Established in 1993 in the Western North Carolina Mountain community of Banner Elk, The Art Cellar Gallery has continued to offer the artwork of the area’s most beloved artists, reaching throughout the Southeast and nationally to present an exciting variety of works in a broad range of styles and mediums. From primitive to realistic, impressionistic to abstract, the gallery features fine quality artwork by both established and emerging artists that is unlike anywhere else in the Southeast.
The Art Cellar Gallery provides our clients with a relaxed and comfortable exhibition space in which to select art which becomes treasured additions to their collections, large or small. We also provide corporate and private consulting and placement as well as purchase on approval and payment options. Our in house Frame Shop offers museum quality conservation framing services, consultations, and other specialty custom framing services.
The 45th Annual Woolly Worm Festival takes place the 3rd weekend of October, falling on the 15th and 16th in 2022, in the quaint mountain town of Banner Elk North Carolina. We think it’s the perfect time to share some tips that will make your experience a good one while at the festival and getting to the festival.
- Yes. There is an admission cost to get into the festival because all proceeds are given back to our community to enhance our schools, children’s programs, and to promote businesses and tourism in Avery County.
- Yes. There is ample parking, but the free parking is on a first come first serve basis and non-profit organizations are authorized to charge parking fees for overflow parking.
- Pets are not allowed, other than Woolly Worms. We regret that Doggie Daycare will not be available. PLEASE DO NOT BRING YOUR PETS.
- Yes. VISA and Mastercard are accepted for festival admission.
What a great time to think of the holidays. Purchase great handcrafted wares from our juried artists, ranging from fun items to those for decorating your house with amazing furniture. Who wouldn’t love a nice piece of jewelry or pottery under the Christmas tree? Admission tickets can be purchased online at WoollyWorm.com so there is no need to stand in line as there is a limited number of races, it is important to register to race your worm as soon as you arrive at the festival! Remember, the winning Woolly Worm on Saturday earns the esteemed honor of predicting the High Country’s winter weather and receives a huge pot of $$$ – $1000 to be exact! If you can’t make it to the festival on Saturday – don’t worry – we begin the fun again on Sunday from 9am until 4pm. The fun starts Saturday morning at 9am and the woolly worm races begin shortly after with Mr. Woolly Worm and Merryweather leading the fun! On Sunday at 1:00 is the Corporate Woolly Worm Wace. The winning worm earns a trophy and bragging rights for its business. Call the Avery County Chamber of Commerce at 828-898-5605 for more information.
Celebrating 40 years in 2022 and one of the most established Fine Art Galleries in the High Country of Western North Carolina, Carlton Gallery features a spirited collection of Art Works in all media by local, regional, and national artists. Originally established as a small fiber studio in 1982, the gallery today presents an inspiring array of original artworks and exceptional gift ideas for visitors and collectors, including paintings in oil, acrylic, watercolor and mixed media, along with clay, jewelry, sculpture, wood, glass, wearable fiber and more. The gallery conveys a casually, elegant atmosphere with the spirit of the local community and summer residents. The gallery conducts Artists’ Receptions along with featured Exhibitions throughout the season. Workshops are instructed by standing gallery artists in oil, acrylic, watercolor, drawing, expressive – intuitive arts, and mixed media collage. These workshops include traditional and abstract landscapes, still life, figurative and visionary.
Gallery owner, Toni Carlton, extends a heartfelt appreciation to all the artists, literally hundreds, who have created, inspired and supported her vision to promote the work of local, regional, and national artists for 40 years. Their fine art and contemporary crafts have graced the walls, pedestals, jewelry cases and shelves of the gallery from the beginning of Carlton Gallery.
At 5,506 feet in elevation, Ski Beech remains the highest ski area in the East. Always a favorite with families, Ski Beech offers skiing, snowboarding, or skating on a 7,000 square foot outdoor ice rink. 15 slopes, 3 beginner, 7 intermediate, 4 advanced & 1 freestyle terrain area, as well as a High Speed Quad Chairlift! We
also offer shopping & dining.
Since 1883, the Mast General Store has been the center of the Valle Crucis community. Once carrying everything from cradles to caskets, it’s still packed with all you’d expect to find in an old-timey country store. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visit the nearby Mast Store Annex. Once a competing general store, it now features traditional clothing, trail and travel gear, and over 500 old-fashioned candies. Open daily.
Months of Operation:
Open year round.
Hours of Operation:
Original Store: Mon – Sat: 7 am – 6:30 pm; Sun: 12
noon – 6 pm; Annex: Mon – Sat: 10 am – 6 pm; Sun:
12 noon – 6 pm (Winter hours may vary slightly.)
Mast General Store is a Count On Me NC certified business.
Welcome to the Orchard at Altapass, one of the most visited locations on the Blue Ridge Parkway. For the last quarter century, we have diligently worked to ”save the good stuff”—the regional traditions, culture, and the land on which all was built. We’re accomplishing that by propagating the best apples possible (with the least amount of chemicals) and hosting activities for all ages that educate and entertain.
We invite you to come for a visit. Bring your dancing shoes. There’s room on the floor for all. And your walking shoes. You don’t want to leave without a walk through the apple ”forest.” Bring your appetites for the apple pie alamode and Apple Core Grill delights. Pick your own apples or purchase them in our General Store (in season). Return to a simpler time for an hour or an afternoon at the family- (and pet-) friendly Orchard At Altapass.
The mission of the Altapass Foundation, Inc. is to preserve the history, heritage and culture of the Blue Ridge Mountains; protect the underlying orchard land with its apples, wetlands, butterflies, and other natural features; and educate the public about the Appalachian experience. Altapass Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public non-profit and depends on the generosity of donors to fund programs that support this mission.
While you’re visiting us, take a beautiful and relaxing hike through our many Orchard Trails and unwind!
When visiting our Olive Oil & Balsamics store, you’ll find a great selection of imported olive oils and vinegars, salts, exotic herb mixes and more; together with a host of handcrafted ceramics and culinary accessories that are guaranteed to enhance any home dining experience. To enjoy the Olive Oil & Vinegar experience you don’t have to be a culinary expert. Our knowledgeable staff are there to provide advice and offer helpful tips for preparing flavorful dishes using any of the products you will find in our stores.
Hardin Fine Jewelry features one of a kind pieces made by artisans around the world including regional and American Craft Council artists.
Old Hampton Store, Barbeque & Tavern will open the Tavern with live music on Friday and Saturday from 3-9pm!
Music is scheduled from 5-8.
Menu fare includes homemade soups, small bites, and desserts.
Check the Old Hampton Store, Barbeque and Tavern Facebook page for updates!
Old Hampton Store, BBQ, and Tavern serving local craft beer in Linville, North Carolina. Highlighting local folk art and pottery in the gallery next door.
We offer lunch and dinner and specialize in hickory smoked barbeque.We also have for sale local, artisan goods, pottery, and folk art, and more.
Located at the southern gateway to western NC’s High Country region, Linville Caverns is an ideal destination for visitors of all ages. The beauty of our mountains is echoed within Humpback Mountain and visitors are invited to explore the splendor and wonders nature created ”inside a mountain”.
For centuries, the marvels of Linville Caverns were unknown to man. In the early 1800’s a fishing expedition headed by Henry E. Colton, of eastern NC, were astounded to see fish swimming in and out of what appeared to be rather solid rock. A small opening in the mountainous terrain allowed them to enter the subterranean recess that is still home to native trout in an underground stream.
Linville Caverns was opened for public touring in 1937. Since that time many upgrades to the pathways and lighting system have enhanced the safe touring experience that now exists. Courteous and experienced guides take you into the subterranean world, giving you the history of the caverns and allowing you to view the grand work of nature. We invite you to visit often and experience the beauty of these age-old mountains from the inside!
Serving the High Country area with the finest of ladies fashions for 26 years. Bogner, Basler & Belford ready to wear & jewelry by John Hardy, Stephen Dweck & Michael Dawkins. Drop by and be tempted.
Hardin Fine Jewelry features one of a kind pieces made by artisans around the world including regional and American Craft Council artists.