Best Winter Break Itinerary in Boone, NC: Things to Do & Where to Stay

GraystoneLodge / December 9, 2024 /Uncategorized

From skiing to cozy evenings, Boone, NC, has something for everyone. This guide lays out the best way to enjoy your winter break and highlights why Graystone Lodge is the perfect place to stay. We made a 4-day winter break itinerary to ease the planning process so you get the most out of your visit to this small town.

Graystone Lodge is a 101-room boutique hotel located in Boone, NC, that captures the spirit of the High Country in a warm, welcoming ambiance of a mountain lodge with an enhanced modern design and upscale amenities. Book your stay or learn more about our rooms. Subscribe to our email list to “stay in the know” about local tips, events, and promotions: Join the list!

Hit the Slopes: Skiing and Snowboarding

Boone is a winter sports destination. Just a short drive from town, you’ll find Appalachian Ski Mountain, a one-stop spot for skiing and snowboarding. With well-groomed slopes, a terrain park, and lessons for beginners, it’s a must-visit. Families with younger kids can also enjoy snow tubing at Hawksnest Snow Tubing & Zipline, known as one of the largest snow tubing parks in the Southeast.

Explore Boone’s Winter Trails

For those who prefer a slower pace, Boone’s hiking trails transform into serene winter wonderlands. The Boone Greenway Trail is a local favorite, offering easy walks along creeks and through frosted forests. For more challenging terrain, try Elk Knob State Park, where the Summit Trail rewards you with panoramic mountain views. Remember to bundle up, as mountain weather can be brisk!

Warm Up with Boone’s Culinary Scene

After a day in the cold, nothing beats warming up with a hearty meal. Boone has a diverse food scene, ranging from farm-to-table restaurants to comfort food classics. Some must-visit spots include:

  • Coyote Kitchen: Southwest and Caribbean soul food with vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and allergy friendly options.
  • Lost Province Brewing Co.: Wood-fired pizzas and local craft beer.
  • fizzEd: Irreverently wholesome; seriously fun! Food and drink menus with universal appeal that is perfect for the whole family.
  • Pepper’s Restaurant & Bar: Local favorite with delicious items like wild-caught seafood, savory pasta dishes, sandwiches, and soups.
  • Stick Boy Bread Co.: Bakery perfect for warm pastries and coffee to fuel your morning adventures.
  • The Ham Shoppe: Locally owned and operated sandwich truck conveniently located in our parking lot with varying hours Thursday-Saturday.
  • Betty’s Biscuits: Enjoy a delicious, freshly made from scratch biscuit. This downtown restaurant uses local ingredients and a lot of love!

Shop and Stroll Through Downtown

Boone’s downtown offers charm at every turn. Browse unique shops like Mast General Store, where you can find everything from outdoor gear to nostalgic candies. Find amazing boutique shops like Lucky Penny, Lililu on King, and Boone Belles. For handmade gifts and art, stop by Hands Gallery or Common Good Co. where they showcase local artisans. The town’s festive lights and small-town charm make a simple stroll feel magical during winter.

Stay at Graystone Lodge: The Best Hotel in Boone, NC

This upscale boutique hotel features partnerships with local businesses to create a High Country experience that makes this hotel one-of-a-kind. Graystone Lodge combines comfort, convenience, and thoughtful amenities that make every guest feel at home.

  • Pet-Friendly Stays: Traveling with your furry four legged friend? Graystone Lodge welcomes dogs with a nightly fee. It’s wonderful outdoor space makes it one of the best pet-friendly hotels in Boone, NC.
  • Family-Friendly Comfort: Spacious rooms, cozy gathering spaces, and close proximity to local attractions make it the best family-friendly hotel in Boone, NC.
  • Modern Amenities: From complimentary Wi-Fi to premium bedding, every detail is designed for comfort.
  • Prime Location: Located near Boone’s top winter attractions including 3 ski resorts and snow tubing, Graystone Lodge is the perfect base for your winter break.

Winter Itinerary at a Glance

Here’s how to plan your perfect Boone getaway:

Day 1:

  • Check into Graystone Lodge and unwind.
  • Head to Coyote Kitchen for a delicious Southwest Carribean style dinner.
  • Drive to Blowing Rock to enjoy the Festival of Lights at Chetola.
  • Get a great nights sleep ready for a full day of adventure tomorrow.

Day 2:

  • Enjoy the delicious complimentary hot breakfast at Graystone Lodge.
  • Hit the slopes at Appalachian Ski Mountain or go snow tubing at Hawksnest.
  • Warm up with soup and sandwiches at Pepper’s Restaurant.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the Boone Greenway Trail.
  • Have some wood-fired pizza for dinner at Lost Province Brewing Co.
  • Pick up some delicious wine and chocolates at Venture Chocolate and Wine.
  • Take a short evening stroll downtown to enjoy the festive lights.
  • Return to Graystone Lodge for a relaxing evening drinking wine or making s’mores by our outdoor fire pit.

Day 3:

  • Start with breakfast and coffee at Stick Boy Bread Co.
  • Venture to Elk Knob State Park for a morning hike.
  • Enjoy lunch and a local beer at Booneshine Brewing Co.
  • Return to Graystone Lodge to enjoy a swim in our indoor pool.
  • Take a Wild West Holiday Adventure to Tweetsie Railroad for a steam train ride, amusement rides, a visit with Santa, and more during Tweetsie Christmas.

Day 4:

  • Venture to Downtown Boone for a delicious breakfast at Betty’s Biscuits.
  • Explore the downtown boutique shops featuring handmade local gifts and art.
  • Stop by Mast General Store for souvenirs.
  • Enjoy a unique and fun farewell lunch at fizzEd before heading home.

Winter Getaway Special Discount

Stay 3 Nights and Save 20% all winter long. Valid December 1st, 2024 through March 20th, 2025.

Why Boone Shines in Winter

Boone is more than a destination; it’s a retreat from the everyday grind. Its snowy mountains, cozy downtown, and vibrant community make it an ideal place to recharge. Whether you’re adventuring outdoors or savoring moments by the fire at Graystone Lodge, Boone offers a winter getaway like no other.

Ready to plan your visit? Book your stay at Graystone Lodge and create lasting memories in the heart of Boone, NC.

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