Living Local

BOOKS & BITES

When the skys are dark and cloudy, who doesn’t get the urge to retreat indoors and pass the time with a good book? In Tryon, there is a small independent bookseller, the Book Shelf (86 N. Trade St.), and just doors down is the Tryon Coffeehouse Co-op (62A N. Trade St.). Pick out a bestseller, or a book by one of many local authors, and enjoy a steaming mug of delicious coffee and a scone or cinnamon roll.

WHAT’S PLAYING? Since 1938, the independently owned Tryon Theatre has been operating in the historic downtown, providing residents and vistiors a chance to partake in a timeless movie experience. Open Wednesday through Sunday, the theater offers one showing a day, along with a plethora of classic movie concessions and an upstairs balcony that serves beer and wine. The theater only accepts cash or check, so be sure to keep that in mind when making plans. 45 S. Trade St., Tryon, 828-859-6811 or tryontheatre.com

Dine out with your dog

Looking for a dog friendly place to eat? Head over to Stone Soup Market & Café in Landrum and visit the dog park behind the restaurant. Locals love to take their canine companions out to breakfast, lunch or dinner. 1522 E. Rutherford St., Landrum 864-457-5255 or Stonesoupoflandrum.com

Bargain hunting

Like the thrill of second-hand shopping? Are you thrifty, but still want to support a worthy cause? There are several thrift shops in the area that offer incredible bargains, and support hospice, stray animals, our domestic violence shelter and affordable housing.

Habitat For Humanity Restore:

132 N. Trade Ave., Landrum 864-457-2666

Hospice Thrift Barn:

1810 Highway 14, Landrum 864-457-7348

Paws, Prayers & Promises:

112 E. Rutherford St., Landrum 864-457-3694

Seventh Day Adventist Church Thrift Shore:

2820 Lynn Rd., Tryon 828-859-6407

Steps to Hope Second Chance Thrift Store:

232 E. Mills St., Columbus 828-894-2373

LIVING LA VIDA LOCAL

While you’re visiting our area, we hope you feel comfortable and welcomed! One way to do that is to share our local favorite things, which are not advertised on giant billboards or splashed across the TV, but are worth a visit, a taste or a try! Want to live like the locals? Here are some of our favorite suggestions.

PEDAL TO THE METAL It is no surprise that some of the most irresistible biking roads are found in this region. Take the 48-mile Green River Cove Loop or go off-road on the 13-mile Green River mountain bike trail located just off Big Hungry Road in Saluda for a unique perspective of the area. Visit steepclimbs.com or singletracks.com.

Me-Oh-My!

Their recipe for cole slaw is a closely guarded secret, so do not bother asking. For those wanting an authentic home-cooked southern meal head just outside of Tryon up Highway 176 to Caro-Mi Restaurant, set alongside the Pacolet River. Since 1945, Caro-Mi has been a tucked away, favorite spot for locals, offering seasonal favorites in an inviting, rustic atmosphere. No alcohol served. Accepts cash only. 3231 U.S. Highway 176, Tryon 828-859-5200 or caro-mi.com

Get tied up in (garlic) knots

Whether you’re a garlic fanatic or attempting to ward off vampires, the place to fulfill your garlic cravings is at The Brick Pizzeria in Columbus. The Brick serves up baskets of mouth-watering garlic knots that are perfect with marinara for dipping (or dunking). The family-friendly atmosphere and diverse menu of American and Italian favorites make The Brick a local favorite you will not want to miss. 311 E. Mills St., Columbus 828-894-2299

Take my breath away!

The spectacular views of Columbus and the surrounding area found at the top of White Oak Mountain are unrivaled. Originally planned as a sanitarium,

White Oak Mountain now serves as a mountain community encompassing 399 acres of community green space. Take a drive down Houston Road to White Oak Mountain Drive and enjoy the scenic uphill drive that crosses the main source of water for Columbus, Shunkawauken Falls, up to the breathtaking vista at the top. Just be sure your brakes are in good working order for the journey back down!

Random Arts & Apparel

For those seeking a truly whimsical experience look no further than Random Arts & Apparel. The mission statement of Random Arts is to offer “assorted goods for creative mindfulness,” a statement betrayed immediately by its vibrant exterior and welcoming atmosphere. From art supplies, crafts and clothing to antiques and found objects, the common theme throughout this diverse collection is art. Workshops and classes are offered throughout the year to encourage everyone to find their perfect medium of artistic expression. 481 Louisiana Ave., Saluda 828-749-1165 Randomartsnow.com

Pine Crest Inn

For history buffs a trip to the Pine Crest Inn offers a chance to step back into time. Visit the 240-yearold woodcutter’s cottage or stroll around the inn, which has been serving guests since 1917 and is the spot Ernest Hemmingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald choose to stay during their visits to Tryon. While you’re there be sure to stop by the Fox and Hounds Bar for a wide selection of after-dinner aperitifs or book a room for the night in this historic landmark. 85 Pine Crest Lane, Tryon 800-633-3001 or Pinecrestinn.com