Weekend Driving Distance Destinations

Although we all love and adore Boone for its beautiful scenery, down-to-earth community, and mountain culture, we may find ourselves wanting to explore different areas, even for a weekend. There are tons of different cities and cultures to experience that are a reasonable driving distance away from Boone. Sometimes a few days away from our wonderful college town makes you appreciate it even more.
 
Asheville, NC
Travel Time: 2 hours
Literally two hours away, this city is for those of you who don’t want to stray too far from Boone but still want to experience that mountain culture, just on a larger scale. Asheville is the epitome of the eclectic, artsy feel with a city twist. I can’t think of anything wrong with Asheville, honestly. They have some of the best local restaurants (aside from Boone of course), Urban Outfitters, music venues that some of the best bands/artists go to, more local bars than King Street, and you can always find something to do. Make sure you participate in contra dancing and save some money for some serious local shopping.
 
Raleigh, NC
Travel Time: 3 hours
I know what you’re thinking…Raleigh? Despite it’s boring reputation (just ask anyone who has grown up in Raleigh), this city has prospered in the last several years and has created it’s own little culture. For the amount of corporate businesses that you can find in any other city, Downtown Raleigh has some of the best coffee shops, bars, antique stores, and museums. Even though I’ve spent most of my life in Raleigh, I still continually find hidden treasures there. When you’re downtown, be sure to check out bars like The Busy Bee, Raleigh Times, coffee shops like Morning Times, Cup A Joe, thrift stores like Father and Sons, and walk along cobble streets in The City Market. You can still support local establishments in these big towns; you just have to search a little harder.