Things to do in Banner Elk

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Banner Elk Travel Guide

Banner Elk Attractions

There's something quite special about smaller cities. Whether you're on your way to Banner Elk for a couple of days or you're planning on staying longer, you'll quickly fall in love with this destination. In fact, with so many thrilling things to do and extraordinary attractions to enjoy, you mightn't want to leave!

If you're ready to discover the best of Banner Elk, join one of the top tours & day trips on offer, and let an expert show you some of the most popular sites. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our {1 fun activities in Banner Elk fun activities in Banner Elk} are also worth checking out.

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Recommended things to do in Banner Elk

Number of things to do	1
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia	Grandfather Mountain Private Wine & Dine Tour from Asheville: $460
Top 5 things to do	Grandfather Mountain Private Wine & Dine Tour from Asheville
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Banner Elk

Free Things to Do in Banner Elk

A visit to Banner Elk need not cost a fortune. You can leave your wallet at home if you check out:

Grandfather Trout Farm

- If you love animals, don't return home without spending time here.

Lees-McRae College

- Get ready to feel like you've taken a step back in time while roaming around this historic site.

Things to Do in Banner Elk with Kids

Banner Elk boasts loads of close by fun things to do for you and the kids. Our family friendly experiences will keep the gang happy for days.

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Banner Elk? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

Discover the most popular places to visit in Banner Elk

Beech Mountain Resort

4.5/5(113 reviews)

Hit the slopes in Banner Elk with a visit to Beech Mountain Resort. Discover the mountain views in this family-friendly area, or enjoy its hiking trails.

Throughout my childhood I spent so much time at this park. I always remember of thinking of it as the park in the middle of the mountains. What I never noticed as a child was how every single aspect of this park was planned out and put there for a reason. Likewise before studying the photographic image I had never thought about how we construct a image and its affordances and constraints. One thing I really want to point out in this image is that while we have this beautiful park there is a huge ugly pipe in the middle of the photograph. It is part of the necessity of the planning of the park, just like the frame is a necessity of an image. We sometimes want to forget it is there but it is a necessary part of an image and still has meaning. #appalachianechoes

Tate-Evans Park

You can learn about the history of Banner Elk when you stop by Tate-Evans Park. Discover the area's mountain views, or seek out its ski slopes.

Sugar Mountain Resort

4.5/5(161 reviews)

Hit the slopes in Sugar Mountain with a visit to Sugar Mountain Resort. Discover the area's mountain views, or seek out its hiking trails.

Land of Oz

4.5/5(29 reviews)

Enjoy a fun-filled day at Land of Oz during your visit to Beech Mountain. Discover the area's mountain views, or seek out its ski slopes.

Hawksnest Tubing Park

4/5(54 reviews)

Hit the slopes in Seven Devils with a visit to Hawksnest Tubing Park. Discover the area's mountain views, or seek out its hiking trails.

Lees-McRae College

4.5/5(37 reviews)

Enjoy the collegiate vibe when you visit Lees-McRae College, during your travels in Banner Elk. Discover the area's mountain views, or seek out its hiking trails.

Banner Elk Winery

4.5/5(37 reviews)

You can enjoy a tasting or tour at Banner Elk Winery during your travels to Banner Elk. Discover the mountain views in this family-friendly area, or enjoy its ski slopes.

Apple Hill Farm

4/5(9 reviews)

Enjoy a trip to Apple Hill Farm and popular activities like hiking in Banner Elk. Discover the area's mountain views, or seek out its ski slopes.

Grandfather Vineyard & Winery

You can enjoy a tasting or tour at Grandfather Vineyard & Winery during your travels to Banner Elk. Discover the mountain views in this family-friendly area, or enjoy its hiking trails.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Banner Elk

Mill Ridge

While Mill Ridge might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Grandfather Vineyard & Winery and Julian Price Park.

This was taken at a shopping center in Banner Elk. The entire center is designed to have this “old timey” feel. The shops have been upkept with this sort of historic architecture. There is this idea that Appalachia is somewhat detached from modernity, and commercial architects like to play into this. The same effect is seen in other parts of Appalachia and just on the east coast in general, for example Williamsburg, VA. The reality is that this “quaint” little town is just the same as any other place in the United States. We’re looking at BB&T, a commercial bank that is far from particular to place. The region of Appalachia can sometimes be less distinct than we like to think, and I feel this image captures this sort of denial of singularity. #appalachianechoes

Tynecastle

If you're spending some time in Tynecastle, Grandfather Mountain State Park and Watauga River are top sights worth seeing.

Charter Hills

While there might not be top attractions in Charter Hills, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Beech Mountain Resort and Land of Oz.

See our Where To Stay guide

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

Popular day trips from Banner Elk

Grandfather Mountain showing mountains and forests

Blowing Rock

Grandfather Mountain showing a suspension bridge or treetop walkway as well as an individual male

Linville

Beech Mountain

Vilas

Seven Devils

Newland

Valle Crucis

Boone

Frequently asked questions

Is Banner Elk worth visiting?

Known for its hiking and skiing, discovering fun things to do in Banner Elk is a cinch. Be sure to add Grandfather Mountain to your trip itinerary when here.

How do I spend a day in Banner Elk?

After you've visited top attractions like Land of Oz and Grandfather Trout Farm, spend the rest of your day exploring the retail and food options in Banner Elk.

What is the top tourist attraction in Banner Elk?

You can't leave without visiting Grandfather Mountain, rated the top tourist attraction in Banner Elk.

Is three days enough to stay in Banner Elk?

You can easily visit popular attractions like Grandfather Mountain, Hawksnest Tubing Park and Land of Oz with a three-day stay in Banner Elk. On average, many travelers book three days here. There's plenty to do and see nearby too, so linger longer and venture to Boone.

Is Banner Elk a walkable city?

If touring on foot sounds like your kind of getaway, Banner Elk is a great place to visit. Find leading attractions, like Hawksnest Tubing Park, a walkable distance from downtown. You can also go for a stroll around Charter Hills, a vibrant neighborhood located about 3 miles from the city center.

What are some activities to do in Banner Elk with kids?

If you're searching for sights and tours for all of your group, have a look at these fabulous ideas for what to do in Banner Elk with kids.

What to do in Banner Elk for adults?

Banner Elk Winery and Grandfather Vineyard & Winery are just a few of the things to do in Banner Elk. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.

Are there free things to do in Banner Elk?

In Banner Elk, Grandfather Trout Farm is an unmissable spot for anyone wishing to tour the city without opening their wallet. Also, check out the local parks and neighborhoods, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's a simple way to explore the best free things to do in Banner Elk.

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