Planning a trip along the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway? Choosing the right place to stay can make all the difference in your experience. Whether you’re seeking a cozy cabin nestled in the mountains, a charming bed and breakfast with stunning views, or a modern hotel with convenient amenities, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget.
Overview
This guide will explore some of the best places to stay along the Blue Ridge Parkway, highlighting their unique features, amenities, and proximity to popular attractions. From quaint towns to secluded wilderness areas, we’ll help you find the perfect spot to create lasting memories on your journey through the breathtaking beauty of the Appalachian Mountains.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Accommodation
Before diving into specific recommendations, it’s helpful to consider your preferences and priorities. Some factors to keep in mind include:
- Location: Do you want to be close to specific overlooks, hiking trails, or towns?
- Ambiance: Are you looking for a rustic cabin, a luxurious lodge, or a family-friendly hotel?
- Amenities: What’s important to you? Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, on-site dining?
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend per night?
## Best Places to Stay Along the Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway, a 469-mile ribbon of asphalt winding through the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, offers breathtaking vistas, cascading waterfalls, and charming towns. Planning a trip along this iconic scenic drive? Choosing the perfect place to stay can elevate your experience. Whether you seek rustic cabins, luxurious lodges, or cozy bed and breakfasts, the Blue Ridge Parkway boasts a diverse range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget.
This guide explores some of the best places to stay along the Blue Ridge Parkway, highlighting their unique features and the surrounding attractions.
North Carolina Accommodations
The northern section of the Blue Ridge Parkway, starting in Shenandoah National Park and extending to the southern border of Virginia, offers a variety of lodging options.
1. Mabry Mill
Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Mabry Mill is a living history museum showcasing a 19th-century mill village. The mill offers charming cabins and a historic inn, providing a unique and immersive experience. Visitors can explore the working water-powered mill, blacksmith shop, and general store, or take a scenic hike along the nearby trails. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Puerto Rico For Families)
2. Grandfather Mountain
Perched atop Grandfather Mountain, this iconic destination offers stunning panoramic views and a variety of lodging options. The Grandfather Mountain Inn, a historic lodge with rustic charm, provides comfortable rooms and breathtaking vistas. For a more adventurous stay, consider the nearby cabins or campgrounds, offering a chance to immerse yourself in the wilderness.
3. Asheville
Asheville, a vibrant city nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers a wide range of accommodations, from boutique hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts. Explore the city’s vibrant arts scene, sample craft beers at local breweries, and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding mountains.
Virginia Accommodations
The Virginia section of the Blue Ridge Parkway, stretching from the North Carolina border to the Shenandoah National Park, offers a mix of scenic beauty and historic charm.
1. Floyd
Floyd, a charming town known for its vibrant music scene and arts community, offers a variety of lodging options, including cozy bed and breakfasts, rustic cabins, and charming inns. Explore the town’s unique shops, galleries, and restaurants, or take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
2. Roanoke
Roanoke, a vibrant city nestled in the Roanoke Valley, offers a range of accommodations, from historic hotels to modern hotels. Explore the city’s museums, art galleries, and theaters, or take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
3. Lexington
Lexington, a historic town known for its prestigious universities and charming downtown, offers a variety of lodging options, including historic inns, bed and breakfasts, and cozy hotels. Explore the town’s historic sites, museums, and shops, or take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Italy On A Budget)
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Place to Stay
When choosing a place to stay along the Blue Ridge Parkway, consider the following factors:
* **Location:** Decide which section of the parkway you want to explore and choose accommodations accordingly.
* **Budget:** The Blue Ridge Parkway offers a range of accommodations to suit various budgets, from budget-friendly campgrounds to luxurious lodges.
* **Amenities:** Consider what amenities are important to you, such as Wi-Fi, swimming pools, or restaurants.
* **Activities:** Think about the activities you want to enjoy during your trip, such as hiking, fishing, or sightseeing.
* **Season:** The best time to visit the Blue Ridge Parkway is during the fall, when the leaves are ablaze with color. However, the parkway is beautiful year-round.
## Recap
The Blue Ridge Parkway offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. Whether you seek rustic cabins, luxurious lodges, or charming bed and breakfasts, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay and create lasting memories.
Remember to consider your budget, desired amenities, and the activities you plan to enjoy when making your choice. With careful planning, your stay along the Blue Ridge Parkway will be an unforgettable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Places To Stay Along the Blue Ridge Parkway
What are some popular towns near the Blue Ridge Parkway for lodging?
Some popular towns to consider include Asheville, Boone, Blowing Rock, Galax, and Roanoke. Each town offers a unique charm and a variety of lodging options, from cozy cabins to luxurious resorts.
What types of accommodations are available along the Blue Ridge Parkway?
You’ll find a wide range of accommodations, including hotels, motels, cabins, campgrounds, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. This allows you to choose the perfect option based on your budget and preferences. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Africa)
Are there campgrounds directly on the Blue Ridge Parkway?
Yes, there are several campgrounds located along the Blue Ridge Parkway, offering stunning views and a chance to immerse yourself in nature. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season.
What amenities should I look for when choosing a place to stay?
Consider amenities like Wi-Fi, breakfast options, on-site restaurants, pools, hiking trails, and proximity to attractions. Think about what’s important to you for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
How far in advance should I book my accommodation?
Booking in advance is always a good idea, especially if you’re traveling during peak season (spring, summer, and fall). Popular accommodations can fill up quickly, so secure your reservation early to avoid disappointment.