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“Heart of the High Country”
Boone, NC is much more than just a mountain getaway—it is a vibrant college town, a thriving cultural center, and the bustling heart of Western North Carolina’s High Country. Home to Appalachian State University, Boone seamlessly blends outdoor adventure, rich history, and modern commerce, making it an essential destination for anyone visiting the Smokies or the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Boone takes its name from legendary frontiersman Daniel Boone, who frequently camped within the present-day city limits during the 1760s. His family loved the region so much that they helped establish early churches and lay the foundations for the community.
Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the arrival of the railroad transformed Boone into a hub for trade, timber, and agriculture. As road infrastructure expanded, Boone embraced tourism, celebrating its pioneer roots with historic landmarks, outdoor dramas, and proximity to major High Country resort towns like Blowing Rock and Banner Elk.
Whether you're exploring the shops along King Street in historic downtown, catching a football game at Kidd Brewer Stadium, or hiking nearby Grandfather Mountain, Boone offers unforgettable experiences in every season.
Explore some of the top attractions, historic sites, and points of interest around Boone: