Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is well known as "America's Favorite Drive" by motorcyclists and bicyclists because of its endless scenery. It spans 469 miles and offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and surrounding landscapes. Landscape architect Stanley Abbott designed it. His goal was to build a road that connected the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina and the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia and included scenic hiking trails. The Blue Ridge Parkway passes through or near the beautiful tiny mountain villages considered attractions themselves. They're great places to get a bite to eat or spend the night. Hundreds of miles of hiking trails branch off from the numerous pull-offs along the way, some leading to breathtaking waterfalls. Do you enjoy camping or picnics? Everything is waiting for you on the Blue Ridge Parkway!

While traveling, you can also pack a picnic lunch and stop at one of the many beautiful areas with tables ideally positioned to soak up the view. Along the journey, there are numerous campgrounds in beautiful locations. The Blue Ridge Parkway is home to various art centers, museums, and beautiful landscapes.

Mabry Mill (Milepost 176) hosts demonstrations such as maize grinding in the ancient mill, sawmill cutting boards, and blacksmithing during the summer and fall. During the winter, however, Mabry Mill is closed. You do, however, have alternative possibilities. The Folk Art Center (Milepost 382) is open all year and features a gallery of folk art and demonstrations by local artisans, while the Museum of North Carolina Minerals (Milepost 331) features detailed exhibits on the region's mineral resources and mining industry.

Just a heads up, make sure you properly plan your journey. Summer tourists enjoy a more quiet period as they admire the colors of burning azaleas and rhododendrons, while fall visitors enjoy a more busy parkway. Between November and March, make careful to check for weather-related road closures before going out.