BooneUnited States of America

Boone is a college town in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Sip coffee in cafés or hop between student bars. Get out into the surrounding nature and go hiking, rafting and horseback riding through the stunning mountain range.

The town is named for legendary American explorer Daniel Boone, who camped here several times during his travels. Every summer since 1952, the town's outdoor amphitheater puts on a theatrical retelling of Boone's life.

Boone is home to Appalachian State University, which caters to about 17,000 students. College students fill the town’s cafés and bars. On weekends, watch the university’s sports team, the Mountaineers, play a home game.

Go shopping in some of the boutiques that line downtown streets. Explore the galleries that are contributing to the growing arts scene.

Families with children will love the Children's Playhouse, a museum aimed at Boone's younger visitors. Create artwork and play in interactive exhibits. Foggy Mountain Gem Mine is another family-friendly destination. Armed with all the tools you need, dig into their rock selection and see what gems you can discover.

Take advantage of Boone’s picturesque location in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Go rafting down New River, which runs through town. Explore the area by kayak or purchase a rod to go fishing. Go mountain biking, hiking or horseback riding along one of the area's many trails. All activities can be organized at the Boone Visitor Information Center on the main strip in downtown. From here you can walk the Greenway Trail, a paved path that curves through the woods and along the river.

Rent a car to get to Boone from nearby cities. Charlotte, North Carolina is 117 miles (188.3 kilometers) south. Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is a destination in itself. This scenic National Parkway and All-American Road stretches for 469 miles (755 kilometers) through Virginia and North Carolina along the Appalachian Mountains.