Marion North CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Marion, North Carolina.
1. Linville Caverns
NATURAL UNDERGROUND WONDERS
Linville Caverns is North Carolina's only natural limestone caverns featuring impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations. Visitors can enjoy guided tours through the underground passages while learning about the cave's geology and history. The caverns also feature an underground stream, creating a unique natural experience in the mountains.
2. Copper Creek Distillery
LOCAL SPIRIT CRAFTING
Copper Creek Distillery offers visitors a taste of locally crafted spirits in Marion. The distillery has earned a perfect 5.0 rating from travelers, making it one of the area's most highly regarded attractions. Visitors can learn about the distilling process while sampling handcrafted spirits in a welcoming atmosphere.
3. Sweet Betsy Farm
FAMILY-FRIENDLY FARM EXPERIENCE
Sweet Betsy Farm provides a delightful agricultural experience with a near-perfect 4.9 traveler rating. The farm offers visitors the opportunity to interact with animals, learn about farming practices, and enjoy the rural beauty of Marion. It's an ideal destination for families looking for educational and entertaining outdoor activities.
4. English Farmstead Cheese
ARTISANAL CHEESE PRODUCTION
English Farmstead Cheese is a popular destination where visitors can observe and learn about the cheese-making process. The farmstead has earned a strong 4.6 rating from travelers who appreciate the quality of their artisanal cheeses. Visitors can purchase freshly made cheeses and other local products directly from the source.
5. Buck Creek Trout Farm
FISHING FUN FOR ALL
Buck Creek Trout Farm offers a unique fishing experience where visitors of all skill levels can catch their own trout. With a 4.7 traveler rating, this attraction provides fishing equipment and cleaning services for a complete experience. The picturesque setting adds to the charm of this outdoor activity suitable for the whole family.
6. Mica Town Brewing
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Mica Town Brewing serves up locally crafted beers in a welcoming atmosphere that has earned it a 4.8 traveler rating. The brewery offers a variety of handcrafted beer styles, often featuring seasonal and experimental brews. Visitors can enjoy tasting flights, pints, and sometimes live music or food trucks in this popular local gathering spot.
7. Historic Carson House
HERITAGE AND HISTORY
The Historic Carson House is one of North Carolina's most interesting house museums, dating back to 1793. Visitors can tour three floors featuring an extensive collection that spans over 200 years of local history. The fascinating guided tours provide insight into the evolution of the house from its origins as two cabins to its current historic prominence.
8. Greenway Bike Trail
SCENIC CYCLING PATH
The Greenway Bike Trail offers cyclists and pedestrians a scenic route through Marion's natural landscape. The well-maintained path provides an excellent opportunity for outdoor recreation and exercise. Visitors can enjoy the changing seasons and local flora while traversing this community trail.
9. Flavors on Main
GOURMET FOOD PARADISE
Flavors on Main is a foodie's paradise located in downtown Marion offering gourmet foods, local flavors, and unique kitchen items. The shop features locally roasted coffee, artisan cheeses, premium olive oils, vinegars, and spices that would be unexpected in a small mountain town. Upstairs, an exceptional outdoor store provides fly-fishing and hiking gear for adventure enthusiasts.
10. McDowell Arts Council
LOCAL ARTISTIC SHOWCASE
The McDowell Arts Council supports local artists through its gallery and gift shop in downtown Marion. Visitors can browse a diverse selection of artwork including paintings, pottery, handmade jewelry, and textiles created by regional artists. The welcoming atmosphere is enhanced by the presence of the shop's resident cat, adding charm to this cultural destination.
11. Vintage Market
ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES
Vintage Market is much more than a traditional antique store, offering a treasure trove of vintage finds and unique items. Visitors can spend hours wandering through aisles filled with old-school memorabilia and rustic farmhouse-style décor. The market's extensive and varied collection ensures that almost everyone will discover something special to bring home.
12. Mount Mitchell
HIGHEST EASTERN PEAK
Mount Mitchell stands as the highest peak east of the Mississippi River and is accessible via a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The state park features an observation tower, hiking trails, and a restaurant for visitors to enjoy while taking in spectacular views. Visitors should prepare for considerably cooler temperatures at the summit, which is open year-round except during snowy winter conditions.
13. Lake James State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Lake James State Park offers a wide sandy beach with excellent facilities, including changing rooms in a nice pavilion, open for swimming from May through September. Beyond swimming, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and various other outdoor activities in this scenic setting. The state park provides a perfect natural escape for those seeking recreation in the Marion area.
14. Tom's Creek Falls
ACCESSIBLE NATURAL WATERFALL
Tom's Creek Falls is a picturesque waterfall located a short distance from Marion, offering a refreshing natural attraction. Visitors can access the falls via a relatively easy hiking trail suitable for most skill levels. The cascading waters create a peaceful setting for photography, picnicking, or simply enjoying the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
15. Camp Grier
ADVENTURE AND RECREATION
Camp Grier is an ideal destination for family and individual vacations, offering adventures across 600 beautiful acres of land in nearby Old Fort. Visitors can enjoy activities including horseback riding and mountain biking in a pristine natural setting. The camp provides a perfect base for exploring the outdoor recreational opportunities of the region surrounding Marion.