The Blue Ridge Parkway runs through western North Carolina along the spectacular Blue Ridge Mountains. The fantastic views and spectacular scenery make the Parkway a perfect road trip holiday, especially in the spring and summer. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Blue Ridge Parkway so there has never been a better time to visit and take a leisurely drive through the highest peaks on the east coast. Carolina Vacations can help you create your own road trip through North Carolina. Visit them here.
Construction began in 1935 but it wasn't fully completed for over 50 years. The dramatic terrain and remote setting proved problematic for engineers but with the construction of the groundbreaking Linn Cove Viaduct which skirts the side of Grandfather Mountain, the missing gaps were eventually completed. Finally, in 1987 all 469 miles became open to the public. Why not try looking at our online magazine to learn more about the fascinating history?
Now packed full of attractions but still with the same gorgeous scenery and great hiking trails the Parkway has earned the title of “America’s Favourite Drive”. Click below for more information on the top 10 things to do on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Asheville itself is the perfect place to stay over while driving the Blue Ridge Parkway. Sophisticated, yet bohemian, this city offers sights and sounds that aren’t found anywhere else. Try some local brews on the Asheville Brews Cruise, play a round on one of the 14 golf courses in the area, or go shopping in one of over 100 antique shops. Biltmore, an estate containing with world’s largest private house, a winery and fantastic grounds and gardens is the jewel in Ashville’s crown and not to be missed.
Top 10 Things to Do
- Doughton Park
Largest recreation area on the Blue Ridge Parkway - Tweetsie Railroad
North Carolina’s first Wild West Adventure Theme Park - The Blowing Rock
Spectacular views, gardens, and gift shops - Linn Cove Viaduct
S-shaped road at en elevation of 4,100 feet - Grandfather Mountain
The highest peak in the Blue Ridge - Linville Caverns
Cave beneath the Humpback Mountain - Chimney Rock Park
A variety of hiking trails, waterfalls, guided rock climbing and more - Folk Art Center
Traditional and contemporary craft of the Southern Appalachians - The NC Arboretum
65 acres of cultivated gardens and 10 miles of hiking and biking trails - Biltmore Estate
America’s largest private home
The Go Blue Ridge Card is your ticket to the best of Western North Carolina. For one price you can enter over 30 attractions - including the Biltmore, river rafting, Ghost Town in the Sky, and much more. The Go Card is the only ticket you need, saving you up to 35% compared to buying individual admissions. Includes a free full-color guidebook plus shopping and dining discounts. Buy online for shipment or pick-up in Blue Ridge. Visit www.goblueridgecard.com or book through your preferred tour operator or travel agent.
