The Blue Ridge Parkway, a 469-mile scenic road that winds its way through the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina and Virginia, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With its stunning vistas, hiking trails, and picturesque towns, it’s no wonder that visitors flock to the Parkway every year. But where to stay? With so many options along the way, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect place to rest your head. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay along the Blue Ridge Parkway, from cozy bed and breakfasts to family-friendly resorts and camping sites.
Why Choose the Blue Ridge Parkway?
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a unique and unforgettable experience. With its winding roads, scenic overlooks, and abundant wildlife, it’s a nature lover’s paradise. Whether you’re looking to hike, bike, or simply take in the views, the Parkway has something for everyone. And with its proximity to the Appalachian Trail and numerous state parks, there’s no shortage of adventure to be had.
Best Places to Stay Along the Blue Ridge Parkway
In this article, we’ll highlight some of the best places to stay along the Blue Ridge Parkway, including:
- Asheville, North Carolina: A vibrant city with a thriving arts and food scene, Asheville is a great base for exploring the western part of the Parkway.
- Blowing Rock, North Carolina: This charming town is known for its boutique shopping and dining, as well as its proximity to the Parkway.
- Waynesboro, Virginia: A historic town with a rich Civil War history, Waynesboro is a great place to stay if you’re interested in history and culture.
- Grandfather Mountain, North Carolina: This iconic mountain offers stunning views, hiking trails, and a famous swinging bridge.
- Camping: For those who prefer to rough it, there are numerous camping sites along the Parkway, from backcountry sites to full-service campgrounds.
In the following sections, we’ll delve deeper into each of these options, highlighting their unique features and amenities. Whether you’re looking for luxury, adventure, or simply a comfortable place to rest your head, we’ve got you covered.
Best Places To Stay Along The Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile scenic road that runs through the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina and Virginia. It’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With numerous campgrounds, lodges, and hotels along the way, finding the perfect place to stay is crucial to making the most of your trip. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay along the Blue Ridge Parkway, from budget-friendly options to luxurious retreats.
Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is a vibrant city located at the southern end of the Blue Ridge Parkway. It’s a hub for art, music, and outdoor recreation, with plenty of accommodation options to suit every budget. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Tangier)
- The Omni Grove Park Inn: A historic resort with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, offering luxurious rooms and suites, as well as a world-class spa and golf course.
- The Asheville Hotel: A charming boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Asheville, featuring comfortable rooms, a rooftop bar, and a restaurant serving farm-to-table cuisine.
- Campground at Asheville’s Bear Creek RV Park: A convenient and affordable option for RV enthusiasts, with full hookups, a swimming pool, and a dog park.
Boone, North Carolina
Boone is a charming college town located about 30 miles north of Asheville. It’s home to Appalachian State University and offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly motels to luxury lodges.
- The Mast Farm Inn: A historic bed and breakfast with luxurious rooms and suites, set on a 1,000-acre farm with hiking trails, a swimming pool, and a farm-to-table restaurant.
- The Boone Hotel: A comfortable and affordable option in the heart of downtown Boone, featuring rooms with private balconies, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving American cuisine.
- Campground at Julian Price Campground: A scenic campground located near the Blue Ridge Parkway, offering tent and RV sites, as well as cabins and yurts for rent.
Grandfather Mountain, North Carolina
Grandfather Mountain is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. There are several accommodation options in the area, ranging from budget-friendly motels to luxury lodges.
- The Grandfather Mountain Highland Games and Festival: A unique and affordable option, offering camping sites, as well as cabins and yurts for rent, with access to hiking trails and scenic views.
- The Linville Falls Inn: A historic bed and breakfast with luxurious rooms and suites, set on a 1,000-acre farm with hiking trails, a swimming pool, and a farm-to-table restaurant.
- Campground at Linville Gorge Campground: A scenic campground located near the Blue Ridge Parkway, offering tent and RV sites, as well as cabins and yurts for rent.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Shenandoah National Park is a stunning destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic views of the surrounding mountains. There are several accommodation options in the area, ranging from budget-friendly motels to luxury lodges.
- The Big Meadows Lodge: A luxurious lodge located within Shenandoah National Park, offering comfortable rooms and suites, as well as a restaurant and bar serving American cuisine.
- The Skyland Resort: A historic resort located near the Blue Ridge Parkway, offering comfortable rooms and suites, as well as a restaurant and bar serving American cuisine.
- Campground at Mathews Arm Campground: A scenic campground located within Shenandoah National Park, offering tent and RV sites, as well as cabins and yurts for rent.
Recap
From budget-friendly options to luxurious retreats, there are plenty of places to stay along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Whether you’re looking for a cozy bed and breakfast, a luxurious lodge, or a scenic campground, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Table: Accommodation Options Along the Blue Ridge Parkway
Location | Accommodation Type | Price Range |
---|---|---|
Asheville, NC | The Omni Grove Park Inn | $200-$500 per night |
Asheville, NC | The Asheville Hotel | $150-$300 per night |
Boone, NC | The Mast Farm Inn | $250-$500 per night |
Boone, NC | The Boone Hotel | $100-$250 per night |
Grandfather Mountain, NC | Grandfather Mountain Highland Games and Festival | $20-$50 per night |
Shenandoah National Park, VA | The Big Meadows Lodge | $150-$300 per night |
Shenandoah National Park, VA | The Skyland Resort | $100-$250 per night |
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, the Blue Ridge Parkway has something for everyone. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Book your accommodations in advance, and get ready to experience the beauty and tranquility of the Blue Ridge Mountains. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Big Bear Ca)
Here are five FAQs related to the best places to stay along the Blue Ridge Parkway:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best towns to stay in along the Blue Ridge Parkway?
The Blue Ridge Parkway runs through several charming towns and cities, each with its own unique character and attractions. Some of the most popular towns to stay in include Asheville, Boone, Blowing Rock, and Waynesboro. These towns offer a range of accommodations, from cozy bed and breakfasts to modern hotels and vacation rentals.
What are some of the best campgrounds along the Blue Ridge Parkway?
If you prefer to rough it, there are many campgrounds along the Blue Ridge Parkway that offer stunning views and convenient access to the parkway. Some popular options include the Peaks of Otter Campground, the Linville Falls Campground, and the Cradle of Forestry Campground. Be sure to reserve your spot well in advance, especially during peak season.
Can I stay in a cabin or lodge along the Blue Ridge Parkway?
Yes, there are many cabins and lodges along the Blue Ridge Parkway that offer a cozy and rustic alternative to traditional hotels. Some popular options include the Blue Ridge Parkway Cabins, the Linville Ridge Cabins, and the Grandfather Mountain Lodge. These cabins and lodges often offer stunning views, fireplaces, and other amenities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. (See Also: The Best Places To Stay In Bali)
What are some of the best scenic overlooks to stay near along the Blue Ridge Parkway?
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway is to stay near one of its many scenic overlooks. Some popular options include the Linn Cove Viaduct, the Grandfather Mountain Overlook, and the Crabtree Falls Overlook. These overlooks offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and are often accessible via hiking trails or scenic drives.
Can I stay in a bed and breakfast along the Blue Ridge Parkway?
Yes, there are many bed and breakfasts along the Blue Ridge Parkway that offer a charming and intimate alternative to traditional hotels. Some popular options include the Asheville Bed and Breakfast, the Boone Bed and Breakfast, and the Blowing Rock Bed and Breakfast. These B&Bs often offer comfortable rooms, delicious breakfasts, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere.