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The next wave of native wildflowers has arrived in the Boone area! 🌸

Warmer, drier weather pushed blooms ahead of schedule this year, but the wide range of elevations in the area means you can still catch fresh blooms across the High Country for weeks to come.

🌿 Swipe through for your latest bloom update, then visit our Wildflower Wandering guide to plan your trip!

The next wave of native wildflowers has arrived in the Boone area! 🌸

Warmer, drier weather pushed blooms ahead of schedule this year, but the wide range of elevations in the area means you can still catch fresh blooms across the High Country for weeks to come.

🌿 Swipe through for your latest bloom update, then visit our Wildflower Wandering guide to plan your trip!

The next wave of native wildflowers has arrived in the Boone area! 🌸

Warmer, drier weather pushed blooms ahead of schedule this year, but the wide range of elevations in the area means you can still catch fresh blooms across the High Country for weeks to come.

🌿 Swipe through for your latest bloom update, then visit our Wildflower Wandering guide to plan your trip!

The next wave of native wildflowers has arrived in the Boone area! 🌸

Warmer, drier weather pushed blooms ahead of schedule this year, but the wide range of elevations in the area means you can still catch fresh blooms across the High Country for weeks to come.

🌿 Swipe through for your latest bloom update, then visit our Wildflower Wandering guide to plan your trip!

The next wave of native wildflowers has arrived in the Boone area! 🌸

Warmer, drier weather pushed blooms ahead of schedule this year, but the wide range of elevations in the area means you can still catch fresh blooms across the High Country for weeks to come.

🌿 Swipe through for your latest bloom update, then visit our Wildflower Wandering guide to plan your trip!

The next wave of native wildflowers has arrived in the Boone area! 🌸

Warmer, drier weather pushed blooms ahead of schedule this year, but the wide range of elevations in the area means you can still catch fresh blooms across the High Country for weeks to come.

🌿 Swipe through for your latest bloom update, then visit our Wildflower Wandering guide to plan your trip!

Heads up, explorers! The Blue Ridge Parkway will be under construction in our area starting March 19th, with completion set for Fall 2026. 🚧

The GOOD news is that all popular trails and attractions will still be open and accessible via detour, like:

🥾 Moses Cone Memorial Park
🥾 Grandfather Mountain (attraction) and Grandfather Mountain State Park*
🥾 Price Lake + Campground
🥾 Tanawha Trail (incl. Beacon Heights and Rough Ridge)
🥾 Linn Cove Viaduct

Visit the National Park Service link in our bio for the most accurate closures by milepost, updated daily.

*The Profile Trail will remain closed.

Heads up, explorers! The Blue Ridge Parkway will be under construction in our area starting March 19th, with completion set for Fall 2026. 🚧

The GOOD news is that all popular trails and attractions will still be open and accessible via detour, like:

🥾 Moses Cone Memorial Park
🥾 Grandfather Mountain (attraction) and Grandfather Mountain State Park*
🥾 Price Lake + Campground
🥾 Tanawha Trail (incl. Beacon Heights and Rough Ridge)
🥾 Linn Cove Viaduct

Visit the National Park Service link in our bio for the most accurate closures by milepost, updated daily.

*The Profile Trail will remain closed.

Heads up, explorers! The Blue Ridge Parkway will be under construction in our area starting March 19th, with completion set for Fall 2026. 🚧

The GOOD news is that all popular trails and attractions will still be open and accessible via detour, like:

🥾 Moses Cone Memorial Park
🥾 Grandfather Mountain (attraction) and Grandfather Mountain State Park*
🥾 Price Lake + Campground
🥾 Tanawha Trail (incl. Beacon Heights and Rough Ridge)
🥾 Linn Cove Viaduct

Visit the National Park Service link in our bio for the most accurate closures by milepost, updated daily.

*The Profile Trail will remain closed.

Heads up, explorers! The Blue Ridge Parkway will be under construction in our area starting March 19th, with completion set for Fall 2026. 🚧

The GOOD news is that all popular trails and attractions will still be open and accessible via detour, like:

🥾 Moses Cone Memorial Park
🥾 Grandfather Mountain (attraction) and Grandfather Mountain State Park*
🥾 Price Lake + Campground
🥾 Tanawha Trail (incl. Beacon Heights and Rough Ridge)
🥾 Linn Cove Viaduct

Visit the National Park Service link in our bio for the most accurate closures by milepost, updated daily.

*The Profile Trail will remain closed.

🔖 Save this for your next trip to North Carolina | a d

Here’s where to stay, eat, and things to do while in @exploreboone

STAY:
• @1850boone is a true gem in the heart of downtown Boone. It’s packed with luxury charm, boutique touches, a soaking tub, + walkable to all of the downtown stops. 🛌

EAT: * ALL had great gluten-free + vegetarian options ✨
• @wildwoodcommunitymarket should be on everyone’s list. So nice we had to go twice (in just 4 days on this visit). Their sandwiches are what they have bragging rights for 🥪
• @melaniesfoodfantasy new location on Howard St. is so charming, their stuffed french toast and eggs benedict are unforgettable 🤤
• @coyotekitchen.boone is a must for us anytime we’re in the area. Dedicated gf fryers, super fun menu, + it’s always a hit. 🙌
•@rooted.on.king was a new spot for us to try + we loved it! Their vegetarian options were extensive + you have to try their chai ☕️
• @venturechocolateandwine is the perfect date night spot. Artisanal chocolates + drinks! Their passion fruit + orange habanero chocolates blew us away. 🍫
• @danielandthedog for nightcaps is definitely the move! It’s at the lower level of @1850boone + such a vibe! Try their espresso martini!
• @millcampboone is definitely going to be THE hangout spot this summer. Gorgeous venue, property, + amazing ciders and wines to try! 🥂

DO:
• @grandfathermtn is incredible visit any time of the year, but especially for summer. See the amazing rehabilitation + conservation work they’re doing + make your way across the mile high swinging bridge if you dare 🌉
• Hike Crab Orchard Falls for an afternoon out on the trails + to take in beautiful waterfall views! 🤩
• @blowingrocknc Art & History Museum is a completely FREE + awe-inspiring visit. See works of art in various forms + learn a bit about the area too. 🖼️
• @mastgeneralstore is known staple in High Country, NC. You can shop here for hours + find unique gifts! Plus @pearlskitchennc is right next door + a delicious lunch spot with sustainable measures throughout!

💌 Send this to someone who would LOVE to go to @exploreboone with

Waterfalls and wine? We’ll cheers to that. 🥂

Our Wineries & Waterfalls itinerary pairs three of the NC High Country’s most stunning waterfalls with three award-winning local vineyards just minutes from each trailhead. Three perfect days in Boone, NC, all mapped out for you. 😌

🍇 Full itinerary at the link in our bio!

Sometimes, the best finds aren’t out in the open…
they’re found tucked in the back of a fly shop on Depot Street. 🥟

Opened by friends Kim Short and Ilya Wang, The Happy Persimmon (@thehappypersimmon) brings Taiwanese snacks, Japanese pantry staples, loose teas, frozen dumplings, and AAPI community inclusivity to downtown Boone. The market has quickly become a favorite stop for curious cooks, App State students, homesick travelers, and anyone looking to try something new. If you haven’t had a chance to stop by, consider this your official invitation!

🥢 In celebration of #AAPIHeritageMonth, don’t miss The Happy Persimmon’s 3rd annual Homecoming Lunch Date @f.a.r.m.cafe tomorrow (Tuesday, 5/19)!

Sometimes, the best finds aren’t out in the open…
they’re found tucked in the back of a fly shop on Depot Street. 🥟

Opened by friends Kim Short and Ilya Wang, The Happy Persimmon (@thehappypersimmon) brings Taiwanese snacks, Japanese pantry staples, loose teas, frozen dumplings, and AAPI community inclusivity to downtown Boone. The market has quickly become a favorite stop for curious cooks, App State students, homesick travelers, and anyone looking to try something new. If you haven’t had a chance to stop by, consider this your official invitation!

🥢 In celebration of #AAPIHeritageMonth, don’t miss The Happy Persimmon’s 3rd annual Homecoming Lunch Date @f.a.r.m.cafe tomorrow (Tuesday, 5/19)!

Sometimes, the best finds aren’t out in the open…
they’re found tucked in the back of a fly shop on Depot Street. 🥟

Opened by friends Kim Short and Ilya Wang, The Happy Persimmon (@thehappypersimmon) brings Taiwanese snacks, Japanese pantry staples, loose teas, frozen dumplings, and AAPI community inclusivity to downtown Boone. The market has quickly become a favorite stop for curious cooks, App State students, homesick travelers, and anyone looking to try something new. If you haven’t had a chance to stop by, consider this your official invitation!

🥢 In celebration of #AAPIHeritageMonth, don’t miss The Happy Persimmon’s 3rd annual Homecoming Lunch Date @f.a.r.m.cafe tomorrow (Tuesday, 5/19)!

🌸 A little bit about rhododendrons…

These iconic mountain blooms are actually in the blueberry family, but be warned: plant experts list them as toxic to humans, pets, and livestock.

Despite this, many Boone area gardeners will tell you that deer are more than happy to take a munch. 🦌🤔

📷: @carolinemillerphoto, @_davidcmckenzie_, @zachlehman.films

Boone, NC | native wildflowers | spring

🌸 A little bit about rhododendrons…

These iconic mountain blooms are actually in the blueberry family, but be warned: plant experts list them as toxic to humans, pets, and livestock.

Despite this, many Boone area gardeners will tell you that deer are more than happy to take a munch. 🦌🤔

📷: @carolinemillerphoto, @_davidcmckenzie_, @zachlehman.films

Boone, NC | native wildflowers | spring

🌸 A little bit about rhododendrons…

These iconic mountain blooms are actually in the blueberry family, but be warned: plant experts list them as toxic to humans, pets, and livestock.

Despite this, many Boone area gardeners will tell you that deer are more than happy to take a munch. 🦌🤔

📷: @carolinemillerphoto, @_davidcmckenzie_, @zachlehman.films

Boone, NC | native wildflowers | spring

The best Boone weekends start with brunch ☕️🥐

Whether you’re craving shrimp & grits downtown, organic café comfort after yoga, or a classic diner breakfast before hitting the Blue Ridge Parkway, our brunch guide has you covered.

Check out Boone Brunch 101 at the link in our bio to start your weekend off right!

The best Boone weekends start with brunch ☕️🥐

Whether you’re craving shrimp & grits downtown, organic café comfort after yoga, or a classic diner breakfast before hitting the Blue Ridge Parkway, our brunch guide has you covered.

Check out Boone Brunch 101 at the link in our bio to start your weekend off right!

National Travel & Tourism Week is a reminder of why we do what we do.

Travel is the family road trip that becomes a story told for decades. The reunion that could only happen because someone made the journey. At Explore Boone, we exist to make those moments possible, and we couldn’t be prouder of it.

Using only visitor occupancy tax dollars, Explore Boone is able to foster growth by funding infrastructure projects like the Boone Greenway Skate Park, Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park, and public recreation access throughout Watauga County.

Want to learn more about our projects and how we approach infrastructure investment? 👇Comment 'Imagine Watauga' and we'll send you a link to our infrastructure action plan!

#NTTW26

National Travel & Tourism Week is a reminder of why we do what we do.

Travel is the family road trip that becomes a story told for decades. The reunion that could only happen because someone made the journey. At Explore Boone, we exist to make those moments possible, and we couldn’t be prouder of it.

Using only visitor occupancy tax dollars, Explore Boone is able to foster growth by funding infrastructure projects like the Boone Greenway Skate Park, Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park, and public recreation access throughout Watauga County.

Want to learn more about our projects and how we approach infrastructure investment? 👇Comment 'Imagine Watauga' and we'll send you a link to our infrastructure action plan!

#NTTW26

National Travel & Tourism Week is a reminder of why we do what we do.

Travel is the family road trip that becomes a story told for decades. The reunion that could only happen because someone made the journey. At Explore Boone, we exist to make those moments possible, and we couldn’t be prouder of it.

Using only visitor occupancy tax dollars, Explore Boone is able to foster growth by funding infrastructure projects like the Boone Greenway Skate Park, Rocky Knob Mountain Bike Park, and public recreation access throughout Watauga County.

Want to learn more about our projects and how we approach infrastructure investment? 👇Comment 'Imagine Watauga' and we'll send you a link to our infrastructure action plan!

#NTTW26

It’s National Travel & Tourism Week! This year’s theme says it all: Travel Is Essential.

Not a luxury. Not an afterthought. Travel powers local economies, connects communities, supports millions of jobs and enriches lives in ways that can’t always be measured on a spreadsheet.

That’s why this week, we’ll be sharing some of the ways we give back to our community directly, thanks to our visitors!

At Explore Boone, we’re proud to be part of an industry that moves America forward. #NTTW26

It’s National Travel & Tourism Week! This year’s theme says it all: Travel Is Essential.

Not a luxury. Not an afterthought. Travel powers local economies, connects communities, supports millions of jobs and enriches lives in ways that can’t always be measured on a spreadsheet.

That’s why this week, we’ll be sharing some of the ways we give back to our community directly, thanks to our visitors!

At Explore Boone, we’re proud to be part of an industry that moves America forward. #NTTW26

We couldn’t wait to celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week… so we’re getting started this weekend! 🎉

We’ve partnered with the Town of Boone for a FREE PARKING takeover in downtown Boone. Here’s what you need to know ⤵️

When?
👉 All day Saturday, May 2nd, 2026

Where?
👉 Free parking is applied to downtown street meters and kiosk lots. Private and permitted parking lots are not included.

How will I know?
👉  Flyers indicating free parking will be applied to these meters and kiosks. No flyer? Look for signage that indicates private or permitted parking; it may not be a free, municipal parking space. 

Why?
👉 To support our downtown businesses and community! Explore Boone is grateful for every visitor who made this parking takeover possible, and we’re proud to be part of an industry that gives so much back to our incredible community.

Happy #NTTW26!

We couldn’t wait to celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week… so we’re getting started this weekend! 🎉

We’ve partnered with the Town of Boone for a FREE PARKING takeover in downtown Boone. Here’s what you need to know ⤵️

When?
👉 All day Saturday, May 2nd, 2026

Where?
👉 Free parking is applied to downtown street meters and kiosk lots. Private and permitted parking lots are not included.

How will I know?
👉  Flyers indicating free parking will be applied to these meters and kiosks. No flyer? Look for signage that indicates private or permitted parking; it may not be a free, municipal parking space. 

Why?
👉 To support our downtown businesses and community! Explore Boone is grateful for every visitor who made this parking takeover possible, and we’re proud to be part of an industry that gives so much back to our incredible community.

Happy #NTTW26!

Mountain weather keeping you on your toes? ☔️
Swap your hike for an escape room, a pottery class, or an afternoon wandering Boone’s art spaces.

🎨 Find more rainy day inspo at the link in our bio!

(Last slide photo by @_eddylinecreative_ courtesy of @zrcskate)

Mountain weather keeping you on your toes? ☔️
Swap your hike for an escape room, a pottery class, or an afternoon wandering Boone’s art spaces.

🎨 Find more rainy day inspo at the link in our bio!

(Last slide photo by @_eddylinecreative_ courtesy of @zrcskate)

Mountain weather keeping you on your toes? ☔️
Swap your hike for an escape room, a pottery class, or an afternoon wandering Boone’s art spaces.

🎨 Find more rainy day inspo at the link in our bio!

(Last slide photo by @_eddylinecreative_ courtesy of @zrcskate)

Mountain weather keeping you on your toes? ☔️
Swap your hike for an escape room, a pottery class, or an afternoon wandering Boone’s art spaces.

🎨 Find more rainy day inspo at the link in our bio!

(Last slide photo by @_eddylinecreative_ courtesy of @zrcskate)

Mountain weather keeping you on your toes? ☔️
Swap your hike for an escape room, a pottery class, or an afternoon wandering Boone’s art spaces.

🎨 Find more rainy day inspo at the link in our bio!

(Last slide photo by @_eddylinecreative_ courtesy of @zrcskate)

Mountain weather keeping you on your toes? ☔️
Swap your hike for an escape room, a pottery class, or an afternoon wandering Boone’s art spaces.

🎨 Find more rainy day inspo at the link in our bio!

(Last slide photo by @_eddylinecreative_ courtesy of @zrcskate)

Still a little early, but you can already see where this is headed… 🌸

📷: @honeybadgerimages

Boone, NC | spring | wildflowers | blue ridge mountains | azalea bloom