyfiddlersconvention.com).

Events like the Blue Ridge Mountain Fair (coolsparta.com/brmfair) and Mountain Heritage Festival (coolsparta.com/heritage) highlight the area’s craft heritage. Enjoy down-home fun at distinctively local pastimes, such as lawn mower racing, the demolition derby, and mud slings .

The community offers motels, bed and breakfast inns and vacation cabins to make your stay special. And there’s no better sleeping than snuggled under covers during cool mountain nights.

When you visit, stop by the Visitors Center, 58 S. Main St., just 7 miles south of the US 21/Parkway intersection at Mile Post 229.6. Our welcome mat is always out and we’ll make sure you don’t miss a thing.

Alleghany Chamer & Visitors Center

58 S. Main St. • Sparta, NC • 800-372-5473 • Cool Sparta.com

Mountain Inspired Creations! oil •Watercolor • photography Wire Wrapped Jewelry • candle Holders • stained glass • pottery

Of Fine Art 103 gallery Lane • sparta, nc at Mile marker 234 at Mahogany Rock Road

336-372-1711 | 336-372-4321 | blueridgefineart.com

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Summer

all levels of camping experience and welcomes families, couples, and solo adventurers throughout this weekend of wonder.

Campsites are $30 per night for participants or $25 per night for annual pass holders. two nights camping in MacRae Admission to the park is not Meadows between organized included in the campsite fee. events all over the Mountain.

Grandfather's For questions about registration education and please call 828-733-4326.

Grandfather Mountain’s interpretive new guided hike series staff will be continues this summer and present in the showcases the wonderful scenery camp area to and wildlife of the mountain. assist novice On July 28 and 29, the campers, “Grandfather’s Attic” hike answer begins at 9 a.m. This challenging questions and endeavor involves a hike to Attic even offer Window Peak and Indian House campfire treats and activities. The Cave over the most rugged terrain campsite will be safe, cater to

at Grandfather Brings New Opportunities

T

his summer at Grandfather Mountain brings a brand new event, offering participants unique and new opportunities on the Mountain. The First Annual Grandfather Mountain Campout July 27-29, is an all-weekend event hosted by the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation.

During this campout, guests can spend up to three days and

SUMMER 2012 on the mountain. During this hike, interpretive rangers will share the story of Grandfather and past historic events that shaped the Mountain into what it is today. It is a half-day trip that costs guests $25 in addition to park admission.

The “Nature on the Edge” hike, August 25 and 26, showcases the resiliency of plants and animals in the adverse conditions of the mountain.

Throughout the journey, interpretive rangers will discuss the needs for habitat and point out signs of survival. This is a half-day trip that begins at 9 a.m. and will cost guests $15 in addition to park admission. For more information or to schedule a guided hike at Grandfather Mountain, please call 828-737-0833.

Come Bask in the Glory of a Sunset at the top of the World!

Radford’s Visitors Center

540-267-3153

(located inside Glencoe Musuem)

600 Unruh Drive Radford, VA 24141

www.VisitRadford.com

T

CHILI FES MAY 19

INGLES FARM April 28-29 May 27-28 & June 16-17

HAUNTED ST. ALB ANS SANATORIUM ONGOING

Best Pick in Virginia for…

heatre he Rex T s Market t t a d a oked Ro • Galax Farmer ue Shopping, g the f the Cro Music o Trail State Park ime Jams • Uniq l Events includin r T ia e New Riv egrass and Old s • Annual Spec n Blu io t ly a k ! d e n o e io W mm ent nd Acco r’s Conv Dining a ous Old Fiddle am World F

888-217-8823 or 276-238-8130 www.visitgalax.com

SUMMER 2012

The Blue Ridge Digest

Come and play in

Lynchburg!

T

ired of that same old vacation or weekend getaway spot? Looking for something just a little more exciting when it comes to the great outdoors?

With adventure around every corner, Lynchburg has transformed itself into a true destination offering something for everyone… especially outdoor lovers and adrenaline junkies!

You can

choose from hiking or biking on the more than 80 miles of trails inside the city limits. These trails vary from earthen packed trails along an old rail line through downtown’s riverfront, to challenging single and double track mountain trails down the side of a challenging wilderness. And speaking of river, the pristine water of the James River offers ample opportunity for canoeing, kayaking, fishing or just lazily floating the afternoon away on inner tubes. If water isn’t your thing, how about seeing the region from high above in a hot air balloon, or during an exhilarating ride on a flying trike? The view is unparalleled and equally

5K Cross Country Series Will Race Through Surry Vineyards

unforgettable. If you like your feet a little closer to the ground Lynchburg offers indoor rock climbing, ice skating and dozens of less ‘extreme’ activities. Finally, hit the slopes at Snowflex, the only yearround outdoor, artificial snow sports slope in the nation…that’s right and its right here in Lynchburg.

The breathtaking lodge offers full equipment rentals including, skis, poles, boots, snowboards, tubes and more. What a great way to spend a hot, sunny afternoon…snow sports in the south! Come and play, and discover Lynchburg for yourself!

Photos: Prototype Advertising

Wytheville's Historic Walking Tour

F

or those who wish to delve deeper into the history of Wytheville, can pick up a copy of Wytheville's Historic

Walking Tour, the brochure or the audio version. This tour highlights the many historical events that happened in this area including the Battle of Wytheville during the Civil War and the birth of a very significant First Lady.

Take a leisurely walk through history and see some of the oldest and most interesting structures in Wytheville. This self-guided

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tour begins in Downtown at Wytheville's Heritage Preservation Center and leads you to over 50 historically interesting structures.

Learn about Wytheville's first physician and the impact of Toland's Civil War Raid, see some of the area's oldest places of worship and a former African American school that now offers learning for all, learn about the people behind these

A

fun alternative to standard 5K road races can be found this year in the wine country of Surry County.

The 2012 Vineyard Stomp 5K Series offers cross country trail races on the uniquely distinct terrain of four different wineries.

The series begins June 30 at Grassy Creek Vineyard & Winery in Elkin and concludes Oct. 27 at Round Peak Vineyards in Mount Airy. In between, there are races at Stony Knoll Vineyards in Dobson on Aug. 4, and Olde Mill Winery in Mount Airy on Sept. 15.

Post-race festivities include food, live music, and a 1K "wine walk" though the vineyard to sample wines from the host winery and three other Surry County wineries.

Each race starts at 11:00 a.m., with on-site registration beginning at 9:00 a.m. Pre-race registration is $28 per race or $99 for the complete series. Race-day registration is $32. Each race benefits a local charitable organization.

Registration for the 2012 Vineyard Stomp 5K Series is available exclusively online at: www.active.com.

structures and how one young lady from Wytheville became First Lady.

The tour is available via a self-guided brochure (free) or as an audio version (small fee).

Either may be picked up at Wytheville's Heritage Preservation Center at 115 West Spiller Street or the Regional Visitors Center at 975 Tazewell Street.

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l a v i t s e F Apple 66th North Carolina

H

istoric Hendersonville, NC is the official home of the North Carolina Apple Festival, a four-day celebration to recognize the importance of the apple industry to Henderson County and North Carolina.

The Apple Festival is always held during the Labor Day weekend (Friday through Monday). Festival-goers can choose

from a variety of events which feature a street fair on Historic Main Street and surrounding event venues with continuous entertainment, arts crafts, local apple growers selling apple products, children’s & youth activities, special shows, exhibits, open houses, fun, festival food, and, to top it all off, the King Apple Parade.

Capture the spirit of a hometown

BOONE, NC It’s Cooler Up Here

From family attractions including Grandfather Mountain and Tweetsie Railroad to thrilling white water rafting, ziplining, or hiking and biking the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Boone area has “cool” covered. And when the temperatures where you are hit 90o, chances are we’re chillin’ at 75o. It’s just cooler here.

800-852-9506

SUMMER 2012

Aug 31 - Sept 3, 2012

celebration that is family friendly, with many individual events and entertainers throughout the festival.

The Apple Festival’s Street Fair covers 9 blocks of Main Street with more than 150 vendors. Main Street is closed to traffic from 6th Avenue to Caswell Street. On Monday the Street Fair is scaled back to a mini-festival located between Second Avenue - Caswell Street. The highlight of Labor Day is King Apple Parade filled with floats, bands, clowns, antique cars, fire engines and more travelling down Main Street from 5 Points to Caswell Street.

Some of the other festivities happening during the Apple Festival include apple breakfasts, Gem & Mineral Spectacular, Family Fun Zone, Western North Carolina Air Museum Open House, and the Opportunity House Arts & Crafts Show.

Please leave your pets comfortably at home, Hendersonville

Downtown Hendersonville, NC & Surrounding Area City ordinance prohibits animals in the event area.

North Carolina is the 7th largest apple-producing state in the nation and Henderson County is the largest apple-producing county in North Carolina, producing 65 percent of all the apples grown in the state. The most widely-grown apples are Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Rome Beauty, Granny Smith, Stayman, Fuji and Galas.

Fresh apples may be purchased at one of the many roadside apple markets or produce stands located throughout the county.

For tickets, applications and further information write the NC Apple Festival Office, P.O. Box 886, Hendersonville, NC 28793 or call (828) 697-4557. For times and locations of the events, check the North Carolina Apple Festival brochure or visit the web site at www. ncapplefestival.org.

For lodging or area information call the Visitors Information Center at 800-8284244 or visit the web site at www.historichendersonville.org.

Did You Know?

Large Rvs can travel and enjoy the Blue Ridge Parkway and that there is adequate parking at Parkway scenic views and attractions?

SUMMER 2012

The Blue Ridge Digest

Gem of the Shenandoah Valley

Milepost 45.6

ROCK bridge County Natural Wonders, Great American Heroes and Charming Towns – Lexington, Buena Vista and Rockbridge County has more than you’d ever expect! There are three access points to reach Lexington, Buena Vista and Rockbridge County from the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Milepost 27

Get some of the best BBQ around at Gertie’s Country Store, a hole-in-the-wall which also features a fried bologna sandwich if you’re up for trying this southern favorite.

Don’t be fooled by appearances – this tiny, two-tabled restaurant has served folks from around the globe and has their signatures scrawled all over their walls to prove it!

After you’ve had your fill, head just a few miles down the road to sample award-winning wines at Rockbridge Vineyard (www.rockbridgevineyard) and stock up on whole-grain, stoneground flours, grits and mixes at Wade’s Mill (www.wadesmill.com), a 1750’s water-powered mill.

North Carolina's Only Caverns!

LINVILLE CAVERNS Located on U.S. 221 between Linville and Marion, NC. Just 3 1/2 miles south of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Exit Milepost 317.4, turn left on U.S. 221 toward Linville Falls Village & Marion, NC

Check the calendar before your trip to see if there is a music festival at Glen Maury Park (www. glenmaurypark.com) in Buena Vista.

Music lovers from all over the country descend on Glen Maury Park for their music festivals featuring styles as varied as Bluegrass, Mountain Music, Beach Music and Gospel.

Continue on to Lexington, a

Page 9 ever owned. Additional items relating to Jackson (including his military uniform and beloved horse, Little Sorrel) can be found at the Virginia Military Institute Museum (www.vmi.edu/museum).

Milepost 61.6

Families will definitely want to schedule time to visit the kid-friendly attractions in the Natural Bridge area! Drive-through the Virginia Safari Park (www.virginiasafaripark. com) and feed exotic animals including ostriches, camels, elk and bison right from your car! Just down the road, you’ll also find the Natural picturesque Bridge Zoo (www. college town naturalbridgezoo.com) steeped where you can in history. ride an elephant Take a and take a photo horse-drawn with a baby carriage tour tiger! Finally, you through the won’t want to miss the Natural historic downtown for an excellent Bridge of Virginia itself (www. overview of the area (www.lexcarriage. naturalbridgeva.com). With one com) before visiting museums admission ticket, you can see the individually. A visit to the George bridge, tour the deepest caverns C. Marshall Museum (www. on the east coast, walk through marshallfoundation.org) will give you Virginia’s largest live butterfly a greater understanding of WWII exhibit, visit a Monacan Indian and The Marshall Plan. Civil War village, and check out the Wax buffs won’t want to miss a visit to Museum and Toy Museum.

General Robert E. Lee’s burial crypt Book a Natural Bridge Hotel located in Lee package starting at just $89 per Chapel (leechapel. night and save 40%!! wlu.edu) and a www.naturalbridgeoffers.com tour through the Stonewall Rockbridge Jackson Area Tourism House (www. www.lexingtonvirginia.com stonewalljackson. org), the only 540-463-3777 home that or Toll-Free General 877-453-9822 Stonewall Jackson

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Blue Ridge Potters Guild 13th Show and Sale, Roanoke, VA

Friday, October 19 • 6pm to 9 pm Saturday, October 20 • 10 am to 6 pm Sunday, October 21 • noon to 5 pm

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Admission he largest allis FREE! pottery show in Virginia featuring functional and decorative works created by over 70 area potters.

The Show is open to the public at Patrick Henry High School and begins with a sale and reception on Friday. Sale and demonstrations continue Saturday and Sunday.

Demonstrations feature various pottery techniques including handthrown, hand-built and sculpted clay art. Kids Korner will offer hands-on activities for youth. A special gallery exhibit with the theme “There’s a Pattern Here” will show works created by Guild members who interpret this theme. The gallery is judged by an invited juror. Cash, checks and credit cards accepted.

Patrick Henry High School Cafeteria, 2102 Grandin Road, S.W., Roanoke, VA 24015 www.blueridgepotters.com Contact – Barbara N. Wise Phone: 540-343-1836 Email: bpinva@cox.net

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SUMMER 2012

Second Saturdays: Summertime at State Historic Sites Two North Carolina State Historic Sites and a state museum that are within easy driving distance of the Blue Ridge Parkway hosted programs on the second Saturdays of the summer months. “’Second Saturdays’ help families have some good, old fashioned fun whether they are visiting a site close to home or across the state,” said Cultural Resources Secretary Linda Carlisle.

August 11th : A Civil War

Encampment Weekend will be held from 10 AM to 4 PM on Saturday and 1 PM to 3 PM on Sunday.

The tentative plan for this exciting weekend of Civil War Encampment will include a demonstration and talk from the North State Rifles about the life of the common soldier from North Carolina. This Civil War 150 program will be a fun, free event.

Thomas Wolfe Memorial Zebulon Vance Birthplace The Vance Birthplace was the farmstead of the North Carolina Civil War governor, Zebulon Vance. The reconstructed log house built around the original chimneys and its many outbuildings are furnished to give the feeling of being in the time period of 1795-1840. 911 Reems Creek Rd., Weaverville, N.C. 28787.

(828) 654-6706.

July 14th : Heritage Crafts Day will be a free event from 10 AM to 4 PM where families can learn about and participate in heritage crafts of the southern Appalachians. ents are All Second Saturday ev public! free and open to the

The Thomas Wolfe Memorial is located in the heart of the downtown Asheville in what once was Thomas Wolfe’s mother’s Victorian boardinghouse. Along with the historic house there is also a visitor center with museum exhibits, an audio-visual program, and guided tours. 52 North Market St., Asheville, N.C. 28801. (828) 253-8304.

July 14th: From 2 PM to 4 PM

there will be a Barbershop Chorus and Ice Cream Social with music of the early 1900’s played by the Land of the Sky Barbershop Chorus that will be both sweet and sentimental. Bring along a lawn chair to enjoy this free afternoon of unique American music.

For more information visit

www.ncculture.com.

by Elizabeth Johnson

August 11th: Chair Caning:

An Introductory Workshop will be held from 10 AM to 3 PM with the traditional wood working craftsman David Ammons. He will be demonstrating the nearly lost art of chair caning. For this event participants interested at trying their hand will need to bring an old chair in need of a new seat. Participation is limited and there will be a fee to cover the cost of the materials.

Mountain Gateway Museum The Mountain Gateway Museum, located in Old Fort, tells the fascinating story of the pioneer life in Western North Carolina through exhibits and events like those planned for its Second Saturdays. 102 Water St., Old Fort, N.C., 28762.

(828) 668-9259. mgm@ncdcr.gov.

July 14th : From 10 AM to

3 PM come enjoy a day of Fish Tales and Waterways, including stories and music about fish, fishing, rivers, and more.

August 11th : Mountain

Farm Day will be a day filled with fun, food, crafts, pony rides, music, and more. This daytime program will be held from 10 AM to 3 PM.

SUMMER 2012

The Blue Ridge Digest

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Vacation Freebies!

Music inside the historic Rockett Building on Main Street. These folks change performers every half hour or so and you're invited to join them.

Sign up as you enter the building and yes, it's FREE! A few miles down the road, another group gets together at Woody's Original Mountain Music.

Max Woody and friends host this weekly, FREE, event across the street xplore the Blue Ridge Parkfrom his famous chair shop. Both way between Mileposts performances begin at 7:00 pm.

316 to 344 (Linville Falls to Love to be outdoors, but prefer Crabtree Falls) and save money on to have a guide with you? Take your next vacation! In and around these mountain communities, don't a look at the weekly Ranger miss out on the FREE weekly events guided events at Lake James State and performances, including those Park. Guided hikes, educational at the Historic Orchard at Altapass, interpretive walks, boat tours Milepost 328.3. Each day, except and astronomy events describe some of their weekly programs.

Tuesday, the Orchard hosts local You can also enjoy FREE musicians entertaining you with admission at the Old Fort Train Depot their gospel renditions, bluegrass and Railroad Museum, Mountain favorites and country music clasGateway Museum and Heritage sics. The dance floor is waiting Thomas Jefferson Wine Festival Center and the North Carolina for you and admission is FREE! November 19, 2011Museum. FREE - CruiseMinerals Each Thursday night, drive over In to downtown Old Fort on the to Historic Marion to enjoy their 3rd Saturday of each month to informal "Bluegrass Jam" at the Marion Historic Depot, c. 1870. No visit with members of the Route 70 admission fee, everyone is welcome Cruisers Club. Visit with interesting to join in and the dance floor is great! people and their favorite rides.

E

one thing for sure

you will...

Friday nights, folks gather in Old Fort to hear a little Old Fort Mountain 37th Annual

Summer

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Sequoyah Birthplace Museum www.sequoyahmuseum.org (423) 884-6246

you will...

one thing for sure

Thomas Jefferson Wine Festival November 17, 2012

July 20-29 and October 11 thru 28

Craftsmen's Fair

The vendors at the Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair not only have their artwork available for your viewing pleasure but the beautiful arts and crafts will be on sale for you to take home a memorable souvenir.

The Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair opens 10am- 7pm. Sundays the Craftsmen's Fair is open from 10am-5pm. Adults: $6.00 and children 12 & under are free. The Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair is held at the Gatlinburg Convention Center in downtown Gatlinburg TN at traffic light number eight. Info: 865-436-7479 or visit www.Craftsmensfair.com.

Discover Bedford’s extraordinary National D-Day Memorial, which overlooks the American community that lost the most citizens at D-Day. Visit Thomas Jefferson’s architectural gem, Poplar Forest, built while he was President as his private retreat. The legendary “Peaks of Otter” along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Smith Mountain Lake and five wineries all call Bedford home.

www.VisitBedford.com or call 1-877-447-3257

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The Diamond Anniversary of

Celebrating Sixty Years of Excellence in the Performing Arts

O

ver the past 60 years, Flat Rock Playhouse has welcomed millions of patrons to its 14-acre property where some of the most talented actors, directors and designers in the country have come to practice their craft with a level of artistic freedom and community support distinct to this little corner of the American theatre landscape.

The Vagabond Players are proud to have made Flat Rock, North Caro-

lina their permanent theatrical home – the first few summer seasons were spent humbly producing theatre under a borrowed circus tent. Flat Rock Playhouse worked harder to achieve more recognition for the arts in Western North Carolina. For its concerted advocacy, the North Carolina General Assembly designated Flat Rock Playhouse as The State Theatre of North Carolina in 1961, sealing a relationship with Henderson

SUMMER 2012

County making Flat Rock Playhouse a center for cultural exchange.

Fast forward to year 2002, under the leadership of Executive Director Robin R. Farquhar, Flat Rock Playhouse became a nationally recognized professional theatre boasting a Mainstage season lasting eight months alongside a thriving Theatre for Young People, now titled YouTheatre. Nurturing the small program of specialized children’s theatre to a year-round program that offers classes in acting, dance, musical theatre, technical theatre, visual arts, and other specialty areas for ages Pre-K thru adult. With the 2011 Season, under the current leadership of Producing Artistic Director, Vincent Marini, Flat Rock Playhouse launched a second venue, Playhouse Downtown.

Located at 125 South Main Street, in Historic Downtown Hendersonville, what was former retail space is now a 9,500 square foot, multi-purpose performance space.

FLAT ROCK PLAY HOUSE

2012 SEASON

Playhouse Mai nstage: The Fox On The Fa irway . ....... ...................... Jun e 28-July 15 Guys and Dolls ...................... Jul y 25-Aug 19 Noises Off........ Au g 23-Sept 9 Almost, Maine..... ... Sept 13-23 Zelda: An America n Love Story ................... .... Oct 3-28 Cat On A Hot Tin Roof............. ........................... ... Nov 1-18 The Nutcracker.No v 28-Dec 22 Playhouse Dow ntown: RED . ................ Jun e 20-July 8 Proof................. Jul y 18-Aug 5 The Mar velous W onderettes .... ....................... Au g 16-Sept 9 The Rocky Horror Show . ............... .... Oct 13-31 Striking Twelve.... De c 5-Dec 22

Hemlock Inn A Blowing Rock Tradition

828-295-7987 134 Morris Street Blowing Rock, NC 28605

For more information on the Flat Rock Playhouse 2012 season, call the box office at (828) 693-0731 or toll free at (866) 732-8008. Flat Rock Playhouse Mainstage is located at 2661 Greenville Highway across from the Carl Sandburg Home in Historic Flat Rock, North Carolina. Playhouse Downtown is located at 125 S. Main in Historic Downtown Hendersonville. Visit the Playhouse website – www.flatrockplayhouse.org.

25th Annual Virginia State Peach Festival

“

Southwest Virginia has been peachy since pre-colonial times. Native Americans harvested the golden fruit long before the first English settlers arrived.

Eventually, Patrick County, nestled along the Blue Ridge Mountains, gained the appellation, “Peach Tree Bottom”. Bountiful peach trees still flourish in this scenic region, and to honor the county’s peach growers, the Patrick County Chamber of Commerce hosts a festival each summer. Naturally,

wonderful peach concoctions such as peach ice cream, peach cobbler, peach fried pies, and peach wine coolers tempt attendees throughout the celebration. And you’ll find bushels and bushels of just-picked fruit, art and craft exhibits, and live entertainment.” - from Hometown Cooking, August, 2001.

2012 Virginia State Peach Festival Events includes: Music Celebration on Friday, August 17,

www.HemlockInn.net

August 17 Stuart, VA

2012, at DeHart Park, Stuart, VA 24171, 212 Wood Brothers Drive. Gates open 4:30pm. Admission is $8 advance ticket purchase, $12 at the gate on evening of the event. Children 12-under free.For more info: please visit www.patrickchamber.com or call 276-694-6012.

• Discover the magic of Blowing Rock, NC in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains • Walking distance to downtown shopping and dining find us on

• Easy driving to many area attractions • 18 uniquely designed and decorated rooms

SUMMER 2012 E

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29th Annual Reasons to visit R Mountain Glory Festival Virginia’s Blue Rid

Trains, trains, trains!

Railroad Heritage

17. Chocolate treat at 17 Chocolatepaper 9:30am-5pm

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Historic Farmers’ Market District - Buy local – produce, plants and specialty items

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Multi-cultural Cuisine

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Center at the Discovery 18 Nature Main –Street, Marion, Center Milepost 120 North Carolina 19. Their natural water park 19 at Smith Lake Small Town Mountain Celebration of Fall

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Over 45 lodging establishments to choose from including the Holiday Inn Tanglewood

Brewtopia

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sheville has long been famous for its stunning scenery, lively mountain music and famous attractions such as Biltmore and the Blue Ridge Parkway. And now, it's become the craft-brewing center of the Southeast. Asheville's brewing scene has garnered so much enthusiasm that it has been named the winner of the Examiner's "Beer City, USA" poll four years running.

Asheville’s beer culture all started back in 1994, when Oscar Wong, a retired engineer living in Charlotte, moved to Asheville and opened Highland Brewing Company in a rustic basement space below Barley’s Taproom and Pizzeria in downtown Asheville.

What began as a home-brew hobby became the first successful

5.

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View from the Roanoke Star - Checkout the Star Cam – www.roanokeva.gov/starcam

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Visit Mill Mountain Zoo and ride the ZooChoo

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brewery operation in Asheville landing Wong his status as godfather of “Beer City USA.” Since then, Asheville has seen a number of breweries open their doors. They include Green Man, Asheville Pizza and Brewing Company, French Broad Brewing, Pisgah Brewing (in Black Mountain), Wedge Brewing, Oyster House Brewing, Craggie Brewing and Lexington Avenue Brewery.

Other established pubs have also gotten into the brewing biz, such as Thirsty Monk. They began a nano-brewing operation out of their south Asheville location.

Today the craft beer scene in Asheville has reached a fever pitch with four annual beer festivals, brewery tours and even

October 13, 2012,

1.

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Virginia Museum of Transportation – Todaysteam the craft beer scene engines

in Asheville hasopened reached a fever 8.

Recently - Taubman 8 Museum of Art pitch with four annual beer 9.

– antiques, festivals, brewery tours and 9 Shopping boutiques and more even a popular ice cream 10 Salem Sox baseball game 10.

a popular iceMuseum cream made with 11.

History of Western 11 Highland’s rich black mocha stout.

Virginia exhibits The Annual Beer City USA 12.

Go down under at put 12 poll designation helped Dixie Caverns Asheville’s beer scene on the map and garnered attention 13.

Hands-onthe activities at of 13 Sierrathe Nevada New Belgium Scienceand Museum Brewing.

Both have announced of Western Virginia plans to make the Asheville area 14 O. Winston Link Museum 14. their new east coast homes. more information on – 15. For Southern style breakfast 15 visiting theRoanoker AshevilleRestaurant area “visit” The www.exploreasheville.com or 16.

Cheesy western and a bowl 16 call toll free: 877.GO.TO.AVL with at the Texas Tavern

and the Glory of the Mountains 20.

Blue Parkway Visitor with arts,Ridge crafts, food, children’s 20 Center – Milepost 115 events and local entertainment.

21. A hot dog all the way at the 21 For information visit Roanoke Wiener Stand www.mtngloryfestival.com 22. Take in a movie at their locally 22 owned and operated Grandin 828-652-2215 or 828-652-3551 Theatre in Grandin Village FREE ADMISSION

Sequoyah (1776-1843)

Father, Soldier, Silversmith, Statesman and Creator of the Cherokee writing system

Handmade Cherokee Baskets • CDs • Jewelry Handmade Native American Pottery Prints by Cherokee Artist Donald Vann ...and more unique gifts from which to choose!

OPEN YEAR ROUNd

Mon - Sat 9am - 5pm • Sun Noon - 5pm (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day)

Nominal Admission Fee • Group discounts Operated by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians - Tennessee’s ONLY Tribally-Operated Historical Attraction.

SEQUOYAH BIRTHPLACE MUSEUM Hwy 360 - P.O. Box 69 Vonore, Tennessee 37885 423-884-6246

www.sequoyahmuseum.org

Located in the Great Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee on the shores of beautiful Tellico Lake, 37 miles south of downtown Knoxville.

IT’S HERE!

The wondrous profusion of mountain flowers in spring and early summer, the high altitude coolness of the forest-clad mountains in summer, and the glorious coloring of these mountains in autumn provide an everchanging appeal.

“AmericA’s FAvorite Drive” At your Fingertips...

469 miles of scenic places, historic sites, lodging, outdoor recommendations and more delivered directly to your smartphone.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is open 365 days a year, weather permitting. Sometimes road repair is undertaken in the winter months and detours are posted. The Parkway is not plowed or salted in the winter, so after snow or ice events, portions may be closed until the weather warms and makes the roadway safe for travel again. So as not to be disappointed when planning a winter drive, call the Blue Ridge Parkway’s 24-hour information line at 828 298-0398 for the latest road conditions.

planned and developed in cooperation with the Blue ridge parkway & national park service.

DoWnLoAD Here!

New River G National Riv

the Blue ridge parkway is designated an All American road by the national scenic Byways program.

N Bluefield Pennington Gap

To Lexington Norris

40

Morristown Morristow

e Sevierville Seviervill

Pigeon Forge

129

411

Townsend

165 Fontana Village 143

Robbinsville

68

Murphy 129 Blue Ridge

19 76

129

Blairsville

19

Andrews

Bryson City

Mile 469

Balsam

Sylva

Topton Franklin

Valley

64

107

Burnsville

Little Switzerland Weaverville Weavervill

Marshall 63

e Asheville Ashevill

410

26

Mount Pisgah

Lenoirr Lenoi

Morganton 321 Morganto Valdese

40

To Greenville

16

90

74 601

40

Statesville Statesvill

NC SC

To Charlotte a Gastonia Gastoni

85

70

16

150

Shelby Shelb

WinstonSale Clemmons Clemmon 421

Union Grove

y Hickory Hickor

321

Mount Airy

77

Elkin

n Newton Newto 18

108

11

21

18

64

Columbus

58

Cumberland Knob

Doughton Park E.B. Jeffress Park

270

74

Tryon

Clayton

To Atlanta

Crabtree Falls

Chimney Lake Lure Rock 74A Saluda 9

Hillsville Fancy Gap

Moses H. Cone Mem. Park North Julian Price Mem. Park Wilkesboro Linville Falls 18

Craggy Craggy Gardens Gardens Marion

221

e Blu

Blowing Rock 421

320

Parkway Parkway Visitor Center

21

Galax Sparta 220

Boone

Spruce Pine

Black Mtn.

Waynesville Waynesvill

440

Wytheville

Laurel Springs 221 y West Parkwa Jefferson Ridge

Sugar Mountain

Mars Hill

e Hendersonville Hendersonvill Cashiers 441 Brevard N Hiwassee C Highlands Sapphire Lake Toxaway G A 76

Hayesville

Chatuge Lake

74

NC

Hot Springs

19E

Erwin

TN

Hartford

441

Cherokee

28

70

Newport

Cosby Gatlinburg

Great Smoky Mountains 40 National Park Maggie

Tapoco

Cherohala Skyway

26

Greeneville Greeneville

Pulaski

Mouth of Wilson Independence

58

421 Mountain

Elizabethton

81

Damascus City

City Johnson City Jonesborough

92

Maryville 411 Maryvill To Chattanooga

Bristol

Dublin

77

Marion

Abingdon

81

e Knoxville Knoxvill

16

20 km

11E

Farragutt Farragu

75

19

20 mi

Kingsportt Kingspor

33

75

To Nashville

0 0

VA TN

100

19

Mooresville Mooresville 77

85

Lexington

Salisbur

Kannapoliss Kannapoli

52

Concord

To Gettysburg, PA

Martinsburg Charles Town Tow Harpers Ferry 340

Winchester Wincheste

Leesburg

g Harrisonburg Harrisonbur

250

220

11

340

n Staunton Staunto

39

Elkton

42

66

340

Luray

D Na rive tio na l P a

New Market

33

Monterey

81

VA

W

V

Front Royal

lin e a h Sk y o nd na e h S

211

rk 522

50

To Washington, DC Warrenton

229 29

231

Culpeper

33

Waynesboro Waynesbor

64

New River Gorge National River

220

Dublin

311

m Salem Sale g Roanok Blacksburg Blacksbur e Roanoke

Radford Radfor

8

221

Hillsville Laurel 58 Fork

Pilot Mountain

52

d

220

64 49

29

360

220

Asheboro Ashebor

Snow Camp

Roxboro 49

Burlington

To Durham

58

501

158

87

40 85 421

Appomattox

Farmville

Traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway?

Blue Ridge Park wa

www.blueridgepa

rkway.org

The Blue Ridge Parkway Directory & Travel Planner, the official Parkway travel Planner, can be found at: MILEPOST • All Parkway visitor centers and concession facilities along the Parkway • Most all of the visitor centers on pages 24-25 in this publication • All North Carolina and Virginia State Welcome Centers • Most all AAA offices in North Carolina, Virginia, East Tennessee, and South Carolina (and many others nationwide)

63RD

y

DIRECTORY

TRAVEL PLANN

ky Mountain Railroad Bryson Exit at Mile City, NC post 469.

1

Grandfather Mounta in Linville, NC Exit at Milepo st 305.1

Reidsville Reidsvill

Greensboro Greensbor

85

24

Includes THE PARKWAY

58

Pointt High Poin

Thanks to the Blue Ridge Parkway Association for the use of their map.

To Richmond

The Natural Bridge of Virginia Natural Bridge, VA Exit at Milepost 63.9

29

311

64

Great Smo

Martinsville Martinsvill

Kernersville Kernersvill

109

40

Chatham

Danville Danvill

Winstonm Salem Sale Clemmons Clemmon

y Salisbury Salisbur

Gretna

Eden

421

Lexington

40

158

8

Altavista

8

311

52

501

Burnt Chimney 43

58

52

g Lynchburg Lynchbur

Bedford

220

57

20

Amherst

460

Rocky Mount

Rocky Knob

VA Mount N C Airy

74

460

Vinton

Smart View

Meadows 180 of Dan Stuart

mberland Knob

Otter Creek

70

15

29

Peaks of Otter

Roanoke Mountain

150

Lovingston

60

Glasgow

120

Christiansburg Christiansbur

Floyd

30 Buena Vista

90

460

100

Lexington

Buchanan

VA

Designates Milepost

522

Humpback Rocks

Natural Bridge

WV

e Charlottesville Charlottesvill

Mile 0 64

LEGEND Blue Ridge Parkway Facilities

29

Offic ial Publi catio n of the Blue Ridge Parkw ay Assoc iation

Blue Ridge Parkway travel information can be found or requested on the web at www.blueridgeparkway.org This is the official website of the Blue Ridge Parkway Association, the marketing partner for the Blue Ridge Parkway. A Blue Ridge Parkway Information Pak can be requested that contains a Blue Ridge Parkway map, Blue Ridge Parkway Directory (which includes the Parkway Milepost) and other helpful travel information for trip planning.

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Wheels Through Time Partners with Biltmore Estate in Exhibit Showcasing Life as a Vanderbilt

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his spring and summer, the Wheels Through Time Museum is partnering with Biltmore Estate for a new exhibit telling the story of what life was like at America's largest home during the early 20th century. Titled "The Vanderbilts at Home and Abroad",

the new exhibit is located in the Biltmore Legacy Exhibit Hall in the estates Antler Hill Village, and is slated to open April 7th, with a special preview for season passholders on Thursday, March 29th.

"The Vanderbilts at Home and Abroad" explores the lives of George,

The charm of yesterday… the convenience of today.

A visit to Wytheville is more than a stop on the interstate, it’s a journey into a destination that offers unique attractions with a variety of experiences, historic stories that will touch the heart, scenic beauty to dazzle the eyes, and recreational opportunities to challenge your energy.

Be sure to visit: Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre Fort Chiswell Animal Park • Big Walker Lookout Beagle Ridge Herb Farm & Flying Flowers Wolf Creek Indian Village • New River State Park Red Barn Bluegrass • Wineries Numerous Historical Museums & Mansions Unique Shops • Antique Malls • Artisans Musical Events • Festivals New Fishing Trails • New Motorcycle Drives

www.visitwytheville.com • Free Visitors Guide call 877-347-8307 • cvb@wytheville.org

Edith and Cornelia Vanderbilt at home and in their travels throughout Europe and the Far East. The exhibit offers a close-up look at many of the exotic and rare treasures they collected throughout their lives, including a priceless chess set once owned by Napoleon Bonaparte, a collection of Samurai armor acquired during their visit to Japan, clothing and costume worn by the family during some the estate's most important events, among many other priceless relics.

Also on display within the new exhibit, is a 1920 Harley-Davidson Model 20-J motorcycle, on loan from Wheels Through Time Museum.

Featured in 100% original condition, the machine has been called one of the highlights of the exhibit, as it helps to illustrate the Vanderbilts enthrallment with early motorized transportation.

George Vanderbilt first fell in love with motorized travel after borrowing a friend's Wynton Car during trip across Europe.

Shortly after, he purchased his own "updated" version and within a few years, he had developed a system of roads throughout the estate that gained a reputation as being some of the best in the country. Friends and acquaintances from around the United States regularly wrote the family asking permission to come drive the roads of Biltmore.

SUMMER 2012 With thousands of acres of land, motorized travel became a staple at Biltmore from a very early point. Through the mid-1920s the Vanderbilts owned several automobiles, and to the surprise of many, a total of 5 motorcycles -- two 1913 Harley-Davidsons, a 1915 HarleyDavidson, as well as 1917 and 1923 Harleys. These machines played a vital role in transportation at the estate, becoming known for their good service and maneuverability, and their ability to reach places where automobiles could not.

The 1920 Harley-Davidson Model 20-J on loan from Wheels Through Time is nearly identical to the last Harley-Davidson motorcycle purchased by Biltmore, and is displayed with several period photographs showing some of the estate's earliest "twowheeled visitors".

"We're extremely excited to partner with Biltmore Estate for their new exhibit," says museum curator Dale Walksler. "Their love affair with transportation played an important role in the development of the estate, and we're proud to play a part in sharing that story."

More info on Biltmore Estates new exhibit "The Vanderbilts at Home and Abroad", visit www.biltmore.com.

Wheels Through Time is located in Maggie Valley, NC “Your Motor City in the Mountains” and the gateway to the “Tail of the Dragon”. The museum is open Thursday-Monday 9:00am to 5:00pm or more information visit www.WheelsThroughTime.com or call (828) 926-6266.

Wicked Plants:

Visit the New Exhibit at The N.C. Arboretum Visitors can step into a macabre world where plants hold the power.

Killed Lincoln’s Mother and other Botanical Atrocities, the exhibit gives visitors a hands-on experience with some of the world’s most diabolical botanicals—without the risk of intoxication, addiction, ccording to author Amy dismemberment, or other danger.

Stewart, "Some people Menacing interactive displays dream about their book set in an eerie environment are getting made into a movie, but I designed to educate and entertain dream about it getting made into a children and adults with informatraveling cabinet of wonders." With tion about some of Mother NaWicked Plants: The Exhibit now ture’s most appalling creations. open at The North Carolina ArboDesigned to educate the retum, Stewart's dream has come public and increase science true.The 4,000-square-foot exhibit literacy, Wicked Plants exposes will introduce visitors to the evildoplants associated with a myriad ers lurking in their own backyards of negative health effects, and beyond. Inspired by Stewart’s including addiction, obesity, book Wicked Plants: The Weed that

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allergies, pain, poisoning, cognitive impairment, organ failure, and even death. Showcasing more than 100 plants, the exhibit takes an open-ended approach to health education, providing visitors with an opportunity to weigh the risks of utilizing specific wicked plants.

Visitors will step into a macabre world where plants hold the power.

Poisonous, carnivorous, or just plain nasty, the diabolical botanicals represented throughout Wicked Plants are shown in all their fearful glory. Guests will be introduced to infamous plants that have left their mark on history and claimed many an unfortunate victim.

Upon entering Nightshade a decrepit old home, guests will be introduced to the crime family of the plant world, the deadly Nightshades. A veritable rogue’s gallery features portraits of these intriguing characters who beguile unsuspecting victims. In the conservatory, weeds of mass destruction have taken over, while a crime scene in the potions laboratory teaches that things aren’t always what they seem, especially Snake Root in the plant world.

A supper served in the dining room could be a visitor’s last. Guests will discover that even the most

mundane foods can be poisonous under certain circumstances. The terrible toxicodendrons in the parlor can really get under a visitor’s skin.

From poison ivy to poison arrows, the collection of weaponry in the hallway uses plant derivatives to immobilize and even kill prey.

The social misfits of the plant world are relegated to the bathroom. Visitors will find botanicals that smell foul, and even some that catch fire.

Plants in the yard are on the offensive: some secrete sap, some produce exploding fruit, and some have stems that embed into skin. Unruly and altogether mean, these plants are on the attack.

Wicked Plants will be on display at the Baker Exhibit Center through September 3.

The exhibit will be open to the public during regular Baker Exhibit Center hours: 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. daily. Admission is free with standard parking fee ($8 per personal vehicle). Admission and parking is always free for Arboretum Society members.

For more information, please call (828) 665-2492 or visit www.ncarboretum.org.

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Indulge

city garden, as well as other local farms.

In Salem, visitors can spread their culinary wings by enjoying local ingredients with a modern French twist at Blue Apron Restaurant & Red Rooster Bar. Your palette will have you traveling around the world as you experience a romantic meal at Carlos Brazilian International Cuisine, which pairs wonderful food with fantastic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Whisk your taste buds away to northern India with an order of chicken tikka masala and a side of garlic naan from Whatever flavors you crave, a culinary Nawab Indian Cuisine. adventure awaits you in Virginia’s Blue Ridge.

Create your own fiesta while you sample the avor mountain views and a City Market and chefs of every salsa bar and sip margaritas at delicious meal at a romantic kind whip up epicurean delights.

Alejandro’s Mexican Grill, or take restaurant, taste a unique If you seek to sample some a culinary adventure to the Orient dish at a quirky landmark, or cozy of the region’s rich ingredients, a with the creative selections of sushi up to the table for a family-style number of farm-to-table restaurants and other dishes at Café Asia. helping of local flavor. In Virginia’s feature locally grown and If you prefer casual dining, The Blue Ridge, visitors can enjoy all raised products on their menus.

Roanoker Restaurant offers comfort of these things and more among Alexander’s Restaurant in downtown

in the Flavor & Delight of Virginia’s Blue Ridge

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a rich variety of eateries as robust as the region’s wonderful flavors.

The Roanoke Valley is where mountain and city life meet, offering the best of both worlds for a worldclass metropolitan mix that hums with energy and activity. It’s where vivid colors line Historic Roanoke

Roanoke creates sophisticated, gourmet dishes with fresh ingredients from their 7Hills Farm, located in nearby Floyd County.

In their cozy Grandin Village spot, Local Roots prepares unique and delectable delights, featuring many ingredients from their own

SUMMER 2012 food in an inviting atmosphere that will make you feel right at home.

Be sure to sample The Roanoker’s homemade biscuits, which were recently featured on NBC’s The Today Show. Also featured in many national publications, the savory flavors at Texas Tavern in downtown Roanoke are unlike anything you will find anywhere else. Order a “Cheesy Western” and a “Bowl With” and take in the classic stories of the cooks who make the restaurant one of the area’s most cherished landmarks.

Save room for a few sweet treats from chocolatepaper, which sells a selection of tempting chocolates including a wide variety of truffles.

Take home a delicious homemade cupcake from Viva La Cupcake or find a slice of heaven to choose from at Wildflour Bakery.

For more information about dining in the Roanoke Valley, visit our website at http://www. visitroanokeva.com/restaurantsnightlife/, call (800) 635-5535 or stop by the Roanoke Valley Visitor Information Center (101 Shenandoah Ave., NE Roanoke VA 24016) located in Downtown Roanoke open 9am – 5pm daily.

Mountain Anniversaries in 2012: Grove Park Inn-Asheville 100 years Flat Rock Playhouse-Hendersonville, NC 60 years Linn Cove Viaduct 25 years Last of the Mohicans filming at Chimney Rock Park 20 years

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SUMMER 2012

The Blue Ridge Digest

Contest Aims to Gather New Images of Mysterious Lights

M

ORGANTON, N.C. – Although people have seen the Brown Mountain Lights for hundreds of years, only a few photos and videos exist of the mysteriously glowing orbs.

Now, local tourism officials hope a new contest will bring more images to light.

The Burke County Tourism Development Authority (TDA) has launched the “Brown Mountain Lights Photo and Video Contest” to let the general public to play a role in documenting this natural phenomenon.

The contest offers $1,000 in prizes – $500 for best photo and $500 for best video. It is broken down into monthly competitions for best photo and best video through September. In October, all monthly winners advance to a final round of competition, with the top overall photo and top overall video each receiving a $500 first prize.

The rules of the contest are simple. Entries must be actual photos or videos of the lights shot in Burke County.

Entrants must be 18 years old and legal residents of the United States, or the parent/ legal guardian submitting an entry for a minor who is a legal resident.

Photos and videos must be authentic, undoctored shots of the

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Come see what three hundred

million years of landscaping looks like.

Brown Mountain Lights. Participants may submit their entries in a variety of ways, with all acceptable entries posted on the Facebook page of the Burke County TDA. Monthly winners will be determined by the number of “likes” received that month on the Facebook page. Those receiving the most “likes” each month advance to the final round of competition, which will be judged by a panel assembled by the Burke County TDA. “For many years, the technology didn’t exist for the average person Folks have been coming to Grandfather to capture a photo or video of the Mountain for generations. For the ® Brown Mountain Lights,” said Ed views, the hiking, the animals — and to see what happens when you let nature WONDERS NEVER CEASE Phillips, director of the Burke County take its course.

TDA. “But with the technology www.grandfather.com available today, it’s much easier to get video and still images.

Saturday GFM_BRD_4thPg_2012.indd 2 4/20/12 11:2 Whether it be from a digital LANDSCAPING 1/4 pg ad 4.47x4.57”September 1, camera, smart phone or another Grandfather Mountain Art: Angela Miller2012 (919) 219-3228 from 9:00 device, we’re optimistic that people Blue Ridge Digest Contact: Landis Wofford (828) 733-2013 to 6:00 will be able to capture images of • Treasure Hunt for kids all day the unexplained lights and maybe Kid’s day-time mine tours help unlock the mystery.” are free all day Contest entries may be • Geology Mine Walk & Talk submitted via email at 1:00 PM with Alex Glover, to: photocontest@ professional geologist discoverburkecounty.

The evening culminates with com. They may also be our special night time black light submitted in person ome hungry for good tour at 8:30 PM. We’ll go underor via U.S. Mail to: food, good music, good ground using special black lights Brown Mountain Lights fun and adventure, all to reveal a hidden world of color Photo Contest, Burke in a spectacular setting. in the Bon Ami Mine! Admission County Visitor Center, Free activities include: for the black light tour is $15.00 110 East Meeting Street, • Guided hike to a hidden mine for adults and $10.00 for seniors/ Morganton, NC, 28655. at 11:00 AM & 3:00 PM students, and includes a pass good More details • Live Music from 11:00 to 4:00 for a free day-time mine admission. available at: www. (toe-tappin’ mountain music!)

DiscoverBurkeCounty.

331 McKinney Mine Road, Little Switzerland, NC com, or by calling 28749. Exit at Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 334 (828) 433-6793. www.emeraldvillage.com.

GRANDFATHER MOUNTAIN

Don't Miss RockFest at

Emerald Village!

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SUMMER 2012

Mountain Lodging | Food | Fun Homestead Inn - 153 Morris St. Downtown. Open all year. Affordable rates. Immaculate rooms. Fire/jacuzzis/efficiencies. Wi-Fi. (828) 295-9559. www.homestead-inn.com.

KOA Kampground - From Boone, 194N 3 miles. Left on Ray Brown Rd. 1 mile. Beautiful view. Rec room, mini golf, laundry. 123 Harmony Mtn. Lane, Boone, NC 28607. 828-264-7250.

BANNER ELK, NC

Jenkins Rentals - The finest rental homes, cabins and condos in the Smoke Tree Lodge - 12 miles south Blowing Rock area. Hot tubs & Mtn of Boone on Hwy 105. Nestled at the vews available. www.jenkinsrentals. foot of Grandfather Mtn. Condo-apts, com. (800) 438-7803. heated indoor pool, ESPN, Jacuzzi, Asheville West KOA-Exit 37 off saunas. (800) 422-1880.

I-40 Something for everyone, RV's, Mystery Hill. - 129 Mystery Hill Ln, www.smoketree_lodge.com tenters, cabins. In foothills, wooded Blowing Rock, NC 28605. Family fun sites, hiking trails, pool. (800) 562center. Feel the strange pull. Hall of Mys9015. 309 Wiggins Rd., Candler, NC tery artifacts. Museum open all year.

28715. www.ashevillekoa.com 828-263-0507. info@mysteryhill-NC.com Beech Mountain Chalet Rentals Bear Creek RV Park - Exit Rt. 191 Riverside Log Cabins - 129 Mystery Chalet & condo rentals. Fully from Parkway; I-40 Exit 47; or I-26 Exit equipped kitchens,FP, TV, linens, pet Hill Ln, Blowing Rock, NC 28605. 8282. 3 miles north of Parkway off Rt. 191. friendly. www.gobeech.com.

263-0507. One and two bedroom units.

5 mins. Biltmore House. 90 full hook(800) 368-7404. M/C, Visa & Discover. Riversidelogcabins.com. Open all year. ups, paved sites, pool, laundry. Open Close to attractions. year round. www.ashevillebearcreek.

Condominium And Chalet Rentals com (800) 833-0798.

Village Inns of Blowing Rock-No - By the day, week or month - kitchSmoking, Wi-Fi/Breakfast. Suites/ ens, full linens, fireplaces, whirlpools, Carolina Foam, Fabric & Home Decor country club access (golf, tennis, heat. Cottages/Rooms. Some Pet Friendly - Largest selection of dress fabric and Rooms. (828) 295-3001 Pools, family activities) Coolest locaupholstery in North Carolina. Exit #64 tions in south. Call 1-800-692-2061 or I-40. Black Mountain. 828-669-2400.

828/387-4251. 503 Beech Mtn. Pkwy. (next to Fred’s General Mercantile) Mast General Store - located downBeechwood Realty.

An Appalachian Summer Festival, town Asheville at 15 Biltmore Avenue.

July, 2012 – Annual worldclass,multiRestored to its 1940s heyday, this store arts festival at Appalachian State Unifeatures old-time housewares, jellies, versity. Call 1-800-841-ARTS or visit clothing, shoes, travel gear, over 500 Alpine Village Inn - 297 Sunset Dr. appsummer.org. old-fashioned candies and an expanQuaint cozy rooms & suites in the sive outfitters shop. 828-232-1883 heart of town. AC, CCTV, & phones, Foscoe Rentals - Cabins, Condos www.mastgeneralstore.com Wi-Fi complimentary. Some fireand Vacation homes centrally located to places & Jacuzzi. Pet friendly rooms. Boone, Banner Elk and Blowing Rock.

Rutledge Lake RV Park. Exit 40 off www.alpine-village-inn.com (800) 723-7341 www.foscoerentals.com I-26. 2 mi from Asheville airport.

(828) 295-7206.

(828) 654-7873. 170 Rutledge Rd. Hidden Valley Motel- Birds, blooms www.rutledgelake.com.

Chetola Resort - Magnificent views, and butterflies in the Foscoe Valley.

87 acres, Lodge, Condos, Bob Timber- Hwy 105 south between Boone and Shoji Spa & Lodge - Relax at lake Inn. Fitness Center, Restaurants, Banner Elk. Call 828/963-4372.

Asheville's only outdoor hot tub spa.

Orvis Endorsed. N. Main St., Blowing www.hiddenvalleymotel.com or Reap the benefits of the cold plunge, Rock, NC 28605. www.chetola.com email: jim@hiddenvalleymotel.com. unwind in our sauna and rest in the (828) 295-5500 or (800) 243-8652.

Lodge. Specializing in couples mas Horn in the West- Revolutionary sage. 2500 ft. above stress level.

Hemlock Inn & Suites - 134 Morris War drama & Hickory Ridge - A living www.shojiretreats.com.

St. Downtown Blowing Rock. 1/2 mile history museum. Open June 15 By appt. only. (828) 299-0999. to Parkway. Open year round. Walk to August 11, 2012. shops and restaurants. (828) 295-7987. www.horninthewest.com www.hemlockinn.net.

Mast General Store - located downtown Boone on King Street. Built in 1913 and 1917, Old Boone Mercantile features old-time housewares, jellies, clothing, shoes, travel gear, over 500 old-fashioned candies and an expansive outfitters shop. 828-262-0000 www.mastgeneralstore.com

BEECH MOUNTAIN, NC

Mountain Villa Motor Lodge - Hwy 321 South, Boone NC. Quiet location with excellent view. Jacuzzi, cable, pool & many other amenities. Rates $70 and down. (800) 525-5861.

NC High Country Host Visitor Center- 1700 Blowing Rock Rd., Boone, NC 28607. (800) 438-7500. www.mountainsofnc.com

NORTH CAROLINA

ASHEVILLE, NC Asheville East KOA-Exit 59 off I-40 big rigs & tenters welcome. Wooded sites, with pool, lake & river fishing.

800-562-5907 or (828) 686-3121 2708 Hwy 70E, Swannanoa, NC 28778. www.ashevilleeastkoa.com.

Mountains. RV's, Tents, Cabins, 5 minutes from the BRP with Fishing, Campfires, Hot Showers, and Campstore. 828-586-6666 moonshinecreekcampground.com

BOONE, NC

BLOWING ROCK, NC

BALSAM, NC

Moonshine Creek Campground Cool, Shady Sites on Mountain Stream in the Heart of the Smoky

BEST IN THE MOUNTAINS!

BEST GREEK SALAD

Stone Tavern Restaurant | Asheville, NC

BREVARD, NC Inn at Brevard - Lodging, dining, cocktails. B and B. European cuisine.

15 antique furnished rooms. Breakfast. 315 E. Main St., Brevard, NC 28712. www.theinnatbrevard.com (828) 884-2105. brevard@theinnatbrevard.com.

BRYSON CITY, NC Historic Fryemont Inn Lodging & Dining - From $62.50 PP incl. breakfast & dinner. Great Food, Full Bar, Big Pool!

800-845- 4879 www.fryemontinn.com

BURNSVILLE, NC Alpine Village Resort - 1 & 2 bedroom condos. Great views. Tennis, heated pool/summer, cable TV, special golf fees. 3 miles west of Parkway, exit Buck Creek Gap Hwy. 80. No pets. 828/675-4103.

BRP Milepost 342 Ridgetop Cabins- Family vacation hideaway in the NC mountains. Secluded cabin rentals with fireplace on the BR Pky. (Milepost 342 between Mt.

SUMMER 2012

The Blue Ridge Digest

Page 21

Mountain Lodging | Food | Fun Mitchell and Little Switzerland) on trout pond. Kitchen, fireplace, deck, 3800 feet. Pets welcome. The Hubbards.

For brochure, write 493 Ridgetop Lane, Burnsville, NC 28714 or call (828) 675-5511. www.ridgetopnc.com

CHEROKEE, NC

HENDERSONVILLE, NC Mast General Store - located downtown Hendersonville at 527 N Main Street. Built in 1905, this store features old-time housewares, jellies, clothing, shoes, travel gear, over 500 old-fashioned candies and an expansive outfitters shop. 828-696-1883 www.mastgeneralstore.com

Linville Falls Lodge & Cottages BRP Milepost 317.4, US 221S 1 mile to Rt. 183, left. Restaurant (ABC permit), Walk to falls & gorge. www.linvillefallslodge.com (800) 634-4421.

Parkview Lodge - Milepost 317.4 500 ft. south of Parkway on US 221. Private Guest Rooms, one bedroom suite Oconaluftee Indian Village - Share and secluded cabins available. Color the rich history & traditions of the Make your Lodging, Dining and TV, Swimming Pool, Crafts, Wine & Cherokee at this replica of a Cherokee Theatre RESERVATIONS! Beer Shop. Free continental breakfast community of the 1750s. May thru Oct. www.historichendersonville.org Open with guest room. Open All Year.

7 days a week, the Visitors Information 828-765-4787; 1-800-849-4452.

Center, 1-800-828-4244. 210 S Main Street, Hendersonville, NC. Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park – 40 min. SE of Asheville, exit milepost 384.7.

Big Lynn Lodge - AAA Historic Country Greystone Inn: Four Diamond Come for the views. Discover infinite Country Inn on shore of NC's largest Inn. Scenic views of mountains, valley & possibilities. Spectacular fall foliage, Blue Ridge Parkway. One of the few old private lake. Incredible cuisine, golf, hiking, rock climbing instruction, special fashioned places that gives you lodging spa & more. 800-824-5766. events, workshops and more! 26-story & meals (evening & breakfast) for one www.greystoneinn.com elevator inside mountain. Pet friendly. low package price. 3200 ft elev. 1 1/4 Open all year. Live it up! 800-277-9611 mile E of Parkway. Exit at Spruce Pine, chimneyrockpark.com on NC 226A near milepost 331. Open Thistle Meadow Winery - Stop April 15 to Nov. 5. 40 units. PO Box 459. for wine tasting - exit at Blue (828) 765-4257; 1-800-654-5232 Ridge Parkway Milepost 248.

3 miles to winery on NC18.

Blue Ridge Cabins - Fletcher 800) 233-1505. gas nearby.

MP388.8. South. Rustic cabins with www.thistlemeadowwinery.com modern amenitites. 9 miles from

CHIMNEY ROCK, NC

LaKE TOXAWAY, NC

LAUREL SPRINGS, NC

FLETCHER, NC

downtown Asheville. 828-654-0539 or 877-902-2246. www.mybrcabin.com

LINVILLE, NC

Grandfather Mountain Grandfather¹s lofty heights offer guests opportunities for rejuvenation, excitement and family memories in a Fontana Village Resort & Lake natural haven that will endure forever.

Cabins - Lodge, camping, marina, boat rentals & guides. Fishing, dining, Marvel at 360-degree views from the Mile High Swinging Bridge, stand lounges, pools, disk golf, horseback eye-to-eye with native wildlife in naturiding, hiking & mtn biking. 800-849ral habitats and interact with our 2258. www.fontanavillage.com friendly, knowledgeable staff. Two miles from Viaduct; one mile from Parkway. Take Linville Exit, MP 305 to US 221. Open daily 8 am to dusk Mountain View Lodge & Cabins- (weather permitting in winter). $18/ MP 256 - Secluded B&B lodge plus adult; $13/senior 60+; $8 child 4-12; five duplex cabins w/kitchenettes, full under 4 free. www.grandfather.com bathrooms, linens furnished. Genuine Phone 828-733-4337 or 800-468-7325..

North Carolina hospitality for a relaxing “get away”. See local wildlife up close! Open all year. Great for large families & group retreats. Smoking Linville Caverns - 19929 US 221 N. outside only. MC/VISA. Pet friendly!

Marion. 4 miles South of Parkway, MP 336-982-2233 or 800-903-6811.

317. NC's ONLY show cavern. www.mtnviewlodge.com 800-419-0540. www.linvillecaverns.com.

FONTANA DAM, NC

GLENDALE SPRINGS, NC

LINVILLE FALLS, NC

LITTLE SWITZERLAND, NC

Emerald Village - Real mines, mine tours, & gem mining. Other free displays: railroad, music museum, wildlife. MP334. 828-765-6463. www.emeraldvillage.com Switzerland Cafe & General Store MP 334 1/4 mile of the Parkway. Lunch and weekend dinners. Souvenirs and picnic items. Call 828-765-5289. www.switzerlandcafe.com Switzerland Inn And Chalet Restaurant - A little bit of Switzerland in NC. Fantastic mountain views, rooms, suites, cottages, dining, shopping, tennis. Located directly on the Blue Ridge Parkway at the Little Switzerland exit near Parkway Milepost 334.

Little Switzerland, NC 28749.

(828) 765-2153 or (800) 654-4026. www.switzerlandinn.com

Your Listing COuld be HERE! Call (828) 667-1607

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Mountain Lodging | Food | Fun MAGGIE VALLEY, NC

MOUNT AIRY, NC

Abbey Inn Motel - Closest Maggie motel to Pkwy & Cherokee. 5 mi.

Smoky Mtn. views from 4,200' high.

FREE in-room coffee, phone, fridge, HiWi/cable TV/ HBO. Some kitchens.

Picnic area, grills. Quiet & secluded on 2 wooded acres. Near all attractions. Pets possible. V, MC, D. www.abbeyinn.com (800) 545-5853.

Pilot Knob Inn -Tobacco barn cabins & honeymoon suites, whirlpools, fireplaces on 100+ acres, lake with boating & fishing, Pilot Mtn 1 mile off Hwy 52. Full breakfast and sauna. (336) 325-2502 www.pilotknobinn.com

NEWLAND, NC

Secluded Valley RV Campground Boyd Mountain Log Cabins - Seclud- 8 miles North Spruce Pine on 19E. 5 miles from Blue Ridge Parkway. 30 & ed 130 acres near Maggie Valley, Authentic cabins, fireplaces, AC, 50 amp full hookups, children & pets welcome, level & spacious sites. cable, WIFI. Choose n cut Christmas www.secludedvalleyrvcampground.com. tree farm, trout fishing, hiking.

(828) 926-1575. www.boydmountain.com (828) 765-4810.

Jonathan Creek Inn & Maggie Valley Villas - MP 455.7 AAA 3 Diamond Rated. Creekside and Hot Tub Rooms, Creekside & Mountain View Villas, Indoor Heated Pool, Children’s Play Area. 1-800-577-7812. www.jonathancreekinn.com Maggie Valley Area Lodging Association - Affordable motel rooms, cabins, cottages or vacation rentals.

Visit our website www.visitmaggie. com to find your perfect home away from home in the mountains.

SPARTA & GLADE VALLEY, NC

Alleghany Inn - 341 N. Main St., Sparta, NC 28675. 64 Rooms - Free Wireless Internet - Cable TV 60+ Chan, Guest Laundry - Restaurant on site. 888) 372-2501 Reserve online: www.AlleghanyInn.com . see ad page 5

Peak Mountain Cottages & Retreat Center--On 300 acres, 7 miles N of Pkwy. Room to play or relax. Hiking trails, clear mtn streams. 460 Rabbit Hop Rd near Penland. Individuals, families or groups up to 25. 828-765-9559 www.peakmountaincottages.com

VALLE CRUCIS, NC Mast General Store - Est. 1883 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this authentic general store located in a pastoral setting features clothing, camping gear, shoes & boots, housewares, unique gifts, and over 500 old-fashioned candy favorites. Hwy. 194, 828-963-6511.

Also visit other locations along the Blue Ridge Parkway and in Greenville, SC and Knoxville, TN. www.maststore.com.

WAYNESVILLE, NC Mast General Store - located downtown Waynesville at 63 N Main Street. Built in the 1930s, this store features old-time housewares, jellies, clothing, shoes, travel gear, over 500 old-fashioned candies and an expansive outfitters shop. 828-452-2101 www.mastgeneralstore.com

Glade Valley B&B – Near MP 229.

Our modern, beautiful log home is surrounded with all the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. All rooms have private baths, some with jacuzzi The Waynesville Inn Golf Resort tubs. Our breakfasts are all homeMcDowell Chamber of Commerce and made and plentiful. www.gladevalley.com & Spa - MP 445. Surrounded by majestic mountains and the Blue Visitor Center - Shopping & food near 800-538-3508 See our ad on page 4.

Ridge Parkway, this resort has been center. Free coffee & area info. Clean welcoming visitors to a casual and restrooms. From Parkway MP 317, 24 Stop for wine tasting - exit at Blue relaxed mountain lifestyle since the mi. S on US 221. From MP331: 15 mi S Ridge Parkway Milepost 248. 3 miles 1920s and features stunning views on NC226. (828) 652-4240. to winery on NC18.(800) 233-1505. gas from all of the 115 rooms, 27-holes nearby. www.thistlemeadowwinery.com of Donald Ross golf and two upscale restaurants. 800-627-6250 www.thewaynesvilleinn.com Mitchell County, NC - Exit milepost

McDOWELL COUNTY, NC

.

MITCHELL COUNTY, NC

331. Gem mining, gem & mineral shops, specialty mineral & gem festival, rhododendron festival, indoor ice skating rink, white water rafting, Appalachian Trail. For more information, call 1-800-227-3912 or 828-765-9483.

To report accidents & other emergencies on the Parkway,

Call 1-800-PARKWATCH (1-800-727-5928)

SPRUCE PINE, NC

TENNESSEE

Bear Den Creekside Cabins - On the Blue Ridge Parkway at MP 324.8.

All amenities, jacuzzis, decks, fireplaces. For 2 to 10. www.bear-den. com (828) 765-2888.Res. recmd.

Ski Mountain Chalet & Condo Rentals - 1-6 bedroom units, hot Bear Den Campground - On the tubs, jacuzzis, pool tables, kitchens, Blue Ridge Parkway at MP 324.8. fireplaces, privacy. (800) 824-4077.

Complete facilities, serving the south www.skimtnchalets.com for over 41 years. www.bear-den.com (828) 765-2888. Scenic beauty.

GATLINBURG, TN

VIRGINIA

ABINGDON, VA Abingdon Convention & Visitors Bureau - 355 Cummings St., Abingdon, VA 24210. 276/676-2282; 800-435-3440. I-81, Exit 17 - Barter Theatre, Art, History, and More! www.abingdon.com/tourism.

AMHERST, VA Hardings Clocks & Music Boxes -8 miles north of Lynchburg on Rt 29 Bus. Over 1000 unique clocks and music boxes. We ship, engrave and repair. Call (434) 946-7386.

BEDFORD, VA Peaks of Otter Winery & Orchards - 2122 Sheep Creek Rd, 24523. MP 86. Fruit wine, fruit, jams, jellies, free tastings. Vacation rentl house.

540-586-3707. www.iwineu.com or www.elmosrest.com

FANCY GAP, VA

Skyland Lakes Golf Club - Right on Parkway at milepost 202.2. New 18 hole public course. Beautiful scenery. Motel & golf packages available. (276) 728-4923.

FISHERSVILLE, VA Antique Expo - 400 dealers exhibiting in halls, barns, tents & outside twice yearly. May 18-20 and October 12-14, 2012. Augusta Expoland. I-64, exit 91. (434) 847-8242 . www.heritagepromotions.net.

FLOYD, VA Blue Ridge Restaurant, Inc. - E. Main St., Floyd, VA (540) 745-2147.

For good home-style cooking try our daily specials. We are open early with gravy biscuits, hot cakes, country ham, and eggs every day.

Chateau Morrisette. - 287 Winery Rd., SW Floyd, VA 24091. MP 171.5.

Breathtaking vistas, award-winning wines and memorable dining. (540) 593-2865. www.thedogs.com

Did You Know?

Large Rvs Parkway an Parkway sc

SUMMER 2012 Hotel Floyd - 120 Wilson St, Floyd, VA. (540) 745-6080. www.hotelFloyd. com. Unique lodging off MP165 with themed rooms and located downtown Floyd. Don't miss visiting this unique town and hotel!

GROTTOES, VA

Grand Caverns - 5 Grand Caverns Dr, Grottoes, VA, America's oldest continuously operated show cave.

Nature's handiwork & gifts. 888-430CAVE. www.grandcaverns.com

HARRISONBURG, VA Harrisonburg, VA Visitor Center 212 S. Main St (540) 432-8935 www.harrisonburgtourism.com Call for free materials!

The Village Inn - 1 mile south of I-81, Exit 243, on US 11. American Automobile Association Three Diamond Award. (540) 434-7355, toll free reservations-1-800-736-7355. www.shenandoah.org/villageinn

LEXINGTON, VA Stonewall Jackson House - 8 E. Washington St. Home of the famous Confederate general before the Civil War. Guided tours, garden and museum shop. (540) 463-2552.

LOVE, VA. Royal Oaks - Cabins, chalets, store, gifts, deli, weddings. Near MP16 on parkway. Upscale lodging, hot tubs, fireplaces, equipped kit, bedding/linens. Beautiful views atop the BR Mtns. www.vacabins.com. (800) 410-0627.

The Blue Ridge Digest

Natural Bridge Zoological Park I-81 Exit 180A. Rt 11 North. Largest and most complete collection of birds and animals in Virginia. Elephant rides, white tigers, cougars, giraffes, zebras, bears, baboons, monkeys, Flamingos, pet & feed tame deer, Ilamas, goats and mini donkeys. Safari gift shop, modern restrooms, free parking, free picnic pavilion.Open daily 9am-7pm. March-November. Group rates. Fun for the whole family! www. naturalbridgezoo.com. 540-291-2420 .Natural Bridge - US 11 & 130, MP 45.6 & 61; I-8 Exits 175, 180. See the immense natural wonder. Nature park, Indian village, caverns, wax museum, haunted house, dinosaur kingdom. Hotel, great food. 800-5331410. www.naturalbridgeva.com

RADFORD, VA Radford Visitor’s Center-Rt 8 to I-81 Exit 109 “Find It in Radford”-surrounded on 3 sides by the New River & overflowing with history www.visitradford.com. 540-267-3153

ROANOKE, VA Bent Mountain Lodge B & B - 9039 Mtn View Dr, Copper Hill, VA 24079.

MP 136. 10 sts, pri baths, wedding venue. (540) 651-2525. www.bentmountainlodgeandbreakfast.com

Roanoke Valley - Milepost 120. Experience the largest family destination on the Blue Ridge Parkway featuring outstanding museums and attractions, shopping, restaurants and a wide variety of hotels and B&Bs. FolAllstar Lodging - 100+ unique low signs to Visitor Center with Free cabins or B&B's. Hot tubs, frplc, kitch, Travel Guides.(800) 635-5535. riverfront/mountains, hiking, canoeing, fishing, near Luray, VA. 866-7807827 www.allstarlodging.com.

Come and visit Salem, Virginia that is only twenty minutes from the parkway. Take the walking tour of our hisPrimland Resort - 2000 Busted Rock toric downtown featuring quaint anRoad. Resort Lodge, Fairway Cottages, tique shops and restaurants. Stay for Mountain Homes. Spectacular views. a while in one of our hotels or B&B’s Golf. Spa. Dining, Outdoor activities. and attend one of our many athletic 276.222.3800 • www.primland.com events including NCAA National Championships in football, basketball and softball. Salem is also the home can travel and enjoy the Blue Ridge of the Salem Red Sox, advanced nd that there is adequate parking at Class “A” affiliate of the Boston Red Sox playing their games in spacious

LURAY, VA.

SALEM, VA

MEADOWS OF DAN, VA

cenic views and attractions?

SHENANDOAH CAVERNS, VA

NATURAL BRIDGE, VA

Page 23

WAYNESBORO, VA

Cabin Creekwood- 2 miles from Parkway MP 13.6. Year-round, Shenandoah Caverns - 4 great attrac- quiet, secluded.Fully furnished aftions for one price. Only Va. cavern fordable mtn cabins (888) 942-2246. with elevator & closest to I-81 (exit www.cabincreekwood.com.

269). Also see spectacular floats in America's Parade Float Hall of Fame Your Listing and experience the new Yellow Barn, a whimsical agricultural experiCOuld be HERE! ence. Open all year. 888-4CAVERN Call (828) 667-1607 www.shenandoahcaverns.com

26 Stories - Going UP!

C

himney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park, one of the Southeast’s most iconic and popular outdoor travel destinations, reopened its modernized elevator on June 8. The unique, 26-story elevator inside a mountain provides access to the Chimney Rock and the renovated Sky Lounge Gifts & Deli for guests of all abilities and ages.

Originally opened in 1949 as the tallest elevator in North Carolina, the elevator’s modernization took about 18 months to complete and improves its reliability and service for guests. The Sky Lounge and Park restrooms were also renovated to become fully wheelchair

accessible. The Sky Lounge offers more regional handmade crafts, “made in the USA” products and a wider selection of grab ‘n’ go food options. The full price admission rates are $15 adult, $7 youth (ages 6-15) and free for kids under 6. For more information, visit chimneyrockpark.com.

“Nowhere else in the Southeast can you ride an elevator inside a 535-million-year-old mountain, only to step or roll out to see stunning 75-mile views of mountains and water features. Now you can lose your breath on the views, not the hike,” said Mary Jaeger-Gale, General Manager, Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park.

The 65th Annual Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands

F

or four days each July and October, the Civic Center in Asheville, NC comes alive with fine traditional and contemporary crafts. Over 200 craftspeople fill the two levels of the center selling their works of clay, fiber, glass, leather, metal, mixed media, natural materials, paper, wood and jewelry.

The Fairs, a local tradition since 1948, showcase the work of members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild.

July 19-22 Having been accepted into the Guild through a rigorous jury process, these craftspeople are the best of the best in the Appalachian region.

Asheville, NC. Adults $8, children under 12 free.

Group discounts available Additional information.

For info and entertainment schedule for the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands, visit http://craftguild. org/ or call 828-298-7928.

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SUMMER 2012

The Blue Ridge Digest can be found at these regional visitor’s centers!

GEORGIA

Blue Ridge Mtn Stop Visitor Center 4220 Blowing Rock Blvd • Lenoir, NC 28645 • (828) 754-5400

Blairsville/Union County Chamber 129 Union County Rec Rd. • Blairsville, GA Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center 30512; (706) 745-5789 195 Hemphill Knob Rd Asheville, NC www.blairsvillechamber.com 28803 • 828-298-5330 Ellijay Visitor Center 205 Craig St.; PO Box 505 Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Ellijay, GA 30540; (706) 635-7400 870 W King St. Suite A, Boone, NC 28607; www.gilmerchamber.com (800) 852-9506 • www.VisitBooneNC.com Fannin County Chamber of Commerce 3990 Appalachian Hwy. Blue Ridge, GA 30513 • (706) 632-5680 www.blueridgemountains.com

Brevard Chamber of Commerce 175 E. Main St., POB 589 BRD Brevard, NC 28712; (800) 648-4523 www.visitwaterfalls.com

Rabun County Welcome Center 232 Hwy 441 North, POB 750 Clayton, Georgia 30525; (706) 782-4812 www.gamountains.com/rabun

Bryson City Chamber of Commerce 210 Main Street • Bryson City, NC 28713; (800) 867-9246 • www.greatsmokies.com

Toccoa Welcome Center 901 E. Currahee St. P.O. Box 577 Toccoa, GA 30577; (706) 866-2132

Burke County Travel & Tourism 102 E. Union St., Courthouse Square Morganton, NC 28655; (828) 433-6793

Towns County Visitor Center Caldwell County Visitor Center 1411 Jack Dayton Circle 1909 Hickory Blvd. SE Young Harris, GA 30582 Lenoir, NC 28645; (828) 726-0616 (706) 896-4966 • www.mountaintopga.com Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce N O R T H C A R O L I N A 202 U.S. 64, POB 238 BRD Cashiers, NC 28717; (828) 743-5191 Alleghany Co. Chamber of Commerce www.cashiers-nc.com 58 S. Main, POB 1237 BRD Sparta, NC 28675; (800) 372-5473 Cherokee County Visitor Center www.sparta-nc.com 805 W. US 64 Murphy, NC 28906; (828) 837-2242 Andrews Chamber of Commerce www.cherokeecountychamber.com 345 Locust St. • P.O. Box 800 Andrews, NC 28902 • (877) 558-0005 Cherokee Visitor Center www.andrewschambercommerce.com P.O. Box 460 • 498 Tsalis Rd. Ashe County Chamber & Visitor Center Cherokee, NC 28719; (800) 438-1601 1 N. Jefferson Ave, P.O. Box 31 www.cherokee-nc.com West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 846-9550 • www.ashechamber.com Clay County Chamber of Commerce 388 Business Hwy 64 Avery County Chamber of Commerce Hayesville, NC 28904; (828) 389-3704 4501 Tynecastle Hwy • Unit 2 www.claycounty-nc-chamber.com Banner Elk, NC 28604; (800) 972-2183 www.banner-elk.com/ Davie County Chamber of Commerce 135 S. Salisbury St., Balsam Gap Information Center Mocksville, NC 27028-2337; US 23/74 (just east of Parkway) (336) 751-3304 - www.mocksville.org Waynesville, NC 28786; (800) 334-9036 Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce 403A Beech Mountain Parkway Beech Mtn, NC 28604; (800) 468-5506 www.beechmtn.com Black Mountain Chamber of Commerce 201 E. State St., Black Mountain, NC 28711; (828) 669-2300 Blowing Rock Visitor Center 192 Chestnut St • Blowing Rock Blowing Rock, NC 28605; 877-750-4636

Franklin Area Chamber of Commerce 425 Porter St. Franklin, NC 28734; (888) 439-park • www.franklin-chamber.com Gaston County Visitor Center 620 Main Street • Belmont, NC 28012 Greensboro Area Visitor Center 2200 Pinecroft Rd. • Suite 200 Greensboro, NC 27407; (800) 344-2282 www.VisitGreensboroNC.com

Haywood Chamber of Commerce 22 Walnut St. • Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-3021

Old Fort Visitor Center 25 W. Main Street • Old Fort, NC 28762 (888) 233-6111 • www.mcdowellnc.org

Hendersonville Visitor Center 201 S. Main St., POB 721 BRD Hendersonville, NC 28793; (800) 828-4244 • www.historichendersonville.org

Piedmont Triad Visitor Center 700 NC Hwy 700 Pelham, NC 27311; (800) 388-9830

Hickory Visitor Center 1055 Southgate Parkway SW Hickory, NC 28602 (828) 328-6111 www.hickorymetro.com Hickory Nut Gorge Information Center 2926 Memorial Hwy. Lake Lure, NC 28746 Highlands Chamber of Commerce 269 Oak St., POB 404 BRD Highlands, NC 28741; (828) 526-2112 www.highlands-chamber.com Jackson County Chamber of Commerce 773 W. Main Street • Sylva, NC 28779; (800) 962-1911 • www.nc-mountains.com Jonesville Welcome Center 1503 NC Hwy 67W Jonesville, NC 28642 • (336) 526-1111 Madison County Visitor Center 635-4 Carl Eller Road Mars Hill, NC 28754; (828) 680-9031 www.visitmadisoncounty.com Maggie Valley Chamber of Commerce 2511 Soco Road, POB 279 Maggie Valley, NC 28751; (800) MAGGIE-1 • www.maggievalley.org McDowell County Visitor Center 1170 W. Tate St. • Marion, NC 28752; (828) 652-4240 • www.McDowellNC.org

Polk County Visitor Center 20 E. Mills Street Columbus, NC 28722; (800) 440-7848 Smoky Mountain Host of NC, Inc 4437 Georgia Road, Franklin, NC 28734 (800) 432-4678 • www.visitsmokies.org Statesville Tourism Dev. Authority PO Box 1109, 111 Depot Lane Statesville, NC 28687; (877) 531-1819 www.visitstatesville.org Waynesville/Haywood County Visitor Center 44 N. Main St. • Waynesville NC 28786 (800) 334-9036 www.visitncsmokies.com Wilkes County Chamber of Commerce 717 Main St., PO Box 727 BRD N. Wilkesboro, NC 28659; (336) 838-8662 • www.wilkesnc.org Yadkin Valley Visitor Center 116 East Market St. • Elkin, NC 28621; (336) 526-1111 • www.yadkinvalley.org Yancey County Chamber of Commerce 106 W. Main St. • Burnsville, NC 28714; (800) 948-1632 • www.yanceychamber.com

TENNESSEE Anderson County Visitor Center 115 Welcome Lane • Clinton, TN 37716; (800) 524-3602 • www.yallcome.com

Mitchell Co. Chamber of Commerce Clairborne Co. Chamber of Commerce 79 Parkway Rd • Spruce Pine, NC 28777; 1732 Main St., Suite 1 (800) 227-3912 • www.mitchell-county.com Tazewell, TN 37879; (423) 626-4149 www.clairbornecounty.com Mount Airy Visitor Center 200 N. Main St. • Mt. Airy, NC 27030; (800) 948-0949 • www.visitmayberry.com Nantahala Gorge Visitor Center 9405 US 19W Bryson City, NC 28713 828-488-8585 NW NC Visitor Center 2121 East US Hwy 421 • North WIlkesboro, NC 28659 • (336) 667-1259 NC High Country Host Visitor Center 1700 Blowing Rock Rd. • Boone, NC 28607; (800) 438-7500 • www.mountainsofnc.com

Coker Creek Visitor Center 12197 Hwy. 68 • Tellico Plains, TN 37385 (423) 261-2286 Elizabethton Visitor Center 500 19E Bypass; POB 190 Elizabethton, TN 37644; (423) 547-3850 www.tourelizabethton.com Erwin/Unicoi Co. Chamber of Commerce 100 S. Main St., POB 713 BRD Erwin, TN 37650; (423) 743-3000 www.valleybeautiful.org

SUMMER 2012

The Blue Ridge Digest

Page 25

The Blue Ridge Digest can be found at these regional visitor’s centers!

Greene Co. Partnership/COB 115 Academy St. Greeneville, TN 37743; (423) 638-4111 www.GreeneCountyPartnership.com

Appomattox Visitor Center 214 Main Street. PO Box 246 Appomattox, VA 24522; (434) 352-8999 www.TourAppomattox.com

Historic Jonesborough 117 Boone St. Jonesborough, TN 37659; (423) 423-753-1010 • Toll Free: 866-401-4223 www.historicjonesborough.com

Bedford Visitor Center 816 Burks Hill Rd • Bedford, VA 24523; (877)-HiPeaks • VisitBedford.com

Johnson City Visitor Center 603 E. Main St. Johnson City, TN 37605; (423) 926-2141, www.johnsoncitytn.com

Blacksburg Visitors Center 103 Professional Park Dr. SE Blacksburg, VA 24060 (540) 382-4010. (877) FOR-GUIDE www.montgomerycc.org

Johnson County Welcome Center 716 S. Shady St. (Hwy. 421S) Mountain City, TN 37683; (423) 727-5800 jcwc@preferred.com

Blue Ridge Visitor Center 2577 JEB Stuart Highway Meadows of Dan, VA 24120 276-694-6012

Kingsport Visitor Center 151 E. Main St., POB 1403 BRD Kingsport, TN 37662; (423) 392-8820 www.kingsportchamber.org

Buena Vista Visitor Center 595 E. 19th St. • Buena Vista, VA 24417 (540) 261-2880 • buena-vista.va.us.com

Loudon County Visitor Bureau 1075 US Hwy 321 • Lenoir City, TN 37771 (888) 568-3662 • www.visitloudoncounty.com Oak Ridge Visitor Center 102 Robertsville Rd • Suite C Oak Ridge, TN 37830; (800) 482-7821, www.visit-or.org Pigeon Forge Dept. of Tourism 1159 N. Parkway, POB 1390 BRD Pigeon Forge, TN 37868; (800) 251-9100 mypigeonforge.com Rogersville/Hawkins County C of C 107 E. Main St., Ste.100 Rogersville, TN 37857; (423) 272-2186 Scott County Visitor Center 12025 Scott Highway Helenwood, TN 37755 • (800) 645-6905 Smoky Mtn Visitor Center 3540 Line Drive • Kodak, TN 37764 (865) 932-3696

VIRGINIA 1908 Courthouse Welcome Center 129 Davis St Suite 204 Independence VA 24348 (276) 773-2471 Abingdon Visitor Center 335 Cummings St. • Abingdon, VA 24210; (800) 435-3440 • www.abingdon.com/tourism

Harrisonburg, VA Visitor Center 212 S. Main St (540) 432-8935 www.harrisonburgtourism.com Lexington Visitor Center 106 E. Washington St. Lexington, VA 24450; (540) 463-3777 www.lexingtonvirginia.com Loudoun County Tourism 112 South Street • Leesburg, VA 20175 (800) 752-6118 • www.visitloudon.org Luray/Page County Chamber 18 Campbell Street. Luray, VA 22835; (540) 743-3915 - www.luraypage.com

Salem Visitor Center 1001 Boulevard @ Civic Center Salem, VA 24153; (888) 827-2536 www.visitsalem.com Smith Mountain Lake Visitor Center 16430 Booker T. Washington Hwy. #2 Moneta. VA 24121 • 540-721-1203 www.visitsmithmountainlake.com Smyth County Visitor Center 408 Whitetop Rd., Chilhowie, VA 24319 (276) 646-3306 • VisitVirginiaMountains.com Staunton Travel Information Center 1290 Richmond Rd. (I-81 Exit 222) Staunton, VA 24401 • (540) 332-3972 www.VisitStaunton.com

Explore Park Visitor Center Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 115 Roanoke, VA 24014 • (540) 427-1800

Lynchburg Regional Information Center 216 12th St. at Church St. Lynchburg, VA 24505; (800) 732-5821 www.discoverlynchburg.org Staunton Visitor ’s Center 35 South New Street, Staunton,VA 24401 Madison County Visitor Center 540-332-3971 • www.VisitStaunton.com 110A N. Main St., Madison, VA 22727 (540) 948-4455 • www.madison-va.com Strasburg Chamber of Commerce Martinsville Visitor Center 157 N. Holiday St. 54 West Church St. • Martinsville, VA 24112 Strasburg, VA 22657; VisitMartinsville.com (540) 465-3187 • www.strasburgchamber.com Nelson County Visitor Center Virginia Tech Visitor Info Ctr. 8519 Thomas Nelson Hwy., Southgate Drive (0480) Lovingston, VA 22949; (800) 282-8223 Blacksburg, VA 24061;(540) 231-3548 www.Nelsoncounty.com www.vt.edu/whereweare/visitor-center.com Orange Co. Visitor's Center 122 East Main St. • Orange, VA 22960 Western Highlands Visitor Center (877) 222-8072 • www.visitorangevirginia.com 241 W. Main St. • Covington, VA 24426; (540) 962-2178 • www.alleghanyhighlands.com Patrick County Chamber of Commerce 20475 JEB Stuart Hwy • PO Box 577 Winchester-Frederick County CVB Stuart, VA 24171; (276) 694-6012 1400 S. Pleasant Valley Rd. www.patrickchamber.com Winchester, VA 22601 • (877) 871-1326 Piedmont Crossroads Visitors Ctr www.visitwinchesterva.com 135A Wood Ridge Terrace Gordonsville, VA 22942 Wytheville CVB 975 Tazewell Street Prince William Visitor Center Wytheville, VA 24382; (276) 223-3355 200 Mill St. • Occoquan, VA 22125 Toll free (877) 347-8307 703-491-4045 • ticctr@aol.com www.visitWytheville.com Pulaski County Visitor Center 4440 Cleburne Blvd • Dublin, VA 24084 WEST VIRGINIA 540-674-4161. www.pulaskicounty.org

Front Royal Visitor Center 414 E. Main St. • Front Royal, VA 22630; (800) 338-3576 • www.discoverfrontroyal.com

Radford Visitor Center 600 Unruh Dr. • Radford, VA 24141 (866) 605-6442 • www.visitradford.com

City of Galax Tourism Department 110 East Grayson St. • Galax, VA 24333 276-238-8130 www.visitgalax.com

Roanoke Visitor Information Center 101 Shenandoah Ave., NE Roanoke VA 24016 • (800) 635-5535 www.VisitRoanokeVA.com

Carroll County Visitor Center 231 Farmers Market Rd Hillsville, VA 24343 (888) 785-2782 • (276) 730-3100 www.visittheBlueRidge.com Charlottesville Visitor Center 610 East Main St Charlottesville, VA 22902 (434) 293-6789 • (434) 970-3641 www.pursueCharlottesville.com Culpeper Visitor Center 109 S. Commerce St. • Culpeper, VA 22701 • (540) 825-8628 www.visitculpeperva.com Danville Visitor Center 645 River Park Dr • Danville, VA 24540; (434) 793-4636 • www.visitdanville.com Discovery Center at Mill Mountain Roanoke's Mill Mountain 215 Church Ave., Room 303 Roanoke, VA 24016 • (540) 853-1236

Greene County Economic Development & Tourism 8315 Seminole Trail, Suite 2 Ruckersville, VA 22968

Rockfish Gap Visitor Center 130 Afton Circle Afton, VA 22920; (540) 943-5187 www.augustabusiness.org

West Virginia Welcome Center

37 Washington Court at US 340 Harpers Ferry, WV 25435; (866) -HELLO-WV • www.hello-wv.com

KENTUCKY Cumberland Gap Nhp Visitor Center US 25E South • Middlesboro, KY 40965 (606) 248-2817

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www.blueridgedigest.com

SUMMER 2012

Bring Your Camera

M

abry Mill at Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 176.2 offers many opportunities for visitors including hiking, camping, picnicking, and a visit to one of the most-photographed structures along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Mabry Mill.

Mabry Mill was a community center for the Meadows of Dan area when it operated as a gristmill and sawmill. Today, the area becomes another kind of community gathering place each Sunday afternoon during the summer as musicians and dancers gather. Be sure and enjoy a great meal at the restaurant and check out the gift shop. Open 8-6 daily.

(276) 952-2947 • www.mabrymillrestaurant.com

MYTHS AND LEGENDS COME TO LIFE

A

Explore a short trail around the mill connecting historical exhibits about life in rural Virginia and allo ws visitors to view the gristmill, sawmill, and blacksmith shop Choose from three large picnic area s to rest and rejuvenate Take a hike into Rockcastle Gorge Enjoy wonderful agricultural scen es along the roadway that make this a truly unique portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway Relax at the Rocky Knob Cabins, buil t by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and the only cab ins for rent on the Blue Ridge Parkway During peak seasons, enjoy demons trations of crafts

by National Park Ser vice voluntee rs at Mabry Mill

the free Cherokee Bonfire kicks up the stories in August by providing visitors the rare opportunity to hear acclaimed storytellers Lloyd Arneach and Diamond Brown.

The season runs through the end of September. The storytelling begins at 7:30 p.m., includes a visit to the Qualla Boundary, the a break to roast marshmallows. homeland of the Cherokee Indians Attendees are encouraged to bring for more than 11,000 years. a lawn chair. Pets are welcome, “The bonfire is an education but must be kept on a leash. initiative of the tribe, and it is Explore trails of legends and certainly one visitors and enrolled adventure wrapped in authentic members are enjoying,” said Cherokee culture brought to life in Sonny Ledford, storyteller and the stories, history, traditions, songs, cultural ambassador for the Eastern dances, ceremonies and fascinating Band. “We see a lot of our own period dress of the Eastern Band of people at the bonfire as well as Cherokee Indians. Cherokee offers visitors, and both are learning activities, packages and itineraries about our culture, our music and that make visiting an affordable our dances. Hearing our stories pleasure for all ages and interests. helps to dispel the stereotypes Visit the new Oconaluftee Visitor’s in the visitors’ minds about the Center. Enjoy cultural festivals and Cherokee people. It is nice to see so attractions, bonfires, camping, many of our young tribal members tubing, hiking, wading, biking, becoming more involved, learning birding, waterfalls, water mills, a our dances, music and stories.” pioneer village, art galleries and Located at Oconaluftee shops, hotels and motor lodges, Islands Park on Acquoni Road, family fun parks, petting zoos, more

FIRESIDE IN CHEROKEE

s dusk falls across the high elevations of the Great Smoky Mountains in Cherokee, N.C., located at the southern entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway in the heart of Western North Carolina, locals and visitors like gather around the bonfire for an evening of drama, suspense, beauty and wisdom.

Renowned Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians storytellers weave their ancient and contemporary Cherokee stories on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturday evenings from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the free, family-friendly bonfire. True to the Cherokee oral tradition, the bonfire provides poignant life lessons and a lifetime of magical memories of

What to Do

than 30 miles of untamed trout waters, and Harrah’s Cherokee Casino and Hotel. For more information about Cherokee, visit www.visitcherokeenc. com or call 800-438-1601.

Music On Main

N O R T H

C A R O L I N A

A FUN & FAMILY FRIENDLY DESTINATIO N! Ask for our F REE! Travel Plann er

Apple Festival

historichendersonville.org

Harrah’s Cherokee Casino

Your

Outdoor Adventure Begins...

With native festivals, outdoor excursions and nightly entertainment - experience a mountain adventure in the homeland of the Cherokee Indians.

Sponsored in part by the Cherokee Preservation Foundation

VisitCherokeeNC.com 800-438-1601