The Perfect Weekend in Black Mountain: An Itinerary
Written by Macy Elliott, UNC Greensboro
Black Mountain, North Carolina is a charming town nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains that offers a unique mix of outdoor adventure, local art, great food, charming shops, soulful music, and warm-hearted people. Whether you’re here to relax, hike, or experience the local culture, Black Mountain has it all. Make plans today to visit Black Mountain any time of year, and here’s a weekend itinerary to help you make the most of your experience.
Editor’s note: Before you head out to explore nature, please check our blog story about local and state parks and trails that are closed for repairs following the destruction of Hurricane Helene.
Friday: Settle In and Stroll Through Town
The Monte Vista Hotel
Start by checking in at a cozy inn or vacation rental. The Monte Vista Hotel is a great choice, offering historic charm just a minute or two from downtown Black Mountain. Once you’re settled, head out for a delicious dinner or enjoy the hotel restaurant, Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails. We highly recommend the patio!
Dinner at The Trailhead Restaurant & Bar: Kick off your culinary experience with a meal at this popular spot offering Southern classics with a twist.
After dinner, stroll down Cherry and State streets to explore the charming shops and galleries. If it’s a weekend night, stop by Pisgah Brewing Company for live music and a local craft beer under the stars.
Saturday Morning: Breakfast and the Great Outdoors
Blue Ridge Biscuit Company
Breakfast at Blue Ridge Biscuit Company: Start your day with a hearty Southern breakfast. Known for its oversized biscuits, sweet breads, savory toppings, and friendly folks, this local spot will fuel you up for the day ahead.
Hike Lookout Trail: Just a short drive from town, Lookout Trail offers a moderate hike with rewarding views of Black Mountain and the surrounding area. It’s a roughly one-mile round trip, making it a manageable yet invigorating morning activity.
Saturday Afternoon: Shopping and Art Galleries
Black Mountain Arts (artist Nate Barton)
Lunch at Black Mountain Bistro: Head back into town for lunch at Black Mountain Bistro, where you’ll find fresh farm-to-table options and Southern classics.
Explore Art Galleries and Shops: Spend the afternoon browsing Black Mountain’s artsy side. Seven Sisters Gallery and Red House Studios & Gallery, for instance, showcase unique local crafts, jewelry, and fine art. You’ll find everything from pottery and paintings to handmade jewelry.
Coffee at The Dripolator Coffeehouse: Recharge at this popular coffee spot, which serves excellent coffee, tea, and homemade pastries every day until 6:00 p.m. It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy some people-watching downtown.
Saturday Evening: Dinner and Sunset Views
The Pure & Proper
Dinner at The Pure & Proper: A cozy downtown eatery in an historic downtown building, The Pure & Proper offers everything from morning espresso and street waffles to a light lunch on the patio to dinner and craft cocktails surrounded in cozy ambiance.
Sunset at Lake Tomahawk Park: Just a short drive or walk from town, Lake Tomahawk Park is an ideal spot for an evening stroll and a scenic view of the sunset over the mountains. The peaceful setting and stunning views are a perfect way to unwind.
Sunday: Brunch and a Little More Adventure
Catawba Falls (Source: Boots on the Trail)
Brunch at Louise’s Kitchen: This quirky and charming spot serves brunch favorites in a converted home with cozy decor. With an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients, it’s a great way to ease into your final day.
Explore Catawba Falls: If you have time for one more adventure, head to Catawba Falls, a beautiful hike along the river that leads to a breathtaking waterfall. This easy-to-moderate hike is family-friendly and offers plenty of photo opportunities.
Last-Minute Shopping at Town Hardware & General Store: Before you head out, stop by this nostalgic general store for souvenirs and locally made goods. It’s a Black Mountain staple and offers everything from hiking supplies to unique gifts.
Plan Your Trip
Black Mountain’s mix of natural beauty, artistic charm, and local flavor makes it an unforgettable weekend destination. This itinerary—and this website!—captures the essence of the town and allows you to experience its most popular attractions without feeling rushed. Whether you’re here to relax or explore, a weekend in Black Mountain is bound to leave you refreshed and inspired.
A Partnership with Purpose
About this Story: Students in Dr. Sara MacSween’s Advanced Marketing Management class at UNC Greensboro partnered with the Town of Black Mountain in Fall 2024 to promote the town’s reopening following Hurricane Helene and its ongoing marketing efforts. The North Carolina Department of Commerce, Rural Economic Development Division announced in January 2023 that thirty-four local governments from across the state, including Black Mountain, would participate in the Creating Outdoor Recreation Economies (CORE) Program. This collaboration is supported by an U.S. Economic Development Administration State Tourism Grant. CLICK HERE to learn more about the partnership.
About the Author: This blog story was written by Macy Elliott (Class of 2024), a UNCG senior marketing major with a concentration in social media. Her stated career goals include joining a marketing team focused on social media for sports teams or the business side of marketing.
