29+ Fun Things to Do in Downtown Black Mountain NC & Nearby
Looking for Things to Do in Downtown Black Mountain NC?
Black Mountain, NC, is a small but busy town in Buncombe County, 15 miles outside Asheville. It is your quintessential, quaint North Carolina mountain town filled with local businesses, historical buildings, and beautiful outdoor activities. Black Mountain has been named the “Prettiest Small Town in America” because of its stunning location.
Black Mountain was named after the tall mountain range that overlooks the town and was once an important area for the Cherokee Native Americans. During the 19th and 20th centuries, Black Mountain stood as a pillar and became a major pathway for immigrants, commercial trade, and other businesses. Black Mountain became a haven for artists, painters, musicians, and like-minded people as the years flew by.
Today, Black Mountain is still that peaceful, artistic village it always has been. There are over 200 businesses in the town alone, including wonderful restaurants, historical museums, art centers, and so much more.
[display-map id=’2441′]Things to Do in Downtown Black Mountain NC
Don’t let its small size deter you from visiting. Although a small town, Black Mountain is full of exciting things to see and do. Here is a list of many things you can do while visiting the lovely Black Mountain, North Carolina.
1. Black Mountain Brewing
Address: 131 Broadway Ave, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Black Mountain Brewing opened in 2017 with their brewmaster, the “mad scientist” from Asheville, to give the community a place where they could relax, make connections, and drink great beer. In this modern, urban setting, they offer seven rotating taps with several unique flavors.
At this dog-friendly brewery, you can enjoy any of your favorite beers inside or on their beautiful outdoor patio, looking out onto the mountains. Behind the taproom is their food truck called “Smoke,” where they serve wood-fired Southern comfort food and BBQ.
2. Lookout Brewing Company
Address: 103 S Ridgeway Ave #1, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Lookout Brewery began in an old strip mall unit in 2013 and has grown into one of the community’s favorite breweries/taprooms. Lookout Brewing Company strives to create new and unique flavors you’ve never tried before. This includes smoked Beer-B-Q Rauchbiers and chocolatey IPAs.
Lookout has a great location with panoramic views of the mountains from their outdoor patio, which includes fire pits and food trucks. The inside of the taproom is spacious and comfortable. All parts of Lookout Brewing Company are kid-friendly and dog-friendly.
3. Pisgah Brewing
Address: 2948 US-70, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Pisgah Brewing is a popular name in the Asheville brewing scene. Having been open since 2005, they produce some of the most sought-after ales in the Western North Carolina region. At Pisgah Brewing, it’s all about good vibes and great beers, perfect for a casual evening out.
Their taproom is on a large property with a stage that holds lots of live music events. Guests are invited to enjoy shows from any of their picnic tables or bring a blanket to sit out on the lawn. Rotating food trucks visit the taproom every Thursday and Sunday and during all live events, and all guests are allowed to bring their own food.
4. Black Mountain Ciderworks + Meadery
Address: 104 Eastside Dr #307, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Not everyone enjoys an IPA or a strong beer, which is why Black Mountain Ciderworks and Meadery is a wonderful change of pace. Located in an old furniture factory building, Black Mountain Ciderworks and Meadery work with the freshest ingredients and traditional practices to create the best-tasting ciders and meads. You will see flavors and try things you’ve never tried before!
The atmosphere in their taproom is warm and inviting, and the service is spot-on and full of passion. There is a great selection of sweet and savory drinks that fit all palates. You’ll want to keep coming back.
5. Black Mountain Ale Trail
Address: 131 Broadway Ave, Black Mountain, NC 28711 (Black Mountain Brewery)
The Black Mountain Ale Trail is a guided brewery tour taken by bus. All tours start and end at Black Mountain Brewery. At Black Mountain Brewery, they are passionate about beer and the natural beauty of the area, which inspires them to make these beers. So they created a tour to give guests a chance to see this natural beauty, fellow breweries, and the mountains they call home.
The tour takes guests through Black Mountain and into the Old Fort areas of Western North Carolina. Each tour stops at Lookout Brewing, Hillman Beer, Oak & Grist Distillery, and Pisgah Brewing, complete with tastings at each location. The journey is about 3.5 hours long and is the best way to visit most of the breweries in one day while trying new beers and learning more about each brewery. All tour members must be 21 or older.
6. Black Mountain Center for the Arts
Address: 225 W State St, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Housed in the former Black Mountain City Hall, the Black Mountain Center for the Arts opened in 2000 after years of fundraising efforts from the community saved this historic building and created a space to achieve a mission of “bringing arts to the people and people to the arts”.
Today the facility includes an art gallery, a theater for concerts and plays, a dance studio, a visual arts studio, and a clay studio. They offer a vast number of classes, including a variety of dance styles, music, and voice lessons, acting and improv classes, clay classes, and more. The Black Mountain Center for the Arts has become a major asset to the community.
7. Swannanoa Valley Museum & History Center
Address: 223 W State St, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Located in an old firehouse building built in 1921, the Swannanoa Valley Museum & History Center is the primary museum of general history about Black Mountain and Buncombe County. The museum opened in 1989 as a non-profit museum that helps teach visitors about the importance of this region’s history.
Once a year, the museum mounts at least one major temporary exhibit on the first floor as an intro to the permanent exhibits on the second floor. Swannanoa Valley Museum is the best museum in Black Mountain for learning about Swannanoa Valley, the history of the Native people who lived here, and so much more.
8. Hey Hey Cupcake
Address: 102 W State St, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Two sisters, local to the Black Mountain area, opened Hey Hey Cupcake in 2012 after feeling like the town needed a sweet treat. They have come up with exciting new cupcake flavors that are made fresh daily to serve hungry guests. You will find flavors like key-lime, Fred velvet, Boston creme, carrot cake, and all your favorite classic flavors.
Hey Hey, Cupcake is the perfect company to cater your special events, or you can simply stop in and grab a treat to go. They also offer cake balls, cakes, and divine gluten-free options. They do not disappoint!
9. Berliner Kindl German Restaurant & Deli
Address: 121 Broadway Ave, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Berliner Kindl is an authentic German-style restaurant with traditional German food and drink. You’ll feel like you’re right in Germany once you step into the restaurant and dive into a plate of delicious schnitzel with true German beer.
In the front of the restaurant, you’ll see a small deli counter with a selection of meats and a gift shop with coffees, teas, chocolates, beers, and wines. It isn’t every day you stumble upon German food as genuine as the food at Berliner Kindl! The whole family will enjoy it.
10. The Dripolator Coffeehouse
Address: 221 W State St, Black Mountain, NC 28711
The Dripolator has been proudly serving the Black Mountain community since 1999. They buy only the best quality beans and roast them off-site in an American-made Diedrich roaster. They take their coffee seriously to give customers the finest coffee drinks around.
The Dripolator Coffeehouse also serves a lovely selection of pastries, fresh-made smoothies, frappes, and gluten-free options. Everything is handmade in-house. They have comfortable indoor and outdoor seating in their cute little brick building in downtown Black Mountain.
11. Trailhead Restaurant and Bar
Address: 207 W State St, Black Mountain, NC 28711
The Trailhead Restaurant is owned and operated by restaurant veteran Michael Flanigan. All food is cooked fresh and made just how you like it. There is a wide selection of elegant seafood dishes, tacos, burgers, and an excellent kids’ menu. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, and you can’t beat great food at a great price.
12. Cousins Cuban Cafe
Address: 108 Broadway Ave, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Betty Martinez-Sperry is first generation Cuban-American and is proudly serving the community authentic Cuban recipes passed down from her grandmother to her mother and down to her. The Cousins Cuban Cafe is a tribute to her family and that Cuban heritage as she shares rich, robust Cuban flavors with everyone.
All dishes are made fresh daily in the kitchen. They serve breakfast and lunch and a variety of sides and desserts. They often hold community events and have a large space open for private events with catering options. Try something new, different, and delicious at Cousins Cuban Cafe.
13. Art Galleries
You will find numerous shopping and art galleries to add to your list of things to do in Downtown Black Mountain NC
🎨 Seven Sisters Gallery
Address: 119 Broadway Ave, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Seven Sisters Gallery opened its doors in 1981, and ever since then, they have been showcasing local art and crafts to the community. At Seven Sisters Gallery, they strive to find the best handmade art with several price points for everyone to enjoy and purchase. They currently feature over 250 artists from around Western North Carolina.
🎨 Red House Studio (Swannanoa Valley Fine Arts League)
Address: 310 W State St, Black Mountain, NC 28711
The Swannanoa Valley Fine Arts League began in 1967 in the Monte Vista Hotel as an outlet for mainly women to let their creative sides thrive. It started small with only members from Black Mountain but quickly reached people from Asheville, Hendersonville, and Morganton. In 2011, the league had the opportunity to take over The Red House.
The Red House Studio and Gallery is home to many working studios for artists, including a life drawing studio, a classroom, a library corner, kitchen facilities, and a large area for dedicated gallery space. Public guests are welcome to enter The Red House to see the rotating exhibits on display. Exhibits range from paintings and photography to sculptures, ceramics, jewelry, and more.
14. Old Depot Arts & Crafts Center
Address: 207 Sutton Ave, Black Mountain, NC 28711
The Old Depot Arts & Crafts Center started as a non-profit organization to help preserve the 100-year-old Black Mountain Train Depot and to help support the heritage crafts of Swannanoa Valley. They raise money for heritage art school projects with their art gallery, art shows, and art-themed fundraisers.
Art by the Tracks is their famous popular event that takes place biannually in downtown Black Mountain (see Annual Events in Black Mountain section below.) Otherwise, you can always visit their art gallery, which has a selection of different art by local artists.
15. White Horse Black Mountain
Address: 105 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain, NC 28711
White Horse Black Mountain is a live stage and music venue. The venue has a quaint, intimate setting with comfortable cabaret-style seating, couches, and sofas. They hold an open mic night and host local and national musicians with all different styles of music.
The building was built in the 1940s, which gives it that cool, jazzy feel. The stage is just above floor level, making the experience feel personal and unique. White Horse Black Mountain has a full bar and a small concession stand with snacks and soft drinks, and there is a beautiful outdoor patio.
16. My Father’s Pizza & Pasta
Address: 110 Cherry St, Black Mountain, NC 28711
My Father’s Pizza and Pasta is an Italian-style mom-and-pop restaurant in downtown Black Mountain. They started off as a small, to-go-only pop-up shop and are now a fully functioning restaurant and pizza parlor.
They use only fresh ingredients at My Father’s Pizza and Pasta, and all food is made using old family recipes. They have an extensive menu with pasta dishes, stromboli, salads, subs, desserts, and amazing gourmet specialty pizzas. On your visit, you must try the My Father’s Supreme Pizza.
17. Thai Basil
Address: 227 W State St, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Are you looking for Thai food? Thai Basil is the best spot in the area to suit all your Thai food needs. The spacious building has lots of indoor and outdoor seating, and the menu has all your favorite classic Thai dishes and drinks. Stop in for an authentic plate of fried wontons and Tom Yum Sum soup, try their curries or get Pad Thai plates to-go.
18. Foothills Grange Honest Meats
Address: 120 Broadway Ave, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Foothill Grange started as a deli counter serving lunches and pick-up dinners to-go. They have all local fresh meats and even their line of house-made deli meats. The deli quickly became a local favorite, and their business grew. Now, 20 years later, The Grange has opened, steps away from where it first started.
The Foothill Grange is the newest and most exciting spot in Black Mountain. The Grange is an expansive outdoor space with seating for over 250 people. They have covered picnic tables, patio seating, and a fun kids’ area with dirt piles and Tonka trucks.
Foothill Grange’s premier food truck sits on the side and serves guests their classic menu with burgers, special recipe hot dogs, and sandwiches. The main building has a bar with 16 rotating taps and slushies for the kids.
19. Shopping in Black Mountain
Ready for some amazing shopping? Add these places to your list of things to do in downtown Black Mountain NC.
🛍️ Europa
Address: 125 Cherry St, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Opened in 2014, the owners of Europa sought to bring a touch of Europe to Black Mountain. They have gifts imported from almost 20 different European countries, including Italian glass, Polish pottery, German trinkets, chocolates, pottery, and more. If you are looking for a unique present or Christmas gift, you’ll find it at Europa.
🛍️ Mountain Nest
Address: 133 Cherry St, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Mountain Nest is an art gallery showcasing works from over 100 different local artists. The art presented includes handmade jewelry, blown glass, pottery, baskets, bowls, clothing, and many varieties of media paintings. Mountain Nest welcomes anyone to simply come to admire art or shop for a piece that calls to them.
🛍️ Sassafras on Sutton
Address: 108 Sutton Ave, Black Mountain, NC 29811
Sassafras on Sutton is located in one of the town’s great historical buildings. The two floors are filled with books, toys, plenty of gift options, and a full espresso cafe. If you’re looking for a cozy place to look for a good book, or you are searching for the perfect gift, Sassafras on Sutton is the best store to be.
🛍️ Take a Hike Outfitters
Address: 100 Sutton Ave, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Black Mountain is tucked away in the mountains, and the area is well-known for having amazing outdoor adventures. The owners of Take a Hike Outfitters saw that the town needed a full outdoor gear and clothing store to aid people in preparing for their journey. They opened their store in 1999 and have been thriving ever since.
Take a Hike Outfitters is the best spot in town to pick up some extra camping gear and a new pair of hiking shoes or talk to knowledgeable people about the right equipment you need.
🛍️ WNC Outdoor Collective
Address: 110 Black Mountain Ave, Black Mountain, NC 28711
WNC Outdoor Collective is just about any outdoor enthusiast’s dream store. Here, you can shop for the best outdoor clothing for you, your pets, or your kids with a selection of over 30 brand names. After you shop, you are invited to sit down and have a beer or grab a coffee brewed by Black Mountains very own Dynamite Roasters. The Outdoor Collective is all about bringing people together through the love of the outdoors, great beer, great coffee, and great gear.
WNC Outdoor Collective is not only a gear shop but also an excellent place for any information about the area, where they can give you maps and advice for the best hiking trails, waterfalls, etc. They also offer rentals for paddleboards, E-Bikes, fly rods, and camping equipment.
🛍️ Antique Shopping
Being the old mountain town it is, Black Mountain is filled with antiques and memorabilia from its long past. There are five antique stores in downtown Black Mountain and many more just outside the city.
Whether you are interested in exploring little bits of the Swannanoa Valley history or you want to find a beautiful relic to take home, Black Mountain’s antique stores are just where you want to be.
20. Oak and Grist Distilling Company
Address: 1556 Grovestone Rd, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Oak and Grist is a gin and whiskey distillery that has all spirits made 100% from scratch using traditional Scottish techniques. All of their ingredients are made fresh and grown locally with the support of local farmers. Oak and Grist are one of the Southeast’s few grain-to-grass distilleries, and they have unique flavors that celebrate the Appalachian region.
Upon your arrival, you can tour the distillery and learn more about their process, or you can sit down at the bar and dive right into the delicious hand-crafted cocktails. They have a seasonal menu with flavors adhering to the current season and a classic menu with a few of their staple cocktails. The atmosphere is modern and urban, and they have excellent service. They are dog-friendly and kid-friendly.
21. Louise’s Kitchen
Address: 115 Black Mountain Ave, Black Mountain, NC 28711
All good towns have that perfect brunch spot. Louise’s Kitchen is that place for Black Mountain. Louises’s Kitchen is located in a charming house built in 1904. The atmosphere is relaxing and easy. Guests are welcome to sit indoors, on the front porch, or at one of the picnic tables on the lawn. All food is made with local ingredients and cooked fresh daily.
The menu is like your classic brunch menu, including delicious blueberry waffles and a delicious selection of soups. Besides being a great brunch spot, Louise’s Kitchen is most known for its housemade jams and vanilla bean syrup.
22. Que Sera
Address: 101 Black Mountain Ave, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Que Sera is on the finer side of dining in Black Mountain. They serve decadent seafood dishes and nightly specials. All food is made using seasonally fresh ingredients from local growers and farmers. Que Sera is an excellent choice if you are looking for a special place for a date night or are interested in having a romantic evening.
23. Tayloe’s Oyster Bar
Address: 101 Black Mountain Ave, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Tayloe’s Oyster Bar is part of Que Sera and is located right next door. They are one of the best places to get oysters in Western North Carolina. Tayloe’s offers an upscale, fun dining experience with fresh East Coast oysters and other seafood dishes.
They have a beautifully crafted wine list with wines from local wineries to pair with the oysters. Considered a “culinary gem,” Tayloe’s will delight and surprise you and keep you coming back.
24. Fresh Wood Fired Pizza & Pasta
Address: 100 S Ridgeway Ave, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Located in a quaint house in downtown Black Mountain, Fresh Wood Fired Pizza & Pasta serves exactly that! They have a variety of artisanal, wood-fired pizzas, salads, starters, and pasta. Everything is made with locally grown, fresh ingredients.
They have comfortable, family-friendly indoor seating where you can watch the pizzas cooking right in the brick oven. They also serve locally brewed craft beers and wines. It is the perfect place for a casual family dining night.
25. Mac’s Burgers and Cheesesteaks
Address: 104 West St, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Mac’s Burgers and Cheesesteaks has notably the best burgers in town. Every burger is made special to your liking, and they have a large selection of delicious toppings and sides. Whatever kind of burger you prefer, they are happy to make it for you at Mac’s.
During your visit, you must try The Mac Burger, a juicy burger covered in chili and crispy slaw, and it is the classic North Carolina favorite.
26. Veranda Cafe & Gift
Address: 119 Cherry St, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Veranda Cafe has been a Black Mountain staple since 1996. They have all your favorite housemade Southern-favorite lunch dishes, including soups, sandwiches, salads, and desserts.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, like any small mountain town cafe, and it is the perfect place to stop for a warm lunch with the family. They offer splendid soup sandwich combos and delicious sweet treats to finish your meal.
27. Town Pump Tavern
Address: 135 Cherry St, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Town Pump Tavern is just about as classic as a small-town tavern as you can get and the oldest tavern in Black Mountain. The lighting is dim, the walls are wooden and filled with pictures, and the bartenders will become your best friends. They often play live music during the weekends. It’s always a great time at Town Pump Tavern.
28. Black Mountain Natural Foods
Address: 108 Black Mountain Ave, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Black Mountain Natural Foods is Black Mountains’ premier health and natural food store. They have helpful service and an impressive variety of natural and eco-friendly products. Their products range from supplements and herbs to organic dairy, meats, and fresh produce, and they have a large bulk food selection with herbs, grains, spices, and nuts.
29. Dynamite Roasting Co
Address: 3198 US-70, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Dynamite Roasting Co is Black Mountains’ best coffee roasting company. All of their coffee is 100% certified organic and fair trade, and they work hard to give customers the finest beans they can find. Working with real farmers and local growers, each cup of Dynamite Roasting Co coffee is always fresh, farm to cup.
Their retail shop and coffee bar are located in a cozy craftsman’s house just outside of downtown Black Mountain. They are a full-service cafe with freshly made coffee and espresso drinks. Here, you can also purchase a bag of beans to-go or pick up some Dynamite Roasting Co merchandise.
Outdoor Activities & Hikes near Black Mountain NC
✅ Lake Tomahawk Park
Address: 401 Laurel Cir Dr #3061, Black Mountain, NC 28711
Lake Tomahawk Park is a 16-acre park located in central Black Mountain. The lake is open for fishing, and you’ll find a 0.55-mile walking trail around the lake, perfect for a nice stroll. Around the rest of the park, you’ll find a playground, swimming pool, tennis courts, horseshoe pits, picnic tables, grills, and restrooms.
✅ Lookout Mountain / Lookout Mountain Trail
Address: Lookout Road, Black Mountain, NC 28711 (parking for the trailhead can be found 0.5 miles down Lookout Rd)
Lookout Mountain is a well-loved and beautiful mountain just 9 minutes from downtown Black Mountain. Lookout Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in the area.
The trail is a 1.5-mile out-and-back trail that is generally easy with a few challenging sections, and it is very steep. The top of the summit is a rocky area where hikers can rest and enjoy the views that make the whole trip well worth it.
✅ Catawba Falls
Address: 3074 Catawba Falls Rd, Old Fort, NC 28762
Catawba Falls is one of the more popular waterfalls in North Carolina. Located just 25 miles from Asheville and 15 minutes outside Black Mountain in Old Fort, NC. The falls are a beautiful series of falls that form a 100-foot cascade.
More recently, the trail to the falls is being renovated for easier access, with bridges over slippery rocks and handrails. The trail is 3 miles there and back and is considered a fairly easy trail with some elevation gain. The trail has been closed for updates and will reopen on May 31, 2024.
✅ Graybeard Mountain / Graybeard Trail
Address: Big Piney Drive, Black Mountain, NC 28711 (parking for the trailhead is a gravel parking lot)
Graybeard Mountain is a tall mountain with an elevation of 5,592 feet. You can see an impressive panoramic view of the mountains from the peak at the overlook. The mountain is often covered in clouds, with only the peak tip pointing out, hence being called “Graybeard.”
Graybeard Trail is a challenging 9.5-mile out-and-back trail, with the overlook at 4.8 miles. This trail takes an experienced hiker around 5-6 hours to complete. Graybeard Trail is well-marked and lets hikers experience a classic North Carolina hike.
There is a lot of elevation gain, rivers, small waterfalls, and picturesque mountain views. The best time to hike this trail is in the summer or early fall.
✅ Swannanoa Gap Tunnel
Address: Royal Gorge Road, Black Mountain, NC 28711- on the Buncombe-McDowell County line
The Swannanoa Gap Tunnel is a 1,832-foot-long tunnel and the longest of the seven hand-dug tunnels through the Blue Ridge Mountains. The gap trail through the tunnel was the first road to Buncombe from the East and played an important role during the Civil War.
After you drive to the Gap, there are lots of places to explore. There are three historical markers nearby: Stoneman’s Raid, Swannanoa Gap, and Swannanoa Gap Tunnel. There are family-friendly walks in the area, like Point Lookout Greenway and a short but steep hike up Mount Kitsuma.
✅ Charles D. Owen Park
Address: 875 Warren Wilson Rd, Swannanoa, NC 28778
One of the more popular parks in Swannanoa is Charles D. Owen Park. It is a 26-acre park right beside the Swannanoa River. There is a 1-mile “figure 8” walking path that follows the two fishing ponds in the park.
Other amenities include an outdoor fitness course, a playground, softball/baseball fields, basketball courts, covered picnic shelters, picnic tables, grills, and lots of grass to sit and relax in.
✅ Robert Lake Park
Address: 317 Texas Rd, Montreat, NC 28757
Right outside Black Mountain is Robert Lake Park in Montreat, North Carolina. This is an old family-friendly park that was established in 1987 and is nestled in the woods.
Many locals consider this to be one of the best kid parks in the region! There is an exciting playground with lots of climbing areas, pathways, and creek access. No dogs are allowed.
✅ Mount Mitchell
Address: Yancey County
Mount Mitchell is notably the highest peak of the Appalachian Mountains and the highest peak in mainland North America east of the Mississippi River (with an elevation of 6,664 feet.) Mount Mitchell State Park offers several outdoor explorations and beautiful sights.
A 10-minute walk from the parking area will lead you to the observation deck. The path is short but very steep. At the top, visitors will see views unlike anything they’ve ever seen.
There are many hiking trails within the state park. Some of the most popular trails include Balsam Nature Trail, Old Mitchell Trail, and Deep Gap Trail. Mount Mitchell is also a popular place for fishing and camping.
✅ Lake Lure
Address: 2724 Memorial Hwy, Lake Lure, NC 28746 (for Lake Lure Beach and Water Park)
Lake Lure is one of the most popular lakes in North Carolina, and for a good reason! Located just 40 minutes from Black Mountain, Lake Lure offers a variety of fun water activities, beach fronts, fishing opportunities, and more.
Lake Lure Beach and Water Park are the best areas to sit back and enjoy the lake. On 100 yards of clean, sandy beachfront, visitors can throw down some towels and soak up the sun. There is a small water park with water slides and games. There are also restrooms, picnic areas, and a snack shack.
Annual Events in Black Mountain NC
✅ The Sourwood Festival (August 10-11, 2024)
Address: 102-108 Black Mountain Ave, Black Mountain, NC 28711
The Sourwood Festival is an exciting two-day event mainly celebrating Sourwood honey. The festival fills downtown Black Mountain with crafts, games, live music, kids’ rides and activities, food, and art. The Sourwood Festival is always a wonderful time for the whole family and a great way to celebrate Black Mountain.
✅ {Re}HAPPENING (April 20, 2024)
Address: Black Mountain College Campus at Lake Eden
{Re} HAPPENING is an annual music and arts festival happening at the Black Mountain College Campus for one day in the spring. This event has been taking place for the last six years as a fundraising event for the Black Mountain College Museum and Arts Center.
At the event, there are lots of live music, lots of art for sale, and other exciting activities. Food trucks provide food and drink. Kids are welcome!
✅ LEAF (May 9-12, 2024, and October 17-20, 2024)
Address: 377 Lake Eden Road, Black Mountain, NC 28711
LEAF is a popular event that has been taking place since 1995. It is mainly a music festival that strives to unite people through live music, dance, culture, creativity, and art. Located on hundreds of acres in the Blue Ridge Mountain region, everyone is welcome to gather to relax, dance, and have fun!
The retreat happens in May, and the Festival is in October. LEAF is a kid and family-friendly event with many kid-friendly activities spread throughout the grounds. There are six areas designated for camping and lodging, including cabin rentals. This is one of the biggest events of the year that you definitely don’t want to miss!
✅ Art in Bloom at Black Mountain Center for the Arts (May 26 – July 23, 2023, not announced yet for 2024)
Address: 225 W State St, Black Mountain, NC 28711
For 17 years, Black Mountain Center for the Arts has been holding Art in Bloom. From May until the end of July, the center holds fundraising events, rotating art exhibits, garden tours, garden parties, and live floral arrangements.
The idea of Art in Bloom is to celebrate nature and art and to support local artists. Whether you visit all the events or just one, you are helping to support the community. There is a little something for everyone during Art in Bloom.
✅ Art by the Tracks (TBD October 2024, most likely)
Address: Sutton Ave, downtown Black Mountain, NC
Art by the Tracks is an annual art festival put on by the Black Mountain Old Depot. This is a fun, community-building street fair with lots of local art vendors, food trucks, games, activities, live music, and more. The fair usually takes place in the early fall. However, dates for 2024 are yet to be determined.
Where To Stay in Black Mountain NC
📍Ed & Rosies Place – Ed & Rosie’s Place is just outside downtown Black Mountain, within walking distance to the Town Square and many shops and restaurants. This cozy little cabin sleeps up to three people and has a lovely outside patio with a fire pit, grill, and hot tub. It is the perfect budget-friendly spot for a friend or couple’s vacation. Ed & Rosie’s place is also pet-friendly with a small extra fee.
📍Jerrett Creek Cottage – Jerrett Creek Cottage is located in Old Fort, NC, just 10 minutes outside Black Mountain and 25 minutes from Asheville. The outside of the large house resembles classic Southern architecture, with modern, cozy decor on the inside. It sleeps ten people and has two full bathrooms, a beautiful front porch, and a hot tub. The house is also situated right beside a creek. The property is 700 acres, which guests are allowed to wander on and explore. You won’t find anything more perfect for your family’s vacation to the Black Mountain/Asheville area.
Black Mountain NC: FAQs
📌 Is Black Mountain, NC, worth visiting?
Black Mountain is definitely worth visiting, especially if you are already taking a trip to Asheville. It makes for the perfect day trip with the family and is a great look into what life is like in these beautiful mountains of North Carolina.
📌 What major city is near Black Mountain, NC?
Asheville is just 15 miles from Black Mountain. Hendersonville is 37 miles, and Morganton is 41 miles.
📌 How far is Black Mountain from Biltmore Estate?
Black Mountain is just 13 miles from Biltmore Estate.
📌 Is Black Mountain NC walkable?
Black Mountain is very walkable. Practically everything downtown can be reached by foot.
📌 Are there bears in Black Mountain, NC?
Black bears roam all over western North Carolina. They are present in and around Black Mountain, though most bears usually stay away from downtown centers. If you are hiking in the area, you will unlikely encounter a bear but bring protection just in case.
📌 Is Black Mountain, NC, the little town that rocks?
Black Mountain is nicknamed “The Little Town That Rocks.” When you visit, you will find colorfully painted rocking chairs all over town, where anyone is welcome to sit down and relax while breathing in the fresh mountain air.
📌 How far is Black Mountain, NC, from Asheville, NC?
Downtown Asheville is just a 20-minute drive from Black Mountain.
Final Thoughts
If you had doubts about visiting Black Mountain, hopefully, now you’ve seen what an exciting and beautiful place it truly is! A trip to Black Mountain makes for an excellent day trip if you are visiting Asheville, but it is also a great place to spend the weekend at a rental or if you want to go camping. Black Mountain is a North Carolina gem and deserves to be celebrated.
