These small towns in western North Carolina are big on charm
From Banner Elk to Hot Springs, these towns in the western part of the state have worked hard to rebuild after Hurricane Helene—and they’re ready to welcome back visitors.
The great thing about small towns is that they all have their own unique personalities—you never quite know what you’re going to experience until you slow down enough to explore.
Western North Carolina is a classic example. Everywhere you stop, there’s something worth checking out. However, 2024's Hurricane Helene threatened to destroy some of these small towns. Rather than give up, North Carolina came together. Here, there are stories of how hard it was and how the communities worked together to ensure the towns survived.
Some of these towns are doing better than others, but there’s one consistent theme running through them all: They’re all excited to welcome visitors back.
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Banner Elk's suspension bridges and caterpillar races
Banner Elk feels a lot like the quintessential small town. It’s quiet, friendly, and you can walk around the whole town fairly quickly, but it also encourages you to slow down and spend a little time getting to know the area, especially if you’ve ever wanted to spend the night in a covered wagon.
The town sits in the shadow of Grandfather Mountain, which has the sites like the mile-high suspension bridge, native animal enclosures, and 16 unique ecological communities. There’s also a cafe, in case you work up an appetite on the mountain’s 11 hiking trails.
Head to Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster to either ride the alpine coaster or take a spin through the adventure course.
Once you’ve had your fill of exploring, head back into Banner Elk for dinner at Stonewalls Restaurant and wrap up the night at Banner Elk Glamping, where along with eco domes, you can spend the night in a covered wagon.
If you can, it’s worth timing your visit for the Woolly Worm Festival to check out, among other things, the caterpillar races.
Spend the night in jail (in style)
The town of Marshall got hit badly by Hurricane Helene, but you don’t have to look too hard to see that the residents are not letting Helene slow them down. Local business owners and residents have come together to make sure that the town they all know and love continues to thrive.
Marshall has an excellent brewery overlooking the French Broad River, a strong arts scene, and a cafe/bike repair shop, where you can enjoy delicious baked goods while you get your bike fixed. And, if you’ve ever wanted to spend the night in a converted jail, Marshall’s got exactly what you’re looking for.
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Art and culture
Burnsville catches you off guard. You might be greeted by a bird when you walk into a refillery, you might find yourself jamming with the owner of the music store, or you might run into a cinematographer who worked on movies you’ve seen at the local fly shop.
Part of the vibe comes from the fact Burnsville attracts artists and people who care about the community and work to ensure it thrives. Perhaps the most well-known artist who set up in Burnsville is Harvey K. Littleton, who is often credited as being the founder of the American glass studio movement. His family carries on his legacy through Hearth Glass & Gallery. Along with classes and a gallery, visitors are welcome to watch the artisans work with glass, as long as the large studio doors are open.
The NuWray Hotel is newly renovated, and the hotel was a pillar of support for locals during Hurricane Helene. Along with the NuWray restaurant, the hotel has an outdoor bar and a sister restaurant, Carriage House Sundries, next door.
Take a soak in Hot Springs
Hot Springs is known for its hot springs that give the town its name, but the town is also a big draw for people hiking the Appalachian Trail; it's often the first stop along the route for a respite from hiking.
Regardless of why you’re there, Hot Springs is a wonderful small town to explore. Recovery from the hurricane has been slower here than in some other communities; restaurants like Vaste Riviere Provisions are hosting events like dances and fly tying nights out of a temporary location.
If relaxation is your goal when visiting Hot Spring, Hot Springs Resort and Spa should be on your list. If you’re looking for adventure, hiking trails abound in the area, including parts of the Appalachian Trail. You can also check out French Broad Adventures for zip lining, rafting, and canyoneering expeditions.
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