Morganton North CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Morganton, North Carolina.
1. Silver Fork Winery
VINEYARD WITH MOUNTAIN VIEWS
Silver Fork Winery offers tasting flights of their wine that include a souvenir glass in their welcoming Tasting Room. Visitors can learn about the terroir 'taste of the place' and the varietal characteristics with each sip. The winery provides stunning vineyard views paired with their award-winning wines.
2. Apple Hill Orchard & Cider Mill
FAMILY-FRIENDLY APPLE PICKING
Apple Hill Orchard is a thriving family business nestled in the picturesque foothills of the South Mountains. The orchard features activities for all ages, including wagon rides through the orchard and pick-your-own apple opportunities. Visitors can experience the complete apple journey from orchard to fresh cider and baked goods.
3. Catawba River Greenway
SCENIC RIVERSIDE TRAIL
The Catawba River Greenway is a partially reopened trail system that follows the beautiful Catawba River through Morganton. This popular recreation spot offers paved paths perfect for walking, jogging, and biking while enjoying riverside scenery. The greenway connects several parks and natural areas, making it a central outdoor attraction for both residents and visitors.
4. Fonta Flora Brewery
CRAFT BEER WITH LOCAL INGREDIENTS
Fonta Flora Brewery integrates the soul of agriculture with the artisanship of zymurgy to create a menagerie of rustic and savory libations. With an emphasis on seasonal flora, the brewery produces unique craft beers using locally sourced ingredients. Fonta Flora has become a cornerstone of Morganton's growing craft beverage scene.
5. Perry's Berry's Vineyard & Winery
FAMILY-OWNED BLUEBERRY FARM
Perry's Berry's Vineyard & Winery is a family-owned blueberry farm that produces semi-sweet wines and hard ciders made with fruit grown on the property. The establishment features both indoor and outdoor seating options for visitors to enjoy their beverages. Their on-site Blueberry Bistro serves crepes, deli sandwiches, and freshly baked goods.
6. Historic Burke County Courthouse
ICONIC DOWNTOWN LANDMARK
The Historic Burke County Courthouse was built in 1830 to replace the previous 'shabby, weather-beaten' plank courthouse on the public square. This iconic structure stands as a centerpiece of Morganton's downtown historic district. The courthouse represents an important piece of local history and architecture in Burke County.
7. Burke Arts Council
LOCAL ART AND CULTURE
The Burke Arts Council serves as the cultural hub for the community, showcasing works from local and regional artists. The council hosts rotating exhibitions, workshops, and special events throughout the year to promote the arts. Visitors can explore diverse artistic expressions and even purchase unique pieces created by area artists.
8. Morganton Farmers Market
FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE
Morganton's open-air farmers market offers the best locally grown products in the area, with plenty of variety available to shoppers. By visiting the Market and supporting local growers, visitors reduce their carbon footprint while accessing fresh, seasonal food. The market serves as both a shopping destination and a community gathering place that highlights local agriculture.
9. Lake James State Park
PRISTINE MOUNTAIN LAKE
Lake James State Park offers perfect conditions for swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the crystal-clear water. The park features miles of hiking and biking trails that showcase the area's natural beauty and mountain vistas. With multiple access points and recreational areas, Lake James is one of Burke County's premier outdoor destinations.
10. Linville Gorge Wilderness Area
GRAND CANYON OF EAST
Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, known as the 'Grand Canyon of the East,' is a rugged natural wonder near Morganton. The spectacular gorge features dramatic cliffs, challenging hiking trails, and the rushing Linville River cutting through ancient rock formations. This protected wilderness area offers some of the most breathtaking scenery and photography opportunities in the eastern United States.
11. South Mountains State Park
NORTH CAROLINA'S LARGEST PARK
South Mountains State Park is North Carolina's largest state park, offering waterfalls, horseback riding, and plenty of trails for all skill levels. High Shoals Falls, an 80-foot waterfall, serves as one of the park's most popular attractions that draws visitors year-round. The park's diverse ecosystem provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, camping, and outdoor education.
12. Highlands Butchery
FARM-TO-TABLE DINING EXPERIENCE
Highlands Butchery in nearby Valdese offers a premium farm-to-table dining experience featuring local ingredients. The establishment combines a full-service butcher shop with a restaurant serving high-quality meats and creative preparations. Their commitment to sourcing from regional farms provides a true taste of Burke County's agricultural bounty.
13. Treat
LOCAL CULINARY GEM
Treat is a beloved local restaurant in downtown Morganton that incorporates ingredients from nearby farms into their menu. The establishment offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere where diners can enjoy both classic comfort food and innovative culinary creations. Their commitment to quality and local sourcing has made Treat a standout in Morganton's growing food scene.
14. Sidetracked Brewery
LOCAL CRAFT BEER HAVEN
Sidetracked Brewery crafts unique beers using locally-sourced ingredients in the heart of Morganton. The taproom provides a relaxed environment where visitors can sample a rotating selection of handcrafted brews. As part of Morganton's growing craft beverage scene, Sidetracked has become a popular gathering spot for both locals and tourists.
15. Wiseman's View
BROWN MOUNTAIN LIGHTS VIEWPOINT
Wiseman's View provides a spectacular overlook of Linville Gorge with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains. This accessible viewpoint is also one of the best places to potentially witness the mysterious Brown Mountain Lights phenomenon. Visitors come year-round to enjoy the stunning scenery and perhaps catch a glimpse of these unexplained glowing orbs that have fascinated people for generations.