If you're looking for the best things to do in Wilkesboro (and nearby), we've covered you with this NC travel guide!
What do bootleggers, world-class wineries, and NASCAR all have in common? They are all among the best things to do in Wilkesboro, North Carolina, and nearby!
Wilkes County was once known as the Moonshine Capital of the World, but there is so much more than a good “licker” here. We’ll show you exactly what to do in Wilkesboro NC (county seat), the neighboring mountain town of North Wilkesboro, and elsewhere in the county.
You can start by getting in touch with nature at Stone Mountain State Park, hitting the world-renowned mountain bike trails, sipping some moonshine, and even more.
Wilkesboro and its surroundings are perfect for a day trip from many places, but give yourself at least a weekend. There’s plenty to dig into, and we’re featuring as much as possible in this travel guide.
Because there is so much to share, here’s how we’ve organized the guide:
- Where is Wilkesboro?
- The History of Wilkesboro
- Where to Stay
- Annual Events in Wilkesboro
- Year-Round Things to Do in Wilkesboro
- Restaurants in Wilkesboro
- Where to Drink in Wilkesboro
- Outdoor Things to Do in Wilkesboro
- More Things to Do in Wilkes County and Nearby
Whether you’re a new resident, a frequent visitor, or a local, we’re leaving no detail behind. If you live in the Wilkesboro area and are wondering, “What are the best things to do near me?” we think this NC travel guide will help you out!
Read More: 100+ Wonderful Places to Visit in Western North Carolina
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Where is Wilkesboro?
- Wilkesboro is located in one of the most beautiful regions in North Carolina.
- It’s a part of the Yadkin Valley (home to excellent wineries), the High Country, and the Foothills of Western North Carolina.
- Wilkesboro is the county seat of Wilkes County and shares part of its name with neighbor North Wilkesboro.
- This town is an easy day trip away from many places in North Carolina, including:
- Winston-Salem (50 minutes)
- Boone (45 minutes)
- Greensboro (1 hour 15 minutes)
- Charlotte (1 hour 25 minutes)
- Even closer is the town of Elkin (30 minutes), which is shared by Wilkes and Surry counties.
- Many people travel to Wilkesboro via US-421, but you can also access the town via some beautiful scenic highways, including NC-268.
- According to the 2020 census, Wilkesboro’s population is about 3,400.
Read More: The NC Tripping North Carolina Travel Map
The History of Wilkesboro
- Before it became Wilkesboro, the land that makes up the town today was occupied by Native Americans. Tutelo and Cherokee people were two of the area’s known inhabitants.
- Wilkes County was formed in 1777 from Surry County and was named after British Parliamentarian and American Patriot John Wilkes. It’s unfortunate that he’s not the most famous John Wilkes.
- The county seat, Wilkesboro, was incorporated in 1847.
- Thanks to Prohibition, Wilkesboro sits in the heart of Moonshine Country. The area’s “Moonshine Capital of the World” isn’t a designation given out lightly. The illegal, untaxed whiskey that was distilled by the “light of the moon” reached its most infamous period in history during Prohibition.
- Wilkes County moonshiners, in particular, are credited with the steamer still, a technology used in the railroad industry that produces a superior taste. Previously, moonshine was made by putting a heat source directly under the still, resulting in constant stirring and burning.
- Wilkes County is also where NASCAR was born. NASCAR made its first run on the dirt track of North Wilkesboro Speedway in 1947. The garages and backroads between North Wilkesboro and Charlotte paved the way for both liquor and auto racing.
- Moonshine and Auto Racing aren’t the only major players in the area. Music has been bringing talented artists to Wilkesboro every year for more than a quarter of a century, with MerleFest heading a packed lineup of the arts in Wilkes County.
- In the past, musical guests have included Dolly Parton, Elvis Costello, Earl Scruggs, and regular appearances from our favorite North Carolina musicians, The Avett Brothers.
Read More: 100+ Unique Things to Do in North Carolina
Visiting Wilkesboro Today
History is all around Wilkesboro and its neighbors. You’ll notice that whether you live in the area or have a trip planned.
Where to Stay in Wilkes County
- Hotels in Wilkesboro include the Hampton Inn (1300 S Collegiate Dr, Wilkesboro, NC) which is close to Wilkes Community College. The Holiday Inn Express (1700 Winkler St, Wilkesboro, NC) is close to both downtown Wilkesboro and North Wilkesboro, just off US-421 Business after the freeway portion ends.
- There are also some beautiful places to go camping in Wilkesboro and nearby. If you’re in town for MerleFest, Lowe’s Park at Rivers Edge near Call Family Distillers transforms into a campground for that event.
- Moravian Falls Campground (536 Falls Rd, Moravian Falls, NC) and W. Kerr Scott Dam (499 Reservoir Rd, Wilkesboro, NC) are available throughout the year but do fill up around Merlefest and other busy times. Once you see them in person, you’ll see why!
- Leatherwood Mountains (512 Meadow Rd, Ferguson, NC) also deserves a mention when thinking of places to stay in the area. This premier resort will take you away from everything, with luxury accommodations, a restaurant, bar, horseback riding, and more await you!
Annual Events in Wilkesboro
These annual events are among the best things to do in Wilkesboro.
- MerleFest (April): Starting as a fundraiser for Wilkes Community College (WCC), MerleFest quickly grew into one of the nation’s most iconic music festivals. Every April, the campus of WCC floods with music lovers from all over the world to see iconic performers.
- Brushy Mountain Peach and Heritage Festival (July): Held the last Saturday in July. The Brushy Mountain Peach and Heritage Festival mixes local peaches, crafts, food, and more!
- Carolina in the Fall (September): Carolina in the Fall brings bands to Downtown Wilkesboro, typically on the third weekend in September. Food trucks, vineyards, breweries, and more join them!
- Brushy Mountain Apple Festival (October): North Wilkesboro’s Brushy Mountain Apple Festival is the perfect fall event! This one-day arts-and-crafts festival is the largest fundraiser for Wilkes County and has many apple products.
- Additional Wilkesboro events include the following:
- Concerts in the Commons (Second Saturdays from May to September)
- Prohibition (April)
- Heritage Square Splash Pad (Late April to September or October)
- Faithfest (August)
- Christmas in the Commons (December).
Do you have any annual events in Wilkesboro to share? We’d love to know about them. Tell us in the comments or send us an email!
Read More: Christmas in North Carolina (the Best Holiday Events)
Things to Do in Wilkesboro
Those events indeed belong on your calendar, but these are the things to do near Wilkesboro, NC, throughout the year!
Downtown Wilkesboro
Downtown Wilkesboro is a charming collection of historic buildings, featuring shops and restaurants. Main Street is divided into East and West by Bridge Street, and you’ll find the fantastic Doc Watson Mural on the corner of Main and Bridge.
Community Commons Park (102 W Main St, Wilkesboro, NC) is situated near the intersection of West Main Street. The park features a stage and a concert lawn, and it connects to the Yadkin River Greenway.
Before we head north, though, there are even more places to stop in, shop, and say hello in Downtown Wilkesboro:
- Branded Boro Boutique (107 W Main St, Wilkesboro, NC): women’s clothing.
- The Vintage Corner (103B E Main St, Wilkesboro, NC): guitars, vinyl records, and the Doc Watson mural fittingly on the Bridge St side of the building!
- Suck it Up Milkshake (100 W Main St, Wilkesboro): over-the-top milkshakes, boba, and even ice cream nachos!
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Doc Watson Mural
Address: 101 W Main St, Wilkesboro, NC
The Doc Watson mural is officially known as “Where the Mountains Begin.” It brightly depicts the North Carolina music legend strumming a guitar.
The late Wes Gregory (1967-2015) designed the mural, which the Town of Wilkesboro sponsored. In fact, this was Gregory’s last known artwork.
You can find the mural at the corner of Bridge Street and Main Street, on the side of the building where the Vintage Corner is located.
Read More: Remembering Doc Watson (35 Facts About the NC-born Music Icon)
Wilkes Heritage Museum
Address: 100 E Main St, Wilkesboro, NC
Even if you’re not there for the summer splash pad, one of the first things to do in Wilkesboro is to check out the Wilkes Heritage Museum. Opening as a non-profit in 1968, the exhibits detail the history of Wilkes County, aka the “Moonshine Capital of the World.”
Take an in-depth tour of how NASCAR started by moonshining and evading the law. Perhaps you’ll be interested in learning about the Siamese twins who lived in Wilkes County and fathered 21 children.
The Wilkes Heritage Museum is also home to the Olde Wilkes Jail, which held Union prisoners, including the famous escape artist Otto Wood, during the Civil War.
Finally, the Heritage Museum hosts a series of fundraising ghost tours on select dates throughout the year.
Read More: NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte (An Awesome Tribute to Stock Car Racing Legends)
Wilkes Community College
Address: 1328 S Collegiate Dr, Wilkesboro, NC
Wilkes Community College is a massive asset to Wilkesboro and the surrounding area. The public community college was established in 1964 and has satellite campuses in both Ashe and Alleghany counties.
Along with offering classes to a few thousand students, WCC is also the site of Merlefest and various other events throughout the year.
Merle Watson Garden of the Senses
Address: 1527 S Collegiate Dr, Wilkesboro, NC
The first MerleFest was put on as a way to raise money for the WCC’s Horticulture Department. B Townes, a professor at WCC, connected with Bluegrass legend Doc Watson and asked him to play.
He agreed to do so under the agreement that they would memorialize Watson’s son, Merle, who died in 1985 tragically, with a garden. Today’s garden is filled with beautiful plants and even a wall with Braille plaques.
Read More: Great Things to Do in Boone
Restaurants in Wilkesboro
Hungry like a wolf in Wilkesboro? We’ve rounded up a couple of great restaurants you should check out while you’re in town. Looking for more? Check out this guide to Restaurants in Wilkes County for even more bites!
While researching everything to do in Wilkesboro, you’ll be surprised to find so many eclectic and delicious dining options, too! Honorable mention to Nine for offering food along with these great places.
- Dooley’s Tavern and Grill (102 E Main St Suite 1, Wilkesboro, NC): Across the street from Two Boros (see below) and owned by the same awesome people. They make everything in-house and have the largest gluten-free selection in the area! The Copper Barrel Burger is absolutely delicious and receives a 10/10 from us.
- Amalfis Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria (1919 US-421 G, Wilkesboro NC): If you’re craving Italian, check out Amalfis, where true Italians carefully and authentically serve each dish with a love for service.
- Glenn’s (800 River St, Wilkesboro, NC): Locals will tell you (and us, too!) that Glenn’s is a fantastic spot for a classic drive-up diner.
- Dean’s Southern Bistro (1510 US-421 Business, Wilkesboro, NC): Grab some tasty comfort food at Dean’s, and don’t forget to grab a piece of cake for dessert or to go!
- Mr. Toro (117 W Main St, Wilkesboro, NC): Just across from the Commons is Mr. Toro, a wonderful Mexican/Salvadorian restaurant. Whether you’re seeking good pupusas, tacos, or pastries, this is one place you NEED to visit in Wilkesboro.
- Talia’s Drive-Thru (1838 B, US-421) and at Wilkes Community College (Alumni Hall): Talia’s has a Drive-Thru location and one on the campus of WCC. The North Wilkesboro-based group of coffee locations (809 Main St, North Wilkesboro, NC) will win your heart with a couple of shots of espresso automatically added to your cup of brewed coffee. They have pastries, too, which pair nicely for that jolt of caffeine!
Read More: Delicious Restaurants in Wilkesboro and North Wilkesboro
Where to Drink in Wilkesboro (Responsibly)
One of the best things to do in Wilkesboro is to sample (responsibly) its alcohol options. Please have a designated driver ready if you plan to imbibe, as we want you to continue exploring North Carolina safely.
Call Family Distillers
Address: 1611 Industrial Dr, Wilkesboro, NC
Website
As the Moonshine Capital of the World, visiting Call Family Distillers is mandatory. Known for evading the law and smuggling moonshine in fast cars, Willie Clay Call was considered uncatchable by the ATF.
Today, his family legally distills and no longer has to run while creating quality moonshine.
As far as moonshiners go, this family runs what might be one of the most essential distilleries in North Carolina. They have the most significant direct steam injection, still custom-built to hold 2,100 gallons, producing a smoother and more flavorful moonshine than direct heating.
The distillery at Call Family also serves as a museum. From the original outfitted cars of Willie Clay Call that were never caught by the police to the still ones he used, the memorabilia inside that building is outstanding.
Clay Call’s son and grandsons are still distilling–because moonshine runs deep in their blood. Ask as many questions as you’d like because Laura Call is simply a delight and a wealth of knowledge and stories.
Merle’s
Address: 106 E Main St, Wilkesboro, NC
Website
I don’t say this often, but Merle’s might just be my favorite little cocktail bar in North Carolina. Sitting at the edge of downtown in a quaint, 150+ year-old cottage, Merle’s is a community-driven cocktail bar that truly honors the artistry in craft beverages.
From smoky Mezcal with Aztec chili chocolate bitters to Call Family Distillers Coffee Liqueur and egg white, the creative cocktails at Merle’s are always outstanding. Not a drinker? Don’t worry! Merle’s also does zero-proof drinks with just as much care. Merle’s is an inclusive space in Wilkesboro with amazing people, events, and drinks!
Stardust Cellars
Address: 4780 Statesville Road, North Wilkesboro, NC
Website
Looking for a unique drinking experience? Stardust Cellars is an off-the-grid winery specializing in ancestral craft wine and mead!
Stardust Cellars is a biodynamic meadery and winery that combines traditional winemaking methods with modern sustainable practices. If you’ve never tried mead before, this is the perfect place for a first sip. Their award-winning creations include unique options like “Honey Buzzed,” a tart semisweet session mead, as well as a rotating lineup of wines, ciders, and craft beers.
But a visit here is about more than just what’s in your glass. Stardust Cellars hosts disc golf, live music, and trivia nights, all within a welcoming taproom atmosphere. The venue also doubles as a spot for weddings, parties, and community gatherings- and yes, it’s both family- and pet-friendly. Whether you’re a wine lover, curious about mead, or simply looking for a fun place to unwind in Wilkes County, Stardust Cellars delivers a creative and memorable experience.
Read More: 20 Awesome Wineries near Charlotte (Vineyards Within 2 Hours)
Two Boros Brewery
Address: 111 E Main St, Wilkesboro, NC
Website
Two Boros is the only brewery in Wilkesboro, but it packs a punch for craft beer lovers! Located in the historic 1880s JT Ferguson Building in downtown Wilkesboro, they serve a range of beers guaranteed to please everyone.
Try a hoppy IPA or a creamy stout, or opt for their Good Gold Almighty, a Belgian Strong Golden Ale. Two Boros also has an excellent wood-fired pizza menu for when you get hungry!
Read More: 80+ of the Best North Carolina Breweries
Wineries near Wilkesboro
Sitting in the heart of the Yadkin Valley wine region, Wilkes County is home to some of the best wineries in North Carolina. If you’re planning a trip and looking for wineries near Wilkesboro, these are some of our favorites. Each one offers beautiful views, unique flavors, and a chance to experience the area’s rich winemaking tradition.
- Elkin Creek Vineyard (318 Elkin Creek Mill Rd, Elkin, NC) This family-friendly winery is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Kids can splash in the creek while adults enjoy tastings, and on Sundays, the vineyard makes fresh dough for their beloved wood-fired pizzas.
- Jones von Drehle Vineyards & Winery (964 Old Railroad Grade Rd, Thurmond, NC)
An estate winery dedicated to producing high-quality wines exclusively from its 30 acres of vines. The tasting room offers breathtaking views that perfectly complement each sip, and features a fantastic outdoor amphitheater with live music. - Piccione Vineyards (2364 Cedar Forest Rd, Ronda, NC) Located right next to Raffaldini, this winery is owned by the Sicilian Piccione family and specializes in Italian-style wines. Visitors can enjoy pours of Sangiovese, Montepulciano, and their popular Chardonnay- all crafted from estate-grown grapes.
- Raffaldini Vineyards & Winery (450 Groce Rd, Ronda, NC) One of the most renowned wineries in North Carolina, Raffaldini offers award-winning wines paired with some of the most scenic views in the Yadkin Valley. It’s a destination in itself for wine lovers.
- Roaring River Vineyards (493 Brewer Mill Rd, Traphill, NC) A hidden gem along the river, this winery goes beyond tastings. Guests can dine at the on-site restaurant and biergarten, stay overnight in the mountain lodge or RV park, and enjoy one of the most relaxing winery experiences in the county.
Read More: Kid-Friendly North Carolina Wineries (10 Wonderful Choices for All to Enjoy!)
Outdoor Things to do in Wilkesboro and Wilkes County
If you love the outdoors, then Wilkesboro is a fantastic place for you to enjoy North Carolina’s scenic trails. From greenways to outdoor water recreation, there’s a lot to do and see in Wilkes County!
Cub Creek Mountain Bike Trails
Address: 206 S Bridge St, Wilkesboro, NC
If you aren’t up for the rock gardens and challenges of the Warrior Creek trail, then Cub Creek is the perfect outdoor activity for you! The trails at Cub Creek Park are smooth with very little elevation change, perfect for beginners and nature lovers.
Don’t forget to visit the suspension bridge and tunnel of trees, arguably the most memorable portion of the trail!
Carter Falls
If you’re searching for things to do in Wilkesboro, a visit to Carter Falls should be at the top of your list. This 50-foot waterfall is made up of stunning upper and lower tiers and is located in the Wilkes County section of nearby Elkin. Before opening to the public, Carter Falls actually powered the town of Elkin with electricity until 1967.
Today, Carter Falls is part of Elkin’s growing trail system, giving visitors five different routes to reach the waterfall. Whether you want a quick adventure on the one-mile round-trip hike, a longer 4.5-mile trail, or even a guided tour, there are options for every skill level. It’s the perfect mix of history, hiking, and natural beauty—making it one of the most rewarding outdoor experiences when exploring Wilkesboro and the surrounding area.
Rendezvous Mountain State Park
Rendezvous Mountain State Park is a hidden treasure that locals have enjoyed for years, offering a mix of scenic trails, peaceful picnic spots, and sweeping views of Pilot Mountain, Hanging Rock, and the Sauratown range. It’s the kind of place that makes exploring Wilkes County unforgettable and easily earns a spot among the best things to do in Wilkesboro.
The forest features more than 5 miles of trails through hardwoods, including the 4.25-mile Amadahy Waterfalls Trail, which follows Purlear Creek. The name “Amadahy,” meaning “forest water” in Cherokee, though, be prepared for a strenuous hike that takes about three hours. For families or those seeking a lighter option, the 0.6-mile Forest Ridge Trail is a kid-friendly choice with a story walk built right into the path.
Beyond hiking, Rendezvous Mountain emphasizes hands-on learning. Visitors can join ranger-led programs, educational workshops, and interpretive experiences that make the forest as enriching as it is beautiful.
Stone Mountain State Park
One of the most rewarding (and our favorite!) things to do in Wilkesboro is exploring the trails at Stone Mountain State Park, a 5,700-acre natural wonder known for its massive exposed granite dome. This striking landmark can be seen from several trails, including the Stone Mountain Loop Trail and the Wolf Rock Trail, as well as from the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 232.5. The park’s dramatic landscape makes it a bucket-list destination for hikers, nature lovers, and photographers.
With more than 22 miles of hiking trails, the park offers something for everyone. Adventurous hikers can tackle the Stone Mountain Loop Trail, a challenging 4.5-mile trek that rewards you with panoramic views from the summit and a close look at the park’s namesake dome. Families or those seeking a shorter outing will enjoy the Hutchinson Homestead, a restored mid-19th-century mountain farmstead located along the trail, which gives visitors a glimpse into the region’s history.
Waterfalls are another highlight of the park. Stone Mountain Falls, a 200-foot cascade, is one of the most iconic sights and is well worth the climb to reach it. For a more secluded spot, head to Widow’s Creek Falls, a local favorite where you can wade in the cool water or enjoy a picnic nearby. In addition to hiking, the park is also popular for fishing, rock climbing, and even swimming in its pristine mountain streams.
Stone Mountain State Park combines outdoor adventure with cultural history, offering a unique blend of experiences that make Wilkes County special. Whether you’re looking for a strenuous hike with incredible views, a family-friendly outing, or simply a peaceful place to connect with nature, this park is a can’t-miss stop when visiting the area.
W. Kerr Scott Dam
Address: 499 Reservoir Rd, Wilkesboro, NC
Fish, boat, hike, or camp at W. Kerr Scott Dam! This nearly 1,500-acre lake provides a picturesque backdrop for a variety of water recreation activities. The Army Corps of Engineers manages the park, which features six boat launches and three campgrounds with over 200 campsites.
Drop your boat in the water or hit the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail (OVT). If you are seeking recreation rentals at W. Kerr Scott Dam, then Foothills Outdoor Adventures can provide boats at a reasonable cost.
At Kerr Scott, there are also 40 miles of mountain biking trails, including the Warrior Creek Mountain Bike Trail. It took ten years to build the 13-mile trail, which is known as one of the best mountain bike trails throughout North Carolina. You can boot off rocks, bank tricky turns, and enjoy beautiful mountain scenes here!
The “super-stacks” are the most talked-about feature of this trail.
Before you head out, though, stop by the Environmental Education Center. Kid-friendly (and all ages-friendly) exhibits await to educate you on the area’s ecology.
Read More: Colorful Fall Hikes in North Carolina (+ 20 Beautiful Places to Explore!)
Yadkin River Greenway
The Yadkin River Greenway stretches 7.5 miles throughout multiple sections along the Yadkin River. You can always bring your own bike, but if not, Cook’s Outfitters in North Wilkesboro will set you up with a bike.
They even have e-bikes, which are always super fun to zoom around on! Stop by, pick up your bike, and then head down to the river and enjoy this scenic ride!
Things to Do in North Wilkesboro
Wilkes County is really a story of Two Boros, as North Wilkesboro is Wilkesboro’s nearest neighbor. Here’s a look at annual events and things to do in North Wilkesboro.
North Wilkesboro Events
- Wilkes County Farmers’ Market (Saturdays from May to September)
- Wilkes County Agricultural Fair (July)
- Brushy Mountain Apple Festival (First Saturday in October)
Things to Do in North Wilkesboro
If you’re planning a visit to Wilkesboro, don’t miss North Wilkesboro- a town that blends small-town charm with big experiences. Whether you’re here for local dining, hiking trails, or cultural events, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do in North Wilkesboro year-round.
North Wilkesboro Speedway
Address: 381 Speedway Ln, North Wilkesboro, NC
Website
North Wilkesboro is where NASCAR was born. NASCAR made its first run on the dirt track of North Wilkesboro Speedway in 1947. The garages and backroads between North Wilkesboro and Charlotte paved the way for both liquor and auto racing.
In 2022, the racing mecca opened, and races returned to North Wilkesboro. Let us all rejoice!
Read More: How to See Speedway Christmas in Concord
Downtown North Wilkesboro
Downtown North Wilkesboro is a bit like its neighbor but unique enough to explore and come away with distinct memories. Here are a few fun places to visit:
- The Block (105 6th St, North Wilkesboro, NC): a family-friendly entertainment center with trampolines, roller skating, and more.
- Cook’s Sports (1402 Willow Ln, North Wilkesboro, NC): Cook’s is a name you’ll see all over Wilkes County. This outfitter will prepare you for just about any outdoor scenario.
- Foothills Collectibles (105 6th St, North Wilkesboro, NC): in the same building as the Block and the perfect place to find valuable sports cards and collectibles.
- Hero Clash Collectibles (217 9th St, North Wilkesboro, NC): comic store with new releases, back issues, and something for everyone!
- Liberty Theatre (816 Main St, North Wilkesboro, NC): a two-screen theater with the perfect old-fashioned vibe and discounted tickets. Additionally, they’ve been crafting the world’s finest popcorn since 1932!
- Key City Antiques (502 Main St, North Wilkesboro, NC): more than 90 vendors who sell just about everything you’re looking to find!
- Wilkes County Hardware (324 10th St, North Wilkesboro, NC): in business since the 1940s, this hardware store has it all, including crafts from the community.
Wilkes Arts Gallery
Address: 913 C St, North Wilkesboro, NC
Website
Displaying works by local artists since 1962, the Wilkes Arts Gallery in North Wilkesboro is where we’ll start. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the community’s creativity on display.
Wander the 3,500 square feet of exhibition space or sign up for one of their youth or adult workshops.
If you’re visiting, they also have an incredible gift shop featuring items from regional artisans for you to take home as a souvenir!
North Wilkesboro Restaurants
North Wilkesboro also has some amazing restaurants and here are a few of our favorites.
- Anchor Coffee (1320 W D St, North Wilkesboro, NC): Anchor is a great place to stop for an early morning cup of hot coffee, cold brew, or any other caffeinated concoction you seek.
- Talia’s Espresso (809 Main St, North Wilkesboro, NC): Coffee is the perfect way to start your Talia’s experience, but don’t forget to grab something tasty for breakfast, too!
- Brushy Mountain Smokehouse and Creamery (201 Wilkesboro Ave, North Wilkesboro, NC): Tasty barbecue and homemade ice cream are the talk of the town at Brushy Mountain Smokehouse.
- Cinder Bistro (532 Main St, North Wilkesboro, NC): Owned by the same amazing folks who brought you Copper Barrel Distillery, and next door to boot! I don’t want to start a fight, but you may find the best barbecue in Wilkes County here. Sunday brunch is another reason to add this place to your itinerary.
- 6th & Main (210 6th St, North Wilkesboro, NC): Fine dining awaits at 6th & Main, and you’d better reserve a table after glancing over the menu. Let Executive Chef Victoria Smith prepare your perfect steak, seafood, or whatever else you desire.
Things to Do Near Wilkesboro NC
Wilkesboro and North Wilkesboro are surrounded by some familiar favorites, including Elkin (30 minutes), Boone (40 minutes), and Lenoir in Caldwell County (40 minutes).
Wilkes County is one of North Carolina’s largest areas, meaning there are even more places to explore beyond Wilkesboro and North Wilkesboro.
Read More: 20+ Day Trips from Boone
Elkin
Most of Elkin lies in Surry County, but some parts of the town cross over into Wilkes County, so we’ll include it in this guide. Don’t forget to head into Downtown Elkin for a meal, a walk, and a show at the Reeves Theater.
Of course, you’ll want to venture out to some of the best Yadkin Valley wineries, which are located near Wilkesboro, as well as Elkin.
Read More: 25+ Beautiful Waterfalls near Boone (within 2 Hours)
Ferguson
Ferguson is a fascinating town in Wilkes County, with numerous places worth exploring. Here are a few of them:
- Whippoorwill Village and Academy: Located on an 18th-century family farm, Whippoorwill Village is a hub of cultural history. There is a museum dedicated to Tom Dooley (including a lock of Laura Foster’s hair), a cabin Daniel Boone used when hunting, an art gallery, and a one-room schoolhouse that educated North Carolina Poet Laureate Larkin Pearson. Enjoy walking the grounds or come for Tom Dooley Day and the Daniel Boone Festival!
- Tom Dooley’s Grave: “Hang down your head, Tom Dooley, hang down your head and cry.” Searching for Tom Dooley’s grave is one of the most interesting things to do in Wilkesboro. Tom Dula was subsequently accused, convicted, and hung in Statesville for the murder of Laura Foster in 1868, but his gravestone can be found in Wilkes County. There is still some controversy over what really happened, but if you go to the Wilkes Heritage Museum, they’ll give you the real scoop! The song “Ballad of Tom Dooley” was made popular by The Kingston Trio in 1958, and versions were also recorded by Bing Crosby, Doc Watson, and even the Grateful Dead.
- If saddling up and seeing it all from atop a horse is your way to go, then Leatherwood Mountains will top your list of things to do in Wilkesboro. You can ride, eat, and sleep at this beautiful mountain resort. Stay for the week, or just come by for some horseback riding. Their equine center is one of the best in North Carolina, bringing people from all over the Southeast to ride their trails and mountains.
Read More: 50+ Important Facts About Statesville
Blue Ridge Parkway Stops Nearby
The Blue Ridge Parkway is easily accessible from Wilkesboro. Naturally, we are always on the hunt for hikes and waterfalls along that iconic byway.
- Cascade Falls at E.B. Jeffress Park (MP 272) is an awesome one to reach via an easy, kid-friendly hike. Take the 0.8-mile loop to an upper overlook of the 250-foot waterfalls and take in the sounds of rushing water! If you are up for the challenge, you can continue down to the lower overlook for a different view, but this is not as kid-friendly.
- Another Blue Ridge Parkway stop set worth investigating sits between Mileposts 238 and 241. At Doughton Park, you’ll find incredible displays of azaleas and rhododendrons in the spring. More fun inside the Doughton’s 7,000 acres includes Brinegar Cabin and one of the largest campgrounds on the parkway. You can also hike than 30 miles of trails, enjoy a picnic, or cast a reel in Basin Cove.
Read More: The Best NC Blue Ridge Parkway Hikes
Perry Lowe Orchards
Address: 8741 NC-16, Moravian Falls, NC
Website
Nestled in the foothills of Wilkes County, Perry Lowe Orchards has been a staple of North Carolina apple growing for six generations. A visit here is one of the sweetest things to do in Wilkesboro, especially if you’re a fan of fresh, local flavors.
The orchard grows more than 40 apple varieties, which are used to create unique pressed ciders and dehydrated apple snacks. During the fall season, visitors can enjoy U-Pick apples, complete with tractor rides, a playground, a jump pad, a mega slide, and even a pumpkin patch—making it a favorite stop for families.
If you don’t have time for picking, the orchard’s market store is just as rewarding. It’s stocked with fresh-picked apples, apple cider donuts made daily, hard cider, and a variety of locally crafted farm products. Whether you come for the activities, the cider, or the donuts, Perry Lowe Orchards is a must-visit destination in Wilkes County.
Moravian Falls
Located at the Moravian Falls Campground, this roadside North Carolina waterfall is absolutely beautiful. To see the falls, you do need to ask permission from the campground, as a cabin for paying guests is located at the base of the falls.
Named after the Moravian community who settled in the area in 1753, the waterfall flows 60 feet across a wide rock face. Pack a lunch and settle down for a beautiful picnic.
For more history on the Moravians, check out Old Salem in Winston-Salem!
Paradise Valley Farm
Address: 650 Glenn Carlton Road, Boomer, NC
Website
This family-owned farm, located in the heart of Wilkes County, combines hands-on agritourism with stunning scenery. The farm is best known for its friendly Scottish Highland cows and its historic 1930s barn, which also serves as a picture-perfect wedding venue.
On a tour of the 65-acre property, you’ll learn about the process of raising cattle and even get the chance to cook your own burger. For a memorable weekend experience, visitors can also join Yoga in the Barn, held on Friday mornings. With its mix of education, relaxation, and farm fun, Paradise Valley Farm is one of the most unique outdoor attractions in the Wilkesboro area.
Blue Ridge Craft Trails
Beyond music, there’s a wonderful arts scene to discuss when thinking up things to do in Wilkesboro, North Wilkesboro, and beyond! Following Wilkes County’s section of Blue Ridge Craft Trails is the perfect adventure through the county.
Here’s a list of places included:
- Wilkes County Heritage Museum
- Old Wilkes Jail
- Call Family Distillers
- Wilkes County Hardware
- Wilkes Art Gallery
- More Here
We even recommend crossing the county line toward Lenoir and visiting the WNC Sculpture Center. You’ll find art around the building in the WNC Sculpture Park, and if you’re lucky, they may be pouring iron, hosting live music, or doing something else that’s just as interesting.
Read More: Haywood County’s Blue Ridge Craft Trails
Ready for These Things to Do in Wilkesboro?
Wilkesboro is where the mountains of Western North Carolina begin, offering an exciting history rich in moonshine, NASCAR, and music.
However, the pulse of this small town is the community of people who love where they live. Some locals were born and bred here, but many business owners fell in love with Wilkesboro and never left!
There are so many things to do in Wilkesboro that they couldn’t imagine living their lives anywhere else. From an outside perspective, this suggests an inviting community of people who are genuinely passionate about their work and where they live.
A trail isn’t just a trail for them–instead, it’s a trail that has been lovingly dug out and maintained by a local community group. A restaurant isn’t just there to feed people but to provide a space and quality food for memories.
Wilkes County has something special; we think you need to experience it yourself!
If you’re familiar with this area, we’d love to know about your favorite things to do in Wilkesboro. For those of you who haven’t visited yet, tell us the first thing you will do when you arrive!
Don’t forget to share your Wilkesboro adventures with us in our North Carolina Travel Facebook Group. Of course, before you do that, let’s take a look at places to go around Wilkes County (and beyond)!
More Things to Do in Wilkesboro and Wilkes County
We’ve created a number of travel guides that cover things to do in Wilkesboro, elsewhere in Wilkes County, and beyond in North Carolina!
We love Wilkesboro and we love NC Tripping! Thanks for sharing some of the many things to do in Wilkes.
The article avers that Old Wilkesboro Jail, built in 1859, held Union prisoners and the outlaw Otto Wood during the Civil War… Though it was originally built with the idea that it might, the Old Jail never housed the first Union prisoner… The incarceration of 13-year-old Otto Wood did not occur until years after the conclusion of the Civil War.