Spend a socially-distant day in the NC High Country!

The NC High Country offers endless opportunities for socially-distant vacationing! If you are planning a trip up to Boone in the coming weeks, we have compiled this list of activities and must-see spo

July 31, 2020 · 3 min read

The NC High Country offers endless opportunities for socially-distant vacationing! If you and your family are planning a trip up to Boone in the coming weeks, we have compiled this list of activities and must-see spots just for you.

Blueberry Picking: Boone has several options for u-pick blueberries! U-pick is a great option for a Covid-19 vacation activity. Berry farms in the high country are spacious and scenic, making it perfect to distance yourself from other parties while enjoying the fresh air of the Appalachian Mountains. Here are a few options for farms offering u-pick blueberries:

Swinging Bridge Farm: Located in Boone, Swinging Bridge farm offers over 600 blueberry bushes and is open from 10 AM to dusk seven days a week. Find out more by visiting their website here.

Greene’s Blueberry Patch: This u-pick farm, also located in Boone, is open daily from daylight to dusk, and operates on the honor system, perfect for social distancing! Dogs are also welcome at this farm on a leash. Find out more by visiting their website here.

Outdoor Dining: The Boone area offers several options for distanced outdoor dining. With scenery and weather this beautiful, who wants to sit inside anyway?

Over Yonder: Eat Over Yonder! Chef Andy Long dishes up delicious Appalachian fare on the oldest porch in Watauga County. Currently, Over Yonder is open for limited seating from Wednesday to Sunday 5-8 PM. Their on-site market is also open for lunch takeout and picnic supplies from Wednesday-Sunday 11 AM-4 PM, with hot takeout available from 5-8 PM. Check out their menu offerings online here.

over yonder north carolina appalachian grown

The Cardinal: The Cardinal offers fresh pub fare in a fun and laid-back environment. Offering curbside pickup for self-serve on the porch, Cardinal is perfect for a casual distanced lunch or dinner. Find hours and menu offerings here.

Shipley Tip: We recommend the Farm Burger!

the cardinal boone north carolina appalachian grown restaurant

Lost Province Brewing Co: Lost Province is a local microbrewery and wood-fired pizza kitchen. Offering indoor and outdoor distanced seating, you can head to Lost Province from noon to 9 PM Sunday-Wednesday, or noon to 10 PM Thursday-Saturday. Find their menu and detailed Covid-19 response here.

lost province boone north carolina microbrewery local beer appalachian

Parks and Outdoor Spaces: Looking for somewhere to spend time together outdoors? Check out these local green spaces!

Valle Crucis Community Park: The Valle Crucis park boasts 28 acres of nature trails and picnic areas! While playground and restroom areas are closed, you can still enjoy the park with your family. Find details here.

SHIPLEY TIP: The Valle Crucis park is right across from Over Yonder! Perfect spot to take your OY picnic supplies for a safe and beautiful High Country day trip.

valle crucis community park north carolina appalachian

Daniel Boone Native Gardens: The Native Gardens offers a collection of native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers. There are over 200 species to see! There are also plenty of shady spaces and benches to sit and rest. Find out details here.

daniel boone native garden north carolina appalachian

Looking for some beef to enjoy during your stay or take home for later? Shop online at shipleyfarmsbeef.com and choose farm store pickup. We will pack your order and bring it out to your car! If you don’t see the cut you want online, just give us a call at 828-484-1872. It’s a beautiful drive out to Shipley Farms, just 4 short miles from downtown Boone! Enter into your GPS - 1699 Linville Creek Road in Vilas. We can't wait to see you!

shipley farms beef north carolina appalachian grown pasture raised

We hope this helps you as you plan your safe and memorable visit to the High Country this summer. Please note that in our current public health crisis, the only thing we can depend on is change! Be sure to check out our community partner's websites listed here for updates or changes.