What is winter in North Carolina like? It’s often snowy and quite cold in higher elevations. We think one of the best winter getaways in North Carolina is in the charming town of Banner Elk. Located in the center of High Country and nestled in the mountains of western North Carolina, you’ll find that there is no shortage of things to do in this winter wonderland. Whether you’re looking to indulge in downtown shopping or itching to get out on the slopes, A Banner Elk winter in North Carolina is the perfect mix of small-town charm with big-city amenities. Follow along as we show you the ultimate place to shake off the chill of North Carolina winters.

Duck out of the cold and into one of the many inviting restaurants in Downtown Banner Elk. Whether you're in the mood for fine dining or down-home cooking, you'll have no trouble finding good food. Also, partake in some shopping; downtown is filled with many great local artisanal shops.
Mark Clifton/Flickr
Banner Elk
Don't forget to stop by and take a picture with the bronze elk statue, an iconic landmark of the downtown village that gets dressed up over the holiday.
Bannerelk.com
Banner Elk is also in the perfect location for your winter outdoor activities. The town is only a short drive and sits between two of the largest ski resorts in the Southeast: Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain. Both resorts offer slopes with plenty of variety for skiing and snowboarding, as well as ice skating rinks and snow tubing for the little ones. A fun fact, Sugar Mountain has North Carolina’s only double black diamond slope.
See Sugar Mountain, NC/Facebook

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While Beech Mountian boasts North Carolina’s only mountaintop sky bar.
Town of Beech Mountain/Facebook
Another wintertime outdoor activity in Banner Elk that can't be missed is the Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster.
Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster/Facebook
This must-see attraction is a German-made alpine coaster and is North Carolina's first one. Each ride begins with an ascent of 770 feet to the top and includes loops, waves, and turns at 27 mph, making this an exhilarating experience with a good adrenaline rush!
No winter getaway is complete without staying at the perfect accommodation like North Carolina High Country's original winery, the Banner Elk Winery and Villa.
Banner Elk Winery/Facebook
Banner Elk Winery/Facebook
While there, enjoy a delicious sampling of wines; they are best known for their unique blueberry wine that pays tribute to the property's historic blueberry farm. Or stay at The Villas, an elegant Tuscan-inspired bed and breakfast located on the same property.

Banner Elk sure is beautiful in winter:

Have you ever visited Banner Elk in North Carolina? If so, tell us all about your experiences in the comments. After your stay in Banner Elk, be sure to check out more of the fun things to do in North Carolina during the winter.

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More to Explore

Magnificent Attractions In North Carolina

Will Suphan | January 18, 2024

What are the best day trip destinations in North Carolina?

The best day trip destinations in North Carolina include:

  • Moore Cove Falls. This stunning 50-foot waterfall flows over a stony cliff and it’s fun to walk behind it.
  • The Fairy Trail. Take this lovely hike at Bullington Gardens where you’ll see artistic scenes of fairy homes, tea settings, and tiny gardens.
  • The Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster. Take a thrill ride on the only mountain coaster in all of North Carolina.
  • McGalliard Falls. Located near Valdese, this is the perfect place to go swimming at the bottom of a waterfall and enjoy a picnic.

Learn more about the best day trip destinations in North Carolina. 

What are the best hidden gem destinations in North Carolina?

The best hidden gem destinations in North Carolina include:

  • North Carolina’s Fountain Of Youth. Located in the tiny town of Crumpler, these waters are said to be medicinal.
  • Carova Beach. You need a 4X4 vehicle to get to this beach, but once you do, you’ll be rewarded with the sight of wild horses.
  • American Museum of the House Cat. Learn all about our domesticated furry feline friends at this whimsical museum.
  • Church of the Frescoes. This tiny church in a tiny town has authentic Italian frescoes within that will amaze you.

Discover more of the best hidden gem destinations in North Carolina. 

What are the strangest roadside attractions in North Carolina?

The strangest roadside attractions in North Carolina include:

  • The Odditorium. A dive bar with all sorts of strange displays of art, weird taxidermies, and other odd objects, some for sale.
  • Plastic Flamingo Petting Zoo. These plastic flamingos won’t do much, but hey, you can pet them for free and take one home if you like.
  • Maggie Valley. With displays like the Indian Death Tiki of Awesomeness, you’ll be treated to many wonderfully weird creations.
  • Tobacco Museum Talking Robot. If you want to wander deep into the Uncanny Valley, take a gander at this animatronic robot that will teach you the history of tobacco.

Find out more about the strangest roadside attractions in North Carolina. 

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Banner Elk, NC 28604, USA