Get Out: Nine Mountain Cities and Towns to Explore
- Apryl Thomas
- Sep 15
- 12 min read
With their fresh air and charming atmosphere, mountain towns and cities often have a lasting impact on travelers.
From outdoor adventures to local attractions, these destinations provide an unforgettable experience.
Here are nine must-visit mountain towns and cities that offer an escape from the everyday routine.
From its thermal spring waters to its prime location for infamous gangsters and its role in baseball, Hot Springs, Ark., in the Ouachita Mountains valley, has been and remains a happening place. With the distinction of being the only city in the country within a national park, the destination offers a one-of-a-kind experience.
Begin with a self-guided tour of the Fordyce Bathhouse, the former bathhouse that has been transformed into a visitor center, to learn about the history of thermal water baths. The restored rooms evoke the feel of what it was like during its heyday. From there, meander down Bathhouse Row National Historic Landmark District to check out eight remaining restored bathhouses.
Within the Hot Springs National Park, there are places where you can dip your fingers in the thermal water. The park also offers 26 miles of trails and scenic mountain driving routes for those wanting to spend time outdoors. Don't overlook the Hot Springs Mountain Tower, with its panoramic views over 1,200 feet above sea level.
And speaking of the outdoors, on a peninsula on Lake Hamilton is the 210-acre Garvan Woodland Gardens. As one of eight woodland gardens in the United States, it is a feast for the eyes, featuring the Anthony Chapel, the Anthony Family Trust Carillon, and the Bridge of the Full Moon in the Garden of Pine Wind, one of the most photographed spots in the gardens.
Fun Fact... Did you know Arkansas has a derby? Oaklawn Racing and Gaming is home to the Arkansas Derby and the Racing Festival of the South. From January to April, enjoy live thoroughbred racing.
Whether you're browsing the eclectic stores, sampling a slice of tomato pie, or enjoying a sunset at Brow Park in Mentone, Ala., the town's charm is quite noticeable.
Situated atop Lookout Mountain, as soon as you set foot in town, you realize you are somewhere different ~ a good different ~ one that encourages you to slow down and soak in your surroundings.
And you can start at DeSoto State Park. Stretch your legs on the many hiking trails, or go kayaking or zip lining if you're more adventurous. If you're looking for something different, go horseback riding with Shady Grove Dude Ranch.
For those who love waterfalls, you are in the right place. The 107-foot DeSoto Falls, in the park, is one of the state's tallest (107 feet) and most visited waterfalls. There are other waterfalls, but DeSoto Falls is perhaps the most easily accessible and has a picnic area.
If you want more waterfalls, it's worth the drive to Little River Canyon National Preserve, home to three named falls, including the picturesque Little River Falls. The preserve also offers plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities.
Don't leave Mentone without popping into the Mentone Arts Center at the Chuck Sennett Center for the Arts for a local art piece to take back with you.
Got to See... Between Mentone and DeSoto State Park in Fort Payne is the Sallie Howard Memorial Baptist Church.
Constructed around a massive boulder of mountain rock by Colonel Milford Wriarson Howard with the CCC in the 1930s, the church has a fascinating backstory.
The church is active and welcomes everyone to their 10 a.m. Sunday service.
Off Interstate 24, between Chattanooga and Nashville, lies Tennessee's South Cumberland, located on the Cumberland Plateau, the southern part of the larger Appalachian Plateau. This region is home to two state parks: South Cumberland State Park and Savage Gulf State Park. Collectively, they encompass over 31,000 acres and provide outdoor enthusiasts with 85 miles of trails (including the Fiery Gizzard Trail, one of the top 25 backpacking trails in the country, as ranked by Backpacker magazine), 12 major waterfalls, numerous overlooks and more.
Then there is Sewanee, one of the nine destinations that make up the area, home to the picturesque University of the South and its own 65 miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as scenic views. Oh, and if you happen to be visiting in the morning, breakfast at The Blue Chair Cafe & Tavern is a must.
And as for the other eight destinations, you can discover such delights as the state's oldest family-owned bakery (Dutch Maid Bakery, Tracy City), an attraction known as "The Greatest Show Under Earth" (The Caverns, Pelham) one of the state's few remaining two-span masonry stone arch bridges (Hickory Creek Stone Arch Bridge, Morrison), and a house (The Mabee Homeplace/High Point Restaurant, Monteagle) that may or may not have been built by Al Capone.
It's in a Song ... If you've driven on I-24 from Chattanooga to Nashville, you know all about the dreaded steep "Monteagle Grade." Did you know it's also featured in a song? Yes, Jerry Reed mentions it in "The Legend," a song on the "Smoky and the Bandit" soundtrack.
Even though Blue Ridge, Ga., is 90 minutes north of Atlanta via the Georgia Mountain Parkway, it feels as if the destination is a world away. Immediately, a sense of peacefulness washes over you as you take in the surroundings. Whether you are ready to indulge in various outdoor activities, relax at a spa or stay in your cabin, Blue Ridge has you covered.
First things first, stop by Mercier Orchards for some apple cider, apple cider donuts, and fried apple pies. Depending on the season, you may also want to get apples to take home.
Recall that sense of peacefulness from earlier? Well, it'll morph into excitement as you approach downtown and see the many eateries, shops and more to explore. One place you don't want to miss is Oyster Fine Bamboo Fly Rods. Even if you aren't interested in fishing, it's worth watching owner Bill Oyster meticulously handcrafts the rods and the personalized engraved pieces.
A must-do in the area is riding aboard the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. The train departs from downtown and moves along the tracks at a leisurely pace toward the adjacent towns of McCaysville, Ga., and Copperhill, Tenn. The two hours provide ample time to explore, dine and shop. Also, be sure to see artist Rip Mann creating his hand-hewn bowls.
Worth the Stop... Expedition: Bigfoot in Cherry Log, located about six miles south of Blue Ridge, offers visitors an in-depth look at various Bigfoot fact-finding missions through interactive exhibits that include possible sounds from the creature and multiple artifacts found in the area. The museum also houses the largest permanent display of footprint casts.
Upcountry South Carolina is filled with hidden gems to discover, like the city of Anderson. In the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the northwestern part of the state, the destination, formerly known as the "Electric City," continues to spark the interest of travelers.
It's all about the location. It is a short drive to the mountains and an even shorter drive to the popular man-made Lake Hartwell. With 56,000 acres of water, it's considered one of the largest lakes in the South. Head to Sadlers Creek State Park and see what you can hook off the fishing pier (if you didn't pack fishing equipment, check out South Carolina State Parks' Tackle Loaner Program). There's also a hiking trail and a mountain bike trail.
If you want to spend more time outdoors, you can soak up the natural surroundings along one of the Rocky River Nature Park trails. It is also a prime spot for birdwatching.
Downtown Anderson shines brightly with its 16-block historic district, featuring local restaurants, breweries, shops, and more. Be sure to visit the Anderson County Museum and then explore the exhibits and local artwork at the Anderson Arts Center. Be sure to pick up some sweet treats from CocoBon Chocolatier and enjoy them at Carolina Wren Park. And speaking of wrens, see how many you can spot downtown and other public art pieces.
Agritourism is thriving in Anderson, and this is best reflected at working farms like Split Creek Farm, which offers award-winning cheeses, fudge, milk, and other goat milk-related products. Denver Down Farms is one of the state's oldest family-owned farms, offering a variety of seasonal activities and events. Now, if you are searching for a taste of localism, you can sip your way through Palmetto Distillery, home of South Carolina's first legal moonshine, among other spirits.
Go Exploring... Less than 30 minutes southeast of Anderson is the town of Pendleton, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Here, you can tour historic homes, go antiquing, and visit Timms Mill, a restored 18th-century gristmill that remains operational today. About 30 minutes northeast of Anderson is Pelzer. A visit to Happy Cow Creamery is a must-do, especially if you're a fan of chocolate milk.
Boone, N.C., named after frontiersman Daniel Boone, who is said to have spent time in the area, is an energetic yet laid-back mountain town sitting high (over 3,000 feet) in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The destination is home to Appalachian State University, which keeps it fresh, and a cornucopia of outdoor activities and adventures year-round, even snow skiing, which keeps it active. Experience the best of everything, from hiking along the Boone Greenway to exhibits at Turchin Center for the Visual Arts to cinnamon rolls from Stick Boy Bakery.
Take a drive along the 469-mile-long Blue Ridge Parkway, the second most visited entity of the National Park Service. Around less than an hour from downtown are miles and miles filled with sweeping views (you have to see the scenic Linn Cove Viaduct at Milepost 304.4), overlooks, waterfalls and more, like the Moses H. Cone Memorial Park (Milepost 294). Don't forget about Grandfather Mountain (exit at Milepost 305.1) with the opportunity to drive on the "Forrest Gump Curve" and walk across the swinging bridge.
Also on Parkway is Blowing Rock, about 20 minutes south of Boone. Check out its namesake, the Blowing Rock attraction, the state's oldest attraction, and if time permits, head to Tweetsie Railroad, the state's first theme park, providing a taste of the Wild West in the North Carolina High Country.
Head to downtown Boone for its local shops, galleries, restaurants, and history. The Historic Downtown Boone Walking Tour highlights landmarks and other notable sites along the 1.3-mile loop. See the Daniel Boone mural inside the post office, take your photo next to the Doc Watson statue and more.
If you're interested in history, be sure to visit the Hickory Ridge History Museum to learn about the everyday life of the early settlers in the area. Adjacent to the museum is Horn in the West, the country's longest-running Revolutionary War outdoor drama, which highlights the fascinating story of Daniel Boone and the early settlers. The nearby Daniel Boone Native Gardens is filled with various native trees, shrubs, and wildflowers.
Not to Be Missed … Even if you don't consider yourself a fan of the grapes, it is still worth exploring the Boone Area Wine Trail. You never know what you might discover or learn. Of course, you can't pass up the scenic views or the opportunity to dine at local eateries.
Nestled up against the rugged Cumberland Plateau, along the edge of central Kentucky's Blue Grass Region, is Berea, Ky. From the creative handicraft community to Berea College to the Pinnacles of Berea, there are many sides to this distinctive town.
Recognized as the "Folk Arts & Crafts Capital of Kentucky," the destination teems with various crafters selling their works. If collecting local pieces, whether pottery, jewelry or another medium, is your thing, then Berea is the town for you. The best place to start is at the Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea, which features a wide range of products from Kentucky makers. Additionally, the facility hosts various exhibits and other events. You can even dine there before heading out. Artisan Village is also not to be missed. Not only is Berea's Welcome Center located here, but it also has working studios. So park, get out, get information and explore. Don't overlook Berea College, either. Along College Square, you can discover places like the Log House Craft Gallery that showcases students' works.
And speaking of Berea College, it's worth your time to wander the campus on your own or check out a student-led tour. If you opt for it on your own, step into the Berea College Farm Store, run entirely by students, for a quick bite to eat and purchase some goodies to take home. There are also exhibits at the LJAC Gallery, located inside the Loyal Jones Appalachian Center, that focus on the Appalachian region.
Get outdoors in Berea by renting an e-bike to head out on a biking trail or a kayak to paddle along the Owsley Fork. For those who want to get their heart pumping, lace up the hiking shoes to discover why Berea is a certified Kentucky Trail Town. From the Berea Pinnacles to Boone Trace Trail and more, the trails vary in difficulty.
Got to Do This... Ever wanted to learn blacksmithing or try your hand at edible art? With Berea, KY Tourism LearnShops, artist instructors guide you through creating your masterpiece.
Located in Loudoun County, Va., at the foot of Virginia's Blue Ridge and Bull Run Mountains, Middleburg was so named in 1787 due to its location between Alexandria and Winchester. Middleburg was the site of two encounters in 1863 during the Gettysburg Campaign of the Civil War. In the 1900s, the town's interest turned toward foxhunting and steeplechasing, thus earning it recognition as the "nation's hunt and horse capital."
And it's a notable spot for wine enthusiasts out there, too. The town is part of D.C.'s Wine Country, and there are over 20 wineries within 30 minutes of Middleburg to explore.
You want to visit the National Sporting Library & Museum. Promoting the preservation and sharing of literature, art, and culture related to equestrian and field sports, the library, open to the public, houses over 24,000 books spanning 500 years. The museum portion highlights American and European sporting art.
Meander around the enchanting historic district, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, filled with various shops, boutiques, and eateries. You'll also find the Red Fox Inn and Tavern (ca. 1728) here. Considered the "oldest original inn in America," it once served as the Confederate headquarters and hospital during the Civil War. A little over a century later, John F. Kennedy held a press conference in the J.E.B. Stuart Room. Elizabeth Taylor visited here, and it hosted Jacqueline (Jackie) Kennedy Onassis during fox hunting season.
Did You Know... Over 400 equestrian events take place in the town and its surrounding areas. Middleburg is also one of the most popular training areas for Olympic equestrian athletes because of its terrain and location.
Charleston, WVa.'s appeal is its diversity. Whether walking along the Sunrise Carriage Trail, browsing Taylor Books, the city's independent bookstore or exploring one of the eclectic neighborhoods, the destination offers a lot. And that doesn't even cover the museums, outdoor activities and cultural experiences.
Situated in the Allegheny Mountains, West Virginia's capital city is within a day's drive of two-thirds of the U.S. population, making it a prime long weekend getaway.
There are certain spots or places you want to visit, beginning with the West Virginia State Museum, which highlights the state's rich history and its people. For art with stories, check out the self-guided "Art and Architecture in the Downtown Charleston Historic District" tour, offered through VoiceMap.
Swing by the Clay Center, where you'll find the Juliet Art Museum, featuring permanent and traveling exhibits, as well as workshops and classes. Additionally, there's the Avampato Discovery Museum that keeps young minds engaged with its hands-on exhibits. The Center also houses the Caperton Planetarium and Theater, as well as the Maier Foundation Performance Hall, which is home to the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra and other performances.
Round out your Charleston experience with a visit to the Capitol Market. This market features both indoor and outdoor vendors, including Holl's Swiss Chocolate, which offers 32 different chocolate varieties, and WV Marketplace, which sells locally made products.
It's effortless to enjoy the outdoors in Charleston. It's doable whether you want to enjoy the Kanawha River or take a relaxing walk to unwind on a trail. Explore Kanawha State Forest's hiking trails for an active adventure. Depending on your time here, head to the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, an hour's drive from Charleston.
Can't Miss This... J.Q. Dickinson Salt Works is located 10 minutes from downtown, in Malden.
A seventh-generation brother and sister team revived a 200-year-old family business that hand-harvests all-natural salt from an ancient ocean trapped beneath the Appalachian Mountains of the Kanawha Valley. Seasonal tours of the farm are available and they also hold events throughout the year.
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