Welcome to the ski capital of the South, the home of the great outdoors and southern culture - it’s none other than Banner Elk, in Avery County, North Carolina. This piece of paradise is ideally located in the mountains of western North Carolina, the reason this bustling community is filled with High Country activities, such as skiing, golfing, hiking, horseback riding, rafting, and fishing.
This is an impeccable destination for many people who seek relaxation. Banner Elk promises a variety of good accommodation, world-class attractions, excellent restaurants and different shops to choose from. Whatever kind of activities or excursions you do here, the climate is very agreeable, so you do not have to worry.
Treat yourself, as you experience a taste of heaven in Banner Elk. Start packing, call for some “me time” and read on to discover the most relaxing things to do in Banner Elk.
1. Taste life at Grandfather Vineyard & Winery
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
You can never go wrong in choosing the Grandfather Vineyard & Winery for relaxation. This terraced mountain vineyard and winery is situated right on the Watauga River at the base of Grandfather Mountain. It is the optimum place if you are looking for serenity and tranquillity. You can have a glass of wine while enjoying the soothing music from their talented musician and the amazing scenery. Make sure you don’t miss this place!
Taste life at Grandfather Vineyard & Winery
Address: 225 Vineyard Lane, Banner Elk, NC 28604, USA
2. Have fun in the Carlton Gallery
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
You can find calm and peacefulness just looking at the alluring art collection at the Carlton Gallery - a wonderfully artistic setting, where you can enjoy an amazing variety of art, pottery, jewelry, clothing and gifts. Be inspired by the variety of paintings which depict different aspects of life. Just don’t forget to bring your own camera and take as many pictures as you can.
Have fun in the Carlton Gallery
Address: 10360 NC Highway 105 S, Banner Elk, North Carolina, NC 28604
Website: Have fun in the Carlton Gallery
3. Experience nature at Apple Hill Farm
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
We just can't get enough of these cuties!
Posted by Apple Hill Farm on Saturday, April 30, 2022
Connect to nature and to yourself, as you get a real farm experience - only at Apple Hill Farm. Visit this amazing mountaintop alpaca farm and store. The farm also provides educational animal experiences, which include a guided walking tour of an alpaca farm. Here, you can have the opportunity to appreciate life and nature. Visiting Apple Hill is an eye-opening, enjoyable activity to engage in.
Experience nature at Apple Hill Farm
Address: 400 Apple Hill Rd., Banner Elk, North Carolina
Website: Experience nature at Apple Hill Farm
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Visit Valle Crucis Community Park

Feel true happiness in an incredible park, situated in one of the most beautiful places - Valle Crucis Community Park. The park is really well maintained and utilized for great purposes. This is a perfect place to spend a day to relax. You can dip your toes in the river and listen to the sweet relaxing songs of nature.
Visit Valle Crucis Community Park
Address: 2892 Broadstone Road Banner Elk, North Carolina, NC 28604
Website: Visit Valle Crucis Community Park
5. Fishing at Grandfather Trout Farm & Gem Mining
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
One of the most relaxation past times in the world is fishing. Grandfather Trout Farm & Gem Mining offers great fun and they will assist you in every way, by providing equipment, tackle and bait. Capture your first trout! Try this awesome place and experience peacefulness by catching some fish.
Fishing at Grandfather Trout Farm & Gem Mining
Address: 10767 NC Highway 105 S, Banner Elk, North Carolina, NC 28604
6. Buckle up at Little Tweetsie Railroad

Little Tweetsie Railroad offers fun for all ages! This place is located at the bottom of Beech Mountain Parkway, Banner Haven and is less than a mile (1.6 km) from the one and only stoplight. You will surely enjoy watching the trains steam up. A great place to bring your kids - don’t forget to bring your camera and capture their fun moments riding the mainline.
Buckle up at Little Tweetsie Railroad
Address: 509 Beech Mountain Parkway, Banner Elk, North Carolina
7. Learn at Banner House Museum
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Getting ready for OPENING DAY TOMORROW! Join us at the Museum from 11 to 3 for a free event with children's activities,...
Posted by Banner House Museum on Friday, June 16, 2017
Banner Elk is rich also in history. Take a visit to Banner House Museum and go back in time to learn about 19th-century living. There is also a recreated household here, with many original Banner items. The museum is situated in the original home of Samuel Banner, one of Banner Elk’s first settlers.
Learn at Banner House Museum
Address: 7990 Hickory Nut Gap Rd Banner Elk, North Carolina
Website: Learn at Banner House Museum
8. Dig in at Banner Elk Cafe and Lodge Espresso Bar and Eatery
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
The Banner Elk Cafe is still offering curbside pickup daily from 8am-8pm. Call in orders to 828 898-4040. Delivery...
Posted by Banner Elk Cafe and Lodge Espresso Bar and Eatery on Monday, March 23, 2020
After a tiring walk and tour in the city, you are probably itching to find some good quality food to satisfy your appetite. Well, the Banner Elk Cafe and Lodge Espresso Bar and Eatery promises to replenish your energy, so you can continue exploring the town, as it offers a variety of mouthwatering foods and drinks.
The staff offers good and fast service and the food is neat and presented very well. There is also good music on the patio. Sit back and relax and have the best meal ever.
Dig in at Banner Elk Cafe and Lodge Espresso Bar and Eatery
Address: Hwy 184, Banner Elk, North Carolina
Website: Dig in at Banner Elk Cafe and Lodge Espresso Bar and Eatery
Banner Elk: A taste of true freedom!

Experience Banner Elk in North Carolina! This is a well-spent heaven for every holidaymaker, as it offers a fun variety of activities, from the mountain to the sea. The pleasant weather is an advantage and, just looking at the pictures of this sweet town, you can experience serenity. Hurry up! Treat yourself - for you only live once!
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