The top stops along the way from White Sulphur Springs to Charleston (with short detours) are Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Carowinds, and Middleton Place. Other popular stops include NASCAR Hall of Fame, Charlotte Motor Speedway, and Andy Griffith Museum.
1
Lane Stadium
Mentioned on
6 lists
Stadium
Sights & Landmarks
Arenas & Stadiums
Lane Stadium, the largest stadium in Virginia with a seating capacity of over 65,000, is renowned as the home of the Virginia Tech Hokies football team. Constructed in 1964, this iconic sports venue holds a rich history and has been an integral part of Blacksburg's identity. Even for non-sports enthusiasts, visiting Lane Stadium provides an opportunity to immerse in the vibrant game-day atmosphere and witness the deep-rooted connection between the community and its beloved Hokies.
LET’S GO…HOKIES! My favorite sports venue because of the electric experience and amazing setting in the mountains of Virginia. VT fans love their team and are loyal through thick and thin. Catching Enter Sandman is worth the ticket price alone.
Steve E — Google review
I attended the 2022 VT Spring Game. This was my first time in the stadium and so my experience was likey more subdued that if I had attended a real game. Overall, the stadium is a bit dated and in need of some modernization and upgrades. Having said that, the experience of being in a stadium with raucous Hokie fans is awesome! I can't imagine what it would feel like when full.
John E — Google review
My son came for the football camp recently and fell in love. The stadium was awesome and the experiences that my son got were top notch. He is now determined that he will attend college here in a couple years.
Kandi G — Google review
Great seats on the 20 yard line. Loads of fun with the fans around us. They were really into it...fun to be at the game with all the energy and excitement.
Bob O — Google review
I will start off by saying I am a Tennessee volunteer fan lol but with that being said I had the opportunity to watch Virginia tech play Notre Dame. This was an experience for sure from the tailgating to the inner sandman it was a blast. The fans are very welcoming the tailgating is a must I even bought a shirt it was that much fun !!
Royce P — Google review
We were at lane stadium for the master’s graduations. The staff was friendly and fast meeting concession orders. The restrooms were clean, and the concourse was tidy. I’ve never been to a tech game, but I bet it’s spectacular!
Cara T — Google review
Lame Stadium has some of the best energy for college football that I have ever experienced. There’s really nothing like it!
Ryan R — Google review
One of the top 10 experiences of my life! Came for the Notre Dame game and even though Tech got blown out the atmosphere was absolutely electric and unlike anything I’ve ever experienced.
Tim B — Google review
We love Lane Stadium,it's AWESOME!!Chance Black is my favorite player,GO HOKIES!!
Malika B — Google review
The Good: Game was a great time VA Tech provides an entertaining fan experience. The bad: They seemed under staffed line to get into stadium was long. Could not locate ushers on many of the concourse entryways to seats. The lines for concessions stands were 30+ deep. Again they seemed understaffed.
Traveling 2 — Google review
In preparation for the first the game of the 2022 Season, I got a behind the scenes tour of the University Club at Virginia Tech and the rest of Lane Stadium. (Unfortunately Google and Apple don’t play well together in terms of video sharing format so all I have are a few stills!)All I can say is “Amazing!” First off, I was welcomed by the Head Chef, the Club Manager and General Manager…..all of them OFF DUTY! Their hospitality and pride of ownership was obvious as they stopped to accommodate me.Overall this is an affordable yet luxury members only club. Ask about their packages. They serve food to their guests all week long. It is excellent for networking and private events too. The main dining venue has spacious seating, where you can have a conversation without screaming across the table. There is a central bar with top shelf liquor featuring colored backlighting as an accent. In this room, the walls from floor to ceiling are glass, and anyone in the room can take in a view of the entire stadium and field. There is step down area to box seats for when the University President hosts parties at home football games that are fantastic and they do not obstruct the view of his other guests on the dining floor. Windows through out the stadium hallways give one a birds-eye view of the surrounding athletic fields and VT campus.It’s worth noting that the kitchens were clean, organized, and well equipped. They were not cluttered. Regarding accessibility, there are nice stairs, but the elevators were also large, clean, and fast. Handicap accessible.Side note and unrelated to Club Membership (yet fun for a football fan): The Press Area was just as nice!!! The Press Box isn’t really for the general public or members, but I wanted to see how VT hosted and the facilities were great. The Press get great views of the field, a clear view of the scoreboard, comfortable seating, and a ton of room behind those seats to walk around and stretch one’s legs, get food/drink or make use of dedicated restrooms. Definitely a class touch of hospitality. We’ll done VT.Get a membership, eat great food and meet people, go to a game! You won’t be disappointed!
76 C — Google review
Opening Game 2023 season. Enter Sandman was cool to watch. Game eh lots of rust.
Blackheart16 — Google review
Our cub pack visited the stadium and the basketball court as part of a tour of the VT athletic facilities. The scouts had a great time running on the hallowed turf and seeing the view from a luxury suite!
Gavin F — Google review
No atmosphere or facilities better in the state of Virginia for a college football game. Lots of parking around the stadium but reserved for boosters and whatnot for tailgating on game days. Several gates to enter and have installed metal detectors for added security. Lots and lots eating places and beer kiosks. Many large restrooms. Onsite medical facilities. No bad view in the stadium either. The entry for the players to Enter The Sandman is great!
The S — Google review
What an amazing stadium. Can't wait to see a game here. I can only imagine what it would be like. While I didn't see a game, I did have an opportunity not most get to see.
Sandy P — Google review
Great venue with tons of friendly staff. Food smells amazing so bring your appetite. Seats hurt a little but it's bleachers, they offer padded seats for 10$.
Billy F — Google review
First visit to Lane Stadium, no complaints. Could not have asked for more hospitable representatives of university albeit volunteers, security, or fans. Every stadium has a unique personality, Lane Stadium's truly was a "this is home" feel.
Kathy B — Google review
Amazing stadium! Best food for a stadium that I have seen so far. This stadium fills up so be there early. You have to see a game here.
Joel S — Google review
Great place to be at and enjoy everything they have to offer
Richard C — Google review
First time watching a collage football game live.Such a great experience so much fun, and the stadium is great also.
Krzysztof — Google review
One of the best college stadium venues. Great atmosphere with the Hokie fans!
Brian V — Google review
Always clean and always a great experience on game day. Concessions were fresh and tasty and the lines moved fairly quickly. Staff is always super nice and helpful should you need assistance.
Crystal S — Google review
4.8
(1752)
•
4.5
(160)
185 Beamer Way, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
(540) 231-6731
2
Big Walker Lookout
Sights & Landmarks
Bird watching area
Old-timey country store with a steel viewing tower for panoramas of mountain peaks in 5 states.
An awesome stop off of the highway to see some great views of mountains all around. We had a great time with our kids walking across the wooden rope bridge and climbing the tower!There's a cute general store right on the property with all sorts of locally made goods as well.
Tyler J — Google review
Went with my husband and In-laws. We had a great time. The country store is really nice and the live music outside was a great touch. The views from the lookout tower were magnificent and worth the climb.
Ashleigh W — Google review
This place was amazing. The view from the tower was worth the $8. Personally, I think it's a great place to go get a good view of the mountains. The store was even better with all their old fashioned styled stuff and their cool nice collection. All in all this would be an amazing family trip
Mason L — Google review
Great stop if you have the time- we stopped here on our way to Kentucky to break up the time. We did the bridge and the tower. Tiny parking lot so be ready to either park around the corner or it be right. We were there on a Monday and the only ones there! The lady inside was so wonderful and very educated on the area and what the tower was and the area use to be. The inside of the store has delicious ice cream and has lots of little booths of homemade local items.The only reason why I gave it 4 was some of the property could probably be cleaned up. Better stairs going up to the tower and around the side. It genuinely was a good stop, I would recommend as long as you are not afraid of heights!
Rachel C — Google review
Beautiful view. Nice store with PLENTY of Virginia souvenirs and knick knacks. Ice cream. Hot dogs. Seating area outside with a great view while eating. Plenty of parking but kinda tight when busy. Climb the tower for $8, free to enter store. Toys, Souvenirs, Shirts, Patches, Pins, Stickers, Pocket knives, this and that. Friendly. Clean. Nice restrooms. Great stop after riding a curvy mountain road. (See pictures)
Daniel L — Google review
Neat place to visit with some beautiful views! If you're able to climb, I recommend paying to climb the tower as you get a 360° view from the top that is breathtaking. The shop itself has some neat items ranging from typical touristy souvenirs to local handcrafted items.
Jennifer D — Google review
The lady running the shop was wonderful. The ice cream was great. You can not beat the views, especially if you climb to the top of the tower. Bring your cardio, because you have 193 steps to reach the top. The parking lot has some gravely spots so bikers beware. Beautiful ride up and down this mountain!“Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”John 14:6
Savage R — Google review
This lookout and country store is certainly off the beaten path. It's just as down home and charming as you might surmise from the pictures.The people are welcoming and hospitable... just full of country charm.We stopped to take in the sights and enjoy some ice cream, which was quite tasty.What I'm not going to include is pictures of the actual scenery... because I really feel like this is something you just have to experience in person.This place offers live music on some weekends and seating in the shade.They've been there reliably for a lifetime and hopefully another lifetime to follow.
Unicorn S — Google review
Beautiful views. Nice curvy drive with great views along the way. Good customer service. Nice general store. The tower is 200 steps and high. Fun short visit.
Valerie D — Google review
A quiet spot with a beautiful view when it isn't busy. Cute little gift shop, reasonably priced, and a decent variety of options. I'm sure the tower is worth cost though we didn't make the climb. Was simply having too lazy a day and just didn't feel like it but, hey, have at it. I'm sure the view is even grander.
Jimmy S — Google review
We enjoyed our visit and the views, but the tower needs to be refenced at the top around the parameter and secured properly. The hanging bridge should be repaired or closed. The tower retaining wall should be repaired. I bet it could be a historical site that might open funding for needed repairs. Great views from the top. The climb is not for the faint at heart.
T R — Google review
Absolutely go up the tower! The views are great! The tower is not for those afraid of heights. There is a lot of wind and the tower does shake. The railings are not very high so be careful when taking pictures. There are about 225 steps from the parking lot (plenty of space btw) to the observation deck. Also check out the other viewing platforms near the tower which look down onto the North and South sides of Walker Mountain. The road leading up to the tower is in good condition and is typical for mountain climbing roads in Appalachia. Go and see it!
Victor I — Google review
The view was stunning! The store has many cool things to look at, my dog got to come in with us but the hand made milkshakes…absolutely the best I’ve had since childhood. They were so good in fact, we stopped back by on our way back home from our vacation. Well worth the visit!
Anita P — Google review
Big walker look out is a little bit of a drive off the beaten path… But it is a spectacular view from the top of the tower!It’s the middle tower with maybe 10 or 12 stories of wood on metal stairs, safety rails, and mashing to make you feel a little more comfortable as you walk up to the top.If you’re scared of heights, this may not be the thing for you because there’s a whole Lotta open error around the middle structure for you to look out and through as you make the climb to the top.Additionally, while the tower seems very strong, it does move a bit while people are hiking up and down the stairs. I think it was kind of thrilling your mileage may vary.The view from the top of the tower is spectacular! You can see beautiful forests for tens of miles in every direction.People go up the tower year-round I understand… Coming in the winter is when the air is clearest and therefore you can see the farthest. The only two times you cannot go up the tower during regular hours is when there is too much ice on it and when there are electrical storms.There’s a convenience store that sells the tickets and has many gifts and treats and snacks and food… Good assortment in a really nice man behind the register to help you get what you needAdults cost eight dollars… Kids cost six.
Aj S — Google review
Such a beautiful view! Always enjoy riding here and visiting with others. Lots of cool things in the store and the ice cream is fantabulous! We were blessed to be able to listen to some bluegrass music being performed live the afternoon we were there.
Purple T — Google review
It was beautiful, clean and the Country Store was lovely. Overall, my service dog & I had a wonderful experience. The ice cream was amazing!
Carol C — Google review
It's an awesome little country store, gift shop and visitor center. The view was breathtaking. It was exceptionally nice that they had some local talent playing music.
Charles S — Google review
It was a beautiful view even without going up on the tower or the bridge. I love the ice cream inside also!! The market is nice with mostly homemade items and novelty items all over. The staff is friendly and caring, especially the young lady who dips ice cream and checks you out…
Blood R — Google review
This is an amazing off the beaten path tourist stop. A little fun roadside pit stop to enjoy the views while out cruising rout 52! We stopped here with the kids and climbed up the tower, got ice cream and a couple souvenirs from the shop. Plenty of places to sit and soak up the scenery! Highly recommend for people riding motorcycles to pit stop here!
Falyn W — Google review
I thought it was ok. If you have vertigo or are afraid of heights you might want to think twice about this. I'm usually ok with heights but honestly my body was freaking out a little. It is a climb, but if you take it a step at a time instead of 2 steps at a time it's not that bad. The views from up to are amazing!
John S — Google review
Big Walker Lookout is a wonderful little stop in the Blue Ridge Mountains along the Appalachian music Trail. Climbing the tower is a little bit of work and a little scary, but it is totally worth it once you get to the top and see the views of the 4 nearest States. However, the best part of this little tourist stop is by far the people who run it. Some of the nicest people you'll ever meet, who Pride themselves on filling their shop with local artists. They sell items crafted by local artisans, and on the weekends they bring up local musicians and authors to entertain their crowd.
Michael J — Google review
Nice view of the surrounding mtns. Not much for hiking, I followed a barely worn trail and soon found it ended after about 20mins.
Old S — Google review
This was our second visit and we enjoyed it just as much as the last time. Made it to the top...8 out of 9 of us...including our 3 and 6 year old grandkids. Love shopping after the climb...we always find great handmade items.
Paula W — Google review
On a family road trip and made it a point to try to stop at some touristy places on the way. This was recommended to us at the welcome center just over the border so we made the side trip.What a cute little shop! The kids got a free ice cream, my husband climbed the tower, we got some kitschy photos and souvenirs. We also tried hot dogs with coleslaw on them which were good and now I wonder why i never tried it before. Staff was super friendly and patient with my kids who wanted to pay for their own stuff.Would go back again (but I still won't go up that tower!) when it's warmer!Cute photo ops even if you don't climb the tower!
Cristy L — Google review
There is a fee if you wanna climb the tower, which i highly recommended it and don’t forget to check out the little country store.
Anthony S — Google review
Way cool! Lots of fun. Very cute country store. Small fee to climb to the top and beautiful views! So glad we stopped to see this! Worth the drive!
Mark N — Google review
Amazing views from atop of the tower. You have to pay $8 to climb it though and the tower is kinda sketchy. Must have been structurally sound a few decades ago but it‘s swaying a lot and some of the boards are rotting.
Lucas03 — Google review
Worth the drive up. The view is spectacular from the top of the lookout tower worth the 8 dollars. The store is very nice and lots of fun souvenirs to look at
Justin B — Google review
4.6
(1236)
•
4.0
(178)
8711 Stoney Fork Rd, Wytheville, VA 24382, USA
(276) 663-4016
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Hungry Mother State Park
State park
Nature & Parks
This mountain woodland park comprises a 108-acre lake for boating & fishing, plus camping & cabins.
My favorite state park by far. The views are literally heaven on earth. We went first thing in the morning & all you heard was birds and the water as the morning fog rolled away with the sunrise coming over the mountains. The rangers were beyond nice & helpful. Definitely going to come back & camp here.
Kayla D — Google review
I loved Hungry Mother State Park.My wife and I visited two days in May and everything was perfect. The beach and trails were almost empty, the weather was warm, and the water was amazing.The park staff do a great job with maintenance, information, and managing the park.The views are wonderful and the park is fantastic. A definite recommendation
Zachary H — Google review
Camped with our two young kids at the creekside campsite and are already planning our next trip there! This site has bathrooms and showers, hookups for those with campers, and was reasonably priced per night. The visitors center, campsite, trails and park in general are stunning! The 5.7 mile loop around the lake was great, the lake beach front was well kept and the views were awesome. Highly recommend!! Park wasn't too crowded either in early/mid May
Emily G — Google review
Beautiful campground with awesome campground attendants! Creekside campground bath house was super clean, equipped with private showers, a laundry room, outside dish washing station, and ice machine. Firewood available next to campground attendant's site. The lake was stunning in fall foliage! Numerous trails and shelters abound. Definitely recommend to anyone!
LeAnn E — Google review
This was such a pleasant surprise! We were just passing through and grabbed one of the last 2 sites available. The sites are large, shaded, well manicured and so peaceful. I did NOT want to leave! Checkout is at 1pm and we took our sweet time and pulled out at 12:58. Check in time is 4pm but I suspect you can check in sooner since folks occupied our site as soon as we pulled out. I can’t wait to go back and enjoy all the activities the park has to offer. We stayed at Benson, site 15. Since we were just passing through, we didn’t even unhook. I could have spent a week here.
Jaimie C — Google review
We stayed several nights in Cabin #1, an original CCC cabin built in the 1930s. It was so cool to experience! The cabin was equipped with a small kitchen, a bunk bed, a queen bed, and a living room. You must provide your own linens.The park itself is beautiful. There is a lovely swimming beach, a snack bar, hiking trails, and boats available to rent. I would highly recommend this park!
Jennifer C — Google review
A beautiful state park! We stayed at the Creekside Campground in early April, so we couldn't fully enjoy the more warm-weather amenities, but there was plenty to do regardless. The campground was nice, though a slightly wider road and more than one dump station would have made our departure easier.We hiked the Molly's Knob Trail and the Molly's Vista Trail, both of which were moderately difficult and steep, but had a beautiful view from the top; my five year old was able to make it to the top with only moderate whining (but my three year old had to be carried the last half mile). Both trails started out with good signage, but the signs and the blazes disminished in quantity and quality as we made our way down the trail.My children attended a ranger-led event that they really enjoyed. They also loved biking on the plentiful paved trails, especially those that led to the playground (which could use some updates and repairs but was still fun).
Laura H — Google review
Low-key but great. Beautiful lake which can be fished and swam in at certain points. Some biking trails are all uphill then down, but the Lake Trail is a fun, flowing trail that has a couple of semi-challenging sharp turns. You will love it.
Michael H — Google review
One of my favorite parks within my area. Rangers and staff are always so helpful and nice, always clean beach and camping areas. Cute restaurant, and gift shop as well plus a little "beach" shack to get snacks, drinks and water toys. Can also rent paddle boats for the lake!!
Katlyn B — Google review
Our second year of camping at this park. Great hiking trails and clean campground at Burson. Camp host is the best. He is so friendly and a great worker.Avery is a very informative guide with the state park. Last year, he led an owl call activity. And this year, we were pleased to see he was involved with the evening canoe trip we signed up for. We hope to return here some day.
Debra M — Google review
We had an amazing experience renting a cabin for the weekend here! The cabin was clean, comfortable, and surrounded by rhododendrons. We came early in the year, so boat rentals weren't open yet and it was too cold to swim. Even so, the lake and the hiking both gave us beautiful views. Plenty of people were fishing. It's a quiet and clean park.
Deborah G — Google review
Beautiful park! We had a great time during a week of spectacular weather. Dave & Cathy were excellent campground hosts! We're already making plans to see you again next September!
Mike C — Google review
I stayed at one of the cabins here and had a wonderful experience. The cabins are well-equipped and comfortable. There are many activities to do around here- I went kayaking and hiked to Molly’s Knob. Highly recommend
Karunya S — Google review
Decent campground. Right on a main highway so it doesn't feel as if your really in the woods. Clean restrooms and showers. Unfortunately they have 4 showers but 2 are locked off so people have to wait to get a shower. Decent trails. No wildlife.
CornBread ! — Google review
Very pretty park. We stayed in the cabins and had a great time! If you do book the cabins, it comes with everything in it(utensils, pots, pans, firewood etc). Plenty of fun stuff to do- kayaking, paddle boarding etc. Nice to just walk around the trails too! If you hike Molly’s knob, the view is gorgeous.WiFi and LTE are pretty poor except near the adventure center(welcome center).
Tarun C — Google review
We are camp hosting. It is a great park with lots of hiking trails, fishing and in season boating and swimming.
Debbie K — Google review
Camped at the Royal Oak campground, such a nice campground! Clean modern bathrooms. Walking trails are well maintained and easy to follow. Beautiful fall colors.
Olivia L — Google review
Have stayed several times and it is great, just wish it had more sites with sewers. Donald and Cathy were so accommodating as host during this trip, we enjoyed them so much.
Stanley S — Google review
We enjoyed our overnight stop at Hungry Mother State Park Camp Burson. The campground was nicely maintained and easy to get to. The Office and camp store staff and the park rangers were all very friendly. Beautiful Views of the Area and Hyngry Mother Lake are to be had from the nicely maintained trails.
Robert W — Google review
Hungry Mother State Park offers tons of outdoor fun similar to other state parks across the state. The beach, boat rentals area, trails and campgrounds were in great shape. We especially appreciated most of the park being dog-friendly. The only place our dog couldn't go was in the visitor center. Our four legged friend got to enjoy time out on the trails and the water.Our family camped while visiting the park. I was less impressed with the Burson campground compared to the older, Creekside campground. The crowd at Creekside just seemed friendlier. The camp hosts at creekside were amazing. If your travel plans involve staying at creekside be sure to reserve as early as possible, sometimes a year out for the best sites.My only complaint is that the average age of some of the staff there seemed very young. While that's not inherently bad, we had some trouble getting accurate information when we asked. It wasn't a huge problem, but it's something to keep in mind during the summer months if you're looking for information.
Mark H — Google review
I've walked the entire Lake Loop Trail, Clyburn Loop, and Clyburn Ridge trails (they're all perfect for bringing along the dogs) All are well maintained and accurately marked for levels of difficulty. Also, good for family camping, swimming for kids, and fishing.
Jessica — Google review
Great peaceful family fun. Beach area isn't overcrowded and the changing rooms/restrooms are clean. Finding close parking can sometimes be a challenge.
Morgan B — Google review
Great campground! Sites are large and campgrounds clean. Park Rangers patrol regularly and assist with questions. Some sites are water electric only some are full hookup.
Dori F — Google review
Absolutely beautiful. Streams running fast and loud. Spitting snow and cool. Restrooms are spotless.
Donald B — Google review
Despite the sad story of how the park was named, this is a wonderful area and a great park.Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachians, there are many trails, pavilions, shelters, picnic tables & grills, and lots of interesting information about the building of the park by the CCC in the '30s.There are 2 campgrounds, Camp Burson, which is a little larger, and Creekside, where we were, #17. We visited at the end of April, 2023. All the sites are pretty flat and easily accessible, although there are only a few scattered trees for privacy and shade.The bathhouse is pretty new, very clean and nice.Site's #16 & #19 would be our favorites, raised up a little and tucked into bends in the large creek.Excellent trails, Molly's Knob is well marked although a little more strenuous than I'd hoped--but it was worth it!Great park!
Tom C — Google review
Such a great state park. So many hiking trails, great playground, nice visitor center. We went to a ranger program and had a great time, very informative. Recommend hiking to Molly's Knob but beware, it is pretty steep the last mile.
Kimberly C — Google review
Great fishing. Cabins are hugely over-priced and too many restrictions on them. No place on the park sells fishing bait. Get it in town before heading out there. Enjoy the fishing! My wife and I do when we visit.
Alan B — Google review
4.8
(2493)
•
4.5
(296)
2854 Park Blvd, Marion, VA 24354, USA
(276) 781-7400
4
New River Trail State Park
State park
Nature & Parks
Hiking area
Park
Hiking Trails
This 57-mile-long park with a trail for hiking, biking & horseback riding, plus fishing & camping.
Great trail by the river. Awesome views! Plenty of history. Ample parking. Nearby is the Jackson Ferry shot tower, a piece of history right off the trail. Trail is well laid out and easy to maneuver. Includes info boards along the way.
Bush I — Google review
So much FUN! We had a big group and rented kayaks and canoes. It was the first time for most of us so we were so excited! The folks who worked there were very nice. They drove us to our starting point and told us what to look out for and where we had to land (which was back at the store). The water was calm at some areas and slightly rapid in some but we all got through it safely and had the most fun and wonderful time! Pretty scenery too. It was a great adventure (and arm/back workout!).
Jackie A — Google review
Beautiful park by the New River. A nice campground for tent camping. Lots of shade so it's cooler.Nice gift shop with restrooms.
Lori W — Google review
We love this rail trail. It’s never too busy and there is so much beautiful scenery. Make sure to bring your own snacks and water because there is very limited provisions on the trail. Still, our favorite rail trail.
Jeanette N — Google review
I have cycled the New River Trail numerous times over the past 20 years and it never grows old. I experience a new adventure with each visit. There are numerous places along the trail to enjoy the scenery of the New River. Many park benches and picnic tables located along the trail. The trail is well maintained by park maintenance.Just my personal preference. My favorite section is parking at Austinville and cycling south to Fries, VA. The rock formations and views of the river grabs my attention. This is a 35 mile out and back trip.Since I work in Radford , VA I frequently drive to Draper, VA for an after work ride. My favorite ride on this section of trail is from Draper to just south of Lone Ash. This will make a 25 mile out and back trip. All the trail is nice. But these are my personal favorites.It's a great place to run, hike or bicycle. I purchase a yearly parking pass because I take advantage of the park being so close to my home. I would highly recommend this place to anyone looking for an outdoor adventure.
Kevin P — Google review
Beautiful, peaceful place to walk or ride your bicycle! I'm not from the area so I didn't think about ticks but both my dog and I got some!! Good thing I caught them on time! It's a wonderful place to enjoy nature. Just do what you must to avoid ticks!
Aileen O — Google review
What a great area to explore, trails to walk or ride your bike and fishing along the river, views are super fantastic. Definitely a hidden gem.
Mitch A — Google review
Incredibly beautiful. Ate dinner at the historic Foster Falls Inn. Beautiful green pastoral setting with rolling hills and trees. There is a trail on a former train track that we hiked a few years ago. We loved the views— esp the trestle across the New River.
Linda L — Google review
This is a beautiful campground. Walk in sites with wagons provided to tote your items. Very peaceful and quiet. My only concern was the strong ammonia smell coming from the pit toilets. It burned my eyes every time I went in there. I've never experienced a pit toilet that smelled that strongly. I don't think it was the cleaning products, but rather the human waste.
Valerie A — Google review
Every year my brother and family go here to vacate and catch big fish! This year I was able to ho along and that's my son Connor who got the big bass down this year. Great for any family loving to camp and rough it along the new river!!
Samantha T — Google review
Such an awesome river to see! It flows north instead of south, and was extremely beautiful to see. It's one of the oldest rivers in the country, so the historic value of the river is pretty neat!
Stephanie A — Google review
Great trail we e biked 22 miles,saw lots of deer ,great veiws,folks on horseback ,loved the austinville tunnel
Joel H — Google review
This was a great way to spend 2 hours. See lots of friendly bikers and hikers. Nice 2 mile level walk from Galax to Cliffview.
Chris K — Google review
If you are a Texan, this is a required detour off I-77 as there is a small park dedicated to "the father of Texas" Stephen F. Austin. If you are not a Texan, it is still a very pretty stop along the peaceful New River
Jeff P — Google review
Located at the halfway mark of the New River Trail, this park is the formal gateway to one of the best rail trails in the United States. The gift shop has snacks, drinks, clothes and other fun items. The park is well maintained with historic buildings and quick access to the New River itself. We ended each day of bicycling with a refreshing soak in the shallow and inviting river making for what can be described as a "perfect summer day". We hope to ride this trail every summer!
Wind S — Google review
Beautiful long and well maintained gravel trail. Suggest starting at the New River State Park just south of Fort Griles. Then you can go either east or west taking in all of the history of the region. Enjoy.
David P — Google review
This trail is easily accessible and pancake flat. There are many points of interest along the way.We have biked this trail several times starting in Galax, Foster Falls and this time in Austinville.
John C — Google review
My family and I consisting of 3 adults and 3 children age 3-10years old. Had a great time. It's beautiful this time of the year. The leaves are amazing. The bridges are all redone and super nice. We will be returning!
Cynthia L — Google review
Borrowed bikes from downtown Galax (New River Trail Outfitters, excellent experience!) and it was very close to the entrance of New River Trail. Absolutely beautiful trail, especially in autumn with the leaves changing colors. Highlight was definitely watching the crane fish by the waterfall. Highly recommend!
Kayla V — Google review
Superb, well maintained, beautiful scenery, gorgeous river views and you take it all in on foot, bicycle, or horse.
Bill O — Google review
We had done the creeper trail and a friend told me about this trail. It was cold but great weather when we were there. It warmed up to the high 40s low 50s. We will be back to ride the rest of the trail. It is 57 miles long so we didn't get it all done in two days. Beautiful scenery, deer running around it was great. On the creeper coming down you can get away with not a lot of pedaling. Be prepared to pedal both ways here. Not hard just pedaling. We loved it!!
Teresa C — Google review
4.8
(1956)
•
4.5
(138)
116 Orphanage Dr, Max Meadows, VA 24360, USA
(276) 699-6778
5
Chateau Morrisette Winery
Mentioned on
1 list
$$$$expensive
Winery
Food & Drink
Wine store
Wineries & Vineyards
Chateau Morrisette Winery located in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains offers a relaxed dining experience with breathtaking views. The tasting room serves their signature Black Dog dry red wine and Dog Blue, a blend of riesling, Traminette, and Vidal Blanc. A restaurant with lunch options like cheese and charcuterie plates ($19) and burgers ($13 to $15), while dinner features more upscale dishes (mains $28 to $40).
We stopped by Chateau Morrisette on a tip from someone we met at another winery. We were not disappointed. Their wine is first class and the atmosphere is laid back but classy. The two pups made the whole experience fun. The family obviously takes great pride in their establishment and it shows.
Amy W — Google review
Wonderful evening!! Winery was amazing with Mr. Ray, the wine slushy was my personal favorite but all of the wines were great! Dinner was fabulous! Service was on point, the view was beautiful of the sunset and food was super tasty! We ordered one of each dessert and love them all!
Miranda K — Google review
Chateau Morrisette Winery was the highlight of our Blue Ridge road trip! My husband, 2 pups, and I chose to stop here after seeing they were close to Blue Ridge and are dog friendly. We showed up just in time for sunset and were amazed by how beautiful the property was. It looks like a dream. And felt that way too. The Morrisette family were all there and made sure we had the best experience. We were able to taste several wines, made rounds meeting people and dogs with our own pups, and settled by the fire with a glass of wine. Ryan taught us about the wines we tasted and the history of the winery. I was given free tastings until I found the perfect wine. We particularly loved the Petit Verdot which we got a bottle of. While warming up by the fire we got a chance to meet the rest of the lovely Morrisette family and they even offered us a cheese plate and s’mores while giving us recommendations of hikes in the area! It was truly the best experience and we were overwhelmed with gratitude for the kindness and hospitality they showed us. I would 10/10 recommended anyone to visit this gorgeous winery regardless of how far the drive is. You are guaranteed an exceptional experience. We are already looking forward to our trip back and hopefully dining at the restaurant soon!
Leah S — Google review
If I could give 10 stars I would have. This place was absolutely beautiful. The gardens, the chateau, the inside everything was clean, well organized. The staff was very nice and the wine delicious. We will be going back again.
Debrah S — Google review
Very friendly staff. They really know their wines. Highly recommend taking a tour. The building is something to see. All the wood was old. No new trees were killed. Ray was awesome. Taste testing is fun also.
David M — Google review
Beautiful winery. Tucked a way right off the Blue Ridge Parkway in the mountains. Feel like your in France, not Virginia. Wine is outstanding. Fun for the entire family especially the doggy. Music, corn hole fun, excellent outdoor patio and live music. Must visit
Jay M — Google review
Excellent wine, food, service, and scenery! Our dogs were treated so well! We sat inside/outside the restaurant and winery and every location was beautiful! The owner, Ryan Morrisette, helped us during our wine tasting and was so friendly and knowledgeable during. We will definitely be back with friends!
Casi M — Google review
We had the BEST time here! The winery is absolutely beautiful and we had the pleasure of meeting a few members of the Morrisette family while we were there. We left with several gifts for ourselves and family members. Even our dog Pepper left with a gift! We cannot thank them enough for their hospitality. We will absolutely be back and I would highly recommend this winery to anyone looking for a peaceful afternoon in a beautiful place
Hannah P — Google review
Chateau Morrisette Winery has everything you want in a wine stop or tour - friendly staff, delicious wines, and a stunning venue. We stopped here the last day of my bachelorette trip and had such a wonderful time I am already planning my next visit. There’s a wine here for any tastebud, from sweet to dry. I’m a dog lover, so the labels, dog treat bar, and love of animals makes this instantly my vibe. Sit by the fireplace and enjoy some wine and crackers while Mr. Ray behind the bar tells you the story of the winery and vineyard. This has my highest recommendation!
Katelyn H — Google review
I'm giving this place 5 stars for how nice and welcoming they were today. The people who work there are amazing and my 1 year old loved learning how to play fetch with the resident pup manager! 🐶 The wine was also delicious. The best chardonnay ive ever had. A highlight for my rainy birthday.
Brittany B — Google review
We were traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway today and discovered Chateau Morrisette Winery. Very beautiful place, great wines and very nice friendly people. We were traveling with our dog and she was welcomed there as well.
Phil D — Google review
We love the wines at Chateau Morrisette but was disappointed when read that no outside picnics or food was allowed. While there, several groups of people brought their own food and ate. We tried making reservations at the restaurant but it was sold out. We planned ahead and ate at Mabry Mill Restaurant which was delicious. I recommend a food truck or don’t advertise no outside food and then allow people to do that.
Helene N — Google review
We visited Chateau Morrisette on July 4th and were welcomed by a personal visit of the winery by owner Melissa Morrissette. Very interesting to understand the specifics of this Virginia winemaker. Then, she treated us with a wine tasting of 6 of their wines for about an hour so of course we purchased a case of our preferred ones. We had not booked at the restaurant because we were told it was not necessary but unfortunately it was fully booked and a reservation is required. Well, Melissa was able to squeeze us in for lunch and we enjoyed their gnocchis and raviolis (her son is the Chef at the restaurant) with a complimentary glass of their best selling red wine. Thank you Melissa for your kind welcome and we look forward to share our bottles with our friends and find Chateau Morrisette in Florida!
Gilles T — Google review
I truly believe this place is actual heaven on earth. I loved every single thing about it. I would have thought I was at a Michelin star restaurant with the quality of the service! I can’t recall if the general manager’s name was Gundars or something similar but he was so wonderful. Incredibly thoughtful and accommodating. We sampled the red wines first (ended up buying two bottles of the black dog) then ate our appetizers. The Brussel sprouts were the best I’ve had in a long time. Then a flight of whites; my favorite was the 2021 oaked Chardonnay. I had the duck confit for dinner and thought it was perfect. So tender, so moist, it fell right off the bone. My mother in law enjoyed her shrimp and grits and my husband liked his pasta as well! They wished the onions were cooked longer in the French onion soup, but that was the only critique I heard at the table. For desert, we got a flight of the sweet wines (we LOVED Our Dog Blue and bought a bottle of that as well) and the chocolate torte which was also fantastic. And I haven’t even mentioned that we had three dogs with us! We haven’t been to this area before but I can guarantee we will be back specifically to return to Chateau Morrisette
Carrie B — Google review
A slice of heaven. We had a wine tasting with Mr. Ray and it was amazing (and super fun) from start to finish! Come visit this hidden gem.
Mary D — Google review
I think I died and went to (dog) heaven! I'm not a huge wino, but we stumbled upon this place after a much needed break from hiking. Upon entering, we felt a little underdressed (it was a magical castle), but that seemed to go unnoticed. We were quickly greeted by the big dog himself and taken inside. We were able to sample a few wines before deciding on a favorite (which is hard considering they were all delicious). My toddler even got to sample their finest juice box. My girls were able to be their fun, playful selves while Mom and dad could kick back and enjoy a glass of white wine before it got warm. The customer service was phenomenal and the winery itself was beautiful. We will be back if we are ever in the area again.
Courtney T — Google review
Love this place. Amazing view. Great service. Must visit this place if you're in town.
Jemy J — Google review
My friends and I had a wonderful experience! We had never been to a winery before so this was all new to us. We informed the lady who greeted us that was our first time at any sort of winery and that we didn’t have a lot of knowledge about the various wines or how tastings went. She was very kind, patient, and answered any questions we had. She explained each wine that we tried and helped us pick the sweetest ones for tasting. Her kindness and patience made this a great first experience and we will be returning!
Haley C — Google review
I had the pleasure of dining here for lunch while visiting my mother about a week and a half ago. Food was wonderful and our server, Sadie was truly outstanding. She’s happy and bubbly and truly enjoys her job. The way life should be! So nice to see. From the young man who seated us to dessert - all around good experience.
Foodie G — Google review
Had the best experience at Chateau Morrisette winery. Everyone was so kind and welcoming. I went with my family for a tasting and tour, during our family reunion trip. The tasting and tour were marvelous, the owner herself guided us! I could tell she was very passionate about the winery and it made the experience even better. We also had the chance to eat lunch at the restaurant and wow!!! Amazing!!! Thank you to everyone who helped plan and execute this great experience for my family! We will be back. Special thanks to Angie! She’s the sweetest.
Magaline G — Google review
Gorgeous winery... great food. Everyone is so kind & I love seeing the dogs!
Ellen C — Google review
We loved the beautiful drive and loved the wine tasting. Very gracious, helpful, and knowledgeable folks. They have a great variety of wines in varied price ranges as well as discounts. We left with quite a few bottles we look forward to enjoying. This is one of the only wineries we've been to lately that has complimentary tastings, which only allows me to buy more .
CD W — Google review
What a wonderful experience at the Chateau Morrisette Winery! Beautiful, elegant place to drink wine and eat with family and friends. Ryan Morrisette entertained us for our wine tasting experience. He did a wonderful job understanding what each individual liked and didn’t like in wine. We had to provide a photo with the wine and our pup to complement. Cannot wait to go back. Thank you 🍷♥️
Kayla B — Google review
Nice visit. I can't comment on the wine ( not a wine drinker), but the grounds were nice and clean..
Mr. A — Google review
Bring your pup! One of the best wineries in Virginia. The sprawling grounds are expertly maintained. As you exit your car, you walk up to the winery through a charming courtyard where you can enjoy the view and your wine. The wine tastings are not rushed and you may even have the owner (she is so very kind and informative) facilitate your tasting.We left with a case of wine, I mean, why not?They love dogs, so much so, that they are on their label.We did not eat at the restaurant but did walk through. Its on our return list!We will be back.10 stars.
Scott A — Google review
I loved this winery! It was pretty and relaxing, plus dog friendly which is nice. The dogs loved the pup tasting bar.
Chelsea L — Google review
The 6 of us decided last minute to have lunch at Chateau Morrisette. They welcomed us without a reservation. Customer service is amazing! Sadie is the absolute best! She has the ability to read the room and knew how to handle our crazy crew. We would drive 7-8 hours just to see Sadie again. Oh, the food was fantastic! Everyone at the Chateau was wonderful. They're doing something very right.
Kris N — Google review
A lovely surprise find while traveling from Charlotte to Bedford! Loved the entire experience- the ambiance, the pups, the wines, and the fabulous Mr. Ray and his stories! We loved the experience so much we left with several bottles, and even had a steak dinner in the restaurant. Look forward to sharing this place with loved ones! Tip: make a reservation for the restaurant, but the winery is walk in service for tastings.
Sarah G — Google review
My girlfriend and I got a wonderful fact-filled tour from Amanda who was very friendly and informative. The grilled chicken with green beans was amazing, and so was the sweet potato ravioli at the restaurant. Additionally, we had a view of the mountains and especially liked the real flowers on our table. Everything we ordered was correct and prompt and one of the employees even took some pictures of us for us. The grounds were very scenic and it was like we were in France with the decoration and architecture. I really liked the gazebos outside to relax in.
Bretton L — Google review
I'll never travel to Charleston without this trip planner again
6
Mabry Mill
Mentioned on
3 lists
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
Mabry Mill, a renowned tourist spot located in the south of Roanoke, is a restored gristmill and sawmill showcasing historic exhibits and interpretive demonstrations. The area around Mabry Mill presents an ideal photo opportunity for visitors. In addition to this, tourists can head north from the mill to explore the scenic beauty of Peaks of Otter and Bedford town nearby.
4.5
(509)
Virginia 24120, USA
7
The Blue Ridge Music Center
Amphitheater
Museums
Specialty Museums
Live folk & country music at an open-air theater in mountain foothills with nearby hiking trails.
What a phenomenal facility! Gorgeous grounds right on the Blue Ridge Parkway, exceptional free live music, educational museum with impressive collection of artifacts.
Angela B — Google review
Easily accessible from the blue ridge parkway, it was a nice stop to hear some traditional American music.The volunteers perform from noon to 3pm everyday.We stayed for 1hour and enjoyed their passion about the music.
Loïc — Google review
Wonderful and authentic musicians who are very kind to share their knowledge of mountain music! Great displays inside as well, well worth the stop along the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway!
Mom C — Google review
Great museum, nice gift shop, live concerts. A lovely little place along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Kristina W — Google review
A gem of the parkway. We especially enjoyed the demonstration of the science behind stringed music instruments. The museum was well presented. We enjoyed a great breezeway bluegrass concert as well. The trails around the music center are not to be missed as well.
Jason G — Google review
The story of mountain music is alive and well here. Hope you get to catch one of the live performances like we did. Not only is it authentic music, but the players enhance that with stories about the music and the artists. Inside, much about the story is on display and there are many places to watch and listen to recorded performances. Thank you National Park Service for this gem.
Steve S — Google review
There are multiple places along the Blue Ridge Parkway you can stop off at, but this a place you MUST stop off at! There is free live music here almost everyday, and concerts on Saturdays (you do have to pay to get into those.) Inside the main building is a small museum dedicated to the history of the music of the Appalachian Mountains, as well as a gift shop.For those hikers out there, there are also several trails that are connected to the facility, so you might want to check those out.
Thomas P — Google review
Very cool. Musicians were very friendly and described their music. Nice place
Karin K — Google review
Amazing venue that's part of the Blue Ridge Parkway national park system. Great sound and very relaxed atmosphere. You can bring coolers (no alcohol though). Would absolutely come see another show here.
Fenrael — Google review
Great museum, covering local music and it's evolution and impact in American music.
Bracken S — Google review
The Blue Ridge Music Center is a stop along the Blue Ridge Parkway near Galax VA. It is a combination Visitor center, museum, and music venue. During the summer they have music daily. And they have music events the pupil the year.We thoroughly enjoyed the music and had a wonderful picnic lunch. We’ve started going old school and packing a cooler! It is a fun stop.-Milepost 213-Indoor bathrooms-Trails-Picnic areaMusic - seats provided, may want to brig. -Chairs for larger eventsVisitor’s centerMuseum
Lisa B — Google review
Very pleased with our recent Saturday visit here. Well-provisioned museum staffed by very knowledgeable and personable volunteers and Rangers. Special shout-out to Mr. Aubry who gave my two boys aged 3 and 6 a digestible and interactive distillation of the physics of stringed instruments, concluded by some lovely playing by him of his (personally) hand-crafted dulcimer. Really top-notch stuff. Regret that there were not (more?) recorded examples of shape-note singing.
Kristopher M — Google review
A nice facility with friendly Music Center and Park Staff. Terrific talent if Shelton and Williams and The Kruger Brothers . What a treat to experience .
Laura T — Google review
What an amazing place! I wished I lived closer so I could stop in more often. The center is open from 10-5 but only live music - every day - from noon to 4. I ended up arriving shortly after 10am, then going to lunch in Mt. Airy, then coming back to hear some music around 1:00. I wish I had stayed the night near Mt. Airy then come up for the museum and music and not backtracked. There are also some trails around and a huge outdoor stage, and large bathrooms. The shop sells music, musical instruments, and more standard souvenir things. Make sure to push the buttons to hear the music in the museum! And play with the two big screens - there is a lot of fun stuff to see and hear.
Sara W — Google review
I've been to the Blue Ridge Music Center a few times for the museum and breezeway music, which Ive thoroughly enjoyed. My wife, granddaughter, and I went to the Steep Canyon Rangers show and it was an amazing experience! The venue is perfect, the staff was extremely friendly, the food options were great, and the show was wonderful! We will definitely be visiting again!
Jason T — Google review
Love this little gem of a place tucked just off the parkway. Beautiful views of the fall foliage, great music, too. Friendly staff, rangers and volunteers.
Rachel H — Google review
If you're headed down the Blue Ridge Parkway near Fancy Gap and you're a fan of traditional Appalachian music, the Blue Ridge Music Center is an absolute must-see. Set amidst the stunning backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the center hosts live music performances daily throughout the summer, featuring talented musicians and bands steeped in the region's rich musical legacy. But that's not all - visitors can also explore the center's interactive museum, which offers insights into the history and evolution of Appalachian music, as well as the region's unique cultural traditions. Plan a visit and soak up the sights and sounds of the Blue Ridge Music Center for a truly memorable experience.
Charles C — Google review
Excellent visit. Two seniors visited the Blue Ridge Music Center on a Sunday in early June and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. The center is open from 12 to 5 on Sundays with live local music from at least 12 to 3. The band we listened to played from 12 to 4, not leaving us much time to go through the actual museum. They were excellent. A stop well worth your time.
Chris H — Google review
Beautiful location! Love the open air atmosphere! Come early so you can get a good seat. It was drizzling and a little cold when I went, so not the best way to experience this venue, but it was still a very cool, peaceful venue that I would enjoy visiting again. Make sure to bring something to sit on!
Warren T — Google review
We stopped at the afternoon jam session. There was a dozen great musicians playing bluegrass and gospel. They taught flat-footing, which came in handy later at the Floyd Country store!
Bryan G — Google review
Beautiful center located right off the Blue Ridge Parkway. The staff is very helpful, explaining the different sections of the center, as well as any exhibits and/or events they have.While we were there, a band was playing bluegrass music. It was very enjoyable listening to them play. They also had a moonshine exhibit that was curated by Ferrum College.The main attraction at the center is the bluegrass history exhibit. They have a great deal of artifacts and the history is fascinating.I highly suggest planning an hour or two to visit the Blue Ridge Music Center.
Stefan K — Google review
Centerpiece of the Crooked Road music trail. A great hub to start out at for novices to the mountain music of Virginia. The self-guided museum exhibits are great. Videos, artifacts, photos, demos and more available. You can buzz through in 15 minutes, or spend a couple of hours digesting the museum portion.As part of the national park system , it has great items to purchase in the gift shop. We picked up a couple of locally sourced lap harps. There was an inside demonstration by one of the rangers playing the dulcimer. Very cool instrument and we learned some interesting techniques. The highlight on this Saturday afternoon was a live performance of a 5 piece group on the porch. Check their schedule for big live events at the center during the summer.It is a great source of information, and you never know who you will meet there that may lead to an interesting road trip in the area to one of the featured towns along the crooked road. We followed up on the tip to visit the town of Floyd. Great connections!! We make sure to visit whenever we pass through the region.
Ed J — Google review
READ THE FINE PRINT... There is a tiny link before check out that you should read before making a purchase. Their policy is they don't refund ticket purchases, regardless of circumstances. We purchased tickets and less than 24 hours later had to cancel, and they are not willing to work with us. Very disappointing.
Mel R — Google review
If you are on the Blue Ridge Parkway, don't miss this stop! It was a real treat to sit and listen to these musicians. The group was super friendly. Invited questions from the audience, and just really had a passion for playing and singing. We found the Blue Ridge Music Center by chance and loved it so much, we went back the next day. There's a museum inside the center with exhibits about the history of "Hill-Billy" music. I enjoyed seeing the instruments and learning where this music originated. There's also a nice store for unique gifts and clean restrooms.
Tammy Q — Google review
Take a break & stretch your legs and stop by the Blue Ridge Music Center. A great place to read about the music and to listen to the music.
Mick B — Google review
4.8
(762)
•
5.0
(199)
700 Foothills Rd, Galax, VA 24333, USA
(276) 236-5309
8
Mount Airy Museum of Regional History
Mentioned on
25 lists
Museum
Sights & Landmarks
History museum
Neighborhoods
Located in historic downtown Mount Airy, the Mount Airy Museum of Regional History offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural and historical heritage of the region. The museum features exhibits that depict life in the back country, showcasing early settlement and local heroes. Visitors can explore permanent and rotating exhibits, attend special events, and access a research library.
Large, well thought out and organized museum that covers literally everything about the history of the region. I had no idea going in just how big the museum is. The exhibits are excellent, especially the firetrucks in the basement
Cassie T — Google review
We went on a Ghost Tour, and also walked through the museum. It was great. Jonathon was our host at the museum he was so down to earth and funny. Our tour guide was Dan awesome very knowledgeable and just really nice and patient. Great time. The money goes back to museum.
Pat S — Google review
This Museum is really amazing place to go for your money. The amount of things to see covers 3 floors it has a place for kids to see and play
Speak R — Google review
We very much enjoyed the richness of the local history. The exhibits were well done and varied. Definitely recommend a visit of you are in Mt Airy.
Daniel W — Google review
Nice, interesting, and informative/educational. Four floors of local history and culture. Reasonably priced, $6 person for entry, and an observation tower over the 4th floor that lets you see the country side for miles around. Would love to go back when I have more time.
James B — Google review
Great museum. Much larger than we expected. Several floors of displays. Well organized.
RobertsMom N — Google review
Intetesting regional history. Home of a few famous singers and actors. The third floor of the museum is the highest view point in Mt Airy.
Dave — Google review
There is a display here that is near and dear to my heart. The Henry Wright Country Store was a store I visited when I was a kid. This is a wonderful history museum lots of local information. You can also have a Birthday party here.
Sandra B — Google review
This place is really fun. The customer service is excellent. There are so many exhibits to explore, and a great gift shop as well. It is well worth the money!
Marcie C — Google review
Good Museum, great price. For only $6 it's 4 floors of history. The place is under construction in places so it was a little hard to navigate, but once completed I'm sure it will be great. Loved the observatory, but we almost missed it. You are given a map, but signage inside could be a little better. Overall, we had a great time and well worth the admission.
Dave C — Google review
Great museum to stop by. The man at the counter was funny and knowledgeable about the museum and area. Museum had alot of great exhibits. Make sure to take the stairs up to the top of the clock tower you can get a good look at the town and mountains. I would highly recommend stopping in.
Hot S — Google review
Had the pleasure of attending a Ghost Walk with the amazingly educational Terry, our guide who absolutely made history come to life. She even stayed after the walk to talk with me and wife and all three of us instantly bonded. Will definitely be attending again and coming back soon to museum to look at all the exhibits.
Eric J — Google review
I've lived here 30+ years and sadly I must say, I had never been to the museum, but that changed 11-29-22. Myself, My Husband and some out of town friends went and Really Enjoyed Ourselves!! The history is very interesting and seeing all the displays is a treat! You Owe it to Yourself to go! The staff there, the day we went were so nice and very friendly! Go See Some Really Neat History - Mount Airy Museum! ❤️
Sandy J — Google review
The first floor covers original Indian population and arrival of European settlers. The second floor is currently being remodeled. The third floor has some fashion and has a lot of info on Donna Fargo and Easter Brothers as well as a small amount about Andy Griffith. The fourth floor is also not complete. Entrance fee is $6 per person. At the time that I visited half of the museum is not complete. Museum is right on Main Street so parking is along street or public lots.
April W — Google review
This place is put together very well. Very clean and organized and full of information and history. There are multiple levels to the building packed with exhibits that might strike your interest from the granite quarry, local sports, music to automobiles. It’s excellent if you’re interested in the town of Mount Airy, but if you’re not it’s easy to just breeze through and waste your money. Otherwise I would highly recommend this place.
H C — Google review
Loved all the exhibits, Professionally done.
Thomas E — Google review
4.6
(374)
•
4.5
(542)
301 N Main St, Mt Airy, NC 27030, USA
(336) 786-4478
9
Floyd’s City Barber Shop
Mentioned on
11 lists
Barber shop
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Floyd’s City Barber Shop, located at 129 N Main St, Mount Airy, NC 27030, has been a beloved establishment since its founding in 1929. It is still a fully operational barber shop and welcomes visitors to experience the nostalgia of sitting in the same chair once frequented by Andy Griffith. The shop is adorned with original pieces, artwork, photos, and memorabilia that capture the essence of its rich history. Visitors can also schedule appointments for services.
Experience of a lifetime!Jeff gave me a trim, while Bill (son of the original owner of Floyd's) gave me some insights as to the history of the shop, and how it was the basis of Floyd's Barbershop in the Andy Griffith Show.When my haircut was done, Bill invited me to set in the barber chair his Dad used to use, which also was the chair Andy got his haircut in in real life.If you look at the picture of Bills Dad, he looks alot like what Floyd looked like in the tv show!!Even if you don't need a haircut, stop in and sit a spell.... (tell em Bob from Kansas City says howdy!)
Bob S — Google review
We enjoyed visiting your shop today and meeting you! Thank you for sharing the story about your dad and his story. He would be proud that you are continuing in his footsteps!
Lisa P — Google review
When we were on Main Street in Mt Airy (Mayberry) I had the opportunity to get my hair cut at Floyd’s Barber Shop and in the same chair Andy used to sit in. As someone that grew up watching Andy Griffith this is one of those bucket list things I can check off. What an awesome experience. If you’re ever in the area at least stop by and enjoy the nostalgia of it all.
Christopher T — Google review
Thank you for meeting with wife and I yesterday. We had a great time meeting you, listening to you about your dad and yourself. We learned so much from you. A great pleasure meeting you.
Morrice L — Google review
Awesome shop, they are so nice and hilarious 😂 I laughed so hard when I went last year and we got lots of pictures for Floyd's Barbershop page. We just went again. Great place!! ❤️
Chelsea W — Google review
Didn't go in - but honestly - it look very very cool/interesting from the outside. It was the one place in Mt Airy I wish we had spent more time at (or in this case, any time). It was raining - so we were walking fast.
Suz S — Google review
The MOST entertaining haircut I have ever had. Here is the photo I promised to send you. See y'all again in a few months."Santa"
Herbrv — Google review
You should definitely step in if on Main Street in Mt. AIRY. there are so many pictures, including historic photos of men that played the part of Floyd the barber. It is set up just like the barber shop from the Andy Griffith show. You can even get a haircut. Tourists are welcome!
April W — Google review
I was a bit worried coming here considering it’s such a huge tourist attraction… I thought they would be interested in tourism than actually cutting hair… I stepped into the barber shop a little afternoon, I told the man what I wanted and he went to work… probably the best cut I’ve had all year and it’s December… fantastic service, great haircut and just an all around good experience. I’ll definitely be back.
Terry S — Google review
Great experience and friendly personality. Mr Floyd is open to tell stories about his dad and Mr. Griffith and take pictures with or without a haircut.
Zach R — Google review
A fun Mayberry stop. We really enjoyed stopping here and talking with the barber.
M H — Google review
The gentleman was sharing his father's legacy as a barber. It was great stop that shared with my friends back in Washington DC. A couple are even looking to make a pilgrimage there.
Rick B — Google review
I went when I lived there and was working at cross creek apparel or Russell athletic. Great atmosphere and a great haircut. I visited more than twice.
Duey J — Google review
Loved it. Thank you for all you do to keep it open. I love watching the show. Keeps me happy.
Veniece M — Google review
Very cool..Went in and looked around and bought a couple of shirts.. you can get your haircut too.. 15 dollars a cut..
Pork C — Google review
It is always a joy to come to Floyd’s city Barbershop when we visit Mt Airy. It is so fun to listen to story’s from Jeff and Bill two wonderful gentlemen. The barbershop if filled with so much nostalgia and memories from so many people who have visited the walls are full of so many pictures. I always get a haircut from Jeff and he does a wonderful job. Thank you gentlemen for everything you do.Jon and Sherri
Jon K — Google review
Meeting Bill and hearing his stories about his father and Andy Griffith made my wife and I understand why they would base the show on Andy's home town. Mt Airy NC was truly worth visiting.
Scott R — Google review
Had a great time talking with Bill about the history of this shop and that of his dad. Stop in and say hello. Make sure to get a cut from Jeff while you are there.
Steve R — Google review
Absolutely loved it. I got my hair cut at this iconic location. It is the place that Andy Griffith himself got his hair cut.
Earl C — Google review
4.8
(155)
•
4.5
(473)
129 N Main St, Mt Airy, NC 27030, USA
(336) 755-8637
10
Andy Griffith Museum
Mentioned on
28 lists
Museum
Performing arts theater
Specialty Museums
The Andy Griffith Museum, located in Mount Airy, NC, is a 2,500-square-foot space dedicated to the life and career of the late actor Andy Griffith. Founded by his lifelong friend Emmett Forrest, the museum boasts the world's largest collection of Griffith memorabilia. Visitors can explore items from The Andy Griffith Show and Matlock sets as well as personal pieces like a rocking chair made by Griffith's father.
We decided to make the trip here and we were not disappointed. Lots to see and read. Touch screen interactive video clips and information is new. We saw , read and heard things we never knew. Beautiful tribute to a beloved actor. His life is well documented. We recommend you plan a day or two and come here. Beautiful town with wonder people.
Jody M — Google review
It's a nice museum if you're old enough to remember Andy Griffith and most notably his namesake show. We enjoyed our visit a great deal. The building is small but the exhibits were nice and the clothing and other materials from the show put a smile on our face as we remembered a time far far away.
Larry L — Google review
Such a wonderful museum. I visited with my Mother-in-law, Sister-in-law, and a great family friend. All 4 of us love and or grew up watching and still all these years later watch the Andy Griffith show. This museum was cherry on top of our visit to Mt Airy. We definitely recommend everyone who loves the show to visit the museum.
Jessica S — Google review
Learned a lot about Andy Griffith here! The museum was small, but it was definitely fun to see. Had 3 beautiful murals outside, a statue out front, and a few good photo options inside as well.
Tiffany P — Google review
My wife gave me a special birthday present by taking me here. I am a huge fan of The Andy Griffith Show and I enjoyed seeing all of the memorabilia and actual props from the show. You will definitely learn a lot of things about Andy Griffith that you maybe have never known. This is a must visit place!!
Martin S — Google review
If you love the Andy Griffith Show like I do and if you're ever in Mt. Airy, NC, the city of Mt. Airy and the Andy Griffith Museum is a must place to stop and check out!The museumis a place both for learning about and celebrating Andy Griffith, who was born in Mount Airy in 1926. Home of the single largest collection of artifacts and memorabilia related to Andy Griffith, the museum features hundreds of items from Andy’s life and his career in theater, film, and music. Highlights of the collection include actual props, wardrobe, and other artifacts fromThe Andy Griffith ShowandMatlockthat were donated by Cindi and Andy Griffith, members of the casts and crews, and other individuals and organizations.A must see if in the area.
Ron L — Google review
As a lover of Matlock, I found great enjoyment out of the museum. It is a wonderful tribute to the life and career of Andy Griffith, and I enjoyed seeing all of the pieces! My husband's favorite show is the Andy Griffith Show and it was so fun to see him so excited when going through it.
Taylor L — Google review
I think it was 8 dollars to get In per person which isn't too bad. I expected the museum to be bigger honestly but you did learn quite a bit about his life. Giving it 4 stars because it's kinda confusing on how to get there from the parking lot. Also the sidewalks are slippery even without rain so be careful.
Janice M — Google review
Whats not to love about Mayberry! To walk in and see about how and where Andy Griffith grew up and made his way to the big screen is interesting and gives a whole new meaning to our small town. This is Andy's home town and you will see how much this played into the writing of the show. There is also a museum below with more information on the town itself. Small museum but packed with information.
William B — Google review
So many memories and such a great collection. I loved the handwritten notes from Andy with items he donated.
Michelle G — Google review
The Andy Griffith Museum in Mount Airy NC is a sweet little museum. This was a great visit with interactive monitors (Which my wife loved) and lots of keepsakes from the cast of the Andy Griffith Show. In addition it has some nice memorabilia from Andy Griffith's singing days and some of his other movies. There's more to see downstairs too. The museum doesn't take that long to visit, unless your wife likes to press every button on the AV displays like mine does, but it's just about right. Then, when you're done, take a visit down on main street for more souvenirs, visit Floyd's Barber Shop, and grab a Barnie Burger at Barney's Cafe. ...oh...oh... loved the coffee at "Page's Books and Coffee Shop". Really flavorful and not bitter. Sweet staff too! I really hope you found this review helpful! 😊
Michael H — Google review
Great experience. It was fun to see all the old show props and learn more about Andy. A little small but fun. My teenage daughters both enjoyed it. The man working there was super friendly and really seemed to enjoy his job. It's nice to see someone who enjoys his job and kind.
Melanie W — Google review
Love this whole area Mt. Airy NC. I have loved Andy Griffith since I was a child and to be in his hometown was amazing. I highly recommend eating lunch at Snappy great food and great service.
Angela C — Google review
I enjoyed this museum. Should have been a little bigger. Great price of about $8 per person. Loved what I saw but the layout could have been a little better. Good walkways for handicapped individuals. Love Andy so I loved seeing this museum devoted to him. Also went to the gas station and the jail. Great experience that I would do again.
Dee T — Google review
Ive been here twice, always been a huge fan of andy griffith and mount airy. I love the town and i absolutely love the museum so much
Taylor T — Google review
Nice tribute to Andy and the show, so much history, did you know Don Knotts won 6 Emmy's for his role? make sure you get the combo pass and visit the newly opened Siamese Twins museum.
Mark M — Google review
Take a step back into Mayberry. You'll find lots to do in the town where Andy Griffith grew up in. The museum highlights his entire career. We really enjoyed it.
Take L — Google review
It's a small museum but well done and informative about all Andy Griffith and some of the other characters from the show. It's also clean and modern.
Glory T — Google review
My son gifted me with a trip to Mayberry for Mother's Day! We stayed at 711 East Haymore Andy's childhood home for the weekend. The museum was very well organized and had actual clothing worn by the Stars of the show. The cost to get in is very reasonable at $8 and change. Be sure and stop by and take your picture with Andy and Opie's statue out front!
Teresa K — Google review
Took a day trip to Mount Airy & we just had to visit the Andy Griffith Museum. As children we loved his show so this was a must for my husband and myself.We made a day of it and went out to eat & enjoyed downtown Mount Airy.
JOSEPHINE G — Google review
Small, cute museum. Took us about 20 mins to complete once we got in (the line took 20 mins). It was a bit underwhelming due to its size, but we did enjoy all the Andy Griffith memorabilia, including his UNC-related items. I learned some things I didn't know about his time at my alma mater. And it was cool seeing the outfits from both The Andy Griffith Show and Matlock.
Jennifer H — Google review
Great place to visit if you like an old fashioned place dripping with southern hospitality and it’s just a bonus that Andy Griffith grew up there and modeled it after Mayberry!! I thought everyone was so nice in this town! I wish the rest of America would take a page out of the book of this town. Thank you and I love you ❤️ Mt. Airy
Frank F — Google review
If you love Andy Griffith and want to see some of his childhood photos and memorabilia from his TV show, movies, and records there are many things on exhibit. Compared to some other museums I've been to, I wouldn't say this is interactive. There's one touch sensitive digital screen but even though it wasn't crowded when we were there, someone was always using it so we never got a chance to. I'd say that it's worth it to see, but a lot could be done to make it better-- Hologram images, clips from his TV show playing showing the actors wearing the clothing that's displayed rather than still photos, an interactive exhibit where people could choose to play songs from his records, a replica of the police station with the jail, etc. so people could sit at the desk, try out Otis's cell.
Bibi B — Google review
The Andy Griffith Museum is a small, but extremely well done museum dedicated to the life of Andy Griffith. It includes many artifacts from his childhood through his adult career. Some are more esoteric like a year book from when he was a music/drama teacher in the local high school. There are lots of things from his movies, Matlock, The Andy Griffith show, and his musical career.It is a relatively small space but one of the better organized and presented displays we have visited. It was under $10 a person when we visited. There was a steady stream of people for a Tuesday afternoon but it wasn’t crowded.There is a second exhibit area down the stairs in another building (The Surry Arts Council) which focuses more on the town and other characters including the career of Betty Lynn who played Thelma Lou on the show.
Jim D — Google review
Small museum packed with information regarding Andy Griffith’s life. So much lovely memorabilia from Andy’s movies & the Andy Griffith Show. There is free parking in the lot next to the museum and theater.
Michele C — Google review
The best site to see in Mt Airy if you are a fan of the show. First of all, don't miss the statue of Andy and Opie out front. Then, take your time as you visit the museum dedicated to the show. Colorful murals as well.
Jay B — Google review
We had a great time visiting memory lane with all the memorabilia from the Andy Griffith museum! A great place to visit!
Lori L — Google review
Loved the museum. Even saw posters of movies Andy starred in that I didn’t know about. Beautiful grounds. Well organized museum. Staff was knowledgeable and helpful. Plenty of parking.
RobertsMom N — Google review
I'll never travel to Charleston without this trip planner again
11
Stone Mountain State Park
State park
Nature & Parks
14,000 acres of parkland around a scenic granite dome, offering fishing, hiking, climbing & camping.
We did the Stone Mountain loop which is 4.3 miles. We started at upper parking lot and went counter clockwise. Climbing up was not a big deal. Not too steep to get to the top. Trail is well maintained and couple of views along the way. If you just want to get to the top and come back quickly then just head back the same way instead of doing full loop. Going to top from upper parking lot is about 1.4 miles if you go counter clockwise. Other side of the loop is about 2.9 miles with lots of steps but you get to see the waterfalls and side of the mountain which has some good views. Plenty of parking, restrooms and maps available.
Deepak P — Google review
Very unique location with well kept trails. Hiking is relatively easy, depending on how much you do. The views are amazing, the photos show it all. Also, the park rangers are very friendly and went out of their way when I had a car issue.
Justin M — Google review
We were driving to Virginia for a hike and drove by this gem. The falls are beautiful but really geared for a moderate level hiker. Lots of steps which makes it easy for some, but we saw people who we felt would struggle to get back. There is a longer hike to reach the summit that we did not do but may go back for. Great park!
Lambros B — Google review
Absolutely loved hiking this park. Numerous trails based on degrees of difficulty. It is a fantastic place to spend the day hiking to see waterfalls, the old homeplace, or the summit. All of which are beautiful. I loved the 200-foot waterfall, but be prepared for the numerous steps back up. I think it was around 400 steps or so. The waterfall is definitely worth the hike down. The hike to the homeplace is also a pleasant hike. Many bridges covering the small streams on this hike. I also saw many deer while hiking. This park is a photographers dream. I'd remind everyone to bring enough water and possible snacks if hiking for several hours, especially during the summer heat. The campground here was also exceptionally nice. One of the nicest parks I've been to in a while. Family and pet friendly.
Shelia M — Google review
We did the loop trail, 4.3 miles. Strenuous for sure! I’d say it’s definitely worth the views. There are many many steps, I seen a few children on this trail (I took my brother he is 5, on a 5 mile hike on brp & I will never do it again he was being carried & asleep by the end) and many many dogs. I personally wouldn’t bring either on the whole loop trail just because it gets steep in many areas but if you want to go for it!*** if you plan on doing the waterfall(s) just know it’s just as strenuous as there are many flights of steps here. If your in good shape I’m sure it’s a breeze for you but for those of us who aren’t (including myself) it was a workout for sure!! If you’re able to do it though don’t hesitate.
Polariss S — Google review
Great hike. You need to be in great shape to attempt to do the loop trail. Had we realized the climb was as strenuous we would have completed it differently. The map needs to designate the length of the hikes better. Maybe a warning on the map about the climb from the lower parking lot as to degree of difficulty to the summit would help. The Homestead and falls were great. We want to return when the Rhododendron are blooming.
Marie B — Google review
Beautiful trails that traverse alongside streams and lead to the highlight of the hike...a stunning waterfall where you can dip your feet in and feel the crisp, cool, water.The trails are very wooded with fairly level ground and easy walkability...and the sound of the babbling brooks and waterfalls along the way makes this hike quite peaceful.The mountain for which the park gets its name is not super spectacular to see, but I imagine most people visit this park for the falls.Word of caution & encouragement--the climb back up to the parking lot from the falls is a doozie...but I think we'll worth it.
Valerie M — Google review
Really nice state park that has more trails on it than you can hike in a day. I’ve only been once and I hiked the Stone Mountain loop. It was about 10k (I did a little side hike to see the middle and lower falls) and took me about 3.5 hours. I stopped a bunch to enjoy the view and eat a packed lunch. One thing I was not expecting was the amount of stairs! The summit is at some elevation and rather than an inclined trail there are stairs, so be prepared. The view from the top is lovely and the trail along the base runs next to a little stream. Much of the loop is shaded, so that helps in the sun. If you start at the lower parking lot you will be closer to both the summit and the view from ground level. If you start in the upper lot you will be closer to the falls. Both lots are part of the loop, so you can go in either direction from either lot.
Mike C — Google review
Mucho waterfalls. It didn't seem like you could reach the bottom of middle falls without some serious bushwhacking. To get to lower falls you had to cross the creek a couple of times. It was worth it but plan on getting your feet wet. Widow creeks falls is a quick walk from the parking area.I'll head back in a few days to do the summit and upper creek.
Christopher M — Google review
Hiked to see the waterfalls, took the loop from one parking lot to the other, and caught a ride back to our car with people we met on the trail. Wonderful time, great people on the trails. Park is nice and clean. I look forward to our next trip. Next time, we plan to camp on the park.
Shelly P — Google review
We parked in the lower trailhead lot and hiked to the waterfall. It was definitely a good workout (and the scenery wasn’t too shabby either).We made a rookie mistake and took the Stone Mountain trail both to the waterfall and back, but the lower loop trail would have been a little faster and easier for the return trip.I highly recommend this place! (I would also highly recommend bringing water and snacks)
Daniel W — Google review
Mother Nature cut our visit short, but we got to see what we prioritized. From the Upper Trailhead Parking, we took went down to the Stone Mountain Falls. Then we took the easy to follow trail about halfway along the "view" (bottom part on the map) portion of the Stone Mountain Loop Trail. The falls were relaxing to observe. The area at the end of the wooden steps was the best location for us. The sounds of water were audible along the route we walked/hiked to view the mountain. There is a nice open area perfect for a picnic or nap, with a great view to take in while resting. There is a basic facility in case a pit stop is needed. Bring water and snacks-and a waterproof layer just in case!
Michael S — Google review
I love this campground! We got campsite 55 loop B. The space between the campsites were good and the scenery is amazing. It had all the hook ups except for dumping the tanks but they did have dump stations.Stone Mountain is only minutes away. We hiked the whole Stone Mountain Loop. We started on the summit side to Hutchinson Homestead, then to Stone Mountain Falls, then back to the Connector Trail to get to our parking. We started around 9am and got done around 1pm. We took our time, rested, enjoyed the view and didn’t rush it. Next time I would pack a small lunch and snacks. The next day we drove up to Widow’s Creek Falls. Prepare to bring bathing suits and slide on the natural water slides. The kids and I had so much fun. We weren’t dressed for it and water was cold but it was a blast! You can spend a good hour or 2 there just playing in the water. I just love this whole area! Thank you Lord for your wonderful creation!
Jaja D — Google review
Such a great state park! Our GPS brought us to the back entrance, which is much more rustic than the main- gravel road and all that. Once we found the main trailhead, we hiked to the Stone Mountain Falls and viewed the mountain from the cabins in the meadow. Really beautiful.
Michael Y — Google review
We stayed in the B loop site 40. This was easy to back into. The campground was quiet and peaceful. The hike to the upper falls was not easy but not impossible with lots of steps and benches. The heat and humidity were higher so we only did that portion. The hike may have been quiet but it was hard to hear over my out of shape gasps for oxygen.
Jason S — Google review
Hiked the Loop, wolf, cedar trails. Enjoyed very much, beautiful scenery, challenging mountain trail. All trails are well marked and maintained. Clean restrooms in parking areas and maps available. Picnic areas are available, and the park is dog friendly.
B S — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous, lots of walking but totally worth it. By lots of walking I mean to get to the bottom of the 200' tall waterfall it is around 300 steps down and 300 steps back up. The Stone Mountain viewing area by the homestead area provided truly stunning views, not to mention we saw several people climbing the rock face while we were there. The homestead and the story of the family that lived in the homestead for many years was pretty interesting. Our favorite was definitely the waterfall.
Dan W — Google review
I love this place. The best part is the waterfall, where the kids can have much fun in the water. There are a lot of trails for the hikers. Overall, it is a must-visit place with family and friends.
Mohammed K — Google review
This place was absolutely beautiful now I did miss the opportunity to see stone mountain but I did get some great pictures of the nature that it provided. I came here for my mother's wedding this passed weekend, they got married at the church on park grounds and it was a beautiful ceremony! I would recommend visiting if you have not already!.
Kristen E — Google review
Awesome campground and hiking trails. Primitive and RV camp sites. Great bike riding on the campground roads. Many nicely shaded campsites!
John B — Google review
Very nice park. Hiking around and over the mountain was challenging. Nice waterfalls. Great camping with level tent site.
Rodney M — Google review
Such a beautiful place with a lot of options. Be wary of the 328 stairs down to the lower falls, it's not for the faint of heart! The little homestead in front of stone mountain itself is pretty interesting and the whole area is majestic.
M. M — Google review
At Union Church Charlotte, We host groups to build community!! Each semester, I choose groups that will grow my faith, help me find freedom, and have fun.."We Ouside" is a group that travels across NC to beautiful state parks for a day of hiking and fellowship. We visited Stone Mountain State Park, and it was beautiful!!We hiked the 1.7 Stone Mountain summit route. Once we got to the top, we ate lunch and just enjoyed the views and our tribe. it's kid and pet friendly it's definitely a must-see.
Shunda A — Google review
I’m not hiker- so this is exhausting for me. But it’s totally worth it. This park is absolutely beautiful. The hike going up, all the way to the top of the mountain is breathtaking, just looking at the view of the trees, watching birds and pure calmness. I suggest going during fall when it’s a bit cooler because summer… will be a sweaty hike! But… when you find the waterfall..it’s swim time. I’ve seen few people bring their picnic basket and bathing suit- and go for swim, eat and pretty much enjoy listening to the water stream. It can crowded but you’ll be fine if you don’t mind people.Expect to spend about half a day going the full hike. And be ready for those stairs. They’re brutal.Dog friendly- but bring a much younger fur baby, because this can be painful for senior dogs! I have one! 😁. We brought her for hike prior to her osteoarthritis and she loves it! Your doggy will love this park!
Maynila — Google review
So quiet, sites are large and spaced out, so neighbors won't bother you. There is so much room you can set up an outdoor kitchen and fire pit sitting area. The hiking is great. Lived our stay here.
Dacks — Google review
If there was better signage I would have given 5! We got all attractions passes from a summer flash sale and were so impressed with everything included! My favorite was absolutely the drone light show at the end of the night. The kids lived the sky hike and indoor playground. My husband seemed to prefer the train ride around the mountain and the sky tram. We also really enjoyed the 4d theater and splash pad. Would love to try out Geyser Towers and the rock wall if they ever reopen. This was a fantastic place to stop and explore on our way to Fl. A wonderful value for families that was not only budget friendly but just an overall great experience. We ate at Marketplace and didn't care for it. I would definitely recommend adding some budget conscious food options and making it easier to find everything for those who are 1st timers. There were signs that said to see attendant in yellow vest for online tix purchases but there was no one there so we waited in the long line to exchange our Tix for the wristband required. Would definitely go back but take your own snacks, and cooler. They do provide free ice water. The mini golf could use a little upgrade but served it's purpose. The Sky Tram is off by itself but everything else is together and walkable. There is a separate $20 charge to get in regardless of if you are staying there overnight. If you don't have anyone to watch your loose items you have to rent a locker at the sky hike. The crossroads parking lot was quite congested. Making it one way would be helpful. All the staff seemed happy to be there and the ice cream was yummy😋
Dorrenna M — Google review
The camp ground was great. The hiking was great. The views were amazing. The restrooms were decent enough. The trails and campground were dog friendly. Each campsite had its own large picnic table and fire pit with grill top. There was no playground but lots to explore for kids.
Christina S — Google review
One of my favorite hikes in North Carolina. I think it is a very unique and beautiful mountain. There are varying levels of hikes available and you can pick what works best for you. The main loop is medium difficulty but it is the best hike to get all the views available. Lots of history and cool features scattered throughout the park. You’d have to return many times to see all of the park. Worth a trip there for a day.
Rylie L — Google review
Would have given 5 stars, but the campground restrooms were not very clean, the showers were not hot, Luke warm at best. Loved the campground, and our site was nice.Open sites but with plenty of room between them. Great hiking!
Jeff C — Google review
4.8
(3231)
•
4.5
(270)
3042 Frank Pkwy, Roaring Gap, NC 28668, USA
(336) 957-8185
12
Hanging Rock State Park
Mentioned on
1 list
State park
Nature & Parks
Hanging Rock State Park is a stunning natural area with cliffs and plateaus, offering various outdoor activities such as rock climbing, lake fishing, swimming, camping and hiking. The hike to the top of the park requires proper preparation as it involves climbing up actual rocks with an elevation gain of 2000 ft. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views at the top along with beautiful waterfalls. The park has a visitor center that provides basic amenities including bathrooms and water refill stations.
I wish I had more time to explore this park. The few trails that I hiked were breathtaking. From the top of the mountain showing what fall colors are all about, to the waterfall and rock structures along the way. You will never be bored. The best part is there truly are a variety of different level trails from beginner, intermediate to expert. So everyone can find a trail to suit their needs.
Ashley S — Google review
I lived on this area for over 20 years and never took a hike. I've fished, swam, and took a boat out on the lake but ever took a hike. At my age, I was determined to make it to the hanging rock. My son and I hiked the trail and while it was a little strenuous and challenging at times, I was not disappointed!!!!! The view at the end is spectacular and well worth the trip. I should have done this 30 years ago. What a beautiful place in my own backyard. This is a national treasure and place to be cherished. The park team has done an amazing job on this park and it shows. Can't wait to take on the Moore's Wall trail.
Chris E — Google review
I have been on the trail that leads you up to hanging rock. I have to go back to the trails that have waterfalls. I am a bigger girl I definitely would say bring water. And maybe a walking stick. The beginning of the trail started out pretty good and easy. Then you come up to stairs which were not to horrible. Thereafter, you come up to more stairs that are steeper. If you have knee problems just be extra careful. I really enjoyed the view when we got to to the top. I thought I wasn’t going to make it however there are some benches along the way to take some breaks. I would also recommend to drink before hand so you don’t get muscle cramps. It’s worth the view but take it easy. Also you have to time it right to be sure you get back to your car and down the mountain before the sun sets. Have a great time!
Tanya H — Google review
Stunning views from the top! Gorgeous views from below (Lower Cascade Falls)! This place was definitely the highlight of our trip! Be prepared for walking on an incline though . . . and bring along PLENTY of water. The hike up is approximately 1.8 miles on the new / rerouted trail . . . but it feels closer to 3. Lol Heading down to the Lower Falls is quick and easy . . . but coming back up the 110 stairs is a bit of a workout. We will DEFINITELY be visiting this State Park again whenever we return and/or pass through the area!
Mike G — Google review
It was amazing we had an awesome time. We went to 3 water falls. That was awesome and we went up the mountain up to hanging rock. We met amazing people we took the drone up to view. If you go you will have an amazing time. We spent 4-5 hours there. Be careful and stay safe.
Alexxa P — Google review
Wonderful NC state park! There are several trails that are short around the visitor’s center but we found out later they were marked strenuous, and they were. High Cascade falls is easier but it was a little rainy on the day we visited. There are plenty of picnic tables to enjoy a lunch or snack. The park is definitely “kid friendly.” My oldest daughter got her Junior Ranger badge and had fun doing so. It is definitely worth a visit!
Macky K — Google review
I love coming to this park, been hundreds of times. They have any sort of trail you could ask for without going to the blue ridge. Moore's knob is a great moderately strenuous hike with a watchtower at the top that I'd recommend. Also the waterfall at the lower cascades is real nice to take a dip in at the end of your hike, but you will have to either drive there or walk a couple miles on a road. All the trails are dog friendly, but please remember to pick up the waste. Restrooms are abundant, and the lake restrooms close during the winter months. All in all a great park that I will continue to visit.
Ryan — Google review
This is a beautiful park. The only reason I gave it four stars is because there is a lot of people there. It is more of a tourist trap than a serene location. The falls are very pretty but they are full of people that don’t know how to treat them. I would definitely recommend seeing it, just know what to expect when you go. They have a large visitors center and good maps. It definitely caters to more novice hikers. It was free to hike.
Bobby P — Google review
The wife told me the restrooms were nice and the water from the tap cold near the visitor center. The new trail for hanging rock was really solid. Wide and easy to walk. It is a beautiful view at the top plenty of shade as well.
Jeremiah — Google review
This place is breathtaking. But let me tell you ... Com prepared. My family and I hike every weekend. We have trekking poles, hiking shoes, and we carry our 2 year old in a hiking backpack. This was NO easy hike. You have to quite literally climb actually rocks to get to the top and go up 2000 ft in elevation. It is hard and we had to take a lot of breaks. It was well worth it for the views when we got to the top. The waterfalls are cute as well (not as large as ones you'd see in Asheville but beautiful nonetheless.) There is a visitor center with bathrooms and a water refill station. Highly recommend for serious hikers and people with appropriate hiking 🥾 footwear and accessories!
Larissa K — Google review
I visited Hanging Rock State Park while visiting my sister. I must say such a beautiful park. I love the mountain view sitting right behind the office. The State Ranger was very helpful, and the cashier in the gift shop was nice and pleasant. I will be back to explore the whole park🙂-Florida Traveler
Gen M — Google review
I really loved here! You can spend a complete perfect day, first hiking, the trail to the top of the mountain is easy if you are condition also thanks to the trees the weather is good, in the offices there are restrooms and drinking fountain and the parking is big, also there are little waterfalls and even a small “beach” of course I’ll come back. Remember: Do not litter and respect other people's space, bc that day there was a guy with a speaker making noise
Noelia B — Google review
This is a very busy state park. The Hanging Rock trail is about 1.3 miles one way with a bit of elevation gain. I'd say it's a moderate hike. The lower cascade falls is about 8 minutes away from the visitor center, and it's highly recommended for a cool touch to the spring water after an all-day hike. To truly experience the park though there are some other trails that we unfortunately didn't have enough time/energy to cover.
Khai M — Google review
Had the lovely opportunity of camping here a few weeks ago! And I'm looking forward to going back! We only stayed one night but it was lovely woke up to a soft misty rainy day and got to go on a few hikes 🥾
Jack D — Google review
Beautiful state park with a great campground that’s reasonably priced. Be careful of ticks right now if visiting the area. Had to get one off my husband just after getting in the car. So thankful I seen it!
Kylie B — Google review
Great hike to the peak on Hanging Rock Trail, with excellent views, and well maintained path. I'd say this was medium to hard just in terms of the incline, but otherwise it was well paved and easy to navigate! Will definitely be back. Hidden and Window Falls were quite small so would skip next time, especially with the incline (but well paved).
Dan L — Google review
Great park. I really recommend going the path less traveled and exploring more than just the hanging rock overlook as in my opinion, the others are better and far less crowded.
Marty B — Google review
Not too far from Greensboro, Hanging Rock is a beautiful place! Trails from easy to strenuous, allowed everyone in our group from 5 to 59 to enjoy the views and trails that fit every fitness level.The rock garden was the easiest walk, and provided a quick walk into the woods.The falls trail that is next to the short rock garden trail is listed as easy, but it does have a little bit of a hill that can take some energy to get back up for folks not in great hiking shape. We took our time, sipped some water, and made it back up just fine!Wonderful visitors center with a nice smallExhibit space, gift shop and a spacious deck where members of your party who don’t want to hike could sit and relax and enjoy some beautiful views.Weekdays are likely less crowded than the weekends. And as the weather gets nicer, the parking lot is definitely more filled on the weekend.
Max N — Google review
Hanging Rock State Park offers an unparalleled natural escape for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Families can enjoy picnicking by the lake or swimming in the clear waters, while adventurers can try their hand at rock climbing or rappelling down the cliffs. The park is well-maintained with clean facilities and clearly marked trails, making it accessible and enjoyable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels.
Yogananda T — Google review
Spent two nights camping at the park. I enjoyed the hiking very much. The Moores Wall loop was an enjoyable challenge. I was lucky enough to be there during peak fall color, which was fantastic. I had visited the park three weeks prior and was determined to return. I look forward to experiencing the park in different seasons.
Ron B — Google review
It was a really fun and great hiking experience so if you are really into nature and hiking it is really really nice and the view is just so pretty. The only hard part was the walk to the hanging Rock itself because it is like a really really long walk but other than that absolutely gorgeous
Shivani I — Google review
I'm in love with the park primitive camping area. Beautiful serene space with quiet restful evenings and tons of trails and waterfalls to enjoy. I cannot wait to get to come back.
Keala K — Google review
Made same day reservations for a car camping spot. Setup camp, then headed to the lake to cool off! Don’t forget to stop by the visitors center when you get there if traveling with little ones to pick up the Junior Ranger Adventure book!!
Mason — Google review
Wonderful park!!! Amazing trails with gorgeous lookouts! Beautiful waterfalls! If you're new to hiking, this is the park for you! Very clean, family friendly, and dog friendly! Oh, there are camp grounds and also a lake!Have fun! 😁Be sure to keep the park clean! 😎-Take Care and Live Well- 🤙
Tay K — Google review
Best camping facilities! Lovely hikes. Will be back in the Fall dice two days was not enough to do everything we wanted. Did the lower falls on a Sunday morning and the trail was our own. It did get busy midday.
Norma E — Google review
Well maintained trails accessible for hikers of most ages and abilities. The visitor center and the parking lot can handle a crowd as we saw when we went there. It happened that we went on the park’s 88th birthday on Saturday, April 20 and there were different vendors along with food trucks.The hike up to the Hanging Rock was a good 2-ish mile one way and the views were stunning on a sunny day. The rock outcrops are beautiful and people do go on them, but it’s better to proceed with caution, especially with children.
Parwat R — Google review
Camped out for two nights & as always had a great time here. The camp host has firewood available to purchase with cash, or there's a general store 3 mins from the park entrance that also sells firewood if you forgot to bring cash like I did. The lake is always fun for day trip, but there is a trail that leads to the lake if you are camping there as well. We are making this an annual family camping trip at Hanging Rock Park 🏕
Angel M — Google review
The best state park I have seen. This park has it all, great view if you can make it to the hanging rock. Check the forecast I went on a rainy, cloudy day I wouldn’t recommend that. Not very kid friendly if you have little ones that like to wonder or explore on a trail. I am referring to viewing the hanging rock. The waterfalls view is beautiful, plenty of trees, land, things to do. I look forward to going again. Great park to go to.
Johnny M — Google review
Giving it 5, park is wonderful, perfect for spending whole day. It was worth to hike to Hanging Rock (perhaps it will get more scenic during fall after mid Oct), enjoyed the beautiful waterfalls. Window Falls, Upper Cascades were nicer. It has a lake, pier, shelters, trails easy to strenuous, spacious parking, nice park office, clean restrooms. However it was busy on the weekend but was serene and park offers options for all ages. Absolutely free to enter.
Chanchal — Google review
Always a beautiful drive once you get off the highway. You cannot drive to the top only to the visiter center, then you hike the rest it’s a couple mile hike I believe. I only went to the hidden falls which is .5 so totals out to 1 mile. There is one look right off the main parking lot you get a good view of hanging rock. It was free to enter I didn’t run into any places where I had to pay. One when you look online you might see $10 to enter it’s a lie.
Damien Z — Google review
This park is one of my favorite places to hike. Trails can often be busy, especially the popular Hanging Rock Trail. It's not uncommon for groups of photographers around Golden hour and sunset. Great for kids, pets, and it offers trails of different skill levels. Sweeping mountain views, waterfalls, swimming, and great camping options. I love this park! (Pictures from mid-October, very busy during peak foliage)
Alicia H — Google review
Great hike. There's a few steeper sections but they were all short and well maintained. Do be careful of the loose gravel on the trail, and keep an eye out for Skinks in the brush off to the sides of the trails.
Stacy U — Google review
We enjoyed the hike. It's always interesting to read about the trails and gage the difficulty. We are not avid hikers. The trail to Hanging Rock was easy. One needs to consider the elevation though. We took our time and many breaks.
Jean F — Google review
4.8
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5.0
(343)
1790 Hanging Rock Park Rd, Danbury, NC 27016, USA
(336) 593-8480
13
Harvest Grill
$$$$affordable
American restaurant
Food & Drink
Fine dining restaurant
Upscale bistro at Shelton Vineyards offering diverse seasonal American fare paired with house wines.
The meals was delicious. The wine very smooth.love this place ,I will come back next time
DeCui L — Google review
We already enjoy eating here. The food is wonderful and the service is always excellent. Tonight, we were taken care of by Sam, he was friendly and knowledgeable and very attentive to our wants and needs. The food was fabulous but the service… that was superb. Thank you Sam! Good luck in school!!!!
Todd R — Google review
Fantastic! Had dinner last night with another couple. Donna our waitress was great! The food , service and atmosphere are first-class ! A very relaxed dinner with friends! We have been here several times in the past during our visit to Shelton Vineyard!
BZ — Google review
We went for my birthday. The food was great as well as the service. Our server Adrianne B was wonderful. This was our 1st time, and there was a little issue with a part of our food, but it was taken care of promptly. Being a vegetarian, it was nice to have several options. We will be back in a few months for our anniversary.
Daveen F — Google review
Had Easter brunch here. Everything tastes so good. The tomato basil soup was the best I've ever had.
Tiffany T — Google review
Solid lunch at Shelton Vineyards. Attended a company function here and would absolutely return. Try the collard green / pulled pork egg rolls or house made pimento cheese.
Uhland M — Google review
We have a made a point to come here everytime we're in the area because it's always been an amazing experience. Tonight was ok, not as great as past experiences. Did not enjoy the crab cake. They did accommodate a different side as I didn't want fingerlings with duck fat. Farmers' Market risotto was decent, brusselsprouts were very hard though. Mushroom soup was good. Bread service was nice with accompaniments.
Heather C — Google review
Murder Mystery Dinner was a true disappointment.The food was terrible. I have never been to a restaurant that was this bad. The only thing that was good was the rolls. Don’t Go
Mason C — Google review
Enjoyed a Friday, 12 o’clock lunch on the patio. Very good food, great service, and tranquil ambiance. Flatbread lunch special was really good.
Permanent D — Google review
The atmosphere is beautiful, but the service and food was way below par. When we ordered the sampler appetizer, the waitress brought it out missing the Deviled Eggs, so when we pointed that out, the waitress said "oh I knew something didn't look right". My wife then ordered the Teriyaki Chicken sandwich special, thinking it was a chicken breast. Instead the sandwich had deli meat that looked like it was from a grocery store. I ordered the Fried Chicken sandwich, but was served the same Teriyaki sandwich instead. When we asked the waitress, she blamed it on the computer system. Not wanting to wait another :20 minutes for the sandwich, I just ate what I had and it just wasn't good. The waitress did comp a free desert for our troubles, but we paid our $84 bill and wound up leaving and driving to a McDonald's because we were still hungry.
Mark P — Google review
Had dinner on Friday evening. Made reservations for the patio area but were unable to be seated there because a car group ‘reserved the entire patio.’ Kim was a great server and we enjoyed the melon crudo, pork ribeye and shrimp! We love it here with the scenic vines and rolling countryside. Delicious wine, too.
Margie F — Google review
We enjoy the atmosphere and wine at Shelton Vineyards but the Harvest Grill continues to be disappointing. We reserved a table there for Mother's Day lunch. The hostess and waitress were friendly and accommodating and the atmosphere there was wonderful. For Mother's Day, a fixed menu with ample appetizers, main course, and dessert options was offered. We were excited with the food selections after reading the descriptions. The food was highly disappointing. The chicken marsala was nothing more than dry baked chicken on the bone. No tenderized chicken breast and no marsala sauce. The broccoli with cheddar cheese sauce was served sans any cheese and the brie potatoes had no brie cheese. The Brussel sprouts were tasty but soft and overcooked, the pork was mostly just pork fat that should have been trimmed away, and the beef was also overcooked. We ate at 1:30 so there was no reason for the food to be so poor and vastly different than described on the menu. The menu descriptions and the actual food were vastly different. BTW, our last meal at Harvest Grill - a chicken salad sandwich last summer during a concert event - resulted in food poisoning. We will continue to enjoy the winery but will skip the Harvest Grill in the future.
Ken M — Google review
Food was phenomenal! I had the halibut with brussel sprouts and pasta that literally melted in my mouth that was the special.. wow! My husband had the crab cake with brussel sprouts and he loved it as well. We even finished with the buttermilk pie which was the perfect way to finish an already amazing meal! Truly memorable!
Jess G — Google review
The filet and halibut are outstanding. I also enjoyed the Caesar salad and the Spanish egg rolls. Tonight was my second time dining at Harvest Grill and both times it has been a great experience. Benson was my server on both occasions and he is an absolute dream. He is very knowledgeable about the menu and the array of wines they offer. He is excellent with pairing suggestions and leading you through each course.
Marianne W — Google review
We have enjoyed the Shelton experience for decades. The Harvest Grill has been hit or miss over the years but our experience today is a rare low. My wife made a reservation from the car during our drive back from New England. When the reservation was taken, our name was written incorrectly. When I checked in, the hostess made an issue of the difference in the spelling. Unfortunately I was unable to “guess” what was in their computer. She turned the computer around to show me that my wife had apparently misspelled her own name. After we were seated the manager asked my wife if we had made a reservation as I apparently could not be trusted to know our names. Strike three, I’ll not darken their threshold again.
Tracy T — Google review
Servers all very nice and accommodating. I had a dinner size Caesar with a Crab Cake. Delicious. Crab cake, not much breading. Chef made a gluten free perfect dinner for my spouse. Great tasting grilled Ribeye steak, perfectly cooked squash, mixed veg. Then a Grits bowl with chives, cheddar, unique great flavor.
Larry S — Google review
We visited Shelton Vineyards on Friday Nov 17. We ate at the restaurant. Amanda was our server. It was an exceptional experience! The ambience was warm and inviting. The food and wine were delicious. The service was superb. Amanda was courteous, pleasant and extremely attentive to our needs. Amanda made sure that we were very satisfied. She went above and beyond to take care of us during our time at the restaurant. We'll definitely be back and would love to have Amanda as our server again.
Dee S — Google review
What a lovely evening at Harvest Grill at Shelton Vineyards. A very diverse menu with tons of options (both my children found something good!) We ate on the patio and had their charcuterie board, strawberry Bibb salad, pimento cheese fondue— our main courses were also delicious. Highly recommend!
Claire M — Google review
Cool spot with beautiful old style decor. The service was fantastic!! We had Kim as our server and she did the best job taking care of us!The charcuterie was too notch, as well as the bread with the butter and jam plate. I think we would have all been happy with that.We all got a different meal so we could try everything. One filet mignon, one carbonara, one pork loin and one beef tips. I had the filet. It was good. The sides were a bit lacking in flavor but did taste fresh. The pork loin was the winner at the whole table. It had great taste and the accompaniments went well with it. The other two dishes were pretty boring.The music was great but it ended at 7:30. On Valentine's day! We couldn't believe it. So most of our dinner was quiet. It felt odd. Not sure why it ended that quickly but it was disappointing.Overall it was a fun experience that gave us the opportunity to dress up and have a good time. Not the best food in the world though.
Julie S — Google review
The atmosphere is good but the food menu is very limited for vegetarian. Tried mushroom stuffed raviolis, the sauce was watery and taste was pungent.Ordered nachos but most of it was undercooked. Would not recommend for food.
Anjali M — Google review
Very nice restaurant. Staff is very friendly and helpful!!! My server, Adrienne, was amazing!!!! The butternut squash ravioli with pancetta croutons, sage brown butter and apple butter on top of wilted kale was absolutely delicious!!!!!!! The views on the patio are beautiful!
Tracy B — Google review
Presentation and flavors were top notch. Spinach was perfect but the chicken in my main dish was dry and they overcooked the beans. Mind you I ate everything because the flavors were very well done.
Gregory V — Google review
Had a really nice tour of the winery, a wine sampling and finished it off with an excellent dinner at the grille the food was amazing. Great atmosphere and ambiance. The server we had was very attentive and helpful. Also was able to bring our own bottle of wine we purchased at the winery and had that with dinner which was much more affordable than buying a bottle at the restaurant!
Josh H — Google review
Lovely place to have dinner. Pork ribeye was delicious cheese plate appetizer was pleasant crab cakes we're good.
Guy D — Google review
Came for anniversary before our tasting. Food was incredible, as was the service. My husband had a pasta special and I had a twist on the Caesar salad with blackened chicken. Everything tasted great! Not a single complaint. We sat outside and the weather was gorgeous. The dessert we got was a pound cake with chocolate sauce and port soaked cherries. It was heavenly. We will definitely be back!
Ashley R — Google review
4.2
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4.5
(356)
286 Cabernet Ln, Dobson, NC 27017, USA
(336) 366-4724
14
Pilot Mountain State Park
State park
Nature & Parks
Hiking & rock climbing on iconic, 2,400-ft. Pilot Mountain with a separate riverfront area.
My wife and I are from Michigan and really didn't know what to expect upon arriving but we were very impressed! The campsites are beautiful and well spaced apart. You are never too far from a water spigot or the bathrooms. The bathrooms have a few urinals, 5 stalls and 5 showers. There is no electricity on the campground area sites. All sorts of different trails around here with some really great hikes that offer some amazing views. We did the 2 mi up the grindstone Trail and got a good workout in. Once you get to the top the views are breathtaking. Everyone we encountered on the trail was very friendly and we would love to return here again.
Robert W — Google review
This was my first visit on Sunday. I love this hike!!! We were not allowed to drive up the mountain (as it was crowded) but they have a shuttle bus that takes you to the top and back down for 5.00 each. The views are amazing and there are plenty of hiking trails at the top. One of my favorite hikes! Amazing! (Side note: we expected the trees to be a bit closer to peak for the colors, so I imagine that next week it will be even more beautiful!)
Lori A — Google review
Great job by the rangers and state for the up keeping. There are different lengths of trails and they are well maintained. Not a lot of trash at the parking lot, which is good. Usually at the peak, there are a lot of human traffic.At the top you can see as far as Winston Salem and grandfather mountain. Just a great view to see the greens of NC.There are a lot of stairs for some of the trails so your pets might have a hard time.
FriedChicken — Google review
Clean fully stocked restrooms. Water fountain and bottle refill station. Informative maps. Interactive displays inside to educate us about how the area was formed. Gift shop is $$$. Staff has limited information about Pilot Mountain, they kept referring me to a pamphlet which I had already studied. The upper portion is very nice and has restrooms. Trails are well marked and in very good condition. I recommend the overlook trail for a quick way to get close up views. The Pilot Knob Trail (red square blaze) is easy and not quite a mile. It will get you to the base of the mountain and loop around. It's truly amazing to be up close and personal with it. Incredible banding, layers, quartzite, sandstone, mica, views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you have time try the Ledge Spring trail which is a one mile out and back trail off of the Pilot Knob Trail. I had a fantastic day. Met some great people.
Tanya N — Google review
Lovely trail and easy to follow summit look outs. Beautiful views though you can still see some of the damage from the fire.Beware the peak loop if you are not good at stairs. While it is technically a "trail" it's almost exclusively stairs and some of them are quite large (some steps were higher than my knees and I needed help up)
Debi S — Google review
Wonderful place to hike with family and friends. There are many trail heads. Some are easy and some are strenuous. You can choose the route you would like to. We hiked grind stone trail ( blue circle) and went around the pilot knob( red square) and returned through yellow circle( 3 bears gully) which finally connects to grind stone trail. It was worth the half day of hike. The view is beautiful up there. We met a 84 years lady who was so energetic and said she hikes the knob every Sunday. God bless her with many more years of energy. There are river side trails which are easy to do with small kids. We will do that next time. Totally, this place is a must go.
Archana E — Google review
Even after the fire Pilot Mountain State Park is still a gem! The Grindstone Trail is somewhat steep however is you are in reasonable physical shape it is a fun hike. Be sure to take water, especially if you take your dogs. The views from the top are breathtaking however the hike up is gorgeous. Be sure to wear boots the protect your ankles because there are rocks that could be foot twisters if you do not step carefully. Plan on about four hours to hike up and back and still have time to enjoy the view.
Brad C — Google review
Visited 10-29 and it was breathtakingly beautiful. As long as you are aware ahead of time of the shuttle system (it's a bummer, but it is what it is) you can prepare accordingly. Talk to the person at the desk in the visitor center for trail info- they are very knowledgeable. The fall colors were at their best this day, 100% loved it and recommend. The 0.8 mile loop around the knob is gorgeous and only took me about 13 minutes (I did this quick loop solo). The other trails were also totally enjoyable- scenic the whole way, especially this time of year.
Jenny S — Google review
This park was BEAUTIFUL. The views are breathtaking. You drive to the top and you can walk around seeing the views or you can take mile long trails around also. So many view points also. Easy access too.
Katie K — Google review
If you live in the region, you really should plan to visit Hanging Rock and Pilot Mountain. These are part of the Sauratown Mountains, which are isolated from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the east; it's really a unique geologic feature and not something commonly found in nature. Although the mountains here aren't as tall as what you'll find in the Appalachians, the views are spectacular.
Matt F — Google review
A great state park in the foothills of the Blue Rich Mountains. Pilot Mountain is truly impressive. You can drive up the neighboring mountain to the summit. There is a parking lot at the top and there are numerous viewing platforms for impressive photos. At the same time, Pilot Mountain is a paradise for hikers and climbers and you can go on great tours on the many hiking trails.
Stephan S — Google review
A beautiful place to visit year round. Folks mostly prefer to hike around the trails but it's a long way to the top. A nice winding road to the top which is more than a mile long. There is a gate at the entrance which is closed when the parking lot at the top is full, you may have to wait roughly for an hour near visitor center. Visitor center is good stop before or after visit to the top of mountain. It has few things on display and a store to shop for memorabilia, staff is kind and helpful even though they get asked about same things over again. Facilities at top of mountain and near visitor center is decent.
Amit N — Google review
Beautiful overlooks you can drive right up to. The fire savage is evident but many places have been repaired, only one overlook was still closed and being worked on. The short one mile loop is hard to walk unless you can handle stairs (and climbing over rocks) for most of that mile, but the views are spectacular. Keep any kids close!!There are bathrooms at the top parking lot, and rock climbing areas as well.
Angela B — Google review
Very nice spot to spend a day. Bus ride takes you to the top, to the overlook. 5$ ride (2 miles) is worth it if you are with small kids or old people. Or else you can take trails to reach the top. Views from overlook points are stunning. Carry the binoculars if you into birding, lots of opportunities to spot raptors and other birds.Visitor center has clean restrooms and even at the top restrooms and water refill points are available.We did not visit the river section of the park but will visit next time. Mountain section is definitely worth the visit.No food available at the visitor center or at the top. I did not spot any vending machines either. Carry whatever you need with you.
Sunil N — Google review
Great day trip. I think we were unusually lucky in that we got to the visitors center at about 11 on a sunny and 70 degree spring Saturday and the upper lot was still open. We drove right up and hiked several of the trails. There were people but it wasn't obscenely crowded. Lots of space on the trails and everything was very well cared for. My kids are doing a junior ranger course and they stopped and talked to one of the rangers who politely answered all of their questions. Was a great experience all around and we will definitely be back
Jonathan P — Google review
Nice but challenging hike from the visitors center up to the overlook! Good signage, well- maintained trails. The picnic area's water pump was broken, but there were water fountains at the restroom area at the main overlook.The 3.5 miles up and 3.5 back with pretty frequent breaks took us about 4 hours. Rated as "strenuous," should be doable for anyone who's only reasonably fit.
Isabel S — Google review
This place is unbelievably beautiful, pictures just don’t do it justice. We walked the pinnacle trail and the trail to the lookout. Both were easy enough and more than worth the time and effort. Amazing views.
Joe E — Google review
Lovely, well kept hiking trails and overlooks. My MIL was worried about the hiking, but driving to the overlooks was a great way to enjoy the view without having to do anything physically demanding. Not having to make the full trek meant we were all able to explore a bit more, which was great. The restrooms were clean, there was water available, and the visitors center was awesome. We're planning a special trip back to do more climbing!
Ana P — Google review
Nice park with great views. It can get crowded on weekends, as you would imagine.There are many hiking trails of varying difficulties. The hike along Pilot Knob is under a mile, fairly easy, and has nice views of the surrounding area.There is camping although I haven't camped here yet.Looking forward to visiting again.
Stefan K — Google review
The pilot mountain is such a unique structure to have formed naturally and has an aura of its own. There are various hiking options to the mountain and for those who do not want to hike much, can also drive up to the parking available near the summit. The views from the top are breathtaking and if you happen to do the little pinnacle trail around the summit, you get to have a 360 degree view of the valleys with the beautiful rock formations and the well preserved flora and fauna on the top. Even the air around the mountain feels different, it’s just so serene and pristine! I had an incredible experience visiting this place.
Saya ( — Google review
Pilot Mountain is a wonderful natural landscape to visit and explore. The state has done a great job of ensure visitor safety by blocking off areas with serious erosion and placing signs to warn of this danger throughout the park. There are so many places to capture beautiful views of overhead and down below and as far out as the eye can see. Those with mobility issues that require a scooter or wheelchair or any type of mobility assistance such as these will not be able to enjoy the higher altitudes but there are a few spots near the parking lot that would allow for a limited view of the area. Even with hiking boots or other types of sturdy walking shoes, hiking sticks or stability canes are a great idea while trekking up and down the trails. The trails are all rather rough with very uneven surfaces full of rocks and stones and gravel with wind blown sticks and tree debris. I would not recommend coming with infants. Toddlers that are walking pretty well may enjoy it but it is not very easy maneuvering so there will be lots of hand-holding with the little ones. I would even recommend those with breathing issues to take precautions due to the rough walking conditions and elevation. We really enjoyed ourselves and we did not even get to the trails leading up to the actual dome shaped peak of Pilot Mountain. However, there is an overlook across from it where there are great spots to take pictures. My family enjoyed ourselves.
Keshia H — Google review
Nice park to walk in. The trail around the knob is an easy, well-worn path. There are a handful of steps leading to the wraparound. Once you reach the split, you walk either direction around the knob ending back at the split to backtrack to the parking lot.The nicest thing about this trail are the overhangs. On the hottest days, it feels like an air-conditioned breeze blowing through them. We have found the first couple clockwise to be great spots to grab a bite and relax. Just always take out what you bring in
Jimmy S — Google review
My family and I absolutely loved this park. We hiked to the top from the visitor's center at the very bottom. I'm glad that we did that for our first time. It gave us a pretty good sense of accomplishment when we completed the trail. The walk around the Pilot's Knob is definitely the best part of the hike. Our personal highlight was a visit from a Peregrine Falcon while we were snacking and resting in the shade. This was our 5th state park, and it was far cooler than I thought it was going to be.For those who don't want to do a big hike, you can drive close to the top. There are very easily accessible views from the top parking lot, and the Pilot's Knob loop is not far either. The visitor center has a nice little shop, and there was a friendly park ranger who told us all about a few birds we saw on the trail. We loved this park and hope to visit again soon. Just be aware that the hike from the bottom near the visitor center is quite a haul.
Russell N — Google review
Upon the cradle of Earth, where whispers of history intertwine, stands Pilot Mountain, a guardian sentinel divine. Its quartzite knob, rising over 2,000 feet, has been a steadfast beacon through the mists of time, guiding wanderers lost and weary, their spirits to uplift and align.In the company of dear friends, we embarked on a pilgrimage to this sacred place, during the celestial ballet of a solar eclipse. Native Americans and early settlers once relied upon Pilot Mountain to navigate their journeys, just as we sought its embrace for solace and communion with the heavens.As we ascended its lofty heights, doubt cast its shadow upon us, thickening like the clouds that obscured the sun. Yet hope persisted, a flickering ember amidst the uncertainty, urging us forward with unwavering faith.Amidst the gathering clouds, black buzzards circled the mountaintop, their solemn flight a harbinger of both mortality and renewal. Their graceful arcs spoke volumes of life's cyclical nature, of death and rebirth intertwined in the eternal dance of existence.Then, as if summoned by some unseen force, a hawk soared overhead, its cry piercing the veil of doubt and illuminating the path ahead. In its majestic flight, there was a declaration of dominion over the vast expanse of the universe, a reminder of our interconnectedness with all things.As the clouds parted, revealing the sun in its dwindling glory, the eclipse reached its zenith, casting a fleeting shadow upon the earth. In that moment, we witnessed the ephemeral beauty of the celestial alignment, a testament to the enduring majesty of the cosmos.And then, as swiftly as they had come, the black buzzards took flight, their departure marking the end of the eclipse. The hawk, too, vanished into the ether, leaving behind only echoes of its presence.In the quiet aftermath, amidst the fading light of the eclipse, we stood in awe of the universe's marvels, grateful for the fleeting glimpse of its mysteries. And as we bid farewell to our friends and embarked on our journey homeward, we carried with us the memories of a day spent in the company of loved ones, under the watchful gaze of the heavens.By: Thomas Corrao#straycompasslife
Tom P — Google review
Great place to hike. Very nice trails. A very new visitor center. The views from the top are awesome.
Mike D — Google review
While kind of looking out of place in a relatively flat landscape, Pilot Mountain is a beautiful natural wonder. It's a free park to visit and once you make the long, snaking drive to the top you will be greeted with a stunning view of central North Carolina. While handicap accessible, it is a bit of a hike so be prepared. And have good brakes for the drive back down!
Chad H — Google review
Hiked around the larger kn9b. There were a hood amount of steps but it wasn't very difficult. A short .08 miles trail rated moderate. It was worth the breathtaking views!
Alicia J — Google review
Great hike! The trails were well marked and easy to follow. The trails were also well kept and signs were helpful. I took the advice of other hikers to go clockwise and this is solid advice! There are many places to enjoy the scenery. It was a little rugged at times, but again the trails are marked accordingly. Bathrooms were clean and easy parking. The gift shop was nice.
Linda M — Google review
Wonderfully beautiful place. Great trails well grommet. Absolutely beautiful scenery.Rock climbing avaliable with permits on parts of some trails. Great place to an afternoon hike.Clean rest rooms and helpful people at the visitors center.
Jared H — Google review
We were very happy that the park was open on January 1st. So we spent New Year's Day enjoying the spectacular views of Pilot Mountain and the Appalachian Mountains. They have convenient overlooks if you don't feel like walking through the nature trails. We also stopped by Main Street Coffee in downtown Pilot Mountain for a nice cup of hot chocolate and some sweet treats!
Lyza V — Google review
Such a nice place and longgggg hiking trails. Ended up trekking about 8 miles round trip up and down the mountain. Not for the weak but you can drive up to the top of you choose. Also have drinking fountains and bathrooms at the top. Amazing view even on the top part of the trail before you get to the top. Mostly up hill hiking but went down twice as fast on the way down. Nicely cleared trail as well.
Grace V — Google review
I've wanted to hike here for years, I made it happen today.It was a beautiful hike!I took mountain Trail to Grindstone and then to pilot knob (hiked halfway then turned back because a storm was moving in)It was a long hike but easy elevation gains circling the mountain.Here are some photos I took with my phone to share with ya.
Tattoos I — Google review
Went on a hike with our dog and friends. It was a great time. Lots of people hiking and rock climbing. That said it never felt like there was too many people. Definitely can recommend this place to anyone looking for a scenic hike. There were also Rangers in the area to make sure everyone was safe.
Jay S — Google review
Beautiful views. Educational markers and brochures about the wildlife and ecosystem are informative. Visitors center and gift shop tells the story of the park, wildlife, and people who once lived in the region. You can also get brochures on area attractions and events.
Yunoka S — Google review
Great park. Drive to top parking area was very windy and steep grade but beautiful. Parking lot was very open with lots of parking spaces. Scenic overlooks were amazing. Many areas to explore at top. With picnic area. Rock climbing area. Scenic overlooks with amazing views. Multiple short and long trails. Views of pilot mountain's top are worth the trip. Wear good shoes many areas have rocks and boulders for steps with uneven steps requiring good footing and use of rails. Area very well maintained and clean. Thank you park service!Also restrooms are available at top. Very clean and well maintained.
Jesse H — Google review
Beautiful area and an easy drive. The mountain that you view from is so quiet at the top. You don't get to climb or drive on Pilot Mtn. There used to be stairs, but those are no longer accessible. The Visitor Center is new with a few exhibits and nice facilities.
Michaelle N — Google review
Fun day of hiking with Trail Life. Beautiful views. We drove to the top of the park and hiked the longer trail around the summit. I think it was about 3 miles. Kids had a great time!
John Z — Google review
Awesome hike!! Even if you aren’t a fan of hiking, you can always drive up to the top and get a beautiful view with your loved ones. One of North Carolinas many gems when it comes to nature! 🔥⛰️.
Darius G — Google review
It's absolutely stunning. Has hiking trails and bathrooms. If you're short on time, no problem, just drive up, take a snap, and be on your way.
Espers S — Google review
4.8
(6675)
•
4.5
(777)
1721 Pilot Knob Park Rd, Pinnacle, NC 27043, USA
(336) 444-5100
15
Copper Barrel Distillery & Speakeasy
Distillery
Food & Drink
Brunch restaurant
Cocktail bar
Historical landmark
This is by far my new favorite place to drink and eat! George is lovely and tended to our drinking needs perfectly!! We ordered food from Cinder Bistro and OH MY GOSH was it DELICIOUS. The summer salad I had was so fresh and delightful. The burger my husband had was amazing and the Outlaw cocktail (unsure if that's the correct name) was a wonderful surprise! I highly recommend anything George recommends. You cannot go wrong with anything from there or Cinder Bistro.
Brittany W — Google review
Amazing experience and hospitality! My husband and I flew in from Wisconsin for the AllStar race at North Wilkesboro Speedway. We took a tour of Copper Barrel Distillery and had dinner at Cinder Bistro next door. Both establishments were phenomenal with their service and hospitality. George was VERY knowledgeable and professional with the distillery tour, and Jeff was an outstanding waiter who provided us with the BEST recommendations! Highly recommend!!
Alisha H — Google review
Enjoyed a nice tour of the distillery and then samples of their various moonshines. Anna (and Domino) was a wonderful hostess and and we had a great time. Highly recommend a visit.
Tom B — Google review
This place was an unexpected surprise. The manager, Jennifer, served us and she was a blast! Great humor, solid recommendations, and accommodating - great interactions with us.The food was fantastic! I say my husband's wings are the best, but the chefs at Copper Barrel beat his! Even my husband admitted defeat. The corn nuggets were yummy, like a gold at the end of a rainbow. The prices were definitely reasonalbe.I suggest locals make this a regular dining spot, and visitors stop in for an appetizer, meal, and/or dessert.
Joanne A — Google review
The best adventures are ones that are not planned. We were driving through town and spotted the Copper Barrel. George was great and accommodated our little family even though we didn't have tour reservations. Learned a lot about moonshine and the history of Wilkes County. Highly recommend making it your distillery tour stop!
Robyn D — Google review
Great option to fill an unexpected afternoon - we were able to snag the last few spots on their tour. Our guide, Anna, provided a lot of little anecdotes that made us feel like we'd been family friends for ages. A quick dive into the history of making moonshine in Wilkes County and some tasters at the end of it.
Jordan R — Google review
Great tour and very friendly atmosphere. The tour is just long enough to keep you interested and engaged. Tasting is a lot of fun as well. Best coffee flavored moonshine I have ever tasted!
Elizabeth T — Google review
This was an unexpected stop, that turned out to be a memorable time! From the moment we stepped inside Copper Barrel Distillery our senses were lit with the atmosphere that our host Victoria so graciously shared with us. From the history of Moonshine via “Uncle Buck” and George, the owners, to the tour of the distillery; the head, tail and heart. No beat was skipped here! The moonshine taste samples were amazing and smooth, all natural with sustainability in mind. You must try their adult slushies, very unique! We left with several bottles of Moonshine and cannot wait to return! You must go here!
C.A. G — Google review
This was unexpected stop, but well worth it. The owners were very nice and personable. The Moonshine was some of the best and realist I've ever had. This will be a Definite stop, every chance I get.
Terry G — Google review
Amazing place to go and learn local history. Anna was very informative and a wonderful tour guide. The samples at the end of the tour tasted great. My favorite was the mud slide.
Kerri G — Google review
Great staff, good drinks and delicious food. If you are in Wilkesboro N.C make sure you stop by for a meal and cocktail.
Corey B — Google review
Great visit and tour at Copper Barrel yesterday. Amazing building with lots of great history and very informative tour. Gift shop has tons to offer and George and his staff are amazing. Honestly, the best Moonshine anywhere! #shinetogether
Brian S — Google review
Very cool family run business. Authentic moonshine recipe passed down through generations and still operating by "Uncle" Buck and his neice. We were greeted by their 4 legged mascot and enjoyed tasting the cherry moonshine mixed with cheerwine next door at their restaurant.
Joyce B — Google review
George is awesome and makes amazing drinks using moonshine. He is an absolute mixologist. Even though it's moonshine, you really don't know that it is. If you haven't tried it, you need to. Also Jeff is great too!
Ann S — Google review
We literally drove 45 minutes to go to this distillery. We walked in to an open door where the sign on the front door said they were open, a man walked downstairs and told us they were closed because they were moving. There was no indication online or anywhere that this was happening including their website. What really irritated me is that we told him we drove all this way to come there and he offered us nothing even though there were bottles everywhere.Waste of time.
Michael G — Google review
I'll never travel to Charleston without this trip planner again
16
Raffaldini Vineyards & Winery, LLC
Vineyard
Food & Drink
Event venue
Wedding venue
Wine bar
Wine store
This winery is by far one of the most beautiful wineries I have ever been to. And the staff was wonderful!! Very informative on the wines we sampled and very attentive making sure we were satisfied during our visit. If you are looking for a quiet spot, you don’t have to worry about kids running around screaming, and you can just sit back, relax, and enjoy the views and wine, I highly recommend Raffaldini! 10/10 WOULD recommend!
Laken W — Google review
Wow! This place is spectacular and gorgeous. This was the last stop on our tour. This was more on the fancy end of the scale and truly beautiful. The outside seating is awesome! Talk about a view..they have it here overlooking the valley. We enjoyed it so much. I loved the wine carriers for the tastings, I have never seen those before. The wine was great and we loved our visit!
S S — Google review
At our7/3/23 11am wine tasting we learned so much, not only about the Faffaldini family and their wine making enthusiasm,this wine making region similar to Italy. We were able to ask questions and were rather satisfied with each conversational answer. Thomas Jefferson’s efforts to bring wine making to the US leads to dramatic influence on the European wine industry.We were well satisfied with the tasting of award winning lineup.The 35 acres of vineyards, wonderful buildings and grounds, well educated staff was all worth the cost of the tasting. Our group of tasters purchased quite a few of the exclusive bottles of fine wines, not available anywhere else.If you’re interested in NC wineries…. Don’t miss this classic well run operation.
Dennis L — Google review
My partner and I had a pleasant time at this beautiful winery. We decided to spend our afternoon lounging while enjoying the tasty wine and food. I would recommend it to anyone looking for something to do on the weekend or haven’t been.
Amandine S — Google review
We had a great day for a wine tasting. The reds are very good. Bold flavors and a great nose. Our server Justin, gets 5 stars for himself. He was very knowledgeable and made some great suggestions. They have a limited but very good charcuterie offering as well as dips.We loved the reds so much we will go back for the white tasting next.The grounds and vineyard are gorgeous and well maintained. They offer a tour but we will have to go back for that.
Rob M — Google review
This is a Beautiful vineyard. Magnificent views and grounds. All the wines are dry and I am sweet wine drinker. Nevertheless I highly recommend checking it if you are in the area.
Chris B — Google review
I am originally from Europe, and I have been to Italy several times. Boy, does this bring back the best memories of that! A beautiful estate and really good wines on the top of the atmosphere and excellent service! I definitely recommend a thousand times!
Ilze B — Google review
Delicious wine and gorgeous surroundings! We enjoyed the red wine flight and the non dry flight! So good. We will be back. ♥️
Jenna D — Google review
My two friends and I visited Raffaldini Vineyards for the first time and loved it! Jordan Church was helpful in setting up our visit. The wines were excellent and the views were gorgeous! The only food available were prepackaged deli selections to pair with the wine. There was a food truck in the parking lot which was good. The piazza is sheltered but there were no fans set up so it became quite warm; too warm to linger over more wine. All in all, we thoroughly enjoyed our visit and left with bottles of wine. We do plan to return in the fall to enjoy cooler temps and linger over bottles of wine.
Linda T — Google review
Amazing day trip place with delisious wine.Views and place are so gorgeous that I'm ssruioly debating renewing our vows there (and we haven't even been married a year). Or maybe doing a big birthday party there.
Lana D — Google review
I was immediately transported back to Italy, the minute we saw the Foothills and the overall layout of the Vineyards it was over. The prices are extremely reasonable here, and they have an amazing selection of wines that are very reminiscent of Italian wines. My all time favorite wine is Chianti and they definitely nailed it with their Sangiovese classico!! We will definitely be going back!
Dustin H — Google review
Gorgeous 😍 everyone was so welcoming 🙏we saw someone get engaged as well! Everything about this place is perfect and the wine was sooo good!
Julia B — Google review
My friends (reservation of 8)and I visited this vineyard this past weekend, and I couldn't wait to share our incredible experience! From the moment we arrived until the last toast, the vineyard staff were attentive and went above and beyond to make sure our small bridal shower celebration went smoothly.The vineyard's picturesque setting provided the perfect backdrop for our intimate gathering, and our reserved table was nothing short of perfection.What stood out the most was the exceptional service we received. Staff Justin, was incredibly attentive, ensuring that we were not short of wine and he went out of his way to accommodate our needs. His genuine enthusiasm and warmth added an extra layer of joy to the celebration.The wine selection was outstanding, and the knowledgeable staff guided us through the tasting experience, making it not only enjoyable but also educational. The pairing recommendations were spot-on, enhancing the overall culinary experience! I cannot recommended this vineyard enough!
Djuliet T — Google review
Lovely Vineyard with such beautiful scenery. Learned a lot on the tour and wine tasting (we purchased the flights)🍷 Thoroughly enjoyed our time there.
Carla E — Google review
Olivia is the best Host! We did a wine tour and they have very few food options, but the view and atmosphere is Bellissimo!
Phillipe P — Google review
Beautiful vineyard! The wines were good, but nothing spectacular. The charcuterie board is pre-packaged, along with other snacks you can grab out of the cooler. There was also a food cart selling hot dogs, sausages, and pretzels the day we went. Service was fine, yet no one in our party felt like they were happy to have us. Nice winery, but probably won't return.Ambience: 10Wines: 7Food options: 6
Alice S — Google review
Such a great visit with our out of town guests. It really felt like we were in Italy on vacation. Jesse was so knowledgeable, welcoming and engaging. We will definitely return!
Francesca T — Google review
Absolutely beautiful wine tasting venue with a stunning view. The wine was 5 stars!!!
John W — Google review
I'm a local wedding photographer (Jenn Eddine Photography) and I'm here to tell you, if you want the most beautiful ceremony location in the area, this is the venue to book. Not only is a ceremony overlooking the vineyards with the mountains in the background absolute perfection, but the tent is a lovely space for your reception. The getting ready area for the bride is perfectly spacious, so you have plenty of room for you and your girls to get ready. It's truly a gorgeous place! I highly recommend it! One of my new favorite North Carolina venues for sure.
Jenn E — Google review
A exceptional place. Sitting on the patio, enjoying a light lunch with the views of the vineyards and country side was quite relaxing !
Steve H — Google review
Friends and I have visited Raffaldini Vineyard and Winery several times. Such a beautiful vineyard and buildings. The wine is amazing. The last time we tried the sparkling Strawberry and Basil. You have great service and all employees are great, but our favorite staff is Jasmine. She goes above and beyond. So we will definitely be going back many times.
Susan L — Google review
What a pleasant surprise this winery!I have seen Toscana, and I have relatives there . Yes, this property does resemble Toscana .It is a beautiful building with amazing views. The outdoor seating has beautiful furniture and the views are relaxing .I did tasted the wines. The vast majority are red wines, but that sparkling withe is amazing . Like a sparkling Moscato.They are organizing events here as well.It is one of the best vineyards that I visited in NC .
Mircea I — Google review
The picturesque property offered a delightful experience with the option to bring our own food and enjoy a delightful picnic amidst the stunning surroundings. The selection of wines was outstanding, and almost all the wines we tasted were fantastic. One of the highlights of our visit was discovering the delightful wine "La Dolce Vita". This exquisite wine quickly became one of our favorites with its unique take on the widely popular Italian sweet wine, Moscato. Its rich and luscious flavors made our tasting experience truly unforgettable.Keep in mind that you can't bring your own drinks, but the on-site wine offerings were so delicious that it didn't dampen our spirits. A memorable and enjoyable day out!
Miguel G — Google review
Great views and the architecture of the building is magnificent. Though the only food they offer are cheeses and crackers, there is usually a food truck/trailer in the parking lot that has more substantial offerings. I would be very happy to see them pave their parking lots instead of the gravel they have now which is not ideal for nice cars, and also I wish they would offer at least one wine which is sweet...currently they have none and I know a lot of people prefer sweeter wines.
Ted N — Google review
Took a day trip from Charlotte to spend the afternoon at this winery. We were all blown away at how nice of a day it was. My family lived in Napa for years and they even raved about this trip. The atmosphere and grounds are stunning and the wines are surprisingly great for NC. Only thing they could improve on is the tasting and tour, the staff didn’t seem too enthusiastic about either. Other than that, it was a perfect day and we will definitely be back to visit.
Jordan S — Google review
17
Lake Norman
Mentioned on
1 list
Lake
Nature & Parks
Bodies of Water
Lake Norman is the largest man-made lake in the state, boasting an array of fish species that make it a popular attraction for families. The area offers plenty of recreational activities such as kayaking, biking, hiking, and swimming, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can also take advantage of the educational center to learn about the lake's history and its reach throughout North Carolina.
Awesome lake over 52 mi.² and 515 linear miles of shoreline. Clear water, sandy beach, islands, lovely scenery and beautiful houses.
Robert T — Google review
Love this place, it is so peaceful and the staff is incredible. Sometimes life has a way of stressing us all the way out and the remedy is to just get away and put the technology down. This place is a therapist in a box. Highly recommend no matter what your situation is.
Brandon W — Google review
For us this was an exploratory visit.From Charlotte (south of the lake), Google brought us to the northern most point, where the visitors' center is located.I expect there are other points on the lake that would be more convenient to Charlotte but going to the visitor center explained the park's main feature is the bike trails (Hiking too, I guess).Visitor center: gift shop & public restrooms.No entry fee.No parking fee.Picnic areas, some with BBQ pits, for family sized group. Larger areas for organized events also available (reservations may be required).Canoe & paddle board rentals.Nearby boat ramp available.
Peter E — Google review
Decent lake overall. Beautiful homes to look at. Good mix of open water for activities, and inlets for more privacy.
Justin K — Google review
It truly is our own Inland Sea. Grew up on the shores of LKN and now spend just about every weekend March through September on the lake. Absolutely the best sunsets around.
Neal Y — Google review
Place is absolutely beautiful. Great place to hang out. Been here a lot, so it’s definitely worth it. Other than the water getting dirty at times, it’s a great destination to hang out. Weather sometimes gets on your nerves, but that with everything that goes on. Definitely coming back here for my next visit.
Ice T — Google review
Amazing lake water so beautiful
First P — Google review
Beautiful hike! My husband and I took the Lake Shore Trail to the 2.5 mile point and then cut to the short trail (it was hot and we didn't have enough water)The trail is natural and in a few spots not really well marked. Roots and rocks make it important to watch your step.We saw lots of spiders, a black snake and squirrels, but its the trees that really make it! The canopy gets really thick and the path shaded.We can't wait to go back!
Caryn B — Google review
Beautiful lake with tons to do.We went kayaking in the sunrise and sunset. Enjoyed both experiencea. Then we went out on a baot with the whole family. You can stop on islands or the state park and a have a wonderful day out in the nature.
Suniti K — Google review
Great family place. Kayaking, biking, hiking, or swimming, or camping you name it. You can do it all at Lake Norman.You can visit the educational center to learn all about the Lake and how far it extends throughout the state.Walk through the trails, and dip your feet in the water.
Sevor K — Google review
It’s a very busy commercialized lake in a big city. Private property surrounds the lake with little access points and lots of young adults drinking and driving their parents boats. You will not get that tranquil feeling here.
Dave K — Google review
Wow! This lake is a perfect slice of paradise smack dab in the middle of North Carolina. Great for boaters, swimmers, or just chilling on a quiet dock somewhere. The water is murky green and you can’t really see to the bottom, and there are small leeches in the clay that’ll attach to your feet and legs, so there’s all that. The Duke Nukem power plant pulls water from Lake Norman to cool off the reactor, which I’ve heard heats the water a bit in the South end. Pretty sure it’s not radioactive but I didn’t bring my Geiger counter. If this place ever goes Three Mile Island, those million dollar homes will be worthless, so rent, and enjoy the lake while you can. Watch out for Normie the Lake Monster. Reports say you’ll see him if you have too many beers.
Chuck F — Google review
4.6
(633)
•
4.5
(288)
North Carolina, USA
18
Jetton Park
Park
Nature & Parks
Tree-covered 104-acre park on Lake Norman with a small beach, tennis courts, a trail & picnic area.
I absolutely love this park, it’s located in the perfect spot right by the lake. It’s always quiet and clear right before closing. It’s the perfect place to reset and paint. Maybe some grilling …. Whatever you like to do at a park you can do it here PG13.
Talayisa — Google review
You must visit this park if you are looking for a clean, shady, convenient, and awesome place to have picnic at or just enjoy your day walking on the trails. I was absolutely amazed at how convenient this place is especially the parking around the park near good spots. No need to walk a mile to take your belongings or to get to your vehicle. Every little spot has its own parking and being with 2 kids i loved that.The entire park has a paved trail. The restrooms are only by the main building and they were clean. There is an event center and while we were there we saw people doing photo shoots, there was also a wedding event going on.My kids had a great time playing by the water. Beware that swimming is not allowed and you will be asked to leave the water if spotted by the police or park ranger.Find yourself a spot and enjoy your day!
SB K — Google review
Jetton Park is nestled along the shores of Lake Norman, offering a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The park features well-maintained walking trails that wind through lush greenery and alongside the tranquil lake waters, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll or a refreshing jog. The scenic views are breathtaking, especially during sunrise or sunset, casting a golden hue over the water and surrounding landscape. Families can be seen picnicking under the shade of towering trees, while others take advantage of the ample space for recreational activities. Definitely recommended!!!
Yogananda T — Google review
Really nice park. Lots of trails, areas around the beaches to relax and enjoy the lake and picnic.
Paul R — Google review
I enjoyed being there. It's a wonderful nature spot that close to the lake and I was enjoyed seating on a swing and looking at the lake. It's peaceful and nice. Also there are a lot if benches in the park and a place where you can have a family celebration or a wedding. They have a beach there, but they don't recommend to swim. Anyway people can play in the water.
Elena M — Google review
Needed a place to pass the time. Lots of trails, picnic areas, benches and adequate parking. Swing benches along the waterfront were nice touch. Plenty of lake views and photo ops. Beach area clean.
Sharon Z — Google review
Wonderful park with lots of walking trails. Several beachy areas. Apparently you are not allowed to swim or play in the water at the beaches. You can get your feet wet but that is it. Signs with fines and security/park police will write tickets.Several boaters came near beach dropped in swimmers. That seems to be ok.Several people launched paddle board, kayak and blow up boats. Nobody seemed to bother these individuals. So that too may be ok.Enjoyed a little picnic and dice game while watching the water.
S R — Google review
I frequent Jetton weekly! Jetton is a great park to walk at, enjoy a picnic, and sit by the lake. My dog loves Jetton. It is very pet friendly and she loves being able to splash on the shore line. I also do a lot of photography here. My clients like that they have the option to shoot beach-like photos as well as utilizing the beautiful green trees and various flower blooms. I don’t have kids myself- but the playground is always full of kids and laughter!
Mia G — Google review
Beautiful park, great to just go for a walk or have a fun day with family/friends. Many fun activities, bbq, picnic, swim in the lake ...
Ruth P — Google review
I love this park! I wish we lived closer. It's a perfect walk for the dogs, lots of people so it feels safe even when I'm alone. The views of the lake are beautiful and the trash cans are plentiful which means less dog poop just hanging around. Beautiful park!
Chantelle C — Google review
What a wonderful park. It was our first time here and was slightly confused where to park to get close to the water. We did find a spot that we could take our picnic and sit and enjoy the day. We did sit across from such beautiful homes across the lake.Beware, we found a very big snake just hanging out kind of close to us, but was nestled in the tree. We left it alone, but kept an eye on it.When we were leaving we realized if we would have driven around a little longer, we would have found a restroom and an easier access to get closer to the water. So if you want to be close to restrooms and easier access, just keep driving around the circle and you will come to it. Beautiful day.
Robin F — Google review
This park is a hidden gem!!! I found this park by accident yesterday and in just the small period of time we were there… we loved it! My kids begged me to bring them back today… how could I say no 😆😆😆😆😆
Gretchen H — Google review
Huge park on the water, tons of places to sit and enjoy the views, there’s lots of paths and this is one place I can say feels very safe to be, there’s tons of parking, a beach, playgrounds, basically everything you could want in a park but add on that it’s extra beautiful.
Savannah S — Google review
Every time I come to this park I truly enjoyed it! There’s a beautiful lake view when you walk on pavement. There’s picnic tables and it’s dog friendly as well. I love watching a sunset and taking some pics!! It’s a great place for landscape and portrait photography.
Mery M — Google review
When you visit Jetton Park, it’s like entering a serene paradise. The calm water and friendly atmosphere make it a truly special place to be. And you know what’s amazing? It won’t cost you a penny. Talking about it feels like Sharing a cherished secret spot, a place where nature’s beauty can soothe and rejuvenate your soul.
Satish — Google review
A very nice park with a great walkway all the way around in a loop. You can also ride your bike, skateboard scooter etc. on the same path. There are tennis courts, playground and a gazebo. They even have a beach area, however going into the water is not allowed. There are lots of nooks & crannies and of course trees where you hang your hammock for a siesta. You'll often find wildlife buzzing around, with lots of birds, ducks, geese, squirrels, etc. and occasional snake. Plenty of areas with picknick tables and BBQ grills. Overall a great place to come a relax a little piece of nature.
Angelo V — Google review
Beautiful park for a mid January visit. Lots of trails, benches, swings and more. A great spot for your four legged friends too.
Lucy D — Google review
Beautiful lake with a playground and picnic/grill areas. Only downside is they do not allow swimming in the lake currently.
Aksunfl — Google review
Beautiful playground with lots of shade. The restrooms are kind of old and feel humid and very much like old campground bathrooms. They're semi open air, so that is probably why. The park is lovely and you can walk the trails as well and play on the beach. Would definitely come back. The playground is good for varied ages of kids.
Deborah K — Google review
What a gorgeous park to spend the day at! We were traveling through the state with our travel trailer and stopped at this gem for a couple of hours to stretch our legs and have a meal. We biked around the whole park with my son and he played on the playground, then we had a meal at a picnic table and went on our way. There weren't any parking for RVs but we found a spot to park at. We lovedit so much that we stopped here on the way home as well.
Lilla P — Google review
There were so many boats, and people were kayaking. It’s a good place to visit with family for a picnic.
NFN R — Google review
Beautiful park with lots of fishing, trails, biking and they even have a play structure for the kids. We spent our day barbecuing and fishing. The park was quite busy with limited parking in the area we wanted to stay, but we were able to eventually find parking. This place would have been perfect to bring our dog as well. There was a sheriff on duty as well which was nice.
Meng H — Google review
I adore this park! Absolutely love it!I have it as my home park, I refuse to live far away from it.The walking trails are beautiful, the barbecue pits are plentiful and spaced out, so there's options in case one family got there before you. The playground is amazing! It is shaded and helps prevent heat stroke and sunburn in the summer.There's a little beach where you can tan and watch the boats.All in all, my favorite park!
Jenn M — Google review
Beautiful park, but beware it can get busy. On some days, it’s hard to find a spot to park our car.But I love the walking trails & the views! The little beach is nice, too.They also have a great playground for the little ones.I took a decent amount of pics and videos.Check out Jetton Park the next time you are in the mood for nature.Enjoy!
JOSEPHINE G — Google review
Really beautiful place to walk. Trail is well maintained and it is a great place to bring a dog. There are clean restrooms available and seating all around.
Dara K — Google review
4.8
(1972)
•
4.5
(137)
19000 Jetton Rd, Cornelius, NC 28031, USA
(980) 314-1001
19
SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord
Mentioned on
35 lists
Aquarium
Zoos & Aquariums
SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium, situated in the Concord Mills Mall, offers a diverse range of family-friendly exhibits featuring an array of sea creatures. These exhibits provide play areas and group packages for added convenience. With over 5,000 underwater creatures including jellyfish, clown fish, green moray eels, octopus, triggerfish, and various sharks, visitors can explore more than 20 themed showcases that mirror North Carolina's natural surroundings.
I had a great time! Reasonable price for 6 hours of aquarium time! Walk-through took about 45 minutes at a slow-casual pace. Beautifully themed displays, fish, jellies, and turtles live in close up exhibits. A touch pool lets you touch urchins and sea stars. Gift shop at the end had a lot of varied choices for souvenirs.
Tracy R — Google review
We went here while we were on vacation. Very busy place. It was just us two adults with no kids. We really enjoyed it, it was smaller than most aquariums we have been to, but the price was good and we did enjoy it. They did have several different species they are trying to save. Very informative if you read the information provided. The staff were friendly and actually seemed to like their jobs.
Jami C — Google review
I had a birthday party here for my son. It was really nice. Staff was nice they even set up the party room. It was a little pricey but well worth it. They let you bring your own food unlike most places. My guests had a good time. I would definitely recommend it.
Octavia L — Google review
Wonderful little aquarium. Very nicely done. Neat tunnel and varying views of large tanks. You could buzz thru quickly, but we spent a couple hours really watching everything. They do have an intractive touch tank as well. We were surprised it was located at a mall, but that made it very convenient.
Marla B — Google review
MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE!!!!Please do not judge this place by what you see from the outside. Not that the outside is in bad shape or anything, but you would think that there's not a lot to see............you would be wrong!!This is a very informative, colorful, and clean aquarium. You can tell that the sea life is well cared for and that the habitat encourages growth and comfort.I actually came for Beasley but found so much more. I definitely recommend for children, family and friends, and even an evening date. I can't imagine this place will disappoint. ESPECIALLY THE TUNNEL!!!I hope you enjoy the pictures and videos. This place is as cool as it looks.PS - If you time your visit right, you can watch them feed throughout the aquarium.
Romeo B — Google review
It is a nice day out place with kids. Mu daughter loved being in the aquarium and collecting fun stamps at each exhibition. Nice full filled day activity for parents and kids. Must visit.
Ritika R — Google review
Great way to spend a hot summer day. It's not big, and it is geared more for younger kids. There's more for the younger kids to do, so it will draw out the experience. My 15yo and I went on a Sunday morning while visiting family. We took our time looking at the sea life and spent about an hour walking through. It is a nice thing to do with a family, especially in the hot summer.
Tanya H — Google review
So much fun! We got there closer to close than I would've liked, but the staff was so friendly and helpful. We got to see brand new baby seahorses and there was a super friendly looking puffer fish. We loved the tunnel!
Heather B — Google review
Great experience but the cost should be much lower for the size. We paid more here to visit that many other aquariums that were double and triple the size. As for the variety of sea life and staff, they were above and beyond. I also like how they provided extra education activities for younger ages. A great 30 to 40 minute activity with a younger child.
A H — Google review
Had a great time. It took about an hour to walk through everything, but you could return at any point during the day. We also did the behind the scenes tour and the host, Matt, was great. He also interacted with the adults and kids in the group. Amanda was amazing at answering questions. We bought the VIP picture pass and it was definitely worth it.
Hades D — Google review
Little pricey for as small as it is. I was not expecting it to be in a mall. Can get crowded in a heartbeat with little wiggle room to see anything or to get away. They do let you go through as many times as you want, so that helps, some. They have a tunnel which is cool but the lighting isn't set up well, so it's not easy to tell what you are looking at sometimes.I did NOT realize this was geared directly at kids. My bad for not doing more research but it's super kid friendly, which means it's not adult friendly in terms of viewing or moving around. Also, by kid friendly, I mean exhausted parents that don't give AF what their kids are doing, which is screaming, yelling, tapping glass, shoving each other, crying and running.So yeah, I just wanted out of our Airbnb on a rainy day and thought a visit to an aquarium would be cool. It wasn't as awesome as I hoped. But hey, floaty-butt turtles always make any day better.
Vee — Google review
We had our daughters' birthday party here on Friday! It was an amazing experience for all that came! The room was beautiful! The staff was great! Highly recommend Sea Life for a fun unique birthday party experience!
Jennifer H — Google review
An absolute must for kids!!! Everything is their height, 100% interactive displays, hidden portholes and the Junior Range kit keeps them engaged looking closely to really appreciate the different species. We did the behind the scenes tour and learned a lot. Staff are all top notch. Worth every dollar. Went with grandma and my 5 year old son and they were both beyond thrilled.
Adrienne H — Google review
Some very nice exhibits but it is very small for the price.There is a nice kid’s area and some good pop up spots for viewing fish. The tunnel is short but has many creatures swimming overhead.
Rachel P — Google review
We visited while we were in town for the holiday weekend. SeaLife was fantastic and they had a lot of aquatic life. We loved our time there. Unfortunately, we went on the busiest shopping day of the year, so getting out of the parking lot was a nightmare. Would recommend visiting on any other day though.
Jill T — Google review
Was a great time for the family and kids! They have quite a lot packed in and some pretty amazing aquatic life. We had a great time, and the costs were not excessive, especially considering it kept us busy for hours. Would absolutely recommend for a family afternoon out if you are looking for something fun and educational for your friends and family.A+
Daniel F — Google review
Sea Life was nice. We were hoping it was a longer undersea stroll but the location is probably the reason. All the exhibits were breath taking.I'm not sure but I was trying to add a video. I was trying to show an exhibit where it looked like skinny snakes poking out of sand trying to get the small fish. It was so amazing to watch. I can't seem to show.
Jackie H — Google review
Went there with a group of people, and it was a blast. I loved the little shipwreck they had and we loved doing the stamps. Even though it was a great experience overall, it was kind of short. But yet again not surprising since it's in a mall. It's a great place to go to with kids or to go to on a day out.
Ray — Google review
How delightful to have an aquarium within the Concord Mills mall! We're not from the area and I love aquariums so this was a pleasant surprise. I was really impressed with the size of the aquarium itself and everything it has to offer. They have a touch pool which is fun for kids and adults alike. They have an underwater tunnel which is exciting. I think the porcupine fish might've been my favorite. He was huge! Highly recommend and will visit again.
Deanna W — Google review
My family and I visited a beautiful place over the weekend. An aquarium where you can see unusual bright fish. Electric skates, sharks, moray eels, sea stars and much more. There is a petting pool where you can touch starfish. It's unusual and interesting. Come see this beauty. Lots of useful stuff.
Vika R — Google review
My wife and I went here while we were in the area on our honeymoon. It was fascinating to observe the creatures up close. We developed several favorites. Personally, I enjoyed watching the stingrays, sharks, and the fish that tirelessly dug holes in the sand. The staff, notably Greer, whom we spoke with, was exceptionally helpful, polite, and informative.
Zulu — Google review
Beautiful aquarium! This is a great activity to do with kids! We loved it here! He staff was very nice and took their time to explain everything when we asked. The selection of fish and animals is great and they are beautifully presented in different fish tanks. The highlight is definitely the tunnel through the big fish tank! This is a great place to spend half a day and the mall is just right in front of it for dining or shopping afterwards. HOWEVER, I did not like that you have to buy you ticket from a display/computer and have to provide them with personal information they don't really need, like your email address. I would much rather buy my ticket from a person and NOT get my personal data collected. Also I thought that it was realively expensive... Worth it, but not cheap if you like to take your 5 grandkids over 14years old. I do appreciate though that they support some charity projects. Overall 4 out of 5 stars.
Mel — Google review
Fun experience for the little ones! It took us a little under an hour to walk through the exhibits, but it’s still a nice little trip. They have a section to color different fish which our daughter really enjoyed and a scavenger hunt to complete while you are walking with a prize at the end!
Rose F — Google review
For being a small aquarium in a mall, they have several fish and even a cute rehabilitation tank that currently is hosting Beasley. It was really cute and had a lot of exhibits in it, surprisingly, including an interactive touch pool. My nephews enjoyed it, smallest barely wanted to leave. I would definitely recommend it for younger kids or people who love sea life in general.
Khadijah S — Google review
We really enjoyed ourselves here with my 3 year old niece. She enjoyed touching the star fish and seeing the sharks and sea turtle. Definitely recommend. More for children than adults but adults can enjoy themselves as well.
Derrick W — Google review
It is bigger than I expected it and they’ve done a great job with this aquarium. Organize, clean, different fishes. Easy to navigate. Pretty good size, not too big or too small. The staff were polite.I went Friday at 12pm and there were only two more families at the time so it was a great experience.Once you buy tickets you can leave and get back inside as many times as you want. At least that’s what they told us on this date.
Veronica — Google review
My husband and I are both in our 20’s without kids and we were pleasantly surprised by this aquarium! They had a good amount of different animals including stingrays, sharks, fish, turtles, and many more. We were able to touch starfish and sea urchins. I enjoyed the turtle rehab section where we could see a turtle who was rescued from the ocean because he was stranded and injured. They had a cool tunnel you could walk through to see the animals as well. This was a great experience for the price!
Rachel B — Google review
When I saw this aquarium was located in a mall I had low expectations. I could not have been more incorrect. Not only was this location large enough to entertain adults for an hour, but they have an ocean tunnel, in a mall! The facility was well kept, the tanks were all large and not overcrowded, and the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. Plus it was affordable. 10/10 would recommend checking it out while you're in the area. Then you can go shopping in the mall, knowing you're in the same building with fun things like sharks, eels, and jellyfish 💛
Nainsi M — Google review
Bought our tickets in advance, and it was easy. There is plenty of parking and easy to find. It is attached to Concord Mills Mall. Staff was super friendly and awesome. Plenty of sealife to see and interact with. I highly recommend checking this place out if in the area.
MAC — Google review
I think they did an amazing job with the space that they had. It certainly does not look that big from the outside. Some of the staff were friendly. It’s $23 (if i can remember) for adults and $19 for children over the age of 2 😒 . Children under the age of 2 are free. Some of the things to interact with were broken. They let you create your own fish you color / paint it, name it and after you finish you are suppose to be able to send it off to sea but the tv/monitor that you send your fish to was broken/not working. I was honestly looking forward to that but it wasn’t up and they didn’t have an answer for when they would have things back up and running. With everything not working and no idea or information about when it will be back up and running i don’t know if i can recommend it. The least that they could have done was get an answer to our question about when it was going to be back up or at least “try”.
KDs N — Google review
This is the first aquarium that I visited that's in a mall! Yes, that's exactly right! In a mall! I had time to kill before I caught my flight back to Indy, so I went to Sea Life. I had a wonderful time there, and I had time to go to AMC Theaters and see King Kong X Godzilla. I think that is more for kids, but I enjoyed it all the same. I enjoyed seeing all the children's reactions to the different types of sea life that are available.
Darrell B — Google review
Sea Life Charlotte-Concord is an incredible little place. I worked with several staff members (Kaitlin, Jasmine, and Erin) who treated me like royalty to make for a very VERY special night.I was able to set up a beautiful proposal and evening and they helped at every step. They set up special lights and stayed open a little late to help make this magical moment happen.The aquarium itself is very nice. The decorations are perfect (lots of pirate decor) and the flow from room to room makes the aquarium feel five times bigger than it actually is.I am forever grateful to the lovely people that helped me propose to my wonderful partner. And I will be back many times to enjoy both the aquarium and the memories made that evening.
Richard C — Google review
An aquarium that's:1. In the mall2. Has a touch tank3. Has a scavenger hunt and other kid activities4. Has an awesome gift shop5. Excellent staffYep... Take my money!
John H — Google review
We love this aquarium so much we bought a season pass. We have an 18 month old and it’s the perfect activity for when he’s out of school or if it’s rainy or too hot. It’s a small aquarium but he still loves it so it’s worth it.
Mallory R — Google review
Very neat stuff here. Staff are very knowledgeable and friendly. Just wish it was a longer attraction for the money. The kids enjoyed it but I don't see this being a "season pass" type attraction.
Eddie V — Google review
We had a wonderful time. So much fun and so many things to see. We love how it is in the mall. So convenient! Definitely a good place for the family to visit.
Jannette M — Google review
Took a school trip here with my Grandson, first time we visited. The experience was a very good one. My Grandson who's 5 really enjoyed the exhibits. It's a beautiful place, takes about 30-40 mins to go thru and see everything. The staff was really friendly and very helpful.
Gee C — Google review
4.2
(3977)
•
4.0
(537)
8111 Concord Mills Boulevard, Concord, NC 28027, USA
(855) 450-0512
20
Charlotte Motor Speedway
Mentioned on
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Car racing track
Sights & Landmarks
Auto Race Tracks
The Charlotte Motor Speedway is a highly-rated, 138,000 seat stadium which hosts NASCAR races as well as other events. It's also home to a drag racing track and other attractions.
We did the drive through fan experience and it was way better than you would imagine from their website description. The history of the track was great and we got to drive and walk on the track and stop in the winners circle as well as the start/ finish line. It was pretty awesome!
Angie R — Google review
Very nice and updated track, huge! Seating is bench seating with looonnggg benches, so if you are seated in the middle grab your food and go potty before sitting down, it is nearly impossible to slid back out. Be prepared for the children, this track offers $10 child tickets, so if you are not kid friendly, you may want to skip this one. Otherwise, great food & bars on site, plenty of bathrooms, and handicapped accessibility. Overall a great track!
Marsha S — Google review
Things happen very quickly here. The banking is honestly wild and I’ve never felt anything like it, especially if you’re pushing 100mph+ over it. A wonderful track, though - really allows for a crazy amount of speed while maintaining some fun maneuverable sections. I’ve never felt more like Ricky Bobby and that is honestly a very fulfilling experience.
Kasper K — Google review
Christmas lights at the speedway were wonderful. Although the wait was nearly 4 hours, once we made it to the lights it was like we never even waited. Such a magical experience with lots of effort put into setting up the lights, the music, everything. Great way to celebrate Christmas imo
Lucy B — Google review
I absolutely LOVED this track. It was my first experience with a Nascar event and I enjoyed every moment! It was a bit confusing getting to my seat but the staff was very helpful.Parking was complicated. The people directing traffic sent us to an RV park and we drove in circles for 20 minutes trying to get out. It was 20$ once we found a place to park.As always, I want more vegan options but the atmosphere was decent and the patrons were diverse and kind.
SaBreena L — Google review
My husband and son loved their birthday/graduation/Christmas presents. They did the tide along with an experienced driver followed by driving the cars all by themselves. They absolutely loved it. I've never seen them smile so big. They are still coming down off their high. I scored big brownie points.
Iceblue E — Google review
Visited the Speedway for the Xtreme Xperience and all I can say is wow! There was also a similar NASCAR drive event happening there at the same time so it was great to hear the real sounds associated with stock car racing while simultaneously experiencing the high speed / exotic cars we were there to drive! Ventured to the restrooms while there and was pleasantly surprised how clean they were.
N G — Google review
Great track to watch a race. Went to see the 2022 Coca-Cola 600 & 2022 Alsco 300 Great signage inside and out. Lots of food choices including food trucks inside the track. Now parking was a nightmare. Even had prepaid parking but no one directing traffic into lots.
James S — Google review
Went to the Arca and truck race.. both were awesome and good seats. Food is way overpriced and even water. Some places were selling water for $5-$10 outrageous. So bring your own and pick up food before, and they did not accept cash for anythingthing in the gates, so it was card only
Derrick H — Google review
The speedway is spectacular and to talk about The Bank of America ROVAL 400. It is an unforgettable experience filled with energy and adrenaline. The race lasts just over 3 hours with 109 laps, each featuring 17 thrilling turns. Watching the cars zoom by is exhilarating, and the engine sounds are unique. Don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity; it's perfect for family outings, hanging out with friends, or even a memorable first date. It's an experience that will stay with you forever.
S K — Google review
We attended the holiday lights festival. The kids, especially the younger ones, really enjoyed it. The adults enjoyed driving on the track. We arrived at 6pm on a Monday night and only waited in line for about 15mins to enter.
Brad K — Google review
THEY STOLEN OUR ICE BOX. It turns out that I carried a plastic cooler, measuring 14 inches high by 14 inches wide (small size), COLEMAN brand. They didn't let me bring the cooler into the event for security reasons. So I decided to leave it right next to the ticket booth and at the end of the event I would take it with me. At the end of the event, which was great, I went to look for my cooler and it was in a different place than where I had left it and they wrote the word “SAFETY” on the lid. I waited for security personnel from the event to arrive, and they told me that the cooler was theirs and what the problem was, with a BAD APTITUP (He was defensive). So I told him that they had taken my cooler, but he ignored my statement. So I decided to leave without my cooler. It is a shame that these types of situations occur. I am not making the complaint because of the economic value of the cooler, I am doing so because of the bad action of an unscrupulous person who compromises the good name of the organization they represent.
Nelso A — Google review
The installations are impressive!We got the tickets in advance in digital and there was all ok, we bought for the main stand at the start-finish line.We bought the parking in advance but it was not any signal for our pre-purchased spot and some people take advantage of that.Take the time to get in to the speedway because there is a lot of traffic during the weekend.
Jorge S — Google review
Such a great time to be had by all here. The food prices are actually quite affordable as well compared to other raceways.
Julia C — Google review
Race was a lot of fun (until the storm,of course). Seats were good. A little confusing knowing where to go with track passes, but we got that figured out. You can not use cash or apple pay here. I could buy nothing.
J W — Google review
Ford Driving Experience is amazing, you get to drive in the Oval and eat dinner in the VIP box.
Daniel G — Google review
We went to see Christmas decorations. The entrants cost is 45 $ per car. And its a bit much for the light show that we saw. There are some nice lights decorations and there're very simple one. They have a village Christmas lights in the middle where you can walk, grilled smorth on fire. And there's a shop you can buy different things. Also you can buy snacks.There's a screen you can watch a movie seating in a car.
Elena M — Google review
We went to the coca cola. This is a great place to see a race, however the parking is a real nightmare. They are poorly organized and signage left much to be desired. When you finally get to the venue" it took us 2 hours to park and get inside when we were within 2 miles of the track and with preferred parking. The race was extremely loud and I was very thankful that we brought earphones.
Duncan A — Google review
We went to the Cookout Summer Shootout here, and had a great time. It was a good way to experience the speedway in a casual way. The tickets were $10 a person and kids under 12 got in free. I enjoyed the table/bar in front of the seats for drinks and food.
Kelsey E — Google review
The autofair/swap meet was not worth the 6hr ride .. alot of really nice cars 8n the car show --made up for it....
Jeff J — Google review
Went to see the Christmas light show. It was amazing. Definitely a must see if you have kids. They will enjoy it. Afterwards you can park and watch a Christmas movie or walk through the Christmas village. It's a fun holiday family night.
Pat E — Google review
We went here with a group from our neighborhood for lunch and a tour. Lunch was wonderful, but the tour was awesome! We were driven on the track and took a fast and furious drive around the turns!So much fun! If you ever have the chance to do this tour, do it!
Cruisejunkie — Google review
My husband and grandson got the Richard Petty driving experience. My husband drove a car and my grandson did a ride along. They had a blast!!!
Leatrice M — Google review
I was invited by my sponsor Blackpearlshowboards along with Mr Ed. It was Mustang 6oth Anniversary. We were right outside the Pavillion Auto Show Case. Joey Logano his family and dad all came back and saw Black Beauty. I autographed pictures for Joey Logano kids. Now I can mark that off my bucket list
Teresa M — Google review
Best racing venue I've been too. Racing was great and even the pre race events were great. I would definitely recommend going to the Coke-600.
Riley — Google review
The whole facility around CMS is top tier. I love this track especially for the Coke 600 on Labor Day Weekend. It’s one of NASCAR’s most iconic tracks and I always enjoy spending a weekend here. The whole track area is laid out very nicely and we even found a great area for parking! The fan zone and fan experience is amazing as well. Overall Charlotte is one of the best NASCAR Tracks to visit for a race weekend.
Location W — Google review
Wow! What service! What a neat venue! Everyone was so nice! This place was huge! I would 10000% come back! For a great time come here!
C A — Google review
If this is on your bucket list, you have to go for Memorial Day! It is so Patriotic. I really enjoyed the whole day. It's a long day so prepare yourself. A lot to do for the day to keep you busy.
Mike C — Google review
4.7
(9256)
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4.5
(991)
5555 Concord Pkwy S, Concord, NC 28027, USA
(800) 455-3267
I'll never travel to Charleston without this trip planner again
21
Bank of America Stadium
Mentioned on
21 lists
Stadium
Sights & Landmarks
Arenas & Stadiums
The Bank of America Stadium is a football stadium located in uptown Charlotte, North Carolina and home to the NFL's Carolina Panthers. The 75,523-seat stadium has been designed specifically for NFL football and features luxurious boxes and an open-air grass field. The stadium also has a large tailgating area which makes it popular with fans of all teams.
Overall my experience was good. I am Atlanta fan and came to the opening game where Charlotte FC played LA Galaxy. Good atmosphere. Looking forward to more games here.The only negative: need better security at the gates when coming in and fixing the lines. I think this will come in time as they handle big games.
David F — Google review
As far as NFL stadiums go, I would put BOA in the middle of the pack as far as how nice it is. We have been here for a few events the last couple of years and always have a good time. There are lots of food options in the concourse to choose from as well as plenty of drink options. Our last visit we were up in the suite section, which is really nice. Everything up there is air conditioned and we had everything catered for food and drinks, which made everything pretty easy and quick. I would always recommend getting a Bojangles box, it is worth the money more than anything in the stadium.
Steven B — Google review
Haven't had a bad experience here. I think I've been twice and both times were great. Entry is simple and quick, in my experience. Plenty of resources, the bathrooms are clean and sufficient, and the seating is good. Definitely recommend for whatever events people may be looking to attend.
Jeremy K — Google review
A clean and stunning stadium in downtown Charlotte. The city skyline made for a beautiful backdrop; especially when all the lights started coming on. The staff were friendly and helpful. There were a few unruly fans in our section and security did a great job diffusing the situation and kept everyone around from being interrupted from watching the game. The food selection was beyond amazing. The souvenir cup for free refills is definitely worth it. A great stadium to enjoy a game!
H C — Google review
Attended the Real Madrid match versus Chelsea at the Bank of America stadium in Charlotte, NC. This was a gift for my son's 13th birthday and it was well worth the drive from Raleigh.It had been almost 20 years since I have been at this stadium and I had an amazing time. I was impressed with the amenities and upkeep of the stadium. The staff was very helpful and the parking was surprisingly good. We did but a snag trying to get out of our parking deck but with the stadium being right off the highway, it took little time to hit the interstate.We enjoyed the shops and available merchandise. Plus, any stadium where you can get Bojangles deserves 5 Stars!! But you need to figure out how you can serve biscuit sandwiches.Most importantly, you can't beat the views, both in the field and of the skyline. It was a great trip!!
La B — Google review
We had a great time visiting the Bank of America Stadium as we saw Charlotte FC’s first inaugural home game! It was well worth the visit as we enjoyed the experience and how friendly everyone was! I’ll definitely come back to check out another game here in the future!
Daniel D — Google review
What a great experience, very easy to navigate, each employee was friendly, very clean & so well set up. I mostly appreciated the escalators lol! The Stadium is HUGE & great for many types of venues. It's very easy to get to from the interstate & parking was expensive but not bad for the walk. I didn't see much security in the Stadium as I did outside, I may have just missed them, but I never felt unsafe.
Melinda F — Google review
Home of the roaring Panthers and the cheers of their loyal fans 🏈🐾 Welcome to Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina! 🌟 #PantherNation #CharlotteNC #FootballSeasonThis stadium is located in the heart of uptown Charlotte. The seating is comfortable and offers great sightlines of the field. They offered a variety of food and beverage options, from classic stadium fare like hot dogs and nachos to more upscale options like BBQ and craft beer. Lines can get long, especially during peak game times, so it is advisable to arrive early or plan accordingly.The stadium also offers a variety of amenities, including a team store, a Panthers Hall of Honor, and a kid’s zone. The team store offers a wide selection of merchandise, from jerseys and hats to unique souvenirs. The Hall of Honor is a great way to learn about the history of the Carolina Panthers and the NFL. The kid’s zone offers a variety of fun activities for children, including inflatable games and a climbing wall.One of the unique features of Bank of America Stadium is the ability to take a tour of the stadium. Tour guides take visitors through the stadium, including the locker rooms, press box, and field. The tours are informative and provide a behind-the-scenes look at the stadium.
Dixon — Google review
Beautiful stadium with plenty to eat and drink. Prices here were very good - I had a 5-piece chicken tender with a refillable cup for around $20.
Brandon C — Google review
We attended a pre-season football game here and we were very impressed with how nice the stadium is maintained compared to other stadiums. We had a great time and had great seats even though we had a short rain delay. We loved that we stayed at a nearby hotel and just walked 2 blocks. Can’t wait to visit again!
Robert P — Google review
My son and I were in attendance for the Charlotte FC inaugural home match. The stadium is a very nice venue, especially considering it's age. Entry into the stadium was extremely quick. Traffic was very slow near the stadium. We parked in a garage across from the stadium. We won't make that mistake again, but will plan a little better and just walk a few blocks to the stadium.Overall it was a great time.
Brian S — Google review
Did the 5k for the Levine cancer center this morning. The best Saturday I've spent in a while. We were fortunate to have 3 generations walking for family. Must say that I'm not fond of the field being a soccer field though. Very nicely done, clean, and will be back soon for my panther's games. Loved the experience, and was well planned.👍💙🖤
Katherine C — Google review
Dream come true. I thought I would never get to see panther football game in my life. After I wining the football tickets form Amazon. I finally get to see the game. My first time ever going to watch the Panthers game at the stadium. It was humongous! I had a good time with friends . But hey, what do you expect, it’s costly going to a football game. I would definitely go again though. There was face painting there too and I got myself one. I say, go give yourself this experience just once to see if you like it.
Myo O — Google review
Absolutely the best NFL facility with the cleanest, most well kept, and amazing amminities and staff. Their business, security, and operations teams are exemplary and second to none. Amazing to get to work with these folks, a true pleasure.
ESCALATOR C — Google review
Bank of America Panthers Stadium has been newly renovated to include better tech, seating as well as a locker room for the men's soccer team. We attended the epic Beyoncé Renaissance World Tour concert at the stadium and the new design is impeccable. The entire staff was extremely attentive and approachable. A beautiful venue.
360 M — Google review
It was my first NFL game and my 58th birthday!! Except for the loss and the cost of some items, I was very happy with my experience. Tickets were cheap because it was a preseason game. Parking cost near the stadium was astronomical, so I opted for free parking and the low-cost LYNX rail ride into downtown Charlotte. It was easy, safe, and convenient. Stadium concessions were very pricey, but I was impressed with the fact they offered alcoholic drinks other than just beer: You could get cocktails, wine, and hard seltzer too!
Scherron L — Google review
Our first NFL game and we absolutely loved it! Came to watch the New York Jets play. Will definitely be coming back to watch more games.
Heather B — Google review
Copa America Semi FinalColumbia 1-0 UruguayOne of the best games I've ever seenThey don't allow you to take in drinks from outside so don't bother
Off T — Google review
first time being at this Bank of America Stadium, wonderful performance and great lounges and bathrooms very clean well kept up very nice. Would recommend anybody to show go to these events here. The staff did amazing job with the overwhelming amount of people. It’s kind of hilarious some of the staff I guess it depends on the singers, but they have no idea who some of these country folks are. we’re bunch of hillbillies from Virginia so we enjoyed every bit of George Strait little big town and Chris Stapleton.
Explore W — Google review
Went there for the Charlotte FC 1st game of the season and loved the experience! Plenty of food and drink options (even hot cocoa). The picture attached is the view from section 542 seat 18
Ginna R — Google review
Always a party coming out here to watch a soccer game, I have been here countless times to watch the Charlotte FC play and even if they are losing or wining a game the fans are alway behind the team. From tailgating to the actual start of the game, it's just electric filled.Blue is our color, Charlotte is our city, football is our game, right here in the Queen city where we lift the golden Crown 👑 higher than anything else.
Prince P — Google review
We had an excellent first time experience here at the Bank of America stadium in Charlotte. We sat in the silver club seats (section 313), which gives you access to a comfy indoor area with nice restrooms and plenty of bar & food options. The seats were comfortable folded-chair-back seats. There are two large score board screens at each end zone, and the game info (down, yards, play clock, etc) can also be seen directly across the field on a smaller screen. The staff was very prepared and made sure things went very smoothly, such as security check and scanning your phones for tickets. If you want to be sheltered from weather and sun, choose the higher rows in this section (19-21).
Kathryn W — Google review
First time here 12/24- Packers vs Panthers. We got to the stadium early. Nice Stadium and Great Atmosphere! Staff was very friendly and helpful! We were in Section 542 with many other Packers fans. The seats were comfortable! Plenty of options for beverages and food. Really enjoyed the Packers vs Panthers game! 💚💛💚💛
Tracy B — Google review
First time there for soccer game. Seats are comfortable. Food and drink over priced as is the case with every athletic stadium in the US. Staff was helpful and friendly. The traffic is horrific from the stadium parking lot so don't be in a hurry to get home. I'd be concerned about a medical emergency. Lot 5 is better parking area but be prepared to walk uphill to the stadium for those with mobility issues. There could be better parking places if you are familiar with the area. I'd return for a future event.
Sherry S — Google review
I came here for the Panthers Bucs Game. It was with some family friends and it was my first ever NFL game. The atmosphere here is amazing and they have a really nice stadium and everything. They lost 10-3 but it was alright. I was in one of the sections near the scoreboard but still they were great seats and saw a lot. Wasn’t terrible coming in or leaving and it was a fun game and fun experience. I’m a NY Giants fan but I’d certainly go to another panthers game knowing I’m from Durham and it’s not terribly far
Team C — Google review
Atmosphere is electric here and the fan base for Charlotte fc is phenomenal. I’m coming from RSL culture in Utah and their fan base is a joke compared to here.Bank of America stadium was well kept and looks stunning. Workers didn’t seem to know a clue about any sections but it was the home opener
Riley B — Google review
Back of America Stadium is a great place to watch football! This stadium gets a bad rap as talks of a new stadium are continually being mentioned. Let's be honest, BofA has some old bones. Some of the railings are bent. There are parts that are rusted. Some of the chairs are squeaky. It has character for its age. The best thing about BofA stadium is that there isn't a bad view in the stadium. You may be winded going up those flights of stairs, but you can still see everything just fine. A bonus is if you sit on the 550s side, you'll get a great view of the skyline. The concessions are solid. Bojangles, Krispy Kreme, & Domino's are our usual choices. The beer prices are as expected ($11-12 each). Whatever may happen to this stadium, I don't know, but for now, I'll continue to enjoy football games here & I hope to someday catch a concert here as well.
Stephen B — Google review
Went to a game here vs the Cowboys and it was 90% Cowboys fans but, the stadium was very clean and nice, and also the stadium staff was very friendly. If you are looking to see you favorite team at a visitor stadium this is a friendly environment and the people of Charlotte are great.
ISU A — Google review
Super dope that they let us run through the stadium and get on the field (!!) for the Mad Miles fun run. I had such a good time!Really nice upgrades to the stadium as well. Now if we can only get the Panthers to win...
Beverlee W — Google review
Beautiful arena, accessible, easy to find your way around and lots of friendly staff available and willing to help when needed. Food and drink prices were high but expected for this type of venue. Looking forward to more events here.
Janna H — Google review
Went there to see the Dallas Cowboys vs panthers. Was a very awsome experience :). Was our first NFL game. Are seats were really good. Section 112 row 1A seats 3 & 4 about the 50 yard line. Will post better seat pictures when I download them from my camera :)
Cindy R — Google review
First time attending a game here and the experience was very good. My daughter and I came to town to watch our Dallas Cowboys play the Panthers and I gotta hand it to the Panthers organization, this was a very smooth and well organized event. I would recommend arriving when the gates open and just walk around and familiarise yourself with where things are located (it’s really pretty self explanatory and well marked). The staff members are very helpful and friendly. Plenty of security. It really was a very enjoyable experience especially since the Cowboys won
Tim M — Google review
We have a great family time. They had fireworks after the game it was so beautiful. My kids love it.
Javier — Google review
4.6
(9638)
•
4.5
(1047)
800 S Mint St, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA
(704) 358-7000
22
NASCAR Hall of Fame
Mentioned on
+78 other lists
Museum
Auditorium
Specialty Museums
The NASCAR Hall of Fame Museum in Charlotte, North Carolina is dedicated to the sport of stock car racing and features interactive exhibits and a theater. The museum has grown from dirt tracks to super-speedways over the years and features memorabilia from famous NASCAR drivers. Race fans can visit the museum even if there is no race meeting going on.
My boyfriend and I came here for a day date, there was no line or anything- we like to do things that are fun and interactive. This was my first time at the hall of fame and there was more to do than I expected. The tickets are pricey but It would be a great place to bring kids if I had any. But it’s great for just adults too! I definitely recommend doing the racing simulation if you go, they were closing soon and let us do it for free and it was super fun, but typically you have to pay extra for it. We live uptown so we didn’t have to pay for parking but I suggest finding street parking and walking a little bit as opposed to a parking deck.
Sable J — Google review
If you are in Charlotte, it is a fun place to visit and good for all age groups. You can buy tickets at the booth or book online, either you it works. Consider family membership option if you are family of two and have 2-3 kids, as the family membership provides more value for money and you get two buddy passes which you can use immediately during the visit if you have more than two adults in your group. Simulation drive is included with the family membership, so value instead of combo tickets. It is a long line sometimes and probably most times to get into simulation. You can easily spend 3-4 hours at the museum, rest rooms are clean and very accessible.
Satish B — Google review
NASCAR hall of fame museum is a must visit! I enjoyed this a lot with my family. The experience wasn’t what I had expected at all— in a great way! Stimulations and interactive activities all throughout. Very clean and well kept facility. Loved the gear shop as well. Highly recommend purchasing the Combo 1 package as you’re provided a cool lanyard for your hard card and unlimited rides on the race stimulator. Would love to visit again.
Aniya E — Google review
Its interesting and they have guided tours as well as a pit crew test where you can compete against other people. Not very expensive and they have a military discount, but not first responder for entrance tickets. Parking is not free unless you are a "Legends and Champions" member-I assume you'd know if you meet that qualification.
S W — Google review
Whether you're newly introduced to NASCAR or you're an avid fan, this place is a must-see. My mom and I went today, and it was a treat! We were able to take our time to look through all of the exhibits, and the staff was so courteous. They were very enthusiastic and willing to answer any questions. A memorable experience all around.
Meagan R — Google review
I am glad to finally visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame. My son is a big fan and I watch it a bit but we both had a blast! Learning the history and seeing everything on display was mesmerizing. The simulators were exciting and it was great to experience what the NASCAR life is like. I wish there were a few more sections so kids can interact since they are fans too but we made it work. The staff was very friendly and answered any questions we had.
Jan T — Google review
Loud of fun. Lunch was delicious. The stations were fun to interact with. I learned a lot but I didn't know. The simulations were a lot of fun and almost everyone could participate young and old. The videos were fun to watch. The gift shop was amazing and you could get so many different things there. We also were able to get a group photo. I highly recommend this museum
Penni K — Google review
It's interesting and neat to see the cars. But for 34 dollars and 12 dollars for parking. Unless your a really big fan of racing save yourself some money and skip this. There's a 12 minute movie that was interesting. But the best thing that is offered is the simulation it will have a long wait unless your going to stay all day plan on going on it once. Nascar is a billion dollar sport and this was the best they could do for its hall of fame, sorry but it's a big disappointment.
Jason B — Google review
We had an absolutely amazing time here. About $ 80+ for 3 people with 2 of our tickets being discounted military. There are packages you can purchase to include a simulator ride. Very interactive. You get a card to scan at the stations for more information or to activate the kiosks. You can take a picture and get your face and name on the large jumbo screen with your favorite drivers you select underneath your picture welcoming you. There was a simulator qualifier, the real thing and a timed pit crew simulator. Super cool museum to view the history of NASCAR, owner and driver history. Amazing time for all.
Tonya J — Google review
Clean facilities, everything was easy to read and adequate labelling of where to go. Good explanation of interactive activities or what was displayed. Best part was the staff, they were all very happy to help, explain and keep you engaged. Definitely recommend the simulator combo. Didn't eat there but food smelled and looked delicious.
Sam P — Google review
We got to go after hours with our convention, so it was pretty packed, and im not sure how that compares to a normal experience. If you're interested in Nascar, you'll love this place! There is lots of information for the history buffs, and lots to see! There was even interactive displays and "games."
Melissa C — Google review
Pretty cool for a half day activity and have fun games and activities for the kids. Wish there was more representation of diversity and some bumper cart action to tie it all together. A bit underwhelming for how big the building is.
Ilma V — Google review
Great for kids, honestly it was much more interactive than I thought it would be. They have an individual card for you to use and scan throughout the tour to customize your experience, lots of models of the engineering and building of the cars too. They went all out on decoration and props, the place is extremely clean and well kept. 4 stories, but with elevators and ramps leading all the way up it's not a difficult jot though they said it takes about 3 hours to complete we were done in about 2. If you pay the extra for the driving simulator, there will be a bit of a wait and we didn't have that kind of time. All in all, great value and a good memory
Spencer T — Google review
I’m not a NASCAR fan but the hall of fame is definitely worth visiting if you are in town and have time. We visited on a Monday right when it opened and it was empty. We did the racing simulator multiple times as well as the pit crew station; both were fun. There are a lot of exhibits for those that are fans. The staff were very friendly and knowledgeable and clearly loved working there.
Travelbuff — Google review
I like old cars, so it was cool to see vintage cars from when NASCAR first started out. They have a movie room on the first floor, where you can learn about the origins of NASCAR racing. There are several more floors with interactive games/videos. It’s not just for kids or die hard fans. As a history buff/movie fan, it was cool to see and learn. Bought a hat at the gift shop when I was done, for my friend back home.
Chakra G — Google review
It's a great experience and has some things to have fun with. The racing sim is very hard but fun. Also the station to change the tire and put gas, I couldn't believe that my wife was actually enjoying doing that. We did it 3 times . Over all very fun experience
Felix C — Google review
What a fantastic experience. One of the friendliest environments I have ever been in. From the front desk to the workers on the floor it’s like they were all trained at Chick fil a. Super high level of customer service at the hall of fame. The exhibits were beautiful and the car simulators were awesome. But the most fun had to be the pit lane simulator where you physically have to do a pit stop on a car. Such a great place to visit I highly recommend it to anyone and everyone
Jonathan B — Google review
We visited early afternoon on a weekday, no waiting to get in and I recommend you pick a ticket package that best suit your needs. You may not want to take part in all the Halls attractions. We did the simulator and photo with lunch credit package. You also get a $10 speed (gift) shop voucher included. The displaces are beautifully displaced with detailed narration. We enjoyed ourselves.
Todd M — Google review
I am not a Nascar fan, but I did enjoy the museum. The interactive race simulator was so much fun! Very clean, with fun exhibits. My husband thoroughly enjoyed!
Amy M — Google review
Looking back at old pictures then realized I need to tell you to go! I went August 2022. I did not know exactly what to expect, but it exceeded any expectations. It was large, clean, informative, interactive and interesting. Its very well made. A must see in Charlotte.
Michele K — Google review
I'll admit, I'm not a die-hard NASCAR fan, but my visit to the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte was surprisingly enjoyable! From the moment I walked in, I could appreciate the rich history and the excitement that surrounds NASCAR.The exhibits were thoughtfully put together with interactive displays and engaging videos, making it easy for someone like me to learn and get into it. I was especially impressed by the Hall of Honor, which introduced me to the legends of the sport and their incredible stories.Even though I'm not a racing enthusiast, I had a blast with the simulator experiences. It was a unique chance to feel what it's like to be on a NASCAR track, and I found it really fun.The staff members were friendly and happy to share their knowledge, which helped me understand more about the sport. And the gift shop had some cool NASCAR merchandise that even a casual fan like me couldn't resist.So, even if you're not a NASCAR fanatic, the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte can still be a fun and educational experience. It certainly was for me!
Jacob E — Google review
I had a great time exploring the history and memorabilia of the Nascar Hall of Fame. Seeing the cars up close and on the banked track of the rotunda, you really get a feel for what it's like being a driver. Upon entry, every ticket holder receives a plastic, credit card sized card that helps you interact with the displays and make it a more personal experience. With the race simulator (for an additional charge) and the pit crew challenge (included in general admission), you get to experience what it's like to sit in the driver seat and be a pit crew member.There are also tons of artifacts on display with a brief story behind the person that wore, drove, owned, or turned a wrench on. With so much to see and learn about, you really need multiple days to explore, but it's also makes a good day trip. Whether you are a Nascar fan or not, it's worth seeing at least once.
Erik R — Google review
We were in town for a conference and I decided to take my little one to check out the cool cars! Let me just say he loved it! He is a big fan of lightning McQueen, so that was a lovely surprise for him!I purchased the number three combo pack and it was definitely worth it! The barbeque beef sandwich was great! You also get a $10 credit for the gift shop which is pretty cool and a free photo! There is the option to buy a second photo for $15.The employees were friendly and it was fun exploring the museum!
Tamra R — Google review
I don’t know what kid or adult wouldn’t like this place!! Definitely going back! Well worth the money. I bought tickets online, but there still would have been no wait! Very organized and structured. Bought a package that comes with the simulator, lunch, a certificate to the gift shop and other goodies! Very interactive and educational museum! There’s like 3 or 4 levels to the museum so wear your walking shoes. A theater with a 20 minute show is included you can watch at your leisure.
Shynekia R — Google review
What a walk through history! The interactive displays, hands on experience and just all different things to do make this place very intriguing and fun! Melha in the store was a joy to work with and very helpful with knowing more of Charlotte! Keep her!!
Amanda S — Google review
A truly amazing experience. The architecture of the venue alone is a marvel. The cars, suits, helmets, trophies and other exhibits are wonderfully arranged. Do not miss trying the race simulation in a model car and the pit stop challenge. Something not to miss by any means when in Charlotte
Miloš M — Google review
The museum is well done and conveniently located downtown. Many of the exhibits are interactive and provide a look into the history of the sport. Seeing the old trophies, fire suits, and cars is a must do activity for any NASCAR fan.There’s a gift shop and cafe and it’s attached to a Buffalo Wild Wings.
Rusty R — Google review
Really cool place if you're either already an avid NASCAR fan or if you have any interest in learning more about the sport and the history of stock car racing in general.There are some amazing cars and relics in here. There was the actual "Hall of Fame" exhibit which will change from year-to-year based on the inductees, but it seems like they also have a different exhibit each year out on the main floor that sits below the "Glory Road" exhibit.Being a Hendrick Motorsports superfan who grew up cheering for Jeff Gordon, the HMS 40th anniversary exhibit was absolutely amazing to see. I spent my first hour or more inside just looking at that. I couldn't have picked a better year to go. It definitely makes you want to keep up with the Hall of Fame and see what new exhibits they have from year-to-year.
Brady B — Google review
Huge place. So much to see and do. So reasonably priced for all you get. Simulators, pit stop challenge and so many more interactive exhibits. We stayed 3 hours but, could have stayed 5. We loved it.
Ladonna W — Google review
This was a fun little way to spend the afternoon. The museum was not too busy. The simulator was so much fun and worth the extra money for the ticket. Parking was easy. I would go back. Great for all ages.
Lisa C — Google review
We bought a combination package. We enjoyed the exhibits. The museum is clean and well organized. The employees are informative and helpful. We enjoyed the simulator. The food in the cafe was really good. Great experience.
Judy S — Google review
I am not a huge NASCAR fan but family is. I went to get some photos and videos to send back home. I left very impressed. I would absolutely go back and experience everything they have again even as a non-fan. Glory Road is very awesome inspiring and the actually Hall is breathtaking. The video they show in the theater tells you everything you need to know on the sport. Definitely worth a visit!
Andrew C — Google review
This place is fun for all! Knowledgeable about the sport and even had live simulators to enjoy from racing to pit stop challenges. Recommend getting the package to eat and enjoy free memorabilia and photos with crew or family
Dr. G — Google review
The Nascar Hall of Fame is a must-see for any fan. There are so many things to look at, you could easily spend a whole day here. As a Harvick fan, I was super excited to see the 4EVER exhibit they have right now. Admission isn't too expensive and is worth the price. There are several pay to park lots within walking distance. The surrounding area is nice and very clean.
Casandra E — Google review
You don't have to get tickets online before you go. The place is very good for the family outing. Give yourself 2-3 hours time frame to stay there, they also have free iRacing there, so as driving simulation inside NASCAR cars. The entire place about 4 levels, you start from the top and walk down. Their gift shop is very good, but it doesn't have various selections of NASCAR drivers' items. They mostly have souvenirs that belong to the place, not drivers. Definitely, I recommend this for myself to visit again and others
Ibrahim — Google review
Great to visit love the history. The simulator experience is fun too only way it could be better is if kids had their own Sim. And adults had their own so you could get a more realistic experience.
Joel T — Google review
Pretty cool experience. I was able to go through a company party so everything was available for use. The driving simulation was really cool. You first qualify on a machine with a steering wheel and then you get in an actual life size Nascar and race with a screen in front of you. 16 people were able to race each other at once. They also had a tire changing challenge. The whole walkway up goes through all the degrees of the tracks. It was pretty cool. It also had a ton of memorabilia for Nascar fans.
Bryan D — Google review
Definitely a bucket list place for any NASCAR fan. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit there. I arrived a little later on a Saturday (after lunch) and it wasn't crowded at all. Lots of history and memorabilia there, stuff going way back.
Gary — Google review
Even though I'm only a moderate NASCAR fan, and my wife has no love for any motor sport this place is an absolute must visit. The exhibitions are fun and brilliantly done. It's reasonably priced to get in with lots of combinations to make it cheaper.
Phillip W — Google review
The right place for people interested in motor sports. Great furnishings and lots of exhibits. The racing simulator is not easy and requires training. Price performance for admission is good.
Reini — Google review
Best place for inspiration and race car fans. Their display was beautifully done and they speak for the self. I would recommend go spend atleast few mins to read story around it. Overall was very inspiring and motivational visit
Jagadeesh R — Google review
Fantastic museum completely different than I was expecting.The cars are very well arranged, clean, all details and information about them with pictures and displays.Information about the roads where they race, angle of the road in all angles. Their car simulator is a must to do for if you want to have the feeling of drive those cars at high speed.They have a theater room to show movies of cars competition.Better yet, they have discounts for seniors.I recommend this place to all ages and gender.
Nivaldo ( — Google review
Beautiful facility with kind and welcoming staff. The facility is setup so nicely! You will see and learn all aspects of NASCAR including detailed history. Don't skip the simulator and pit crew challenge. Well worth the price of admission. There is limited street parking but there is an attached parking garage. We went on a weekday (Thursday) and it wasn't busy.
Darrell K — Google review
Great place to visit if you're a Nascar fan of any kind that said, overall great place to visit. Even if you are just a car fan, it's well laid out and very interesting.Extremely clean, if you care to eat there the cafeteria is not overpriced and is much faster than trying to eat in Buffalo wild wings which is attached. You can wait there till you're gray-haired and probably never get a table.Parking is just around the corner from the front door and easily accessible to the Hall of Fame
Bob R — Google review
If you're a die hard NASCAR fan who appreciates the history, you'll likely really enjoy a visit to the hall of fame. For me as a casual fan at best, I had a very underwhelming experience. Also, I wouldn't bring kids here, they'll be very bored. The best thing was that all of the workers I encountered were nice and helpful. Everything else I found to be very boring and quite overpriced. The driving simulation was kind of cool, but was quite far from a realistic experience overall.If the cost of admission was half of what they charge, I'd feel a bit more like I got my money's worth. Otherwise, it's just boring and overpriced. Plus you have to pay for parking too.
Kaleb C — Google review
Was very impressed by the RFID personalization experience with the museum - when you scan your tickets, you are provided a small card with an RFID chip, which when registered allows you to interact with exhibits and even save items from exhibits for a “personalized scrapbook” you can have emailed to you!The museum itself featured exhibits on well known racers and their cars, as well as a neat exhibit on the top floor showing safety advancements over the years. The museum also had lots of interactive experiences, like simulators, and a pit crew challenge!
William E — Google review
4.7
(6669)
•
4.5
(2498)
400 E M.L.K. Jr Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA
(704) 654-4400
23
Billy Graham Library
Mentioned on
+44 other lists
Museum
Book store
The Billy Graham Library is a museum and research facility that celebrates the life and legacy of Billy Graham, one of the most influential Christian evangelists in history. The museum has galleries featuring presentations, artifacts, pictures, voices, and more from Graham's lifetime as well as recreations of crucial moments from his life. The library is always free to visit.
Absolutely beautiful. The tour was amazing, inspiring and touched my heart. As a history lover, I enjoyed seeing all the paraphernalia on display. One of my favourites was the suit he wore to see the Queen. The gardens are a lovely addition, and the house is a must see. It's maintained so well. Staff are kind, friendly, and accommodating. Didn't get to spend a lot of time at the library because we came late but it had a good selection of books and we bought some. My husband and I stopped to just watch Billy Graham's recorded sermons and he is charismatic and the sermons were very relevant to today. So grateful to visit and would highly recommend a visit here! 😁
Ranita I — Google review
I visited Billy Graham Library this past week. It was such an amazing experience. The volunteers were friendly and welcoming. There was plenty of parking and no waiting in line although there were plenty of people around visiting.As I approached the house where the Grahams once lived, I could hear worship music emanating from the garden and throughout the grounds...such a serene atmosphere. There was a prayer bench/garden that I sat at and prayed (see photo).I was told that the house is 60% of the original house construction the Grahams lived in when he was a young boy from 7-17 years old. Every brick, according to the tour guide, was disassembled, numbered one by one, moved from one location of NC and reassembled/built to sit on this property at the Billy Graham Library. Amazing…The barn with the cross is the actual Library and where the cafe is located. Again, everyone was welcoming and inviting. The food at the cafe is good and reasonably priced. .
Leslie M — Google review
I loved the history here! From his childhood home to all the amazing accomplishments from his life. One of my all time favorite museums. Everyone here was so friendly and inviting. The gift shop was really nice. Enjoyed every moment here! Can wait to go back soon.
Brent T — Google review
Our first visit to this holy place was truly a blessing. The staff were kind, gracious, and welcoming, embodying the love of Christ in their actions. It was an inspiration to learn about the life and work of Billy Graham, and how he devoted himself to spreading the word of God. His unwavering faith and commitment to serving the Lord is a shining example for us all. We left feeling uplifted and renewed in our own faith. Praise be to God for this wonderful experience.
E Z — Google review
My husband and I were in the Charlotte area, and I had seen this come up on the map. I didn’t know what to expect, because I didn’t get a chance to look into it before we headed there. What a surprise!First off, the doorway is a huge cross when you walk in. Absolutely beautiful and what a beautiful reminder of Jesus’ sacrifice. As you walk in, there’s a welcome desk. Everyone was so wonderful! There is a free tour that takes about an hour and a half. We thought we might just see a building, but it was so much more than that!We did as much of the tour as we could, but when we made plans to go there we didn’t anticipate a tour or staying long. There is a cafe for some food and drinks, and there is also a gift shop with all kinds of things and lots of books whether they are bibles in many different translations, study bibles, books on spiritual warfare, devotional, etc. My husband ended up getting a Billy Graham study Bible, and he loves it. Around the path outside, are the graves of Billy and his wife.We had a lovely visit here. Anyone who knows the Graham family, has been to one of his events, is a Christian, or loves a truly inspirational story, would enjoy this. We plan to bring my in laws when they visit. Billy was a strong man of faith and lived for Jesus making it his mission to bring as many to Christ across the world as possible.When you walk out of the building back through the cross, if you look up, you will see written “I am coming quickly.” A reminder for us all to be ready.
S L — Google review
This is a wonderful place to visit! I was pleasantly surprised at the level of technology used to make this a very interesting stop. The focus of the library is not on the person of Billy Graham, but on how God used him. His evangelical efforts continue in this museum. It was amazing to see the people and places that Billy and Ruth Graham impacted for Christ. Truly an amazing life and a great memorial to his dedication to Jesus Christ!
Lynn M — Google review
The Billy Graham Library and Journey of Faith is a must see. We thoroughly enjoyed it! Since we came on November 30, we were also able to view the live nativity which was very nice.
Nancy B — Google review
What a cool experience! The production quality of the “journey of faith” was top notch. Felt like something out of Disney World. Very encouraging experience and fun for the family. The little restaurant is great too. Don’t sleep on the coffee, it was better than Starbucks.
Michael W — Google review
The Billy Graham Library is a beautiful, peaceful place to be able to hear the gospel preached. The staff here is very caring and give such a warm welcome to everyone. My family was asked by several staff members if there was anything they could pray over for us. Love coming here and do so about every year.
Tabitha L — Google review
This was such a great place to visit in Charlotte. It's so peaceful and beautiful. The staff was really kind and very knowledgeable, willing to explain everything in detail.The exhibit is well organized and even their store is nice.I particularly loved the gallery of photos and the display about the life of Billy Graham.This could be such a great venue for a wedding.I loved that there was no entry fee too.Definitely worth a visit.
Adriana P — Google review
I brought my kids to the Billy Graham Library this past Saturday. We read and studied about Mr. Billy Graham before we went so we would have a good background. My children just turned 13 and they loved it! We toured, shopped at Ruth’s Attic and at the Dairy Bar. Everything was excellent. Thank you for continuing the legacy, and thanks to everyone at the Library for being so hospitable. We are looking forward to going back for Christmas.
Brian W — Google review
A very pleasant surprise stop on our trip. The staff is really friendly and eager to connect and help. The whole exhibition on Billy Graham's life is really well done and worth every second! Would definitely recommend. Not only is informational and entertaining, but it also really straightens one's faith.
Josh B — Google review
Very moving. It's amazing to see what he did in his lifetime. It inspired me to do better, be better. The cafe is reasonable with great food. Allow time to enjoy each and every part of the experience.
May B — Google review
First time to this museum — it is a very well curated museum. It specializes in detailing the life and ministry of evangelist Billy Graham. The presentation and flow of the museum was very well done. Lots of information, lots of artifacts. If one is a fan of Graham or just curious as to who he was, it should be satisfying. Admission was free though they will accept donations. The museum part takes about 1.5 hours to do. Went on a Monday, it was not busy.
Christopher W — Google review
Beautiful experience with the family. Inspired to live my life more fulfilling and following the Lord’s will! My kids also enjoyed it and my eldest cried. The snippets of Billy Graham’s sermons were so powerful and moving. We highly recommend going out of your way to visit this anointed place!!
Miriam M — Google review
What a wonderful experience! I cried almost the whole way through, partly because it told the beautiful life work and story of Billy and Ruth, but also because my dad used to work for him, so it had personal meaning. Such a beautiful property, wonderful exhibits, and they have kept Billy's legacy alive by keeping Jesus at the forefront, and even giving an opportunity to accept Jesus at the end of the tour! What a wonderful experience! Thank you!
Heather E — Google review
Had the opportunity to visit Billy graham’s library few weeks back. It was a great experience. The staff was knowledgeable about his life and the work he did. The library was interactive. They made sure every age had a good time. Saw few of his things he used. The house he grew up in and the tombstone.Definitely worth visiting if you’re in the area.
Tinz — Google review
The Billy Graham Library is a deeply inspiring place. The exhibits are beautifully designed, providing a touching look at Billy Graham’s life and ministry. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, enhancing the experience. The peaceful prayer garden and charming cafe add to the serene atmosphere. A must-visit for anyone interested in Graham’s impactful legacy. Highly recommended!
Kim P — Google review
May 29/24 My friend and I spent an entire day at the Billy Graham Library on our road trip back to Canada from Orlando WE found it so interesting, thoughtful , and inspirational.We entered the family home then moved to the huge complex where we were welcomed by Bessy the cow.We were guided through the different rooms by lovely volunteers There were many displays and videos sharing the many aspects of Billy Graham's life and ministry.He was a family man, evangelist and a deeply spiritual man of God, a herald. Everything was laid out so thoughtfully and the wooden structure itself was so beautiful .We had a delicious lunch at the cafeteria and then walked the grounds It was so peaceful and simple. We definitely were given time to reflect in this wooded quiet space on the grounds. As we were leaving I saw a deer on the grounds!!I highly recommend this amazing library.
Donna A — Google review
Entry is free and they even give you a gift bag for filling out a survey because they truly want to make the museum a blessing to people. There is a tour that takes you through the life of Billy Graham and family. The first half or so is guided with the last half being self directed. There's a bathroom at the entry and half way through the museum. You learn so much about him the impact he made. In the same building is an adorable gift shop and cafe.You'll also find a prayer garden where Billy and Ruth are buried along with his childhood home that was disassembled and rebuilt there. You can tour both at a self directed pace.Most of the workers are volunteers and know a ton about the Graham family and are even ready to pray with you.What an amazing way for Billy and Ruth Graham to reach people after their earthly life! A must go when in Charlotte.
Crystal C — Google review
Hands down one of the highlights of my North Carolina trip!! And I happen to stumble upon it with my wife. I have heard of Billy Graham, but was not aware of the impact he had on this corporeal world. We left having been prayed for, and feeling lucky to have learned what he did for the world. God bless you Billy Graham and thank you North Carolina for the great trip.
Ron G — Google review
Great place to spend an afternoon or an entire day. The campus is immaculate and very interesting to walk around. I have yet to do the hour and half guided tour, but I plan on it sometime in the near future. They have a handful of attractions you can checkout on your own (unguided).It was nice to browse the curated bookstore, I picked up two different text I normally would have not bought/read. The prices were pretty fair, I checked the prices on Amazon and the bookstore was roughly on par with what you would expect to find online. Upon my arrival I was given a 10% off coupon to the bookstore, which definitely enticed me to pull the trigger on my purchases.Lots of cool antiques from Billy's life. The dairy/snack bar looked really good too, I do not drink dairy and there were no dairy alternatives (unfortunately), but they had other food too.The entire staff was super welcoming and not pushy at all, they really give you space and time to soak it all in, which I appreciate it.I definitely will be back in the near future!***NOTE TO STAFF: You should look into offering non-dairy drinks at the dairy bar, maybe something coconut based? Nothing too crazy just 2-3 items that are non-dairy for folks like myself, I think it would be well received by your guest.
Wyatt C — Google review
One of the most beautiful and serene experiences I've had. It is a beautiful library/museum, that offers free admission, a bookstore, cafe, and history about Billy Graham and his ministry. And wonderful staff and volunteers who will even pray with you at the end. I'm grateful to have been able to visit the Library, which it's main goal is to magnify and glorify Jesus Christ.
Ben — Google review
What an amazing experience it was to visit this place. An honorable man of God who has left such an everlasting impact for God’s kingdom and a legacy for generations to come. Clean, hospitable, inviting, educational and enlightening. Kudos for the amazing staff and their sensitivity to the Holy Spirit to drop anything they’re doing to pray with and for someone
Bonnie C — Google review
Beautiful grounds, exceptional tours that explain the life Rev Billy Graham and his Passion to share Jesus with the world! This is a Must Visit when you are in Charlotte NC!! Also, we visited on a Monday it was less busy! Free Admission, donations accepted!
TRACY G — Google review
Beautiful and serene. We enjoyed our tour and learning more about Billy Graham's ministry. All of the volunteers were super nice and helpful!! A neat place to visit and it's Free!
Teena C — Google review
The Holy Spirit of Truth was felt the moment my wife and I stepped out of the vehicle. It has such a peaceful atmosphere. Great intimate details and displays of his life, family and team through his Evangelical journey. Set aside about 3 hours and become immersed in his history and more important God's word.It will be on our visit list every time we come to Charlotte North Carolina. Peace and blessings!
Richard R — Google review
The Billy Graham Library is peaceful, full of history and Christian heritage. The Journey of Faith is so enlightening and Billy and Ruth Graham are examples of humility, love and serving others. I spent a lot of time in the gift shop. The Dairy Barn has the best scones! Each volunteer is friendly and gracious.
Sheila D — Google review
Offers a self tour of the home of Billy Graham. The home and library have plenty of memorabilia from Mr & Mrs Graham’s life and ministry. Plenty of friendly staff throughout to help and answer any questions. Large bookstore and a place to eat inside. Walking trails with benches and the final resting place of the Grahams on site. Very nice place to visit.
RWS — Google review
We toured the museum & library on March 14, 2024. Absolutely amazing !!!Very moving and heart warming. he was such a wonderful evangelist. Unfortunately, I never appreciated him growing up as I did when I got older. I had tears when I walked through the exhibits. You can visit his boyhood home which has been moved to that site. He and his wifeare buried next to the museum. It is truly a fantastic place to visit. Absolutely a must. Staffed by volunteers The restaurant served delicious food very reasonably priced.
Phyllis — Google review
Although it is called a “library,” this place is also a wonderful museum of the life and ministry of Billy Graham and the people he worked with. With free admission, free parking, and super nice employees, the buildings are definitely worth a visit! The main barn-shaped building contains the “Journey of Faith,” a tour of several rooms with state-of-the-art large screen videos and high-quality displays with photos and information of his many accomplishments. The reconstructed home from his childhood years in Charlotte is decorated realistically, with many of the original building materials, furnishings, and memorabilia. Ruth’s Attic bookstore contains unique gifts and books that provide evidence of his wife’s priority of great literature. High on the walls are built-in bookshelves containing books from Billy Graham’s own personal library. Other nice features of this place are the dairy bar which also has delicious lunch items, and the nearby (down a street) Billy Graham Archive & Research Center with sermons, videos, historical records, and other ministry materials, some of which are also available to view online. Very inspiring place!
J Z — Google review
This place is so special! You really feel God’s heart through everything here. We love the tour and enjoy sharing with our friends and loved ones. Have been many times. The Library also hosts events like the women’s tea which is lovely! The Christmas event at the Library is one you don’t want to miss! The food is good! The gift shop is great!
Courtney D — Google review
Weeknight visit in Dec. Had prebooked tickets (general admission/parking free).Beautiful place that is well-maintained and well-staffed with volunteers and paid help. Shuttles came quickly as it was not busy. Live nativity with bonus kangaroo. Waking paths were well-lit. Workers said there were carolers on-site for 30 minutes but we never saw them or heard ANY music on the grounds throughout our trip (outside of the Journey of Faith tour which showcased Billy Graham's life of evangelism). This tour was free and lasted about 90 min. They have kids' activity sheets to keep them engaged in the tour (two versions: younger and older). 8 year old did the pictire-based scavenger-hunt one and 12 year old did the older version which held their attention and resulted in a small gift for each of them in the gift shop.Carriage rides were additional, $12 adult/$6 child. We didn't participate in the sit-down dinner as it was sold out when I booked tickets at Thanksgiving time. (If you're on the mailing list list, they send an email when the dinner bookings start in early Nov.)
Cheryl F — Google review
First time visiting. Found the experience to be very enriching.Hearing the journey of faith 🙏 beginning was amazing.Visited Ruth attic which had many gift ideas.the original home that Billy grew up in.Grave sites for Billy and his wife.Great experience! Highly recommend when in Charlotte.Also the concession stand that offered good food choices.
Raquel M — Google review
God bless you when you go to this blessing site.There are two structures of this site. One is library itself, alone with a bookstore and a shop. They have some decent souvenirs.The other one is the Graham family homeplace. There are volunteers as tour guides that tell you the family history and the building history.I especially paid a visit to the cemetery. That's the main reason I came to this site.I bumped into one volunteer. After he heard my road trip story, he put hand on my head and he prayed for me.It really touched my heart. 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏❣️❣️❣️❣️
Project E — Google review
I grew up close to here and still try to come up and see family. My aunts and uncles are in their 90s and eldest is almost (Nov) 102! And I must admit I always carry a small cooler with me to bring home a Piedmont treat - Livermush. All my kids and grandkids love it so the 13 pounds I can pack is shared. But we have never visited the Billy Graham Library. I can’t understand why. So this trip we set aside time to see it all.It is an amazing place dedicated to an amazing but humble man that introduced hundreds of thousands of people to Jesus Christ. We were fortunate to have been ushers and helpers in a Crusade held in Tampa. And we support through our church Franklin Graham’s ministries, especially Operation Christmas Child that takes shoeboxes (now mostly plastic boxes) to bring toys, shoes, books, sports equipment, fishing lines & hooks and more to children that otherwise would have nothing.The tour is divided into a number of displays, audio visuals and films telling the story of Billy’s life journey from country preacher to evangelist to multiple presidents, heads of state, even communist countries. It’s a marvelous and inspiring story that will give you a fresh inspiration to also declare God’s Good News to the world.
L S — Google review
4.8
(1664)
•
5.0
(2504)
4330 Westmont Dr, Charlotte, NC 28217, USA
(704) 401-3200
24
Carowinds
Mentioned on
+59 other lists
Amusement park
Water & Amusement Parks
Carowinds is a seasonal, family-friendly amusement park that offers a variety of thrilling rides and attractions. It is known as the Thrill Capital of the Southeast and boasts 13 world-class roller coasters, including Peanuts-themed rides in Planet Snoopy. In addition to these adrenaline-pumping options, there are plenty of other family rides like Boo Blasters on Boo Hill, Skytower, Rip Roarin Rapids, and Dinosaurs Alive featuring lifelike animatronic creatures.
Went with my family during Winter Fest. We had so much fun and all the lights and Christmas trees were beautiful. So much to do and look at and all the hot chocolate you can drink. After the initial purchase all refills are free. Huge plus that the smaller coasters were operational. I love all coasters it was just a little chilly for me but plenty of people were riding so it's nice to have that option
Jacob G — Google review
I purchased a seasonal pass & food pass which I highly recommend. A meal can cost around $18 and that's without a drink. I've been going here for years and my daughters really enjoys it. They have a new section Aeronautica which has some cool rides.
Deanna T — Google review
Went with my bestie, it was fun, we walked around and rode the Viper, completely shook us!🤣 not much good food choices, panda express is there but seems to be lacking. It was a good walking park though, and there was also a parade which the kids enjoyed. Not that busy when we went there which was a Sunday.
ANNE — Google review
Family reunion time! We drove in from AK, TN, TX, and NC. The parking was easy and the entry in to the park was simple. Make sure you purchase tickets on line it will save you money and time. There were six of us and we had all different likes and excitement levels. Ages ranged from kid, adulting-teen, adult-with motion sickness issues, and mid-life crazy. 😄 the area was very clean and maintained. I rode nine roller coasters and by far my favorite was the Fury. We also visited the water park and found it equally fun and refreshing. The food was typical fair but it was good. Don’t bring cash, card is the preferred method. However if you do bring cash there are ATM-type machines that will convert you dollars to a card. I found the employees were generally pleasant and some were funny. The overall experience was memorable! I’ll be back if ever in the area again.
Dina K — Google review
We have been to a lot of amusement parks and this one was setup correctly. My kids loved the snoopy land! The staff is amazing to work with and the whole process was simple from start to finish!
Matt W — Google review
Cedar Fair parks are fun, but to bad Fury 325 is down because of cracked support.I'm glad, After Burner still has airplane there. Hint when finished with it can I have it 😉Park needs a Chicken Shack like Kings Island has.I have VIP pass but want a waste of money. Bait and switch when they said soda and snacks. I only saw a water pitcher there. I will never get VIP on my pass next year.Missed Parade that was at 5pm when thinking it was 8pm. Couldn't get info on it inside the park..All in all, I had a great time. See ya in 2024...
Chuck A — Google review
A little on the pricey side but if you want to try to save money you can always go to the website and pay for day tickets a day in advance (for the cheaper tickets in the evening.. It looked like if you paid for tickets for 4pm and after a day in advance, you could get tickets for $37.99). We paid about $43.00 (because we purchased tickets for the same day for 4pm and after) per person but it was better than $75.00 or $80.00 per person that they charge if you try go earlier (for us anyways, to each their own). I definitely recommend buying tickets online, especially if you plan to go at 4 or after, I didn't see any ticket booth open to buy tickets). When I called the number, it straight up told me we had to purchase tickets online. Also, be prepared to go through a metal detector if you have anything metallic on you. I highly recommend checking your pockets and purse and leaving anything unnecessary in the car before walking into the park. They will go through everything you have (and dump it all out on the table in front of everyone) to find out what is causing the metal detector to go off. We had fun though. The kids had fun. That's what it's about anyways. We got to enjoy the park and all of its rides and it was open until 9 that evening (well, it was supposed to be but that's another story for another day). Just so you know, parking has to be paid separately as well and it was $30.00. This was on a Thursday (Just mentioning that because I kept seeing people online saying it was $25.00). That's not the price we paid. Just want you all to be able to make an informed decision and still be able to have fun at a price that works for you. Be safe!
Amanda R — Google review
My family and I love coming here. We get Gold passes every year so we can go to Scarowinds and WinterFest. It is crowded so I suggest taking a picture of your child with what they are wearing that day incase you might get separated, especially if you have a runner, and I always put my phone number in my kids bag just to make sure.
Brianna H — Google review
Fantastic Park. Very clean, and super clean restrooms (which is an oddity). I will note that the food is good all around. They have a lot of GREAT roller coasters. The Fury is wild!We have been here 2 times and have had a blast. We had a minor issue with our Fast Pass but Shane in Guest Services was awesome and took care of us.We will be back soon!
Mark H — Google review
Went for Winter Fest to celebrate New Year's Eve with family. Enjoyed the festive mood, decorations, hot cocoa, and variety of warm beverages. Riding the attractions that were open was fun!
Cel S — Google review
It's a good visit for families with kids and tons of fun!! Recommendation is to use a locker close to the water park, if you plan to go there since you can reuse it after you change.Get the kids measured for easy up the process of getting onto the rides.Check their website about how many tickets are sold and how crowded it might be. 40% is most likely no waiting time at all at most of the rides.
Magnus M — Google review
Came here for the first time for Winter fest. Lights were really done well. Copperhead was the best ride they had operating, very fun. Only complaints were that there was no directory of what rides are operational, causing a lot of wandering around. Food was limited as well.
Mucko L — Google review
We visited here in the evening. So the entrance admission fee was less than regular. It's the holiday season and pretty chilled at night. Part of the exciting rides were closed, but those roller coaster rides were open. Your teens still can have great exciting fun. For those young children, Snoopy Camp is a good area to impress them. There were also a lot singing/dancing shows to watch. Finally, there was a parade like Disney which brought a perfect end of night. Holiday lighting decorations here is one of the attractions for all visitors.... Merry Christmas and Happy holidays!!
Peng H — Google review
A fun time for all ages, friends, family, & co-workers. Tons to do for all from thrill-seekers to the more calmer individuals. Definitely worth the trip, but be sure to get the season pass and meal plan if you plan on going more than one day, as this will definitely pay for itself.
Bobby G — Google review
We had a great time, we arrived early to make sure we avoid the crowd. We got into several lines and by noon the wait time was about an hour. Still we had fun. The park is very nice, clean, the staff is nice, mostly tan by young adults. When we got hungry we ate at the big food court and the food was decent, we got chicken strips and fries. We are definitely coming back
Carla R — Google review
Great place, but they're getting greedy. $30 for parking is ridiculous! Buy tickets online prior to visiting because it's much cheaper.
Dameka W — Google review
This visit was for winter fest. Do not go expecting rides very few are running but the lights and magic feeling of Christmas is great try being the kid you know you want to be.we had a blast worth the trip as long as you know what to expect. Also find scrooge and tell him I sent you bet dressed group there and keep a eye out for deer they got loose when we were there
John B — Google review
We went for Winter Fest. The park was decorated nicely and I absolutely loved the parade. There were people walking around in costumes of Christmas old. There were performances throughout the park and the times and locations were posted in several locations. We didn't ride while we were there...we just enjoyed the festivities.
Trena — Google review
Amazing amusement park! Very clean and well kept, staff that we interacted with were all very friendly and helpful. Beautiful decorations for their winter festivities and so many fun things for kids and kids at heart! Everything was easily found and we found the app to be helpful finding locations around the park. Handicap accessible areas and restrooms available.
-Artsy L — Google review
Haven't been to the park since I was 25..Many years ago!!! It's very well kept,lots of attendants to help find your way around!! The food is very expensive so it's worth getting the meal ticket if your gonna be there all day!!! The rides were just as I remembered!!! Fun and full of excitement!!!!
Robin B — Google review
The best park I have ever been to really nice I enjoyed my time me and my friends my brothers and my family. It’s really good. I would rather buy the tickets online. It’s cheaper as the only thing I would do advance it’s really really nice.
Abbas M — Google review
Excellent theme park. Great roller coasters and very good water park. Expensive but there are deals to be had for food and drinks if you buy in advance.
Kalle R — Google review
It was excellent! They had plenty of help, security had a presence. Everyone had a great time. The food was outstanding too! I love to eat, so I thought there was plenty of food portioned out. Get the dining package. If you eat twice, you've got your money's worth.
Jay S — Google review
Fun place to be, good for the family, and caters to all ages. We went after 3pm on a Friday, no wait time to enter, and there were short queues for rides. There are lots of food options, too. Only con for me closing early on a Friday 8pm.
Vim T — Google review
Great place for families to visit. They have a large amount of rides for all ages and thrill levels. The water park is awesome and has the latest slides. The wave pool was huge and offered lots of shaded seating. They have plenty of dining options and refreshment stations. I highly recommend the souvenir bottle option for free refills all day. Not to mention Carowinds has some of the top roller coasters in the country.
Chelsey S — Google review
Terrible experience. Paid a lot of money for myself and 2 grandchildren to get in. Most rides were down and only running intermittently. Not a weather problem. Someone said they were having electrical problems??? Then close down and refund money. See all of the down ride pictures in my view!
Terri J — Google review
Lots of fun for all ages. We purchased tickets online and added the meal and drinks for the entire day. Be careful with the food if you are planning to dine later, while it states that food is available up to the time the park closes, we found that most of the "restaurants" were closed an hour earlier.
Melissa A — Google review
Carowinds is a great place to have fun on roller coasters, swing rides, and water slides you're in for a good time. My experience was somewhat hampered because the Fury was down for the whole day. I also recommend getting a season pass as well as a all season drink pass.
Kaedon L — Google review
I absolutely love this park! The park is beautiful with a huge variety of rides. The majority of the coasters were great. My favorite coaster was Fury 325! We ate at several restaurants and the food was good. I can't wait to come back!
Will G — Google review
We enjoyed almost all the rides and they were tons of fun! A couple things the park can do to make this trip more enjoyable is to add more shaded areas in lines, as well as fans that blow fresh air to virtually every person/area in line. The heat/humidity was awful and waiting in the hot sun was unbearable, especially in lines where loose articles/extra items (i.e. hats, shades, umbrella) and backpacks were not allowed. I understand the summer heat in the Carolinas is always horrible, but it can be made comfortable for amusement park goers. In the meantime, recommend going in the spring or fall months, not in the summer ones.
Erick A — Google review
Dear Mr Carowinds. Today was spring break and may daughter who is six almost seven and I thought this would be a fun place to adventure. We got to the park just after open. It was easy to get in. Although 30 dollars to park was almost the same price of a third ticket. We entered the park quick and were ready to ride. The park was very clean. My mini me is 46 inch. Which was just under the 48 inch mark. Seems to be a gap in the small kids rides to the big kids 58 inch tall. But we did find a lot to ride. Four roller coasters, three that were age, appropriate and one that was for smaller kids. We did find about seven other things to ride. The haunted house was fun. It was a bit extreme on the prices of food. $17 for a piece of pizza was really pricey. But we did manage to have a great day. At the very end of the day we got one the gear spin. Sophia was running it. She closed the line right after we got in line at 8:02. She was amazing and made our day. As we got on she talked the ride up and made the last ride of the day so much fun. She went far and beyond someone who just enjoyed their job. We did have an amazing day. It would have just been a little been in a year or two when she can ride more of the bigger coasters. See you again in a couple years and thanks for the memories.
Troy F — Google review
We were able to go pretty early in the morning, before many people were there and the lines got too long. Every ride had about a 15 minute wait once it got a little more busy. The food places there were good and they have cute souvenirs. The rides are all amazing and so much fun!!!
Jay G — Google review
Pretty fun park. Went on a Thursday in June and there was practically no lines for rides. Didn't go to the water park side. Lots of roller coasters. Tickets are discounted online.
Chris S — Google review
If you want to have fun, do look at the weather forecast. It was so hot, we ended up not going on as many rides as we had intended.Water is free/complimentary at any food place.Go early to avoid long wait lines.
Zoe M — Google review
Winterfest (New Years Eve celebration) was great! Our family had an amazing time. There were lots of people, but lines were not long for the rides that were open, and hot chocolate and cider were amazing and kept you warm. We enjoyed the rides, the food, the parade, and the live bands! (No issues, and it appeared that everyone was having a good time)We have season passes, so being able to enjoy a year-round experience is always fun for our family. You can't go wrong buying a season pass if you live in the area.Great way to end 2023!🎉🎊🎉🎊🎉
Cherise M — Google review
Please share the calendar of school events. Yesterday was completely slammed with school groups. I'm all for kids having fun but these kids were out of control. Cussing, line jumping, rudeness.. Many were so disrespectful. And workers had no control.. way too little chaperones! Stay away from Fridays in May!
Kellie G — Google review
Visited weekend before July 4 and still was not super busy.I suggest getting the fast pass and the food pkg.ended up saving us a ton of money and time.Food was really good. We walked on almost every ride with the fast pass.
Matthew D — Google review
We have visited this amusement park on two separate times. My family and I really enjoy the park this time around. The water park was a lot of fun and then we visited Camp Snoopy which our children enjoyed throughly. Two complaints: there was hair and bandaids in the lazy river which made me want to jump out. Totally disgusting. Secondly, the bathrooms were unbearable especially the changing rooms on the harbor side. It was so wet and dirty. They should invest in attendants to monitor the changing/ bathrooms so that it’s hygienic. I didn’t have my phone in the water harbor to take pictures however I took pics of my kids in Camp Snoopy… they had a blast!
Jac — Google review
Nice clean park. Food is food and rides are top notch. Our home park is cedar point but we like to make this a yearly trip.
Steelcity74 — Google review
I visited the place during the opening weekend. It was a fun thrilling experience. Since the park wasn't that busy, there weren'tany long queue for the rides, so was able to go on all the thrilling roller coasters. Fury 325, thunder strike, night hawk are my top 3! I also tried the ripcord and it was an amazing experience!
Arya P — Google review
There was a very long line to enter the park. Once we got inside, most of the wait times for the rides were under 20 mins. We really enjoyed the roller coasters. We were looking forward to riding on the Fury, but it was closed. I also miss the Rip Roarin Rapids ride.
Crystal F — Google review
Great experience. I think the rides are amazing and the park is clean with friendly staffed. I do think it is a bit overpriced.
Duke B — Google review
Had a great day (a long 10 hours for me) 95 degrees and no rain. We brought 4 kids that had a great time. Very little wait time, they rode several rides over and over because there was no line. Paid the extra for drink wrist bands but went back to the car to have lunch we brought in a cooler. About 6 hours on the rides and 3 hours in the water park. Still over $400 for a 1 day visit for 6 of us.
Alan H — Google review
25
Historic Camden Revolutionary War Site
History museum
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
Museum charting the Revolutionary War & colonial era in an 18th-century mansion on an old estate.
Neat little site with replica fortifications and some Colonial era buildings. The self guided tour was $10 for adults and took us about an hour to go through everything.Easy walking trails and beautiful grounds: a nice place to spend this bright and sunny Saturday afternoon.
Jeff S — Google review
Excellent recreation/ restoration of pre-revolutionary war America. We lucked out and met a historian from the project who explained some very neat facts about the buildings, the grounds, the project timeline and scope… lots of great stuff happening here. Wonderful walk around the grounds — I particularly liked the redoubts.
Joshua H — Google review
I enjoyed a lovely evening at Historic Camden’s Jollification event on Dec 3. The 1800 little building was cozy with decor, candles, and live, period music. A variety of drinks were available, both with alcohol and without and enjoyed at a wonderful table while playing old timey board games. One hour is sufficient time spent at this event. I’ll be back!
Shannon H — Google review
Self-guided adult tickets $10 USD each. Buildings from the 1700's to 1800's. Docent said piano in 1st pic dates from 1795-1805. Liked the ability to explore on our own. Had fun!
A C — Google review
I love getting to visit this historic site. The Revolutionary War played such an integral role in American history, and it’s wonderful to be able to visit a site where part of this history took place. They have made a number of nice changes to the site, it is well-maintained, and the gift shop is really nice. I would certainly recommend visiting went in the area.
Robert W — Google review
A growing Historic Site with late 18th/early 19th Century structures, reconstructed period buildings, and recreations of period buildings near the site of Camden, SC during the American Revolution. The staff and your guides are friendly and knowledgeable, pay extra for the guided tour.
Mac I — Google review
Due to an upcoming event, most parts were not accessible. However, very knowledgeable staff gave us a lot of information about the site and we enjoyed exploring what we could. We will definitely be back.
Gloria G — Google review
I love this place! We stopped here on the way to visit friends. I am so glad we did. We arrived on the perfect day. The second Saturday of every month they have a reenactment. The volunteers dress in period costume and demonstrate many aspects of life in the time period. George Washington makes an appearance and I think there is a parade. We had a wonderful time and learned a lot. I would recommend this stop for anyone of any age.
Penelopebananapants — Google review
A great place to learn about the history of our town and the Revolutionary War. There are lots of events/activities that go on here every month. They have house tours, lantern tours, tea parties, craft classes, and demonstrations happening all the time.We come and walk the grounds and the nature trail alot. The trail is short and flat, but if it has rained it will be muddy in places. It runs along the Pine Tree Creek.
Beth M — Google review
Stopped here to check out the battlefield in Camden. There are several historic buildings you can tour and some reconstructed fortifications that were part of cornwallis's headquarters during the southern campaign in and around Camden. Tickets can be purchased at the gift shop to tour the buildings. I spent a couple hours wandering around the site. Staff was very helpful and knowledgeable and I enjoyed my time here.
Christopher C — Google review
Although still coming together and not right at the main battlefield, the museum is top notch and theredoubt and old buildings and are fascinating.
Becky M — Google review
Had a wonderful time listening to the recordings in the museum and learning of Camdens role. The staff was very friendly and informative. Had small children with me and they also enjoyed it, especially the search and find animals. Plus it was free.
Nanette S — Google review
Great informative and interesting time visiting the historical village of Camden. Highly recommend that you do it with the guide as you learn so much more about it than just doing it alone. Takes about 60-120m so not a quick stop but worth it overall. Super nice people in a great American town.
Mark S — Google review
Very interesting and informative historical site. Visited after listening to the Mission History podcast about the Revolutionary War. Everyone was very informative and knowledgeable about the history and even made recommendations about other points of interest in the area. Would definitely recommend visiting this site!
Donald J — Google review
Very interesting visitor center - free to check out the main exhibit and I believe to walk the grounds. Clean restrooms & friendly staff / volunteers. Lots of history here! Ample parking & seemed to be dog friendly outside.
Travel ( — Google review
Great historic site! They are working at some new buildings so there is more to come. The unguided tour is ok, but the guided one is better, getting in all the houses and hearing all those llittle stories. Davie does a very good job, explaining everything to us. We had a great time there.
Martin K — Google review
Elizabeth is very knowledgeable and is a wonderful public speaker. It was a great night with my daughter and SIL. We will be back often!
Lori P — Google review
I'll never travel to Charleston without this trip planner again
26
South Carolina State House
Mentioned on
+41 other lists
State government office
Sights & Landmarks
The State House is a famous tourist destination and the capital of South Carolina. It is a fine example of Greek Revival architecture and was built in 1851. The highly-regarded design work of John Niernsee makes it one of the most beautiful state government offices in the country. The grounds include monuments to historical figures such as George Washington and S.C. Senators, as well as fallen State Law Enforcement Officers.
A friend of ours who lives in the area took us on a tour of the grounds and then we went into the building for a quick peek inside.The grounds are well kept with a lot of statues/monuments and history. We especially loved their African American History Monument - long overdue.The picture of the “ship” etched into the ground is an eye opener. You can see the way the laves were transported side by each and crammed in there. The way they were treated is horrible and the story needs to be told.The State Building had gone through a long renovation and it is beautiful inside.We loved the law enforcement memorial and it is very cool that the blue lights leading up to it from the walkway light up at night.
Sheri L — Google review
My first time visiting and I enjoyed walking the grounds of the SC State House. The staff on-site were very friendly and informative. I wish I could of stayed to explore more, but it was a hot day.. and my children were not very thrilled to be walking around in the heat. We will be back though once the weather cools down a bit.
Dina — Google review
This statehouse was beautiful from the outside. However I was disappointed that it wasn't open for self guided tours on the Sunday that I was passing through. Regardless, toured the grounds and checked out all of the statues there. Enjoyed the design of the dome. It was very different than most. I'll put this on my list of visited capitals but unseen from the inside.
Brian D — Google review
Beautiful state capital. The grounds and all the history present is wonderful. So proud that the South Carolina state capital counties to honor the citizens of its past . Beautiful Confederate monuments on grounds. Love showing my family our countries history. Great job !
C D — Google review
Highlight of my Columbia visit. Awesome grounds very well kept. Nice statuary and interesting stories about origins and age of trees planted. The capital building itself had great architecture and artwork. Stained glass windows were awesome pictures cant do justice. Lawmakers were not in session so we could look anywhere there wasn't a locked door. Well worth visit. Don,t bring any knives, guard took my swiss army and held it at guard station til done looking around, nice polite man too.
Dan T — Google review
Visited the State House on Saturday after visiting the Soda City Market a block away. The security guard was very friendly & courteous. We removed our personal belongings to be x-rayed & walked through the metal detector without issue. We did not take the free tour, but wandered around on our own. 3 floors & not all rooms are open. There’s a gift shop on exit. Make sure you walk around the grounds outside. Very nice state house.
Hung D — Google review
By far South Carolina State Capital grounds were the prettiest we’ve seen out of 30+ Capitals that we’ve been to 🏢⛪️ 🌸🌼🌺🌷
N M — Google review
I live nearby to the State house itself. We generally go for walks there. The state house is a tourist attraction which show cases the African American history. It’s a must see place for everyone who visits Columbia, South Carolina.They have great architecture and have statues of important personnel. Also, the place is well lit for Christmas.It is Located in downtown Columbia, Visitors can take free guided and self-guided tours of the South Carolina State House. It is open Mon-Sat until 5pm
Sai Y — Google review
I had the opportunity as an adult to visit the South Carolina Statehouse. What an amazing place? A lot of history and interesting facts.
Bridget B — Google review
This was an amazing experience!! There are so many historical things to see and experience! Shout out to all the amazing tour guides who do an amazing job showing us around the state house. I hope you can go and experience this too!
Brad N — Google review
The grounds of the State House and the building itself are worth a visit. Both are impressive and filled with history, but we really like walking around the grounds. There is a scavenger hunt sheet and map on their website that can be downloaded, and it is filled with interesting facts about the monuments and gardens. There is a lot to see here. If you visit on the weekends, there are usually parking spaces on Sumter Street right next to the grounds available.
Beth M — Google review
Definitely recommend a stop here. There is also a parking garage near by and a short walk to the main street area as well. We spent a solid hour just outside walking around the grounds. Very beautiful building and interesting history here. Lots of it. The stairs and view outside is worth going to view alone. When facing the building from main street the original building was a little to the right until it was burnt down in a war. The city was great to view and enjoy for the bringing in of the new year. The fireworks were great and wonderful to watch from the middle of main street and the oldest streets in the city.
Brittany H — Google review
Historic state building in downtown Columbia, SC - beautiful architecture and the paved walkways with gardens are a nice stroll
Kevin W — Google review
The statues and the plaques around the Capitol are rich in South Carolina history. I would set aside an hour to take in everything in the gardens, more to take in what's inside.
Maxwell A — Google review
Absolutely amazing to see the architectural beauty this building has to offer. Off street parking and easy to walk around the property to explore the area. If you’re in the area, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Jennifer R — Google review
Had a good time at the State House on yesterday. Received a tour around some parts of the building. I will tell you to wear good shoes. I got my exercise in yesterday!! There are soo many stairs to climb. My legs are screaming today. Great experience if you get a chance to stop by.
Hope M — Google review
Exquisite architecture, paintings, history and workmanship at this state house. Beautiful grounds. Statues and monuments outside. Inside there is a very nice gift shop. You can take a guided tour or if you have watched the interesting and detailed video on the dot gov site, you will have gotten a good background on the state house, so that you can tour yourself with a sufficient understanding of the place.
V M — Google review
Beautiful state house - arrived too late to get to see the inside on this trip although I’ve been in previously. Can spend a solid hour looking at the various monuments and beautiful landscaping surrounding the building. Kids loved running up and down the steps.
Bobby K — Google review
The state house is open for the public. You can enter from the left side of the building just go through the security check. There is guided tour or you can just go around with the pamphlet. The three storey building is a magnificent piece of art. Kids were super excited to see the inside and got to take lots of pictures too. Definitely worth visiting if you are around the area.
Babita — Google review
I didn't go in for a tour, but the grounds alone are worth a visit.
Dylan W — Google review
Cool to see! Come and stroll around a bit. Inside and outside are cool to see.
Mike M — Google review
The South Carolina capitol was quite busy and festive. We had to wait our turn to take a photo with the huge Christmas tree. There were other festive displays that people were taking pictures with. There is a parking lot across the street that wasn't busy and offered metered parking.
Felicia F — Google review
4.7
(490)
•
4.5
(669)
1100 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
(803) 734-5049
27
University of South Carolina
Mentioned on
13 lists
Public university
Sights & Landmarks
The University of South Carolina is a large public university located in the heart of the state capital. The university has many historic buildings and museums on its campus that are popular with students and visitors alike. With close proximity to many attractions, the hotel is perfect for visitors who want to explore the city while they're in town.
My wife and I are early 70's graduates 🎓 from Carolina. Today we observed the 55 anniversary of my proposal which took place in the fountain garden adjacent to the Administration Building ... walking around the Horseshoe was a pleasant trip down memory lane.
Hal T — Google review
Got a degree in 2019 via the “Palmetto College.” Life appeared good. The covid mess shut down everything as I started looking for jobs! Still having hope in my college degree, I started to look for jobs after the extreme covid mess calmed down…no jobs hire college students now. I went to school for nothing!!! I even called to see if the Palmetto College degree even had value, to see if I actually had a degree. So now I owe money on garbage, college landfill garbage. I am academically advanced to flip burgers. Don’t go to college. Don’t. USC has no regard for graduates. Handshake? Garbage. Don’t offer regional campuses when the regions don’t even network with regional area jobs. I am #!%~ing mad! I regret my years in college. I could have rotted without my degree and degree debt. Oh, and don’t expect to afford payments on 10 dollars hourly. So, anyone stay away!!!!! Don’t go. What an absolute shame!!!!
Swull — Google review
Quiet and good place to focus on your school away from other busy cities. There are great teachers who are willing to help you if you ask. A lot services are provided by the school to help students with their school and social work. It get boring sometimes because it is a small city but overall there are a lot of activities to do
A. ( — Google review
Couldn’t be more disappointed to a university which sent an offer message, and as late as two days afterwards told me that it was a “clerical error.” Even worse, after the declination, the migration office sent me messages of congratulations and guidance on how to get a VISA in order to study there. Wow, what an unforgettable series of nightmares!
Steven N — Google review
L, this university is filled with Mold. I couldn’t focus with the train horns always going off. Some professors like to manipulate our thinking into being in a “I’m poor” mindset. One professor was so old and skinny and he chucked a white board eraser across the room when a student asked a ‘boring’ question. They also don’t put enough care into engineering students: how are engineering students supposed to maintain a certain gpa within a scholar program in which people could take other easier majors and have it easy until later in life. But to just exist here it felt like 20 years in the past. Everything is old. The way things run are outdated and don’t make sense. About half the buildings and student housing need to be condemned. The city is a disaster of a mess. Parking is impossible when the whole city has to park somewhere too. I don’t have any hopes for this university succeeding in creating future students of America.
Chipper L — Google review
Seems like there's a lot of hidden fees that are not disclosed to the students. All the students are fairly young. And they don't know what it's like to deal with bills and It's all left upon the parents.It seems like everybody working.are not on the same page. They also made up a story about the fafsa, not being available to them, but they certainly know how to charge you, even upload a transcript.
Susan R — Google review
Just passed through whilst visiting Columbia, and I was quite impressed. The trees were outstanding and tall, the buildings were old but still looked good, and there was a fairly distinctive campus feel despite being in a rather large city. The palmettos make the campus much nicer and southern-feeling, and the various live oaks around campus give a very “Old South” feel. Cannot attest to the academics, though I did see a lot of “frat boy-types” and wondered if this school has that type of culture. The few people I chatted with were very nice and welcoming, and I would recommend visit the McKissick Museum or other places around here to get a sense of the culture and history of the school. G(oh) Cocks! Cheers.
Kyle H — Google review
Fantastic campus setting. First time visit and was impressed with the architecture and upkeep of the entire area. It will be a great 1st year experience for my son.
Jeff W — Google review
We felt welcome by the staff and students. Glad my grandbabies chose USC.
Helen B — Google review
Absolutely beautiful campus. Attended our granddaughters graduation.
Ed C — Google review
Beautiful campus with tons of flowers and plants to admire along the horseshoe. Buildings dating back to the 1800’s.
Rick T — Google review
Amazing first college experience wish I could go back every day
Chipper L — Google review
Noelle Ziggy continues to use homophobic slurs when seeing me. due to being bound to a wheelchair and having red hair, she likes to point at me and scream "Hot Wheels" infront of everyone.
Bill S — Google review
Moving daughter into Preston dorm to start her freshman year at South Carolina University!
Ronnie T — Google review
It's definitely a Beautiful place, GORGEOUS campus, with loyal faculty, staff, professors, teachers, administrators, security, coaches, players, and a host of students with smiling faces everywhere. One of the biggest school in the state of South Carolina and most definitely one of my favorite schools.
Dexter B — Google review
Came here by accident looking for a place to eat, but my 12 yo son loved the atmosphere 👌🏼😉
J M — Google review
Great facility. Prompt service. Friendly and professional staff. A hidden gem 💎
E. T — Google review
Had an awesome time. Katt Williams was phenomenal. I was great to see Monique on stage again. She killed it.
TdotHarris M — Google review
28
Middleton Place
Mentioned on
+79 other lists
Historical landmark
Nature & Parks
Middleton Place, a sprawling rice plantation on the Ashley River dating back to the 1730s, is located about fifteen miles northwest of Charleston. Once home to the Middleton family, who played significant roles in South Carolina's colonial and antebellum history, this landmark suffered damage during both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. Despite being ransacked by British troops and burned by Union soldiers, Middleton Place stands today as a National Historic Landmark District.
We have visited four plantations in the Charleston area. This is our favorite setting and relaxing atmosphere. The grounds are exceptionally maintained. We spent two hours walking the grounds. It is the various buildings that tell the story. One stop shows a very large number of Middleton slaves. Depicted by each location and where they determined their value to the plantations.The house tour is self guided after a short synopsis of the Middleton family and furnishings.We had lunch outdoors in a very relaxed setting. Salad with baked chicken breast, green fried tomatoes with sauce and corn fritters with honey butter.
Runnsun — Google review
Lovely grounds. You pull into the gravel parking lot and there is a Cafe/market to the left. Please know that is not the only place to grab a bite. You can access this, as well as the gift shop, prior to your paid entrance. We opted for a tour of the house for an additional $15pp. Not sure if I would do that again. We were maybe in there 15 minutes....maybe. it's self guided but there are volunteers to tell stories or answer questions. If you are expecting a grand southern plantation mansion, this is not it. Its a small 2 story home. The first thing you see upon entering the plantation is the large reflecting pond. Very beautiful. The next thing you'll notice is the livestock running amuck. Namely sheep. So be careful where you walk. 😉 they do have a lovely dining room. It was a very nice plantation. Lots of grounds to explore. Everyone was very nice. Just not that grand southern home. Not sure the livestock gets the best care. Which is why I gave it 4 stars.
Sherri F — Google review
We visited Middleton in late September 2022. Granted, hurricane Ian provided atypical weather, but in general, it’s probably not the best time to visit. Little to nothing was in bloom. The grounds were well kept and people were friendly and helpful. There were a few animals freely roaming - a handful of sheep and some swans. They had horse stables but nothing super interactive. There are some small buildings to showcase how the enslaved lived, but it’s not very detailed. The grounds had easy walking paths - mostly sand-based so if you are wearing sandals, know you’ll get a littledusty. There’s a restaurant on site which is nice. The beyond the fields tour … wasn’t a tour. You gather around under a tree, sit on benches and listen to a historian explain the enslaved conditions. It was informative, but different than how it was presented. There is a restroom, gift shop and plant shop in the parking area. It’s not a must-see for me. We spent about 2.5 hours here.
Cortney A — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous location. The oak trees are stunning, the gardens are lovely to stroll through, and I love a history lesson. We went to the restaurant last week and enjoyed the drive out, delicious food and cocktails and friendly and helpful staff. Shout out to Maggie who helped us make memorable dish selections. Looking forward to coming back later this fall for a wine stroll. I went last year and enjoyed it so much, I am coming back with girlfriends! I would recommend it as a date or as a nice evening with friends.
BKV — Google review
This place is just stunning. The landscapes and wildlife (birds, butterflies..)are all so amazing! Walking around feels so relaxing and refreshing. Even the restaurant is great for a tourist place! Can't wait to come back to visit again in different seasons.
彥萱Ann ( — Google review
Restaurant had a very good steak, but the locally made cinnamon ice cream, I honestly cannot stop thinking about it. The view outside this restaurant, although "wild" not tamed, alligators were ALL OVER THE PROPERTY, was Southern thick farmland and just spectacular. The property tour was very neat and the history was rich and interesting. The Inn was very different and unique, rooms had ceiling to floor windows showing the lush grounds. An interesting property worth the visit.
Cyndi B — Google review
Breathtaking! This place was the highlight of our honeymoon. The cured gardens and ponds were like a dream. The staff are all very helpful and know their stuff or will send you to someone who does. What a pleasant and enjoyable day. Give yourself a whole day to soak in the history and experience of this estate. Enjoy!
Kevin K — Google review
Beautiful grounds and house. Wonderful restaurant on property with absolutely amazing food. House tour was very informative as were the historical interpreters around the grounds. Very relaxing and serene surroundings.
US 1 — Google review
Middleton Place is really special. First the staff are very helpful. And they are easy to find. Everything is well organized & with the map, it's not hard to get around. The grounds are beautiful and peaceful. There are plenty of beaches to set and enjoy the views. It's nice the restaurant is on the grounds. Having a place to set, cool off and relax helps so much.
K A — Google review
Great historical place to visit. Beautiful landscapes and the old buildings are amazing. Bring bottled water as it was hot a d humid and there is a lot of walking but, worth every minute of it.
Jeff K — Google review
Absolutely beautiful! Loved getting to walk around and explore the gardens- there were tons of free garden tours or other guides that you could listen to- to learn more information about. But overall it was such a wonderful way to spend the afternoon. It’s pretty far North Charleston- and tons of walking- we got there around 9:30am and didn’t get done until 12:45pm- so allocate for a good chunk of time here!
Kelley — Google review
Absolutely loved it! Amazing grounds and scenery. The house tour was really cool, lots of history in the building. The restaurant waa nice, I didn't eat there, but it smelled amazing. Had a couple drinks at bar, beat Old Fashioned I have had in years! Huge shout out to Colby H.....kudos buddy!
Gloria W — Google review
We booked a tour van out to the estate which included transportation, tour of house and lunch. Self guided tour of grounds and gardens in between the timed tour and lunch.Beautiful place and well preserved house with interesting articles from the Middletons. Gardens are beautifully maintained. All of the staff were extremely helpful and kind. A must if visiting Charleston.
Bernadette J — Google review
This is a lovely place to spend the day. We went specifically to see the Middleton Oak. The ticket agent was helpful with directions to get to the oak on the shortest route. The grounds are lovely with lots of wooded, shady paths. We saw swans in the reflecting pond and alligators in the flooded rice fields, which my daughter was very excited about. The two gift shops are very nice and well stocked with a variety of items of different price points.
Rhonda W — Google review
Visiting from Georgia and this was such a fun outing! Bought student tickets online, quick and easy. The parking is good. The whole estate is very large and worth the price. There are some small trails around the swamp, some by the water, some around the garden. It is all well maintained and beautiful. We were not able to attend any of the tours but there are plenty scheduled throughout the day. The livestock here are very nice and obviously well taken care of. The chickens ran up to us expecting food, which kind of startled my partner. I loved the whole experience here. Though I do recommend coming when the heat of summer isn’t in full affect, we were dripping sweat by the time we were done here in July.
Unknown I — Google review
Middleton has beautiful gardens and grounds along the Ashley River. You can find period reenactment of many of the trades that used to exist on the plantation, along with animals that would have been present during the Middleton family's residency. It has also been the set for movies, such as "The Patriot."The Foundation that runs Middleton does an excellent job maintaining the property and in recent years has been very open about the tragic reality that the Middleton family owned hundreds of enslaved people. It seems they are trying to do their part to preserve history and acknowledge the failings of the past.
Scott P — Google review
Really beautiful and well-maintained gardens which was so peaceful and serene. Special shoutout to the tour guides Eloisa (for the garden tour) and Gary Finch (for the Beyond the Fields tour) who were so passionate and did such an amazing and engaging job with the complimentary tours! Really loved the amazing nature views and animals on the plantation too and had such a great time. Would definitely recommend for all nature and animal lovers! 🥰🌷🍀
Liu Y — Google review
Middleton Place is an absolute marvel of natural beauty! 😍❤️The breathtaking landscapes left me in awe, making every corner a picture-perfect moment. Strolling through the gardens, I couldn't help but feel a deep sense of admiration for the family behind its preservation. Their dedication and foresight in maintaining such a stunning estate are truly commendable. It's a place where history and nature intertwine seamlessly, leaving visitors like myself with a profound sense of respect and wonder.🤩
Chloe T — Google review
Went on a Wednesday night when they were having one of their annual wine walks. Four stations with a red and a white wine as well as a cheese board and finger sandwiches at each station. The grounds were beautiful, not a lot of colorful flowers, but lots of greenery. The ponds had alligators and turtles, made for a magical night. Highly recommend.
Jaime K — Google review
I have been to Middleton multiple times over the years. It has beautiful gardens that you can get lost in. Don't look at the pics here. Just get out and see it. I went to a Creative mornings event that was hosted here and didn't pay but there is usually a fee. There is a cute garden center where you can buy plants, but the big draw is the incredible southern landscape. Enjoy!
Descartes — Google review
My wife and I went here for our 30th anniversary. Even though it was hot we had a great time walking the gardens. We had lunch in the restaurant where the food is very good. I highly recommend spending the day here.
Bryan R — Google review
Amazing plantation with knowledgeable guides and tons of history. We visited early October and the weather was spectacular. Did Beyond the Fields and Guided Garden Tour. Both were included in the admission price. Ate lunch in the restaurant which was wonderful. Our wait staff was engaging and attentive. (No tax on the bill!) Learned so much about slavery and history of the plantation. The trees alone were worth the visit. One was 1,000 years old! I highly recommend.
Robyn B — Google review
Incredible tour with lots to do! My husband and I spent 6 hours walking around the beautiful property, ate an incredible lunch and toured the main house. So many beautiful things to look at and a lot of rich history. Make sure to say hello to Arthur, the resident stable cat!
Miranda Z — Google review
Magnificent! You could spend all day here and still want to come back for more. The volunteers there are very knowledgeable and helpful, you can tell they love being there. A ton of history to absorb there. Animals are friendly and there is no shortage of picture opportunities. Restaurant on site is good but a little pricey.
Katie I — Google review
What a wonderful place to visit. It has great trails throughout the property, and it is so peaceful and beautiful. It is truly a step back in time. I loved the trails that were bordering the Ashley River.... phenomenal! A huge Osprey dove down, caught a fish, and flew right by us. So cool! We did not do the house tour, but I was perfectly content outside with the beautiful topography and interacting with all the animals, most excellent visit!
MA B — Google review
Beautiful ❤️ and Natural Surroundings. Please check Flower Blossoms season and you will enjoy it.Yes, live alligator 🐊 all around the place.
Devang P — Google review
Huge property, nicely laid out walking tour of the gardens and working areas. The day we were here, they were doing guided golf cart tours of the rice field.There is an extra cost to see the home on this site. I would suggest going earlier in the day rather than later due to heat during this late spring and summer.
Leith B — Google review
Great way to spend the afternoon in Charleston area. This place was brimming with history but had enough to keep all ages occupied. I have 4 kids aged 12-17 and they really enjoyed the grounds. The house tour is an addition that added a lot of context. They have numerous guided tours on the grounds themselves including a garden tour and a stable tour. Beautiful place and worth the trip.
Andrew J — Google review
4.7
(2616)
•
4.5
(4416)
4300 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, USA
(843) 556-6020
29
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Mentioned on
+93 other lists
$$$$cheap
Garden
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is a historic plantation dating back to the early 1700s, with gardens which are popular with visitors for their lovely natural surroundings and fascinating history. Besides the garden itself, there are attractions such as an animal zoo and nature center. There's also a train that takes visitors around the grounds, as well as boat tours.
This was our first plantation tour. We had a great time. We did not tour inside the big house, but went on the tram tour and the From Slave to Freedom cabin tour. I recommend both very highly. After the tours we went though some of the gardens and around the ponds. Great scenery and views. We were surprised to come upon two large alligators near a walking path alongside one of the ponds. We were told there were many alligators on the property, but did not expect this encounter and left expediently. They made no aggressive moves, but we did not hang around. The rest of our walk was very nice and relaxing.
Daniel B — Google review
My family had a lovely visit to Magnolia Plantation. We came early on a Wednesday, and were able to quickly purchase tickets and get started with exploring the grounds.The plantation’s massive Live Oak trees are picturesque, and the house itself is well maintained. While waiting for our tour, we visited the conservatory which was lovely. We ended our tour in the gift shop which had a wide assortment of lovely items.We chose to pay for the Nature Tram since we had folks in our group who couldn’t walk far. It was a great choice since we were able to see the grounds and gain some historical perspective without walking a lot. On the tram we were able to see the slave houses, several rice fields, and many wild animals including alligators, birds, and turtles!Although we didn’t go into the house or take the From Slavery to Freedom tour, I imagine these are as well done as the Nature Tram and well worth their money!
Dana T — Google review
What a beautiful place! So glad we went to visit. The grounds were gorgeous! There was a wedding there yesterday, so the various vendors were there tearing down their set ups. Other than that, all areas were open. We spotted many gators, so be mindful when walking near ponds and waterways. Lots of turtles too. The magnolias were so fragrant while we were walking around. We just did the house tour, but they had other tours available too. Those can be booked ahead of time right online. Lovely visit.
Lynne L — Google review
Magnolia was one of the best experiences we had while visiting Charleston. The tour guides were all very knowledgeable about the plantation. We did the house tour, train tour, and the Slavery to Freedom tour. The tour guide for Slavery to Freedom was Vanessa and she was absolutely amazing. I would recommend more then 4 hours for the entirety of the plantation. We only were able to do our tours and visit the gift shop in the four hours we were there. We wish we would have had more time to explore the gardens because this place is absolutely amazing. They also have an app that was extremely helpful for navigating the grounds and location the tours and restrooms.
Kierra T — Google review
The plantation is absolutely gorgeous. The scenery and flowers were breathtaking and the farm animals made the experience so much fun for the kids. When walking the different gardens, the signs leading there could have been more clear. Most importantly, be prepared to be completely devoured by herds of mosquitos, so prepare accordingly. Otherwise, the experience was top notch! Highly recommended.
Hussein F — Google review
Such a nice way to spend the day. The house is smaller than you’d guess, but the tour was one of my favorites. Full of history and interesting facts. The Slavery to Freedom tour literally made my eyes tear up with emotion, the guide couldn’t have been more perfect, it is clear that she loves her job and takes the history seriously. The grounds are beautiful. And my favorite part - the wild gators were all out and sunbathing, not at all phased by the visitors.
Kirsten C — Google review
Overall, the tour and day were fine - although a bit buggy. The gardens were beautiful and fun to explore. The house was intriguing, and the tour was informational. We really appreciated the from Slavery to Freedom tour and discussion - however, it was led by a white woman (although with great credentials, it seemed to whitewash the talk). And it annoyed us that the family still owns the place and is profiting off their horrible history. They could at least not charge or give money back to scholarships, etc.
Megan M — Google review
Extensive gardens and large tracks of natural habitat. The Ashley river runs along the edge of the property providing beautiful views from the gardens. There are interesting trees to be found including redwood. There is a biblical garden as well as a conservatory. There are places with picnic tables and benches to rest at. There is a petting zoo. And children's garden. We did see little blue herons, great egrets, alligators and turtles. There is an excellent presentation "from slave to freedom" that takes about 30 minutes. Takes place at the remaining original slave quarters on the plantation. Gives a good snapshot of what life was through the decades from 1850s to 1990, they were still in use by the grounds people. All these can make for an entertaining and informative day.
JMcCoy M — Google review
Had a nice afternoon here with the family. It wasn't peak bloom for anything in late September but there were still plenty of flowers and the overall scenery with the Spanish moss draped trees was stunning.We did the rice field boat tour, which was very informative. The rice fields were given back to nature and are now just wetlands with a few remnants of the old farm. We saw tons of beautiful birds and alligators. The pontoon boat had a roof, so we were out of the sun.Definitely should be on your Charleston list. If you are a local, call ahead to learn about what's in bloom and what time of year is best to visit.
M B — Google review
Beautiful grounds and rich in history. Great stop on way to Charleston for a bit of a walk and some lovely pictures! Bring bug spray and pack a lunch. Bit pricey but if you have more time it is well worth the money.
Waterfall T — Google review
It's definitely a beautiful place filled with lovely flowers, plants and trees. The slavery to freedom tour and petting zoo are included in admission. Personally, I think for the price, everything should be included. There shouldn't be "add ons."The guide for the freedom tour was exceptional and he deserves a raise. He told the raw history which needs to be said.
Alexa W — Google review
A beautiful old world plantation garden. The many acres of the gardens offer many photo opportunities, including the long white bridge and the bamboo garden. There is also a little zoo area with several cool animals to visit with.
Evan B — Google review
My husband and I had a great day at The Magnolia Plantation! We spent 5.5 hours there today. It was a warm day so we did our house tour about 2 hours after we got there. There is so much to explore. We saw tons of animals and lots of beautiful flowers. We recommend doing the house tour as well as just the general admission. Such a great day!Make sure to take them up on their bug spray offer at the ticket booth. You will need it!Do the train tour and see the animals. We recommend taking advantage of all the included general admission amenities!
Madison S — Google review
I had an amazing time here, it was super beautiful and a really enjoyable experience overall. The "train" tour is nice because you're able to see a lot of the area with a lot of wildlife. The boat ride is also fun and you see a lot of gators. There are also many birds throughout the plantation along with flowers along various paths.
Jawand S — Google review
Our family had a great time here! It was so nice to get up close to so many animals. We enjoyed our train tour and learned a lot! I only wish it was easier to take pictures during the tour. The cafe had great options for food. The gardens were lovely! We didn’t have time to do the silvery to freedom tour, but we will definitely be back to do it.
Jess W — Google review
Beautiful Plantation with so much to see and do! We loved going over to the “look out platform” and seeing over the whole area! We also saw SO MANY alligators in the ponds! SO cool!We also LOVED the zoo! It had the coolest animals and was so fun to walk around and see them all up close!We visited the last week of May and noticed that none of the flowers in the gardens were blooming (could’ve just been an off and cold year for the flowers).RECOMMENDATIONS:- Bring Bug spray! We were a little unprepared and got EATEN ALIVE- Look up the tour times! The grounds are beautiful, but each segment (ex: house, garden, train tour etc) costs money and most of the segments have specific your hours! Look up your times to get the most out of your experience
Hannah U — Google review
This tour provided real and accurate information about slavery. No sugar coating, Gone With The Wind, it wasn't that bad narrative. Beautiful and breathtaking gardens, swamp and scenery. We did the big house, train and "From Slavery to Freedom" tours. We spent 3.5 hours and could have walked the garden more but, the 🦟 🦟 🦟 were hungry so we left 😂 A great tour and educational experience!
Margra F — Google review
Beautiful gardens and worth the visit on fresh day, with a chance to see alligators during train ride.From slavery to freedom tour wasdisappointing by our opinion. It was mostly self tour with 20 minutes story while you have to sit in the pavilion.Guide was rude with kids (not mine but it felt wrong), taking into account that even our kids were bored and didn’t want to sit calmly who are big fun’s of any kid of excursion.
Olga S — Google review
On the west side of the Ashley river are three plantations all within close proximity to one another and around a 20 minutes drive from historic Charleston, one of them being Magnolia. While originally a working rice plantation, Magnolia has now evolved into more of a naturalistic park with a large number of pathways and various types of foliage on display. Like other plantations there is a manor home which tours are offered for (at an additional cost) as well as a complimentary tram ride around the property that is quite pleasant and offers a nice respite from all the walking you would do. A worth stop if visiting the area. Enjoy!
Craig B — Google review
This place is beautiful beyond words. Definitely pay the extra fee to tour the house. It will help you understand the history a lot better. Also take the time to do the from slavery to freedom tour. I would plan to be here for about 3-4 hours.
Y M — Google review
Such a beautiful place! Loved all the trails, bridges, and views!! So gorgeous. Expect to spend at least 3 hours exploring and walking around, so much fun!The wildlife center was much bigger than I was expecting with lots of animals!The trolley/nature train was so much fun! Definitely ride the trolley!!Warning: bring LOTS of bug spray! LOTS. you will get eaten alive by mosquitoes if you’re walking through the trailsOverall, this is such a great place to visit! So much to do and a great price for the amount of things to do and see.
Kensi T — Google review
Terrific gardens!Lots to see. Excellent variety of azaleas and camellias.Lots of trails. Enjoy the birds and alligators and snakes.Swamp boardwalk a huge plus.So many photo ops.Can't wait to return!
Mark S — Google review
Beautiful place to picnic, stroll and smell the flowers! The history tour of the plantation was nice. The gardens were magnificent! Take the trolly and view the marshy areas plenty of local wild life
Susan T — Google review
Even though it was hotter than Hades we decided to visit the gardens during our trip to Charleston. We were glad we did as we did have an enjoyable time. We took a tram ride around the swamp, visited the slave quarters and saw several areas of beautiful flowers and bridges. The area is in a swamp so make SURE to take mosquito spray with you. We also walked through a wildlife area that was interesting. They also had a cafe on site and the tour of the mansion was available for an additional cost.
Lloyd M — Google review
As a nature lover this was my favorite thing I did while visiting Charleston. Absolutely beautiful grounds with lots of wildlife and flowers to see. I also enjoyed the Slavery to Freedom Tour as it was informative and gave me a better understanding of the property and the hardships slaves faced. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. I would recommend going in the morning as it started to get more crowded during the day. Bathrooms are easily accessible and very clean. They have a nice cafe as well.
Morgan — Google review
This plantation was great. Loved hearing the history and interesting life stories about the family and what happened here. We had a fantastic guide. Millie made the tour perfect. It was fun watching her tell family stories. We also took a tram around the gardens and property with a funny guide. He was from Scotland or Ireland wish I remembered his name.He made it so interesting. Alot of the flowers had bloomed, but their gardens were still beautiful. We went end of April. Go earlier to see the pretty flowers 🌺 restrooms were clean and air conditioned.
Lisa L — Google review
Second time visiting. First time was 35 years ago. Not much has changed. Gardens are still gorgeous and plenty of grounds to explore. It has become a bit more touristy, but I think that’s what they are going for. Cafes and trams added. Certainly those add to being family friendly. We did the house tour which was worth it. Docents were knowledgeable and added humor which is always nice. As this was the third reconstructed house on the site, the history was interesting. If you love gardens, this is a good stop. If you want more actual history, there are better options, such as Drayton Hall, a mile down the road.
Elizabeth K — Google review
We enjoyed our experience overall. We took 3 different tour while we were here. The gardens and animals were amazing to see! The house tour was very interesting and the tour guide was very friendly and knowledgeable. The discovery tour guide was very knowledgeable as well. The only disappointing thing was the train/ bus tour. The man was a little bit snappy with the people on the ride. He couldn’t spot most of the wildlife either, so my husband ended up doing it for the passengers. Passengers ended up getting off before the stops because he kept passing the animals. And didn’t seem like he knew how to drive either, which was very rough. The ladies in the gift shop could had been friendlier as well.
Katrina H — Google review
I have never seen anything like this. It’s so beautiful, it looks unreal. The gardens and trails are absolutely breathtaking. We toured the house and the guide was so pleasant.I still can’t get over how beautiful everything is!
Debbie C — Google review
Beautiful and well maintained. Kids will enjoy the little animal sanctuary and there are peacocks and peahens. They have beautiful areas with seasonal flowers. There are trolley rides through the plantation where they talk about the history of the place and you get to see wildlife like crocodiles, tortoises, birds etc.. overall an amazing day spent with family.
Sayantani C — Google review
Be prepared to spend the day with many different areas to explore. We did the house tour, which is a separate ticket. Took the narrated nature tram. Walked along the river and listened to the Freedom Trail talk. Enjoyed a nice lunch at the Peacock Cafe and skipped a few experiences because it was very hot. Restrooms are available throughout. Bring extra water as there are only 2 places where we found bottled water available; in the gift shop and Cafe.
Anita S — Google review
Magnolia plantation was absolutely beautiful. I did the house tour with Jillian as a tour guide- she explained everything so well, she was knowledgeable on the history of the family/house & she was funny. I highly recommend doing the tour on your trip because you learn so much. Then we explored the grounds and it was just breathtaking. Definitely bring sun screen and bug spray! Also the Peacock at Peacock cafe is a must see!!!
Sydney K — Google review
Very enjoyable experience! We took the train through the swamp area and later returned on foot to hike the trail through the swamp. We saw many birds, alligators, and turtles. Very unique atmosphere with an almost mystical quality
Ann T — Google review
Beautiful grounds. I enjoyed walking around, birdwatching and viewing the gardens. Also saw alligators and turtles. Download the app so you can use the available map. All staff members I encountered were very friendly. There was someone mowing in a field near the walking path and home, and grass clippings flew in my face which I didn't love, but I guess they have to mow sometime.
Alissa N — Google review
I love coming here. It’s beautiful. I walk here often but have not covered the entire gardens. I am disappointed because I bought my annual pass this year, mostly because they said they would have the boat ride going. It was supposed to have been going by spring and then it was June, now it’s July. I’m wondering if it will be going by the time my annual pass expires. I kinda feel duped.
Cindy S — Google review
Absolutely beautiful and well kept/persevered location! The grounds and trails around & through them we stunning, the vibrant green grass, all the walking bridges, water ways, flowers, views...just breath taking.We also went on the house guided tour and our guide was so knowledgeable, she was very passionate about the history and details, she was fun, nice, and very enjoyable to listen to as we went room to room.The have the Peacock Cafe near the entry, great slushes and plenty of options for drinks and snacks. Plus it's located right in front of the on-site animal area (which was closed by the time we got to that area, 10am - 4 pm), you can look through the gate and see several of the animals and hear the peacocks as you go walking through the grounds. I did see one wondering near the picnic tables too.
Maria C — Google review
Really great experience. The house tour was informative and the slavery to freedom presentation was excellent.I suggest 6 hours if you are planning on walking the gardens, house tour and slavery to freedom presentation. We also took the tram tour then went back and walked the Audubon preserve.The no preserve was well worth the little bit of extra time and effort as there was so much to see.
Rob H — Google review
Visited on a Tuesday afternoon, and there were quite a lot of guests during that time.It was $38/person to access the gardens, Wildlife Center, Slavery to Freedom Tour, Wildlife Tour, and swamps.We enjoyed walking through the swamps - alligators, turtles, birds.Wildlife Tour - very squeaky tram to where we could barely hear the tour guide and definitely couldn't enjoy the sounds of nature.Slavery to Freedom Tour - very quick history from the guide + Q&A. Didn't get very deep into it and have had better experiences in other cities.Wildlife Center - small sanctuary with several species (alligator, peacock, goat, deer, owls, racoons, reptiles, fox, turtles, and more)Gardens - decent views and nice walking paths.Overall, we enjoyed our day but felt it was overpriced for the experience and offerings.
Jamie O — Google review
Unfortunately for me it was a big disappointment. I love flowering plants but the azaleas and camellias had 95% finished blooming. So little to no color except for the plantings at the entrance. Pretty much if you miss the spring blooms you are just strolling through the woods.There were multiple bus loads of people being dropped off. I felt sorry for those standing in long lines to get food at the small cafe.There were miles of trails, most of which were not well marked, so we wondered aimlessly until we found our way back.There were several small ponds and bridges with a couple of alligators floating around.The entry fee seemed very high at $35. We did not take the house tour or tram tour. Overall disappointing.
Cathie B — Google review
Magnolia Plantation is a great historical experience, even if the house is not original to the property. You still get a sense of the scale of operations and the stakes that existed for the enslaved. All of the tours are great, especially the nature train. I wouldn't pass up a walk through the gardens either.
Chris K — Google review
My 16 yr old daughter and I spent 8 hours and enjoyed the day. The Peacock Restaurant was excellent in service, prices and food, we are there twice. The house tour with Millie was so historically interesting. The gardens and grounds were so beautiful. We stayed until closing and got to see more alligators and critters as dusk came. The train tour was pleasant with so much history explained, it was enjoyable, educational and money well spent…. Including the gift shop.
Danna M — Google review
30
Drayton Hall
Mentioned on
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Museum
Sights & Landmarks
Drayton Hall is a well-preserved, renowned antebellum plantation situated on the Ashley River in South Carolina. The estate showcases Palladian architecture and holds the distinction of being the sole plantation house to survive both the Revolutionary and Civil wars fully intact. As a National Historic Landmark, Drayton Hall offers visitors tranquil grounds to explore and an African-American cemetery to reflect upon.
BEAUTIFUL place. Way better than the plantation up the street that costs $80 to do everything. Super quiet during the week, especially in the morning. Beautiful and well preserved place. Self guided audio tour is awesome! They did a great job of preserving and showing the area.
Jeff M — Google review
One of very few surviving plantation homes in the area post civil war period. Took the audio tour rather than a guided one which was great as you can wander at your own pace and listen to the guide, pausing her when you want to stay in one area a little longer. Having some info is a must though, to understand what went on in and around the estate and the architecture of the building. Staff were very friendly and informative too.
Kevin B — Google review
Visitor center has a small museum in which many primal artifacts are kept that tell more of the history of this particular plantation.Our interpreter was very knowledgeable about the history of the Drayton family and the plantation.The conversation surrounding the life of the enslaved persons was really sugar coated and while they were referenced many times, the harsh realities of their life there was not really conveyed in a way that was brutally honest.The cemetery of the enslaved persons and caretakers home are especially great parts of the visit.
Nichole — Google review
A wonderful experience, seeing Drayton Hall is like a step back in time. The house is preserved instead of restored, the tour includes information on slaves and tenants post-Civil War, and the guides are friendly and knowledgeable. Part of the house is off limits for now due to ongoing preservation work.
Mac I — Google review
Exceptionally interesting and well-preserved area offering fascinating insights into the world of a southern plantation. Unlike similar sites, the focus here is on preservation rather than restoration, meaning the old buildings, including the main house, have had minimal work done on them since the 1800s.The guided audio tours were informative and well-paced, guiding you both through the main house and the grounds. The only downside to an audio tour vs a guided tour would be the inability to visit the top floor of the house, although I don't think one is missing too much there.On the Sunday I went in September, there were hardly any other people on the grounds, so crowds weren't an issue. There were two historians on site in the main house available to answer additional questions, which was a great feature. Moreover, despite much of what we know about the location coming from the former owner's diaries, I appreciated how the audio tour did what it could to speak from the perspective of the enslaved peoples forced to work the plantation, as well.For $26 per person, I thought this was a very worthwhile place to visit.
Lance G — Google review
There has been some great improvements at Drayton Hall over the last few years. New gift shop visitor Center and bathrooms. Very friendly and knowledgeable staff
Kathy W — Google review
This is a remarkable piece of history. The tour guide is a historian there not just an employee. It’s a beautiful house and the self guided tour walk is really cool. We saw a fawn in a ditch and lots of birds as well. Totally worth the visit!
David L — Google review
Beautiful plantation home with interesting history. We did not do the audio tour but explored the space on our own. The details on the home are amazing. The craftsmanship can’t be found today. It was interesting to see the graffiti from 1874. The staff is very attentive and helpful. They are currently working to put supports in so there is construction equipment on the ground floor.
Tiffany H — Google review
Spent a fascinating afternoon with my son at the Plantation. Very informative audio tour, plus knowledgeable historians were on-site to answer questions. Excellent presentation, a very thorough explanation of this period in American history. We really learned a lot! Gorgeous grounds, trees, and landscape. Very friendly and helpful staff, super clean everywhere. Highly recommend a visit 👌
Wendy G — Google review
Tour of the house was great, plus tour guide was knowledgable and friendly! Beautiful home, and an amazing amount of history there and on the grounds. We also purchased Sip & Stroll event. The self guided tour on the phone was ok but the landmark number markers were not as clear, and overall was little lack luster. Could have easy had same experience without the small glasses of wine included and saved some money. However super cute signature wine glass souvenir was nice and everyone from gate check-in, sip and stroll check-in, gift shop gentleman, and tour guide were great. Recommend to anyone to do the house tour for a serious dose of history!
Charity D — Google review
We went for a Sip & Stroll that included an audio tour of the grounds, the museum, short film, the caretakers cottage museum, and gift shop plus two drinks tickets per person - so fun and relaxing. No more than 25-30 people and we were all spaced out to where it felt like you were the only ones there on the whole plantation! Would definitely recommend and do it again next spring!
Jennie M — Google review
Our tour guide Florence provided many details and painted a realistic picture using their historic knowledge of the estate. Would recommend the house tour and to walk the grounds using the audio tour. Would go again anytime we visit, very interesting US history!
Dan S — Google review
the tour of Drayton Hall was my one of my favorite parts of our trip to Charleston! Florence was our tour guide and WOW. amazing! the best tour my fiancé and i have ever taken! Florence made it the best! So knowledgeable and passionate about the history of charleston
Kimmy H — Google review
I visited Drayton Hall on 1/12 and I absolutely loved it as I love history and appreciate historical structures. They have a very clear introductory video and a very nice display of furniture and other historical pieces in their museum before you head to the house. My tour guide was very informative and I am just sorry that I forgot his name, but he was so knowledgeable on the history of the estate and in general the history of America at that time. The estate itself is beautiful and I can just imagine how this place looked in its prime. I enjoyed reading the map that captured the changes of the land now vs then near the enslaved cemetery and can only imagine where their houses were as there are no standing structures left. I enjoyed listening to the archaeological finds when they were doing some renovations in the basement and on the grounds, tons of history on this land even before the Draytons.
Tiffany G — Google review
I had visited Drayton Hall over 50 years ago, around the time of National Trust start for this preservation and restoration. Back then I felt I stumbled on to a hidden treasure. Now the grounds are pristine, the public entry, parking welcome center are appreciated improvements. When I found that Drayton Hall is now open with guided tours and encouraging archaeological digs in progress, I knew this tasks of preservation there were going to be immense. I've sought out Villa La Rotonda in Vincenza, Italy and even London's La Rotonda. To Palladio: you've made a big impression!
Greg H — Google review
A very historic and picturesque place by the Ashley River. The rooms of the house are empty of pieces of furniture that can be seen in a separate exhibit, but they are full of memories of the souls who throughout time spent their life here.
Alex L — Google review
One of the best plantations we've seen! The beauty was the original works were still in place and magnificently maintained. Our guide, Morgan, did a phenomenal job on the tour! The trees are gorgeous and the small garden was very pretty. Large grounds to tour, just watch out for the gators! So glad we visited Drayton Hall.
Lynne L — Google review
The tour guide was fantastic and gave us so much information that the tour ran a half hour over! The house is not restored or furnished, which I actually enjoyed. Allow time to tour the gardens afterward with the online audio tour.
Karen D — Google review
The staff was friendly and informative! The museum and video were interesting. The buildings up front are fresh and done well!The grounds were beautiful! The audio tour was a nice addition. There are great photo opportunities!!! We did see alligators as well! The ones we saw were little ones!FYI**I did not realize you could not tour the whole house without an extra fee and specific tour time. The upstairs was roped off with a sign saying it was for a specific tour only. That was disappointing, we found that out while on the self guided tour of the house. We were able to see the cellar and the first floor**We were told the upstairs is the same as the first floor. There is no furniture in the house. They are all empty rooms. No AC but they did have fans going. It was in the 70’s when we went, the house temperature was comfortable. In the summer, I am not sure how hot it will be inside!We really enjoyed walking around!
C U — Google review
February $10 rate for locals was a great deal. Drayton Hall was a wonderful experience. Archeological dig was very interesting, as was all the treasures found. The tour guide was unbelievable, giving an extensive history of the site, the owners, and the architecture. Every question guests had was answered in detail. Watched a brief movie, visited the archeological lab, and shopped in the fabulous gift store. It is one of the best historic sites in Charleston. Thoroughly enjoyed my visit.
Debbie Z — Google review
An amazing historic plantation just outside of Charleston. We enjoyed our tour with a knowledgable guide. The grounds are beautiful and the staff is incredibly friendly. Would definitely come here again!
Peter R — Google review
Great experience. We did the tour and our interpreter Makayla really brought the history to life. Her passion for Drayton Hall's stories was evident. The fact that the home has stood since the mid 1700s is amazing. If you are into history, Drayton is a must see.
Ken W — Google review
Recent trip to Charleston and Drayton Hall was on our list. Very interesting history. Our guide was informative and was able to answer questions. Not sure if they ever intend to add gardens but I think it would enhance the visit to the property. There is a black cemetery on the grounds that is easy to miss. Our guide mentioned it and I asked for the location.
Joanne S — Google review
4.5
(690)
•
4.5
(2025)
3380 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, USA
(843) 769-2600