As the region recovers from the destruction caused by Tropical Storm Helene, Western North Carolina is still making reports for its beauty, culture and unique features.
Writers at WorldAtlas, a publication that recognized WNC plenty of times pre-Helene, chose nine towns in N.C. for their eccentricity – seven of which were located in the western area of the state.
Founded in 1994 by cartographer John Moen and his wife, Chris Woolwine-Moen, WorldAtlas publishes educational materials and articles on geography, sociology, demography, environment, economics, politics, and travel.
Here’s what WorldAtlas said about the WNC cities they selected, plus the full list of nine most eccentric towns in N.C.
‘Most eccentric towns’ in NC
Of the nine towns on the WorldAtlas list, six are located in WNC, including Saluda, Todd, Beech Mountain, Little Switzerland, Hot Springs and Blowing Rock, and another, Mount Airy, would make a good day trip destination not far from WNC.
What to do in Saluda
WorldAtlas writers named fun and eccentric offerings of Saluda:
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Coon Dog Day, a festival celebrating the hunting dog breed with a parade, live music and contests.
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Saluda Historic Depot, for a “quieter day” learning about the town’s railroad history and its impact on the region’s development.
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The Purple Onion, a restaurant featuring live music and a menu that emphasizes local ingredients.
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Pearson’s Falls just outside of town, a botanical preserve featuring a 90-foot waterfall. Writers called the area a “perfect spot for picnics and gentle hikes.”
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Heartwood Contemporary Crafts Gallery, showcasing works from regional artists ranging from pottery to textile arts.
More: Cutest towns in North Carolina: 4 WNC towns praised for arts, outdoor offerings, attractions
What to do in Todd
Another small town with a history as a “bustling railroad hub,” Todd has plenty of options for unique entertainment and exploration. WorldAtlas pointed towards the town’s “frozen-in-time” appeal, and specifically mentioned:
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Todd New River Festival celebrating local history, music and crafts.
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Elkland Art Center, with community art projects and the Liberty Parade.
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Railroad Grade Road, a flat stretch for biking and walking, with river views and bird watching opportunities. The path traces the old railroad line.
What to do in Beech Mountain
Beech Mountain is known, among other things, for being the highest town in the Eastern United States, with an elevation of 5,506 feet above sea level. WorldAtlas suggested:
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The Land of Oz theme park, originally opened in 1970. The park is now open for a few select times throughout the year, including the annual “Autumn at Oz” festival.
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Beech Mountain Ski Resort, with skiing, snowboarding, ice skating and tubing in the winter, plus mountain biking and disc golf during the warmer months.
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Fred’s Backside Deli, with “hearty meals and essential groceries,” and Beech Mountain Brewing Co. for locally brewed beers.
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The Emerald Outback at Beech Mountain, a trail park offering over 8 miles of biking and hiking trails suited to various skill levels against the backdrop of mountain vistas.
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The annual Cool 5 race from the Buckeye Recreation Center, a challenging run featuring 5K, 1.5-mile, and quarter-mile courses.
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What to do in Little Switzerland
Perhaps one of the more obvious candidates for eccentric towns, Little Switzerland is perched at 3,500 feet along the Blue Ridge Parkway. WorldAtlas mentioned:
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The area’s “quaint European charm,” with chalet-style buildings and views of the Appalachian Mountains. WorldAtlas called the town a “haven for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility away from the bustling city life.”
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The Switzerland Inn, with cozy accommodations and dining featuring mountain views and serving as a base for exploring the area.
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The nearby Emerald Village, where guests can tour historic mines and pan for gems.
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Trails at Crabtree Falls, featuring a 70-foot waterfall.
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Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site a short drive away, with insight into the life of the famed American poet.
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Little Switzerland Books & Beans: Unwind with a good book and enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere.
The Little Switzerland General Store and Cafe sits just off the Blue Ridge Parkway near Spruce Pine.
Hot Springs
Note: Hot Springs was devastated by flooding from Tropical Storm Helene, and many attractions and businesses such as the Hot Springs Resort & Spa and Iron Horse Station are closed and in recovery mode. Before planning a trip to Hot Springs, make sure the town — and its businesses — are open.
That said, here’s what WorldAtlas reported about Hot Springs:
Only about 40 miles north of Asheville, Hot Springs is a “natural gateway” to Appalachian Mountains and stands on the historic route of the Appalachian Trail. The town has a history as a resort town as early as the 19th century and host to a detainment camp during World War I. Here’s what WorldAtlas suggests:
● The Hot Springs Resort & Spa, with private hot tubs directly fed by the mineral springs for a secluded bathing experience.
● Lover’s Leap Hike, with views of the surrounding mountains and river, making it a popular choice for hikers and photographers alike.
● Dining options such as the Iron Horse Station, which is a restaurant, inn and tavern set in a restored historic building, offering local cuisine with a focus on Appalachian ingredients.
● Bluff Mountain Gallery, showcasing work by local artists ranging from paintings to handmade crafts.
More: As many eateries close after Helene, a listening lounge, wine bar opens in West Asheville
What to do in Blowing Rock
With the natural curiosity of the Blowing Rock itself, featuring winds that flow upward causing objects and snow to “defy gravity,” it’s no wonder the town made it onto the WorldAtlas list. Here’s what writers suggest:
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Blowing Rock Art & History Museum offers a deep dive into regional culture and art, with exhibitions from local artists and historical collections that detail the town’s past.
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Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, featuring a preserved estate with miles of trails and the Flat Top Manor at its center, offering crafts and history.
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Dining options such as the Chestnut Grille at the Green Park Inn, serving locally sourced cuisine in a historic hotel setting, and Bald Guy Brew for local coffee.
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Blowing Rock Winterfest, celebrating the colder months with ice carving, polar plunges and winter brews.
What to do in Mount Airy
Last but not least, Mount Airy is known as the hometown of Andy Griffith and inspiration for the town of Mayberry from his famous show. The town draws fans and visitors. Here’s what WorldAtlas suggests for anyone checking the area out:
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The Andy Griffith Museum, housing the largest collection of Andy Griffith memorabilia with items from his early career and the show itself.
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A stroll down Main Street and into Floyd’s City Barber Shop, “where haircuts come with stories and memories of the show.”
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Dining options including Snappy Lunch and its “Pork Chop Sandwich,” a local favorite since the 1920s that Griffith’s endorsement on his show.
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Annual Mayberry Days Festival, with music, parades and appearances by actors from the series, creating a festive celebration of Mount Airy’s place in television history.
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Pilot Mountain State Park, with mountain views and numerous hiking trails.
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Most eccentric small towns in NC
The full list of seven from WorldAtlas:
Iris Seaton is the trending news reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at iseaton@citizentimes.com.
This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: WorldAtlas’ most eccentric towns in NC: Little Switzerland, Todd, more