We think one of the best winter getaways in North Carolina is in the charming town of Banner Elk. Located in the center of High Country and nestled in the mountain of western North Carolina, you’ll find that there is no shortage of things to do in this winter wonderland. Whether you’re looking to indulge in downtown shopping or itching to get out on the slopes, Banner Elk is the perfect mix of small-town charm with big-city amenities. Follow along as we show you the ultimate place to shake off those winter blues!
Duck out of the cold and into one of the many inviting restaurants in Downtown Banner Elk. Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining or down-home cooking, you’ll have no trouble finding good food. Also, partake in some shopping; downtown is filled with many great local artisanal shops.
Banner Elk/Facebook
Banner Elk
Don’t forget to stop by and take a picture with the bronze elk statue, an iconic landmark of the downtown village that gets dressed up over the holiday.
Banner Elk/Facebook
Banner Elk is also in the perfect location for your winter outdoor activities. The town is only a short drive and sits between two of the largest ski resorts in the Southeast: Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain. Both resorts offer slopes with plenty of variety for skiing and snowboarding, as well as ice skating rinks and snow tubing for the little ones. A fun fact, Sugar Mountain has North Carolina’s only double black diamond slope.
See Sugar Mountain, NC/Facebook
While Beech Mountian boasts North Carolina’s only mountaintop sky bar.
Town of Beech Mountain/Facebook
Another wintertime outdoor activity in Banner Elk that can’t be missed is the Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster.
Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster/Facebook This must-see attraction is a German-made alpine coaster and is North Carolina’s first one. Each ride begins with an ascent of 770 feet to the top and includes loops, waves, and turns at 27 mph, making this an exhilarating experience with a good adrenaline rush!
No winter getaway is complete without staying at the perfect accommodation like North Carolina High Country’s original winery, the Banner Elk Winery and Villa.
Banner Elk Winery/Facebook
Banner Elk Winery/Facebook While there, enjoy a delicious sampling of wines; they are best known for their unique blueberry wine that pays tribute to the property’s historic blueberry farm. Or stay at The Villas, an elegant Tuscan-inspired bed and breakfast located on the same property.
Banner Elk/Facebook
Banner Elk
See Sugar Mountain, NC/Facebook
Town of Beech Mountain/Facebook
Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster/Facebook
This must-see attraction is a German-made alpine coaster and is North Carolina’s first one. Each ride begins with an ascent of 770 feet to the top and includes loops, waves, and turns at 27 mph, making this an exhilarating experience with a good adrenaline rush!
Banner Elk Winery/Facebook
While there, enjoy a delicious sampling of wines; they are best known for their unique blueberry wine that pays tribute to the property’s historic blueberry farm. Or stay at The Villas, an elegant Tuscan-inspired bed and breakfast located on the same property.
For more information about this charming town, visit Banner Elk’s website. Looking for more snowy North Carolina adventures to go on? This town is one of our favorites.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Banner Elk, NC 28604, USA
