Weaverville, NC

Weaverville in the 1800s was home to grand hotels with visitors escaping the heat of southern summers. Author O. Henry spent some of his last days here, regaining his health before returning to New York City. Today, Main Street offers a lot for visitors with some impressive restaurants, galleries and artist studios. And it's only 10 minutes from both downtown Asheville and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Artisans on Main (14 N Main) has four artist studios and a big gallery featuring 30+ regional artists. The very fun Weaverville Art Safari is twice a year with a self-guided scenic driving tour to artist studios in the area (read more). And they have a fantastic street art festival each September, Art in Autumn.

At Mangum Pottery (16 N Main), browse the gallery up front and watch potters at work in the studio. Two doors down is Miya Gallery (20 N Main) with fine art and craft with big variety at all price levels, representing 100 local & regional artists. Curtis Wright Outfitters (24 N Main) has all your need for fly fishing, including outdoor apparel and guide services. Maggie B’s Wine & Specialty Store (10C S Main St) sells wine, beer, meats, cheeses, wine accessories, and a little of everything else.

Other great stops near downtown is Wild Mountain Bee Supply (23 Merrimon Ave) and Crucible Glassworks (60 Clarks Chapel Road) with glassblower Michael Hatch. Weaverville Yoga (7 Florida Avenue) is a welcoming studio for visitors, perfect for a stretch and deep breath of pure mountain air during a visit.

Weaverville Restaurants

• Twisted Laurel (10-A South Main Street) has Mediterranean-inspired menu with American twists and a well-stocked bar.
• Well-Bred Bakery & Café (26 N Main St) is a local's favorite and offers unexpected delights both sweet and savory, with gourmet pastries, artisan breads, fine gourmet foods and shade-grown, organic coffees.
• Blue Mountain Pizza & Brew Pub (55 N Main) This locally owned pizzeria has a full Italian menu, American and Belgian Ales from their brewery and homemade ice cream.
• Soba Sushi and Noodles (76 N Main St) has the highest quality sushi and sashimi.
• Glass Onion (18 N Main) features Northern Italian dishes, made "global" by the chefs insistence on using local ingredients. Enjoy the freshest seafood, and all pastas and desserts are homemade.
• Stoney Knob Café (337 Merrimon Ave) is a funky spot that's been a hit with locals for many years. Their whimsical blend of artifacts and artful spaces are complimented with provocative American, Greek and European Cuisine and impressive wine list.

Lake Louise Park is a wonderful gathering place for folks of all ages, with picnic tables and shelters, grills, playground, a fitness area and a 6/10-mile walking trail.

Zebulon B. Vance Birthplace State Historic Site is the restored pioneer childhood homestead of North Carolina's Civil War governor. Nestled in the picturesque Reems Creek Valley below the mountains, about five miles from downtown Weaverville. See our Vance Birthplace Guide.

The Blue Ridge Parkway is about 8 miles east of downtown Weaverville, via Reems Creek Road and Ox Creek Road. Near the Parkway, find section of the Mountain-to-Sea Trail that takes you on a beautiful hike to Rattlesnake Lodge.

See more of our Coolest NC Mountain Small Towns.