Skip to Main Content
Bristol Caverns is located 5 miles southeast of Bristol on US 421. Only 8 miles from I-81 Exit 3. A journey through the caverns will take you through millions of years of timeless beauty. Largest and most beautiful in the Smoky Mountain region. Open daily. (423) 878-2011. Read More
The Cradle of Forestry in America is a 6500-acre historic site created by Congress in 1968 that commemorates the birthplace of science-based forest management in the United States. The site is open April – November and offers three miles of paved interpretive trails, exhibits, film, music, crafts, education programs,… Read More
Dinosaur Land is located at 3848 Stonewall Jackson Highway in White Post, VA, 8 miles south of Winchester. Over 50 dinosaurs invite visitors to step into the world of the prehistoric past, turning back the pages of time to the Mesozoic era. Our enormous gift shop features gifts for… Read More
Emerald Village is just 3 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway at Little Switzerland, Milepost 333.9. Gem mining, gold panning, mine tours, waterfall, free exhibits, real mines, fun shopping! NC’s Gem! www.emeraldvillage.com (828) 765-6463. Read More
Gem Mountain – Located at Milepost 330.9. Mine trips to an active mine. Flume mining at its best. Picnic area, gem & jewelry store, general store, ice cream and free fluorescent mineral display. Make your gems into jewelry. People’s choice for gem mining! Open March-December, Monday-Saturday from 10-5. (828)… Read More
Grand Caverns – America’s oldest continuously operated show cave voted #2 in U.S. by Parade magazine. Experience nature’s handiwork. Open daily. The aboveground park offers hiking trails, biking, fishing, swimming, miniature golf and shelter rentals. www.grandcaverns.com (888) 430-CAVE. Read More
Grandfather’s lofty heights offer guests opportunities for rejuvenation, excitement and family memories in a natural haven that will endure forever. Marvel at 360-degree views from the Mile High Swinging Bridge, stand eye-to-eye with bears, cougars, otters, eagles and deer in natural habitats and interact with our friendly, knowledgeable staff. Two… Read More
Explore Hickory! Just 45 miles from the Blowing Rock, NC Parkway exit (US 321, MP 291.8), Hickory is easily accessible and located in the beautiful foothills of the North Carolina mountains on Interstate 40. Experience our pristine Lake Hickory, hike our scenic trails, fish our sparkling streams, and… Read More
Linville Caverns – North Carolina’s only show caverns. Open all year, but days and hours vary. Courteous, experienced guides, outstanding gift shop. Located on US 221 between Linville and Marion, just 4 miles south of Parkway Milepost 317.4. Turn left on US 221 toward Linville Falls and Marion. www.linvillecaverns.com… Read More
Mystery Hill has been amazing Parkway visitors for over 70 years. Fun and educational for the entire family. Explore North Carolina’s only Natural Gravitational Anomaly (see above photo), experience hands-on science activities, create giant soap bubbles big enough to surround an adult,… Read More