Blowing Rock
Most people visit Blowing Rock, North Carolina, for the fresh mountain air and abundance of outdoor activities. No matter the reason or the season, it’s always a great time to visit. A tourist destination for more than 120 years, Blowing Rock is the place to leave all your cares behind, relax and unwind, or get out in nature for some outdoor adventure.
Blowing Rock is known as North Carolina’s oldest attraction, since it opened back in 1933. It is an immense cliff 4,000 feet above sea level, overhanging Johns River Gorge 3,000 feet below. The phenomenon gets its name because the rocky walls of the gorge form a flume through which the northwest wind sweeps with such force that it returns light objects cast over the void. In Blowing Rock, you can enjoy the scenic views and observation tower, gardens, small garden waterfall and unique gift shop. There is a short trail to reach the rock (about 1200 feet long) and gives you views of the observation tower, overlook, waterfall, gardens, and the Blowing Rock itself!
A year-round, high country outdoor playground right off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Blowing Rock is less than 2 hours from Charlotte and just over 3 hours from the capital of Raleigh. Perfect for a day trip. The attraction also hosts two annual music festival events!
- Tripadvisor Rating: 4.0/5
- Admission: $9 for adults, $8 for students, $7 for military, seniors, and veterans & $3 for children
- Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Best Places to Stay: Chetola Resort, The Getaway Blowing Rock, The Manor
- Location: Watauga County, North Carolina
