The Banner Elk center point is approximately 6 miles northwest of Grandfather Mountain and 6 miles north of MacRae Meadows.
The best time to visit Banner Elk largely depends on what activities you hope to enjoy. Winter is a prime tourist season thanks to the Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain ski resorts. In fact, Beech Mountain is the highest ski area in the Eastern United States, boasting a peak elevation of 5,506 feet. The resort features 17 trails, seven lifts, and 96 skiable acres, including an expansive terrain park. The town of Banner Elk also features multiple ski shops where you can buy sporting equipment before hitting the slopes, just in case you forget to pack something.
Keep in mind, however, that hotel rates remain high during the winter months due to the area's popularity as a ski destination. Book your room early to enjoy a wider selection of rooms, and reserve refundable flights just in case bad weather cancels your trip.
Summer is another peak tourist season for Banner Elk thanks to the area's outdoor recreational opportunities. Nearby Grandfather Mountain State Park offers 12 miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and beautiful scenery just off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Take the family ziplining, river tubing, caving, or gold panning. If you're traveling with small children, head to Apple Hill Farm for the petting zoo and special events. Hotel rates in Banner Elk are high during the summer, and areas like the Blue Ridge Parkway see more traffic, but you can't beat an adventurous summer in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Key events happening in the summer include the Fourth of July Parade & Party in the Park and the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games.
Visit during the spring or fall to take advantage of lower priced accommodations. Banner Elk experiences four distinct seasons, including lush, fragrant springs and vibrantly colored autumns. There are also fewer crowds during the shoulder seasons, although October can see more traffic as people wander around to look at the leaves. You'll also love the annual festivals like Trunk or Treat and the Woolly Worm Festival.
If you're hoping to save money during your trip to Banner Elk, see if you qualify for a discount. AAA members, seniors, military families, and government employees can save an average of 15 percent off regular room rates simply by booking the appropriate rate and presenting proof of eligibility at check-in.
For instance, seniors can save money at Best Western Mountain Lodge at Banner Elk. Situated near the Banner House Museum, this accommodation offers an outdoor seasonal pool, complimentary breakfast, fitness facilities, a lodge-style lobby, and meeting and banquet facilities. Guest rooms include flat-screen TVs with DVD players, hairdryers, coffee makers, alarm clock radios, ironing facilities, microwaves, mini-fridges, wake-up calls, and turndown service. Upgrade to a two-person whirlpool suite for the ultimate romantic getaway.
Military families can take advantage of special rates at Baymont by Wyndham Boone Near App State. Centrally located in the heart of Boone, this hotel offers an on-site fitness center, indoor pool, business center, free Wi-Fi, and a complimentary breakfast. Guest rooms feature flat-panel TVs, work areas, hairdryers, and plenty of drawers for storing your clothes.
Banner Elk and surrounding areas offer a variety of midrange hotels to give you even more bang for your buck. Meadowbrook Inn on Main Street in Blowing Rock is located one block from upscale restaurants, shops, and galleries. The boutique hotel features a beautiful indoor pool, fitness center, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary hot breakfast. The well-appointed guest rooms feature flat-screen satellite TVs, DVD players, hair dryers, coffee makers, and signature bath amenities. You can even utilize the concierge service to arrange discounted tickets, champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries, and more.
Located close to Daniel Boone Native Gardens and Appalachian State University, Comfort Suites Boone is a wonderful option offering a variety of amenities. Enjoy free coffee in the lobby, a complimentary hot breakfast, free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and a heated indoor pool. Every guest room contains a flat-screen TV, a coffee maker, USB ports, premium bedding, a microwave, and a refrigerator to help you relax and enjoy your stay.
With so much to see and do around Banner Elk, you may be wondering where to start. Grandfather Mountain is a must-see in nearby Linville. This exceptional state park features the Mile High Swinging Bridge, America's highest suspension footbridge, with 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The bridge spans an 80-foot chasm at more than 1 mile in elevation, so you may want to skip this one if you're afraid of heights! Grandfather Mountain State Park also features a fudge shop, gift shop, nature museum, hiking trails, and wildlife habitats.
If you prefer to feel more grounded, head to Linville Caverns and explore underground wonders. Visitors can take a guided tour of the caverns, complete with a chance to experience total darkness. The caverns stay at a comfortable 52 degrees year-round, so you may want to bring a light jacket.
Banner Elk is a hidden gem brimming with natural beauty and adventure. Discover your perfect hotel so you can start exploring!
Below are reviews of the city of Banner Elk, NC from an actual visitor's perspective.
Small town charm
Beautiful town near the original Mast General Store.
Beautiful town near the original Mast General Store.
Everything is close and everyone was friendly.
I went to the White Crow Wedding & Event Venue. Wonderful! Great place to have an afternoon or evening wedding or event. Love the sun setting and being able to see the mountains with a 360 view!
Banner Elk is beautiful!
Beautiful resort town!
Land of Oz and the restaurants AND SCENERY!
Overall beauty of area
Overall beauty of area.