Okay, in case you really needed more reasons why Boone is the most perfect place in the world, here are some reasons why our beloved Boone is the best college town (like, ever).
1. The Scenery
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, App State is one of the most beautiful campuses in North Carolina. And trust me, I’ve looked at a lot of campuses. I took my fair share of college tours before finally deciding on App, and the beauty of Boone is what drew me to the campus most. Not only is the parkway – with tons of cool hiking trails, waterholes to explore and breathtaking views- a short ten minute drive from campus, but the campus itself is incredible. Whether you’re eno-ing in Durham Park or slack lining on Sanford, you’re always surrounded by gorgeous mountains and pretty skies.
2. The People
The united, kind and happy community of Boone is just another thing that makes this little town so great. Everyone – and I really do mean almost everyone – is genuinely nice. Just the other day, I was walking out of Central and I dropped my App Card… without noticing. It didn’t take long for a complete stranger to run me down (literally) and return it to me, without any hesitation. It is this kind of mentality that sets Boone apart from other college towns, and makes everyone feel right at home.
3. The Weather
Alright, alright. Boone weather is notoriously unpredictable. One minute the sky will be baby blue and perfect, and the next minute you’ll be walking to class in a monsoon. I get it – it’s not always ideal. But, with that being said, Boone in the fall and winter is the place to be. I mean, think about it: Who wants to be at the beach or in the middle of the state when the weather gets cooler? NO ONE. Whether you’re cruising the parkway looking at all of the fall colors on a sunny afternoon or hitting the slopes with friends on a snowy weekend, Boone is sure to never disappoint.
4. The Food
There’s a little something of every kind of cuisine in Boone, and it is this variety that makes eating in Boone so enjoyable. Looking for Mexican? Try Taqueria El Paso or Dos Amigos. What about Thai cuisine? Cha Da Thai is the place to go. Practically all of the bases are covered in this small town, and they are all fairly reasonably priced. Plus, many businesses have vegetarian and vegan options and use local produce. So, if you ever find yourself getting the dining hall blues, check out one of Boone’s many fantastic restaurants – that are all just a short distance from campus!
5. The Pride
Besides the beautiful campus, the second most appealing thing for me about App State’s campus was the tremendous amount of school pride. Every where you go there is sure to be some sort of black and gold. T-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, cozies, whatever it is, it probably has that signature ‘A’ on it that all of us Mountaineers have come to love. And the pride is not just limited to campus. Practically every shop on King Street has an Appalachian State sticker, sign or even foam finger displayed in the window. The students love the school; the town loves the school; the community loves the school. It is truly a unique, awesome feeling to be a part of this – to be a part of something bigger than yourself. Go ‘Neers, go America.
Photos:
http://www.northcarolinahomesearch.com
http://www.romanticasheville.com/rough_ridge.htm
http://www.appstate.edu/studentlife/
http://blueridgeblog.blogs.com/blue_ridge_blog/boone_north_carolina/page/8/
http://fleeterlogs.blogspot.com/2009_07_01_archive.html
http://alumni.appstate.edu/events/appalachian-vs-elon-viewing-parties-ou…