
*Watauga County Information
Welcome to Watauga County, a region nestled in North Carolina's scenic Blue Ridge Mountains. Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant arts scene, and Southern charm, this guide introduces you to the area's top attractions and resources as you plan your move.
1. Cities and Towns
Watauga County hosts several appealing cities and towns, each offering its unique charm:
Boone: Home to Appalachian State University, Boone offers a vibrant cultural scene, with plentiful dining and shopping options.
Blowing Rock: Known for its stunning views, charming downtown area, and the Blowing Rock, a unique natural formation from which the town gets its name.
Valle Crucis: A small, rustic community famous for the original Mast General Store, the Valle Country Fair, and apple orchards.
2. Outdoor Activities
Watauga County offers a wealth of outdoor activities:
Appalachian Ski Mountain: A popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating.
Blue Ridge Parkway: Offers scenic drives, hiking trails, and picnic areas.
Grandfather Mountain: A nature preserve and attraction featuring a swinging bridge, wildlife habitats, and numerous hiking trails.
Watauga River: A great location for fishing, canoeing, and white-water rafting.
3. Cultural Attractions
The county boasts rich historical and cultural attractions:
Horn in the West: A dramatic retelling of Daniel Boone's adventures and the pioneer settlers' lives during the Revolutionary War.
Moses H. Cone Memorial Park: This historical mansion turned craft center showcases work from the Southern Highland Craft Guild.
Turchin Center for the Visual Arts: Located at Appalachian State University, this center features work from local and international artists.
4. Shopping and Dining
From local boutiques to great food, Watauga County has much to offer:
Downtown Boone and Blowing Rock: Enjoy local boutiques, antique shops, and a variety of dining options, from upscale restaurants to quaint cafés.
Mast General Store: Visit the original location in Valle Crucis for a nostalgic shopping experience.
5. Schools and Education
Watauga County Schools system is consistently rated as one of the best in North Carolina. The area is also home to Appalachian State University, offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.
6. Healthcare
The main healthcare facility in Watauga County is:
- Watauga Medical Center: Offering a wide range of services including emergency care, cancer treatment, rehabilitation, and more.
7. Transportation
The county is served by the AppalCART public transit system, and Highways 321 and 421 offer easy access to neighboring regions.
Watauga County, with its natural beauty, vibrant communities, and cultural offerings, is a wonderful place to relocate. Enjoy exploring the area and making it your new home!