Posts Tagged ‘North Carolina’

Make the Best Fall Memories at Sky Top Orchard in Western NC

Sky Top Orchard has been welcoming the public since 1980 and helping families make core memories for generations. Here’s why we love them and what to expect when you visit this beautiful and fun orchard!

Watch! Things to Do at Sky Top

Experience Sky Top Orchard

The first apple trees were planted at Sky Top in 1967 and the family opened for u-pick apples to the public in 1980 – that’s a lot of time for families to make those core memories together. And that’s what so many families have done for decades.

Sky Top is more than an apple orchard to Greenville natives: it’s a place that they hold near and dear because it’s where they have memories of growing up – and it’s where they want to make those same memories with their own kids.

That’s one of the big reasons why this orchard is so unique. The orchard is truly a family-run business and even those people who aren’t family by blood, they are family by time. Some of the employees we met have worked for the orchard for the past 25 years! And they still come back year after year, which I think says a lot about the culture at Sky Top.

The orchard has more than 100 acres of apple trees, grapes, and peach trees. They offer u-pick apples and peaches starting in mid-August and run through November. They are open daily and all their activities are open, even during the week.

Things to do at Sky Top Orchard

All of these activities are open seven days a week during the season.

Pick Apples

Of course, you’ll want to pick apples while at Sky Top! They offer almost two dozen different kinds of apples, including Gala, Honeycrisp, Candy Crisp, Jonagold, Pink Lady, Cortland, and Mutsu. They have both pre-picked apples and bags that you can buy to go to the orchard and pick your own. The biggest bag they offer will hold between 15-20 pounds of apples and is $30. Prepay at the barn or in the orchard and then go picking! If you have a certain variety you are waiting on, visit their website to see which apples are currently available.

Apple Cannon

If I could stay in one place in the orchard all day long, it would be at the apple cannon. There’s something about shooting apples at targets that is both relaxing and exhilarating. I don’t even know why it’s so fun but it is and you should definitely do it. My daughters and I absolutely loved trying to hit the targets and smash the apples. At the end of the day, the goats are released to the field where all the shot apples are at for dinner so it’s a win-win. The cost is $7 for 8 apples.

Playground

The big playground has houses to play in, slides, and giant apples to hide in. Most of it all fenced in as well, which is awesome for parents trying to herd their kids. The play area is free to visit.

Bee Train

The bee train is adorable and kids love riding around in it and they all just look so cute and happy. The suggested age to ride is 3+. The ride is $4/person.

Bamboo Forest

I didn’t really expect a bamboo forest at an apple orchard but there it was so I checked it out. It’s fun to run around and hide amongst the super tall bamboo trees (are they called trees?). The forest is free to visit and located next to the barn and gem mine.

Gem Mining

If the kids want to sort through some dirt and sand to find gems, they can certainly do that at Sky Top. And perhaps even cooler is that there’s a history of actual Zircon mining near Sky Top, which you can read about here. The cost of gem mining is based on bucket size.

Hayride

Take a hayride around the orchard and soak up the views of the mountains against the apple trees. It’s gorgeous! The ride lasts about 10-15 minutes and cost $3/person.

Observation Tower

We loved the views from the three-story observation deck at Sky Top. You can see all the gorgeous mountain views plus get a great shot of the orchard from the top. It’s free to climb and near the back parking area.

Animal Barn

Sky Top has an unusual animal at the barn: a peacocks. Several of them actually. They are so pretty! You can purchase animal feed ($3) if you want to feed the ducks, peacocks, bunnies, or turkey.

What to Eat at Sky Top

Sky Top Orchard has added some tasty treats this year and have plans to add even more to the menu.

Apple Cider Donuts

No surprise here but the orchard churns out some pretty amazing apple cider donuts. They are absolutely delicious and hot and sweet and soft and all the good things that you would imagine a cider donut to be. Get a dozen. Or several.

Apple Pies

Sky Top makes full apple pies and crisps and also individual baked apple hand pies. Everything is made from scratch. They also bake from-scratch apple bread and cookies, including a GF Snickerdoodle Cookie.

Pizza

New in 2025 is Pie in the Sky Pizza shop at the orchard. The pizza is made at the orchard and they offer a cheese or pepperoni pizza. Karolyn has worked at the apple orchard for 18 years and she is the one who stretches out your pizza and makes the magic happen in the kitchen and just loves to serve guests. She’s loving the new pizza parlor! As a pizza snob myself, this pizza was pretty good. It was nice and cheesy and filling. Yum.

Apple Cider Doughnut Float

Also new in 2025 is the Apple Cider Doughnut Float, a cider slushie with soft service ice cream. This is absolutely delicious and is topped with a donut. Your eyes will eat this creation first as it’s so pretty. And it does not disappoint – absolutely a must-try at Sky Top.

Sparkling Cider

Yet another 2025 product is the sparkling cider made at Sky Top. I’m not a huge fan of sparkling water or soda but this….this I could drink every day. I don’t know what it was that made me want to have it all the time but it was darn good. The flavor is exactly like the apple cider sold at the orchard and the bubbles aren’t overpowering.

Farmers Market

The small farmers market inside the barn has some awesome items for sale: local honey right from the bees at the orchard, jams, and jellies. They also have pottery from local makers that is gorgeous and comes with apple recipes.

Field Trips & Private Events

Sky Top is the perfect spot for a fun field trip! The orchard also does a great job accommodating large groups with hayride tours, apple picking, and educational programs which teach kiddos everything they could want to know about how apples grow through the seasons. Their field trips are geared for ages 3-10 but they can certainly tailor the educational components to be suitable for middle and high schoolers. They can accommodate groups as large as 300!

And if you’re looking for a unique corporate event or something as delightful as a baby shower, Sky Top can host you and your group. They have a beautiful barn with plenty of seating and a stage for a covered space plus you’ve got the whole orchard to roam. Just contact them directly to arrange your event.

Accessibility & Crowds

Sky Top has massively improved their accessibility and crowd control. They have a brand new paved path that goes from the big barn at the entrance all the way down to the apple cannon. This makes managing a stroller or wheelchair a thousand times easier.

And while crowds can be an issue at any apple orchard during the fall season, Sky Top has spread out their space where you can purchase pre-paid bags at more than just one location. The pizza place and cider slushie spot are further apart and overflow parking are at multiple areas, just follow the signs.

Tips for visiting Sky Top

Be sure to check out Sky Top’s FAQs for tips before you visit.
They accept credit cards! While the donut shop still takes cash, as does the orchard, you can pay for everything with your credit card.
Weekdays are ideal for visiting Sky Top. Fall weekends can get really busy but the orchard is spread out so you may only have to wait a bit for their donuts (which is worth it).
Wear sneakers or other walking shoes that are okay to get dirty.
Sky Top has real bathrooms and a space to change a baby’s diaper in the family restroom. Yay!
Apple varieties are planted in accordance of when they are in season. They plant the earliest apples closest to the entrance and it progresses further away as the season goes on. In other words, the later in the season you visit the orchard, the further you will need to plan on walking to pick apples.
Pets on leash are allowed at the orchard but not inside the barn.

Visiting Sky Top Orchard

Here is their picking schedule (which lists available varieties). All the activities at the orchard are available seven days a week, not just weekends.

Sky Top Orchard is open seven days a week from 9 am – 6 pm starting September 1. From mid-August to August 31, they are open daily 9 am – 5 pm.

Sky Top Orchard
1193 Pinnacle Mountain Road, Zirconia, NC
Sky Top Website | Sky Top Facebook
828.692.7930

Looking for more fall fun? Here are over 30 things to do this fall near Greenville.

For more fall fun check out our Pumpkin Patch Guide and our Corn Maze Guide!

Looking for more Fall fun? Check out our Apple Orchards Near the Upstate Guide.

Apple orchards near Greenville, SC, U-Pick apples and apple farms near Upstate, SC

Kidding Around WNC: things to do in Western North Carolina towns

Are you looking for more fun things to do in Western North Carolina? Read our Kidding Around Guide To WNC.

Has your family experienced Sky Top Orchard yet?

The NC Arboretum Offers Much More Than Spectacular Gardens

Inside: Local mom visits The North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, NC, and shares all the best tips for your trip there!

Have you visited the NC Arboretum? If you’re looking for the perfect place to spend the day outdoors in Asheville, the arboretum might be just what you’re looking for!

The North Carolina Arboretum is much more than a beautiful garden. In addition to gorgeous flower beds bursting with color, you’ll also find hiking trails, an outdoor miniature train display, a cafe, a greenhouse, water features, and even rotating art exhibits. There’s something for everyone in the family at the arboretum and since it’s located in nearby Asheville, you’ve got a great day trip in the making.

Looking to make a day trip out of your trip to the North Carolina Arboretum? Check out our list of Western North Carolina Day Trip ideas to have a fun-filled day!

Visiting the NC Arboretum

The North Carolina Arboretum is located just south of Asheville, NC. Their website provides directions, and they indicate that GPS should not be trusted. I have to admit not reading that little tidbit, and our GPS directions have always worked just fine. Do be aware however that the cell signal is not strong in this area.

When you arrive at the arboretum you’ll pay for parking. The parking fee is $20 per car. There is no further admission or per-person cost, which makes this a pretty affordable family day trip. Pack some snacks or a lunch and you won’t have to spend another dime.

But if you’d rather go out for lunch, there’s a cafe at the arboretum. Asheville is also just about 20 minutes away with virtually limitless dining options.

Baker Exhibit Center

The main parking lot for the North Carolina Arboretum is at the Baker Exhibit Center. This will be where you start the day. I recommend bringing any snacks, drinks, and necessary items like diaper bags with you. Depending on where you end up exploring, it can be a long walk back to the car to get a drink.

As you enter the building, you’ll find maps to the right of the door. Grab a map. They’ll show everything the arboretum offers and you’ll enjoy the gardens, locating the things you see on the map.

Inside this visitors center you’ll find clean restrooms and an information desk. To access the gardens you’ll climb the stairs and head to the back of the building. On your way, you’ll pass a fantastic gift shop, a greenhouse, and an art exhibit space. Often there are small plants for sale in the greenhouse and artwork on display in the exhibit space.

NC Arboretum Quilt Garden — Quilt Garden at North Carolina Arboretum

The Gardens at the NC Arboretum

Throughout the grounds of the arboretum, you’ll find beautiful flowers and leafy plants full of color. There are gorgeous arbors and gazebos to rest under, fountains to watch, and paved pathways to wander.

One of our favorite sections of the garden is a quilt garden, named because when you climb the stone stairs beside it and look down, it does indeed look like a quilt. The flowers in this quilt pattern change. Each time we have visited the quilt garden has been different.

NC Arboretum Bonsai Garden and Exhibits — Bonsai Garden

Bonsai Exhibit

Another section of the garden we love to explore is the Bonsai Garden. You might not think looking at Bonsai trees would be interesting to children, but my kids really like these. Each one looks different, some are themed and a lot of them have descriptive and sometimes humorous names.

The perfectly pruned miniature trees are truly works of art. The Bonsai section of the arboretum is open from 9 am to 5 pm daily from mid-May through November, with additional hours for special guided tours with the Curator. The indoor Tropical Bonsai Exhibit is open November – April from 9 am – 5 pm daily.

Rocky Cove Railroad

The Rocky Cove Railroad runs Saturdays, and Sundays from noon to 4 pm from April to October. It’s a G-Scale model train that runs through this outdoor garden depicting Western North Carolina at the turn of the 20th century when trains first arrived.

Four different trains run through the display. One of them is a Thomas train. If you have young children who love Thomas, you definitely don’t want to miss Thomas running through this little town display.

My favorite thing about this display is that all the trees throughout the display are perfectly pruned, live trees cut to fit the size of the display.

NC Arboretum Train, Rocky Cove — Rocky Cove Railroad

Trails to Hike

The Arboretum has many trails available for hiking and biking if you prefer your gardens to be a bit wilder. In the spring, don’t miss the hike down to the woodland garden that contains the National Native Azalea Collection where you’ll find almost every native azalea species in the United States blooming side by side.

The nature trail is another great trail any time of the year and this one doesn’t allow biking so you won’t have to watch out for riders on this trail. The nature trail is TRACK trail, part of the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation’s Kids in Parks program where kids earn prizes for completing different trails and activities. You can grab a TRACK Trail Guide at the Baker Exhibit Center.

Trails in the arboretum connect to the Bent Creek Experimental Forest in Pisgah National Forest. If you’re looking for hiking trails or bike trails in the Bent Creek Experimental Forest, such as Hard Times Road, there is a free parking area at Bent Creek.

Education Center at the NC Arboretum

The second building at the Arboretum is the Education Center. You’ll find scheduled educational programming here as well as a few educational exhibits. They have continuing education courses for adults, classes for families, and youth-centric classes as well. This is also where the cafe is located.

There is a lovely porch with a plethora of rocking chairs that overlook the gardens. Purchase a snack or open up the lunch you packed, this is a great spot to sit for a while and relax.

Mom Review: NC Arboretum

The NC Arboretum is a great place for the family to spend some time. We’ve brought our children a few times, including when they were quite young. There is plenty of room for little kids to run off steam, but also a lot of interesting things to see for older kids.

The train has always been a highlight and I usually save that for the end of the trip, otherwise, we’d never see the rest of the garden.

The garden paths are paved, but if you plan to walk any of the woodland trails, know that they are dirt and gravel. You’ll probably appreciate wearing sneakers. Do bring lots to drink, especially if you’re going in the summer.

Special Events

The arboretum runs several special events and exhibits throughout the year. The biggest event is undoubtedly Winter Lights. The holiday light exhibit lights up the gardens into a winter light wonderland. We have a whole Winter Lights review for you.

To see all the special events, including live music in the summer and special exhibits, see the NC Arboretum calendar.

North Carolina Arboretum Website
Personal vehicles: $20 Parking – get $1 off if you have AAA
100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville
Asheville, NC 28806

Hours: Daily 8 am – 7 pm (winter hours)
Hours: Daily 8 am – 9 pm (summer hours)

Things to do in Asheville, North Carolina

Spending some time in Asheville?

Here’s our huge guide to things to do in Asheville, NC.

Check out the North Carolina Arboretum! They offer much more than just spectacular gardens!

Grandad’s Apples ‘N Such: Apple Cannon, Corn Maze, Apples & More

Have you visited Grandad’s Apples?
Fall is just around the corner, and your family might be hunting for the perfect apple orchard! We checked out Grandad’s Apples ‘N Such and had so much fun. You’ll find activities for kids at Grandad’s Apples ‘N Such, with beautiful views, and, of course, apples.

U-PICK: U-pick is open. Grandad’s asked that you follow their Facebook page for the latest updates.

Hendersonville has a lot of great apple orchards to pick from: Picking Apples in Hendersonville, NC.

For more places to pick apples this fall read our Guide to U-Pick Apple Orchards.

Hendersonville, North Carolina is known for its delicious apples and it’s easy to see why on the drive up to Grandad’s Apples ‘N Such. There are a handful of orchards within a few-mile radius and several farm stands all selling the delicious fruit. On my quest to find the perfect apple orchard experience, I headed on over to Grandad’s, which I heard was pretty awesome.

They didn’t disappoint.

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Day Trips! Plan a Day Trip Adventure in Western North Carolina

Inside: WNC Day trips you can take with your family.

Are you trying to fit a couple of day trips in? NC mountains, small towns, hiking trails, and waterfalls should definitely be on your to-do list when creating your itinerary for your upcoming day trips in WNC.

Here is our list of popular year-round day-trip destinations in Hendersonville, Asheville, and Brevard for families. This list includes everything from museums for kids to outdoor activities and much more! Plus, it’s just a short drive to all of these destinations from Upstate, South Carolina.

Asheville, NC Day Trip Ideas

Brevard, NC Day Trip Ideas

Hendersonville, NC Day Trip Ideas

Day Trips in North Carolina Parks

Looking for more WNC fun?

Check out our Kidding Around® Guide to WNC, with things to do in all the major cities.

This guide is intended as a reference. While we will update it as necessary, the prices and hours listed here should always be verified by checking the official websites.

NC Arboretum Greenhouse — Greenhouse at the NC Arboretum

Day Trips in WNC: Asheville, NC

Enjoy the views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, visit an art gallery or two, and grab some delicious food while taking a day trip to Asheville, NC!

For more fabulous things to do and places to eat in Asheville, NC, don’t miss our Guide to Asheville, NC.

Biltmore Estate

Hours: Vary by attraction.
Shop, dining, and other location and activities vary.
Holiday hours will be listed on the website.
Admission: Admission to the Biltmore House for adults (16 and up): starts at $80.
Prices vary based on season and events
Note: Discounts are available on the Biltmore website for advance purchase tickets.
Website: Biltmore Estate
Kidding Around® Review: Travel Review on Biltmore.

Asheville Botanical Gardens

Hours: Garden: Open dawn to dusk, 365 days a year
Visitor Center: Open most afternoons (varies by month; see website for details).
Admission: Free (donations encouraged)
Website: Botanical Gardens

Asheville Museum of Science

Hours: Sunday: 1 – 5 pm
Monday – Saturday: 10 – 5 pm
Admission: $11.50 per person. Children 2 & under Free
Website: Asheville Museum of Science

Folk Art Center

Hours: Open daily: 10 am – 5 pm
Admission: Free
Website: Folk Art Center

Grove Park Inn

Visit Asheville’s historic inn for overnight accommodations, dining, craft beer options, special events, or just to tour. One of Grove Park Inn’s most recognized events is the National Gingerbread House Competition.
Website: Grove Park Inn

Visiting during the holiday season? Learn why visiting the Grove Park Inn during the Christmas season will become your new family tradition!

North Carolina Arboretum

Beautiful gardens, with many water features and paths to roam. Kids will love the working model train outdoor display (April – October only). The garden is found close to the entrance of the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Hours: 8 am – 9 pm | Building and special exhibit hours vary
Admission: Free (parking costs $20 per personal vehicle)
Website: North Carolina Arboretum

Splasheville in Pack Square Park

Pack Square Park is a 6.5-acre public park in downtown Asheville. It houses Splasheville, a play place of water fountains that is exciting for kids of all ages.
Hours: Fountain: 9 am – 8:30 pm during warm weather.
Admission: Free
Facebook: Asheville Parks & Recreation

Western North Carolina Nature Center

Hours: 10 am – 3:30 pm daily | Closed New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day
Admission: Adults: $13.95 // Youth (13-15): $13.95 // Children (3-12): $9.95 // 2 and Under are free
Website: KA Family Guide to the WNC Nature Center
Western North Carolina Nature Center

French Broad Chocolate Factory Tour

Hours: Monday – Friday at 11 am, 1 pm, 3 pm; Saturday at 11 am
Admission: Tours: $12/adult; $8/child ages 7 – 12; Free for ages 6 and under
Website: KA review of French Broad Chocolate Factory

Zen Tubing

Hours: Check the Zen Tubing website for specific hours and days open. Subject to change frequently
Admission: $30+ per person with a tube. Bring your own tube for $25 per person
Website: KA review of Zen Tubing

Explore Downtown Asheville

Exploring the downtown area of Asheville is a day trip in itself. There are lots of unique shops, plenty of restaurants to choose from, and you may even catch a drum circle at Pack Square. Learn more from our downtown adventure in Asheville, and how you can see it all on a trolley ride.

The Gray Line in Asheville, North Carolina

Day Trips in WNC: Brevard, NC

Spend a day in Brevard, North Carolina. You may even catch of glimpse of a white squirrel!

Downtown Brevard

Visit downtown Brevard for a pleasurable scene of art, dining, and shopping. Both Main Street and Broad Street house historic buildings and shops.

Cradle of Forestry

Hours: April – November; Daily from 10 am to 5 pm
Admission: $5-$10 per person
Website: KA review of the Cradle of Forestry

Tubing near Greenville, SC — Tubing on the Davidson River

Davidson River Tubing

Hours: Open daily, Memorial Day weekend – September
Admission: Unknown as of August 2025
Website: KA review of Davidson River Tubing in Brevard, NC

Looking Glass Falls

Hours: Daylight hours, daily
Admission: Free
Website: Looking Glass Falls

Sliding Rock

Hours: Memorial Day – Labor Day: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Open 365 days a year for viewing and sliding at your own risk
Admission: $5 per person
Website: Sliding Rock
Kidding Around® Review of Sliding Rock

Day Trips in WNC: Hendersonville, NC

Learn why Hendersonville is known for its historic streets, unique shopping, and fantastic dining options in this handy guide.

Visit Our Apple Picking Guide for our report about apple picking in the Hendersonville area, including popular destinations such as Sky Top Orchard.

Carl Sandburg Home and Goat Farm

Hours: See alerts for the latest hours. Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day
Admission: Free to visit grounds, trails, and barns; 10 am – 4 pm daily
Guided house tours: Call ahead*
Website: KA review of the Carl Sandburg home
Carl Sandburg Home and Goat Farm

The Park at Flat Rock

Hours: Open dusk to dawn, daily
Admission: Free park for the public
Website: KA review of The Park at Flat Rock

Jump Off Rock

This scenic overlook is easy to access and has an interesting legend that has been passed down for around 300 years. Hiking and picnic spots are also nearby.
Note: Some of the hiking is a little steep for young children, but the overlook itself is easily accessible.
Admission: Free
Website: Jump Off Rock
Kidding Around® Review of Jump Off Rock

Hands On! Children’s Museum

Hours: Monday – Saturday, 9 am – 5 pm
Admission: Adults & Children $12 + tax
Website: KA review of Hands On! Children’s Museum
Hands On! Children’s Museum

Jackson Park in Hendersonville, NC

Hours: 7:30 am to 11 pm every day
Admission: Free inclusive park
Website: KA review of Jackson Park

Ellaberry Llama Farm

Hours: Open year-round, Contact the farm directly for hours and reservations
Admission: $30 per person; Llama hikes are between $50 – $75
Contact ellaberryllamafarm@gmail.com or 828.606.3577 to make reservations
Website: KA review of Ellaberry Llama Farm

Holmes Educational State Forest

Hours: March through October 31
Tuesday-Friday 9 am – 5 pm
Saturday & Sunday 11 am – 6 pm

November through February
Tuesday-Friday 9 am – 5 pm
Saturday & Sunday Closed

Admission: Free admission
Website: Holmes Educational State Forest KA Review

Kidsenses Museum

Hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 9 am – 5 pm
Admission: Adults/Children: $8
Website: Kidsenses Museum

Jeter Mountain Farms

Hours:
Apple Season: July – August; Saturdays and Sundays 10a-5p
Late August – Late October; Thursdays + Fridays 10a-3p and Saturdays + Sundays 10a-5p
Christmas Season: Select dates from 10 am – 5 pm
Admission: Free to visit the farm, but prices for activities and u-pick vary.
Website: KA review of Jeter Mountain Farm

Justus Orchard

Hours: Monday – Thursday from 9 am – 5 pm; Friday – Sunday 9 am – 6 pm
Admission: Free admission
They have a taproom, apple picking, berry picking, and a fun play area for kids.
Kidding Around® Review of Justus Orchard

Western North Carolina Air Museum

Hours: Open Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday; hours vary by time of year
Admission: Free
Kidding Around Review of the WNC Air Museum

Bullington Gardens

Hours: June – August for the annual fairy garden through the gardens
The fairy market is mid-June to August
Open year-round
Monday – Saturday; 9 am to 4 pm
Admission: Free, donations accepted
Website: KA Review of Bullington Gardens

The fairy market at Bullington Garden — Bullington Garden Fairy Market

Day Trips in NC Mountains: National and State Parks

If you are thinking about an outdoor adventure, WNC is the place! These mountain towns have lots of things to do in their local, national, and state parks, from mountain biking trails, beautiful waterfalls, or just an easy hike for the kids to enjoy. Many are less than an hour’s drive from each other, so you can visit more than one on your day trip.

Chimney Rock

Hours: Vary by season (see website)
Admission: Adults (over 15): $17 | Children (5-15): $8 | Under 5: Free
Website: KA review of Chimney Rock

DuPont State Forest

DuPont State Forest includes Triple Falls, High Falls, Hooker Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Wintergreen Falls, and Grassy Creek Falls. You can mountain bike, hit the hiking trails, and play in the river here.
Website: KA review of DuPont State Forest
DuPont State Forest

Lake Lure Beach and Water Works

Currently closed for repair due to Hurricane Helene. The surrounding area has plenty of shops and restaurants open, the lake itself does not have any water activities, and the beach is closed until further notice.

Nantahala National Forest

Enjoy camping, hunting, fishing, swimming, boating, hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, and more in the 531,000-acre Nantahala National Forest.

Check out this gorgeous swimming hole at Midnight Hole
Bryson City is right nearby, where you’ll find shopping and the GSMR.

Learn more about Bryson City, North Carolina near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You will find lots of awesome things to do there in our handy guide!

Pisgah National Forest

Pisgah National Forest is over 500,000 acres, which includes trails, waterfalls, picnic areas, camping, scenic drives, and the Davidson River (an excellent place for tubing).

Website: Pisgah National Forest
Learn more about how to see the elusive blue ghost fireflies at Pisgah National Forest.
We highly recommend Moore Cove Falls, where you can step behind a 50-foot waterfall!
You can hike some gorgeous trails at Pilot Cove in Pisgah National Forest.

Cradle of Forestry: Historic Site and Discovery Center

Hours: Wednesday through Monday, 10 am to 5 pm
Website: KA review of the Cradle of Forestry

Whitewater Falls

Highest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains
Hours: Dawn until dusk, daily
Admission: $3 per vehicle with less than seven passengers or $1 per person for more than seven passengers
Website: Whitewater Falls

What day trip destinations in Western North Carolina would you add to our list?

Don’t miss Kidding Around’s List of Day Trip Destinations in SC!

Take Your Family on Our Apple Cider Donut Tour from Greenville, SC

When is just one apple cider donut enough? Never is the right answer. So we made the Apple Cider Donut Tour to help you taste test the best of apple cider donuts near Upstate, SC.

If you’re looking for places to go apple picking near Greenville, SC, we have our Apple Orchards Near Greenville, SC guide for that! But this is specifically for apple cider donuts near Greenville and in Western NC because they are pretty much the best thing about fall.

Many of these places offer u-pick apples and other fall goodies like slushies, fried apple pies, apple cakes, and cider. But we’re here for the donuts. These donuts have a crispy outside sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar and are hot and soft on the inside, bursting with fall flavors. Save your appetite though so you can be sure to taste donuts at all of the stops.

Donut Tour Tips

When you’re planning your trip, look at the hours at where you want to go. A couple of places are only open weekends and Holt Orchard is open Wednesdays-Fridays and Sundays.

And try to go early in the day. Most of these places are pretty popular.

Apple Cider Donut Driving Tour

Here’s the map of your best fall foodie adventure, which should take you a few hours:

List of Stops

🍎 Sky Top Orchard
1193 Pinnacle Mountain Rd, Flat Rock, NC
Open daily 9 am – 5 pm (9 am – 6 pm after Labor Day)

🍎 Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard
170 Stepp Orchard Drive, Hendersonville, NC
Open Monday to Thursday from 9 am to 5:30 pm, Friday and Saturday from 9 am to 6 pm, and Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm.
(Opens for the season on August 15, 2025)
Kidding Around® Review of Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard

🍎 Holt Orchard
17 Holt Pond Dr, Flat Rock, NC
Open September 1 – end of October. Hours TBD for 2025, but the Holt Orchards Facebook is a great resource.
They also have a stunning u-pick flower field that will be ready by September 1st, 2025!
*You can also get their donuts at the Greenville Saturday Market beginning August 16th, 2025.

🍎 Black Bear Snow Tubing
373 Kerr Road, Hendersonville, NC
For the fall season, only open Saturday from 10 am – 5 pm starting October 4, 2025. This would be an awesome stop with the family, but be forewarned, you may not want to leave because you can go snow tubing without snow during the fall, plus satiate your apple cider donut desires.
Kidding Around® Review of Black Bear Snow Tubing

🍎 Coston Farm & Apple House
3748 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC
Open Monday – Saturday 8:30 am – 5:30 pm (2025 Season Opening TBD– Typically mid-August)

🍎 Justus Orchard
187 Garren Rd, Hendersonville, NC
Open daily 9 am – 5 pm.
Kidding Around® Review of Justus Orchard

🍎 Grandad’s Apples
2951 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC
Open daily 8 am – 6 pm (Bakery closes at 5 pm).
Kidding Around® Review of Grandad’s Apples n’ Such

🍎 Mountain Fresh Orchard
2887 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC
Open daily 8 am – 6 pm; apple season starts August 20, 2025.

🍎 Jeter Mountain Farm
1126 Jeter Mountain Rd, Hendersonville, NC
July 12 – August 24, 2025: Saturdays and Sundays 10 am-5 pm
August 28 – October 26, 2025: Thursdays and Fridays 10 am-3 pm; Saturdays and Sundays 10 am-5 pm
Open on Labor Day

Extra Stops

These two orchards offer amazing apple cider donuts but sadly, are too far away to be included in our donut tour. If you happen to be out in their direction, our readers recommend you stop and eat their apple cider donuts for the sheer joy and love of them. They are marked in purple on the map.

Windy Hill Orchard & Cidery
1860 Black Hwy, York, SC
Open Thursday – Saturday 10 am – 6 pm and Sunday from Noon-6 pm.
Opens August 14th, 2025

Barber Orchards Fruitstands Inc.
2855 Old Balsam Rd, Waynesville, NC
Open daily 9 am – 6 pm

Which place has your favorite apple cider donut?

For more fall fun, see our huge Guide to Fall in the Upstate!

Do you know of any other places to grab some apple cider donuts near Greenville, SC? Let us know!

Enjoy Fall Color Change at These Incredible Fall Vacation Homes in WNC

Looking for incredible fall vacation homes to witness the colors of fall pour over the mountainside? It may seem early, but the time is NOW to book vacation rentals in the mountains to view the fall foliage. The mountains of North Carolina are famous for their dramatic shows during fall when the leaves change. There’s no better way to enjoy it, than with a hot cup of coffee in your jammies at sunrise. Here’s a list of vacation rentals where you can enjoy the fall colors.

Leaf peeping rentals. Fall vacation rentals in Western North Carolina

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Tube All Day for Less Than $30 for a Family of Four with Deep Creek Tubing

Planning a tubing day trip? Bryson City, NC is home to Deep Creek tubing, a popular river tubing destination. With several places to rent tubes, plus local campgrounds, Deep Creek tubing is a great choice for a tubing adventure.

KAG’s Kristina Hernandez spent a day tubing with her kids. Here’s how her day went tubing at Deep Creek, plus some tips for planning your own tubing adventure.

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Tweetsie Railroad: Review of A Nostalgic Theme Park Full of Surprises

Are you wondering if a trip to Tweetsie Railroad is right for your family? The Tweetsie Railroad theme park in North Carolina is full of nostalgic family fun. Elizabeth Faulkner shares her own Tweetsie Railroad experience so you’ll know what to expect when you visit, plus all the great mom tips you’ll want to know.

Media passes were provided for her visit to Tweetsie Railroad, however, all opinions shared in this post are her own.

Confession of a bad mom. My family has spent a lot of time in the North Carolina mountains, specifically, the Boone, North Carolina area. Lots of time. For years. And we’ve driven right by Tweetsie Railroad many times over the years. Since my oldest daughter, who is now 7, was able to speak she’s been begging me to take her to that ‘place with the ferris wheel’ that we pass on our way to the mountains. And I (the bad mom) had never taken my girls to Tweetsie Railroad. Until today.

If you don’t know Tweetsie Railroad, it is not exactly a new theme park. Nope. I have lots of friends who tell me about their childhood memories visiting Tweetsie – it’s been a theme park since the 1950s. Heck, it was the very first theme park in the state of North Carolina. But a theme park was not how Tweetsie Railroad began.

The history behind Tweetsie Railroad

Tweetsie began as a railway between Tennessee and North Carolina in the late 1800s. The extension into Boone, NC began in the early 1900s, as a passenger train as well as a method of moving lumber out of the mountains. The train was referred to as Tweetsie because of the “tweet tweet” whistle sound the train made that echoed through the hills. And the name stuck.

Many years later, road development bringing competition from automobiles, and later flooding in Boone, brought an end to the much-adored Tweetsie Railroad. Though initially Tweetsie Locomotive No. 12, the only original of the 13 steam engines from the rail line, was moved to Virginia, No. 12 later returned to her home in Boone, NC and the Tweetsie Railroad that we know today began.

Though the history of Tweetsie Railroad is truly fascinating, the North Carolina mountain theme park has been loved by children for generations. If you’re a history buff, you can read the Tweetsie Railroad history for yourself right here.

Today’s Tweetsie Railroad is a sweet theme park located in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. If you are like I was, unaware of all the fun hiding in those hills, you’re in for a real treat.

Our day at Tweetsie Railroad

Our first stop after entering the gates this morning was the train ride, of course. After all, I’ve never ridden a 100+ year old steam locomotive. Winding through the hills near the theme park this short train ride was complete with replica old mountain towns, cowboys, and even a shoot out. The train ride was so fun we did it again later that afternoon.

Once we got off the train we decided to take in a show – one of many shows featuring cowboys, can-can girls, magicians, musicians, dancers and more. Though there were lots of fun shows to see, this was the only one we made it to. The girls and I all loved it. I’d say their favorite part was the end of the show when they got to get up on stage and try a little can-can dancing of their own.

Then we were on to some rides. I think one of the great things about Tweetsie Railroad was that we didn’t run into even one ride my 7 and 3 year old were too little to ride (though there was one ride I was too big to ride!). Now, that said, we did not get to one portion of the park that included the bigger rides – the few I’m pretty sure my little ones wouldn’t be able (or brave enough) to ride. We’ll check that out next time.

After a yummy pizza lunch, we took the chair lift up to Miner’s Mountain, the little kid portion of the park. The chair ride up to Miner’s Mountain was an adventure all on its own. If you’ve been on a ski lift it’s the same idea. Beautiful views, and a little bit of praying no one wiggles along the way – it’s a long way to the ground. I thought for sure my husband would have us walking back down the mountain – he’s not a fan of heights – but we rode the chair lift back down the mountain too.

Deer Park

Honestly, once we got to Miner’s Mountain, we were running out of steam so after the girls played on the playground a little while we headed directly to Deer Park Zoo. Given that we’ve been to a bunch of zoos, I didn’t have very high expectations for this one but it may have been my favorite part of the day.

This animal park petting zoo includes about 90 animals that we got to be up close and personal with, including several kind of goats, deer, emus, llama, miniature horses and many more. Plus, we were able to buy ice cream cones filled with feed (for 50 cents each) before we walked in which made for a ton of fun. Think animals eating feed right out of your little ones hands – it just doesn’t get sweeter than that!

Though, personally, I really loved watching the animals when they finally got to their favorite snack – the ice cream cone. What a riot. I could’ve spent all afternoon in the sweet Deer Park but we did finally head out. It was way past nap time after all.

Though there were many rides we never got to ride and shows we didn’t see, we were all tired out after spending most of the day at Tweetsie Railroad so it was time for us to go home. All in all, it was a great first (though not last!) visit to Tweetsie Railroad.

Tweetsie Railroad Review

Truth be told, I’m not sure who had more fun, the kids or me. The park was small enough that is was easy to navigate and didn’t feel overwhelming, perfect for little ones, full of super friendly staff, and never felt crowded at all.

I also really appreciated that the tickets included everything – all the rides and shows, unlimited train rides, and the zoo. This old fashioned, family oriented theme park is a local and regional favorite and now I understand why. Like it is for so many others, Tweetsie Railroad will become a family tradition for my own family.

Tips for visiting Tweetsie Railroad

And now that we’ve finally made it to this tourist hot spot I have some tips for you when you go:

The park is open Thursday through Monday from 10 am to 6 pm
If you do go early make sure the top parking lot is full before you park in the lots right inside the entry. You can save yourself a little extra walking to get inside the park.
Yes, there is a mock robbery with “bad guys” but this doesn’t occur on the train itself. Rather you watch the show from the train. I was relieved that it wasn’t at all scary to my little ones.
If you want the best view of the show from the train possible choose the 2nd, 3rd or 4th car and sit on the right side of the isle.
Though I didn’t see this happen, I was told that kids can get embers from the train in their eyes. You may want to bring along some sunglasses for your kids to wear on the train ride.
Walking can get tiring for little legs – bring a stroller or wagon. Plus you have somewhere to hold your drinks and purchases. Should you not have a stroller and need one there are several options available to rent. Rental rates are $10 per day and you can choose from single or double strollers or various wagons.
There are several places in eat inside of Tweetsie Railroad if you don’t want to pack a lunch.
Don’t feel like spending money on lunch? No problem – pack your own! You can bring your own food into Tweetsie, which can help a little with the budget.
Take pictures! There are lots of beautiful photo opportunities at Tweetsie – after all, the mountains are the backdrop. Our family shot in front of No. 12 is going to be a perfect Christmas card this year!

Tweetsie Railroad Blowing Rock NC — Photo Rights to Tweetsie Railroad

Tweetsie Railroad is open for the 2025 season!

Tweetsie Railroad Website
300 Tweetsie Railroad Lane*
Blowing Rock, NC 28605
800.526.5740
*approximately 3hrs from Greenville!

Summer hours

Open Thursday through Monday from 10 am to 6 pm.

Special Events for 2025

The 2023 season at Tweetsie Railroad is loaded with special events, including the ultra-popular K9s in Flight Frisbee Dogs®, their July 4th fireworks extravaganza, Riders in the Sky, Railroad Heritage Weekend, and more! See the entire list of special events here.

This year’s K9s in Flight Frisbee Dogs® event happens July 19-21 & July 24-27, 2025. These high-flying pups will amaze you with their flips and tricks! Shows are included with regular park admission.

Ticket pricing

General admission tickets are $65 for adults, $45 for kids 3 – 12 and free for kids 0 – 2. General admission tickets are not valid for Ghost Train or Tweetsie Christmas.

If you are lucky enough to get to Tweetsie Railroad more than a couple times in a season you might want to consider a season pass.

Ready to buy your tickets?! Purchase general admission tickets here.

Where to Stay Near Tweetsie Railroad

Find the perfect place to stay near Tweetsie Railroad with the map below.
Kidding Around earns when you book through the links in the map through as part of an affiliate relationship with Stay 22.

Find more fun in WNC! Check out our huge guide to Western North Carolina, Kidding Around WNC.

Take a trip back in time to the wild west at Tweetsie Railroad in North Carolina!

Adventures in Wonderland Await at Magical Mountain Resorts in Western NC

Nestled in the WNC town of Hayesville, NC lies the Magical Mountain Resort, a whimsical and fun world where fairy tales come to life in cottages set in a forest and along a mountain stream. If you want to add a little magic to your trip, this is the place to do it in Hayesville, NC.

I’ve always enjoyed the whimsical aspect of stories – enchanted forests, drinks that make you grow tall or shrink to fit through minuscule doors, exaggerated characters like the Queen of Hearts, time travel, and gigantic mushrooms and flowers. All of that and so much more greets you at Magical Mountain Resort in Hayesville, North Carolina, just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Greenville. Plus, it is a great location any time of year! Our most recent visit was in February, and it was wonderful.

About Magical Mountain Resort

Set in 11 acres that back up to Nantahala National Forest, the Magical Mountain Resort has multiple options for lodging, some of which are still in progress. The owner, Shannon, bought the property after selling investment properties in Florida. She moved the day after Hurricane Ian hit and looked for properties with cabins on them in the woods.

Once she bought the property in Hayesville, North Carolina, she set to making her whimsical fairy tale dreams a reality. And $1.5 million later, she’s well on her way.

I’ve met a lot of creative and innovative people in my life, but Shannon ranks pretty high on that list. I was floored at the intricate details that are the hallmark of the property. Literally, no detail was overlooked from the giant mushrooms at the entrance to the property to the glow-in-the-dark teacups high in the trees next to the cottages to the hand-painted and hand-carved signs that tell you where to go around the resort. And that’s just on the outside. Wait till you see what’s inside all the cabins!

Sometimes I think that when one seeks to make their dreams a reality when it comes to fairy tales, it can come off as overdone and cheesy. Not this place. When you visit Magical Mountain Resort, you’re leaving your life behind for the time you’re there and get to step into a world that makes it easy to get caught up in the details of another time and place.

Places to Stay at Magical Mountain Resort

At the time of this writing, there are four cottages and one bus to stay at: Alice’s White Bunny Cottage, Alice’s Queen Cottage, the Caretakers Cabin, the Snow White Cottage, and the MidKnight Buss. All have bathrooms and kitchens. The Snow White cottage is the smallest and the Caretakers Cabin is the largest. During our first trip, we stayed in Alice’s White Bunny Cottage, which was amazing. I’ll get to that in a minute. We had the opportunity to stay in Alice’s Queen Cottage as well more recently, and the attention to detail was stunning!

There are now an additional 5 RV slips available! The pull-in spots are perfectly situated along the creek, so you’ll have the wonderful sound of the water flowing while you camp. Each slip has a picnic table creekside, and a small firepit, and is close to the family-friendly area where your kids can play giant chess, create a fairy mini world in the fairy garden, or relax in the hammocks strung amongst the trees.

Stay in a Bus

Shannon is a collector of very interesting items at Magical Mountain. The double-decker bus on the property, the MidKnight Bus, she has outfitted into a Harry Potter-inspired stay was once owned by Disney way back in the 1950s. The history of it alone is worth its own story but the short version is just that this bus is really darn cool. It is decked out with three beds on the lower level, stained glass windows, a kitchen, bathroom, and a lounge area. There’s a magical fire pit outside plus a deck and chairs to relax at while you contemplate how cool you are that you get to stay there.

Interior of MidKnight Bus at Magical Mountain Resorts

MidKnight Bus at Magical Mountain Resorts

Shannon has three other buses she is either currently renovating or that she’s expecting to be shipped in, including a Magic Schoolhouse bus!

Stay in a Candy House

Remember the game, Candyland? Shannon has outfitted two cabins to look like they belong in that game. I felt like Hansel and Gretel coming up on the enchanted candy cabin in the woods (thankfully no witches here that eat kids).

The outside has steps that look like gumdrops, gingerbread people that greet you, and lollipops that you can see from the front steps. These are camper cabins and will not have bathrooms, but they do have a mini-fridge, and microwave, and are outfitted with heat and air conditioning. The resort has a dalmatian-themed bathhouse.

Candy cottages at Magical Mountain Resorts and Enchanted Forest in North Carolina

Stay at Alice’s White Rabbit Cottage

While I got to see most of the accommodations at the resort, we stayed at Alice’s White Rabbit cottage, based on Alice in Wonderland. From the moment you see the pink house with white railings, glass flowers, teacups and teapots in the flowerbeds, and a hand-carved front door, you will absolutely forget you’re in the real world.

The cottage is outfitted with a small kitchen, full bath, queen-sized bed up in the loft, and a pink leather pullout bed on the bottom floor. The light fixture has teacups on it and all the plates and cookware are the same color pink as the house. The coffee pot and tea kettle are pink and the bathroom has a white rabbit painted on the pink toilet seat while there’s a pink clawfoot tub if you want to enjoy a soak.

Outside, you’ll have your own private porch with flowers that have faces from the movie: the Cheshire Cat, the white rabbit, and the Queen of Hearts. While you enjoy the babbling stream right in front of the cabin, your kids can color or enjoy a snack at the glass table and pink and white bouncy chairs.

At night, the trees behind the cottage light up purple, and the tea cups suspended in the branches glow in the dark. Solar lights line the pathway to the door and the flowers also light up.

No detail was overlooked whatsoever. I have zero knack for design or creativity when it comes to decorating and I’d never ever come up with something as neat as this place.

Alice’s Queen Cottage

Much of the same amenities are available in the Queen’s Cottage as in the White Rabbit Cottage, except the decor is stunningly royal! Lots of red and black take over the theme, even to the tiniest details. The clawfoot bathtub was stunning! Our family of four was able to sleep cozy in the cabin, with my oldest daughter and I taking the queen bed in the loft, while my husband and two-year-old slept on the pullout sofa downstairs.

It was so much fun exploring both the inside and outside of the cabin to see all of the neat things we could find. Around the perimeter of the cottage, there are lots of trinkets, glowing flowers, delightful seating by the creek, and lots of hidden gems to find.

Queen Cottage at Magical Mountain Resorts and Enchanted Forest in North Carolina

Bring your Own RV or Tent

Magical Mountain Resort has five RV slips available. Campers who want to use a tent are welcome to book those sites and just camp out in the field if they like as well. The RV slips have a wonderful location along the creek side, close to the fire pits, and right near the hammocks and fairy garden for kids to play at.

Things to do at Magical Mountain Resort

While there are lots of things to do in the area, you won’t run out of fun activities at the resort. These are all located right next to the creek and just a short walk from the Queen and White Bunny cottages.

Relax in a hammock

There are multiple hammocks on the property along the creek, which is just so nice. You can relax in a big hammock that was handwoven in Nicaragua and listen to the creek, read a book, or just chill out while your kids play nearby.

Swings and Fishing

There are a few swings and swinging benches also along the creek, including a baby swing. Again, just another invitation to enjoy the serene setting!

Shannon also has fish bait and a fishing rod that you can use to try your luck at catching trout in the stream.

Lifesize chess and lawn games

There’s a life-size chess game that you’re welcome to play while you visit the resort. Shannon can tell you how to play if you don’t know how. They also have checkers, corn hole, and croquet.

Play in the creek

You’re welcome to get in the creek to cool off. Most of it is really shallow, and some parts are maybe hip deep, which is perfect for bringing tubes and getting wet in the chilly water.

Roast s’mores with a magic fire

Thanks to our neighbors who started a roaring bonfire, and thanks to our other neighbors who had kids the same age as my kids and who brought stuff to make s’mores, we all enjoyed pretty awesome s’mores the night we stayed at the resort. It was so much fun! Shannon leaves guests with a packet of magic fire dust that you throw on the fire and which turns the flames blue. See? No detail was overlooked.

Fairy Tale Farm

Fairy Tale Farm is a complimentary part of every guest’s stay, but you can also purchase tickets to visit this farm even if you aren’t staying on the property. For only $10 per ticket, you can see ten animals, which include a mini donkey, mini horses, Dwarf goats, pigs, and more! You can pet and feed the animals.

Make it a weekend trip: Things to do Near Magical Mountain Resort

One of the reasons I really liked Shannon is that she does all the things that she recommends to her guests (like us!). I’ve spent some time in that area and have done a lot of cool stuff, which I mention here, but Shannon has made it a point to explore the area and do things that she thinks her guests will love, so I’ve listed those as well.

Marina Station Water Park

Readers know how much my kids and I love inflatable aqua parks. Well, there’s one just 23 minutes from Magical Mountain at the Marina Station on Lake Chatuge. It’s $18/person for an hour of fun. We did this on the way home from Magical Mountain and had a blast. It was the perfect thing to do to cool off and you can hang out afterward at the little beach or go to town for some lunch.

Andrews Valley Rail Tours

I have not done this one but Shannon has and it looks super fun and unique. Andrews Valley Rail Tours takes visitors along a 10-mile trek through beautiful scenery, including a hand-carved tunnel from the late 1800s and railroad bridges – all on a railbike! Guests must be at least 4 years old and tours are currently $59.99/person and last for two-and-a-half hours.

Hiking

There are some great trails nearby, including beautiful hikes to incredible overlooks at Bell Mountain (32 minutes away) and Brasstown Bald (40 minutes away), both of which are amazing for sunrise and sunset. Less than a half hour away is Leatherwood Falls, a great spot for a picnic and splash in the falls. It’s less than a mile roundtrip. Pickens Nose is a favorite of mine (watch the kids though – steep rocks at the overlooks) because the views are outrageously gorgeous and the total hike is less than two miles. It’s about an hour from Magical Mountain.

Helen, Georgia & Blairsville, Georgia

This quirky and adorable Bavarian-themed town is a favorite of our readers. There’s a lot to do all year round. See our story on Helen, Georgia for ideas. And the cute little town of Blairsville, Georgia is only a 30-minute drive from Magical Mountain. There are some fun things to do in Blairsville as well!

On the drive home

During the summer, you can easily stop at Bull Sluice on the Chattooga River on the way home. There’s a little beach along the river and you can take a dip or hang out. If you go upstream just a little ways on the paved trail, you can watch the rafters take on the rapids.

Also during the summer, if you want to take the northern route back home to Greenville, you can stop at Cashiers Sliding Rock. It’s a really fun natural waterslide with a sandy beach. There’s no fee but also not much parking. You can also stop at Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, both roadside waterfalls that you can walk behind which we think are beautiful.

Overall Mom Review of Our Adventures in Wonderland

I’d love to go back to Magical Mountain Resorts for several reasons:

The place is just really cool with all the details that make it so fun and enchanting
I loved the play areas that make it easy to relax and have fun with your family
The location is ideal for outdoor fun and adventure
The resort is super family-friendly, and kids will love exploring all the little things!

The field behind the cottage had lots of fireflies and my daughters, who met friends their age right next door when we stayed there, went and caught the little bugs. It was one of those idyllic experiences that I was hoping my own kids would have as I did in my own childhood.

And when our neighbors at the queen cottage next door introduced themselves the evening we were there, it became such an eventful and fun night. My daughters and their granddaughters painted rocks, roasted s’mores together, lit sparklers, tried out the magic fire dust, took all kinds of hilarious photos around the property, and really enjoyed each other’s company. The whole experience was just unforgettable.

My daughters and I just had such a delightful time at Magical Mountain and I especially appreciated the massive effort that went into creating the experience by Shannon. It was one pleasant surprise after another while staying there and something that my kids will certainly remember with joy.

Booking Your Stay Down the Rabbit Hole

It’s easy to book your stay at Magical Mountain Resort as all the properties are listed in AirBnB. Look at the Magical Mountain website though first and see which stay is best and go from there.

The entire property is dog-friendly. You’ll definitely meet Shannon’s loveable and playful golden doodles, Molly and Charlie, while you’re there. Molly took to guarding my girls while they played chess and it was adorable.

If you’re looking for a place to get away in the mountains that is just a touch magical and that will leave your family with lasting, amazing memories, Magical Mountain Resort is the place to go.

Magical Mountain Resort Website
9594 Tusquittee Road, Hayesville, NC
941.276.8142

Adventures In Wonderland await at Magical Mountain Resorts in Western North Carolina!

There’s so much to explore in Western North Carolina!

Don’t miss our Kidding Around WNC Guide!

Looking for more fun, themed places to stay? Here’s our list of fantasty vacation themed rentals that include Star Wars, Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, and more!

One Night in Saluda: Glamping, Rapids, and Good Vibes at Wilderness Cove

Inside: A real family review of glamping at Wilderness Cove in Saluda, NC.

We booked a one-night glamping trip to Saluda, North Carolina, mostly in search of a little adventure and a break from the usual routine. What we got was way more than expected: a cozy glamping setup, an adrenaline-pumping float down the Green River, and a charming downtown that I can’t believe I hadn’t visited before. It was the kind of quick getaway that somehow makes it feel like you’ve been gone for days, in the best way.

Disclosure: Our stay at Wilderness Cove was hosted, and we’re so grateful for their hospitality. This wasn’t a paid partnership — just our honest take on a place we truly enjoyed.

A City Rebuilding, But Still Beautiful

Saluda, a mountain city tucked in Western North Carolina, is still recovering from Hurricane Helene, which tore through the area and left its mark. Thousands of trees were uprooted, roads and bridges were destroyed, and parts of Wilderness Cove Campground, including its beloved riverfront accommodations, were swept away.

But the spirit of the place? Still going strong. You can feel it the second you roll in. New pavement has replaced damaged roads, and while signs of the storm remain, there’s a visible energy of resilience.

The staff at Wilderness Cove have clearly poured their hearts into rebuilding, and it shows. They said their coworkers and bosses feel like family — they eat together, hang out, and genuinely look out for each other, which made us feel welcomed right away.

Glamping at Wilderness Cove: Rustic Meets Extra Cozy

We stayed in Premium Glamping Tent #10, and it was even more luxurious than we expected – surprisingly cozy, well-equipped, and genuinely comfortable. Even with a late arrival, check-in was a breeze and everything was ready for us when we got there.

Inside the tent was a pleasant surprise — a sturdy, canvas structure with a waterproof exterior and an airy, cozy interior. There was a metal queen canopy bed with bedding, AC, electricity, and even a freestanding wood-burning fireplace, which would definitely be helpful on cooler nights.

Inside the glamping tents at Wilderness Cove

A futon, table, chairs, and the chandelier overhead added to the charm. There was also a steamer trunk stocked with two sleeping bags and a basket with two bathrobes, plus a Keurig with pods and cups for morning coffee.

Outside, the setup was just as thoughtful. We had an outdoor sink, mini fridge, fire ring with a cooking grate, front porch chairs, and a picnic table that made outdoor meals and game night enjoyable.

Side note: The tent walls are tough enough to keep out the weather but not soundproof, so don’t be surprised if the morning birds become your natural alarm clock.

The bathhouse was a short walk away and were kept very clean and there were actual hot showers.

A few things to know:

Wi-Fi is available, but cell signal is limited.
Some sites are pet-friendly; a pet fee may apply.

The glamping tent at night at Wilderness Cove

The Little Things That Made It Even Better

The camp store was a nice convenience, and it was actually kind of adorable. Stocked with essentials like firewood, ice, water shoes, waterproof bags, Uncrustables, breakfast items, and ice cream. And small camping extras you always forget to bring.

Tubing at Wilderness Cove

Tubing was the highlight of the trip.
Since Helene, the Green River has changed: more exposed rock beds, less shade, and there are stronger currents in places. Because of that, traditional tube rentals have been paused and now Wilderness Cove offers Mini Cats and inflatable kayaks exclusively. And trust me, that’s a solid call.

Watch! Our Trip Down the River

We went with the Mini Cats, and they were perfect: comfy padded bottom, easy-to-steer double-ended paddle, roomy enough to relax, but also sturdy enough for rapids.

On the river with Mini-Cats at Wilderness Cove

We opted for a guided float, and I highly recommend doing the same for your outdoor adventure, especially if it’s your first time on the Green River or your first post-storm trip. Our guides, Nate and Melody, were awesome, knowledgeable, friendly, and low-key lifesavers. One stayed ahead, alerting us about upcoming rapids, while the other stayed behind us in case anyone got stuck (which we all did at some point). Their presence made the float feel exciting, but safe.

The full float is about 4.5 miles and took around 3 hours in the Mini Cat’s. You’ll start at Wilderness Cove Beach and finish at Big Rock, where the shuttle picks you up and brings you back.

First half: Class I and II rapids, and one optional Class III.
Second half: smoother, but still requires you to pay attention, not a lazy river.

What made the trip floating down the Green River even more memorable was that we saw a Bald Eagle, and later, a Great Blue Heron fly overhead.

🛶 2025 Tubing Schedule & Tips:

📍 2025 Tubing Season: June 6 – September 7, 2025
📅 Fridays–Sundays only (advance reservations required—no walk-ups)
🚐 All floats include shuttle, paddle, and life jacket
🧼 Water shoes are required (bring your own or grab a pair from the camp store)

Mini Cat (Guided)

Fridays & Sundays at 10 am

Mini Cat (Self-Guided)

Fridays at 2 pm
Saturdays at 10 am, 12 pm & 2 pm
Sundays at 2 pm

Inflatable Kayak (Self-Guided)

Fridays at 10:30 am & 2:30 pm
Saturdays at 10:30 am, 12:30 pm & 2:30 pm
Sundays at 10:30 am & 2:30 pm

⚠️ Safety Notes:

All children must be 42” or taller to participate
Life jackets are required for kids under 13 (and honestly, everyone in our group wore one the whole time—good call)
No pets or alcohol allowed on floats
Expect Class I & II rapids, with one Class III (optional)
Ages 10+ is our personal recommendation—especially with current river conditions

Final Stop: Downtown Saluda

After rafting, we headed into downtown Saluda for a late lunch at The Purple Onion, delicious food and relaxed atmosphere. Then we wandered around checking out local shops and grabbed coffee, ice cream, honey, and some locally made sausage, which ended up in our spaghetti dinner back home.

There’s also McCreery Park right across the street, with a playground. Perfect for the kiddos if they still have any energy left after a sun-filled day tubing down the river.

A Short Stay That Stuck With Us: Wilderness Cove Review

Even though we were only in Saluda for one night, it honestly felt like a full escape, peaceful glamping, a beautiful river adventure, and a taste of small-city charm all rolled into one.

Wilderness Cove is still on the mend, but what they’ve rebuilt is already special, and it’s only going to keep getting better. Whether you’re going for the thrill, the quiet, or both, this place checks all the boxes. And next time, we might just stay a little longer.

Want to go? Book at the Wilderness Cove Website
3772 Green River Cove Road, Saluda, NC
Wilderness Cove Facebook

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Our North Carolina Travel Guide

Kidding Around's Travel Guide to North Carolina

Our Guide to WNC– there’s lots more to explore!

More Tubing Adventures in the South!

Posts Tagged ‘North Carolina’

Watch! Things to Do at Sky Top

Experience Sky Top Orchard

Things to do at Sky Top Orchard

Pick Apples

Apple Cannon

Playground

Bee Train

Bamboo Forest

Gem Mining

Hayride

Observation Tower

Animal Barn

What to Eat at Sky Top

Apple Cider Donuts

Apple Pies

Pizza

Apple Cider Doughnut Float

Sparkling Cider

Farmers Market

Field Trips & Private Events

Accessibility & Crowds

Tips for visiting Sky Top

Visiting Sky Top Orchard

Find more nearby fun!

Take Your Family to Justus Orchard for Fun and Apple Picking

Pick apples and grapes, explore a corn maze, and eat pumpkin donuts at Stepp’s Orchard in Hendersonville, NC

Make the Best Fall Memories at Sky Top Orchard in Western NC

Discover the Ecusta Trail Through Hendersonville, North Carolina

Grandad’s Apples ‘N Such: Apple Cannon, Corn Maze, Apples & More

Take Your Family on Our Apple Cider Donut Tour from Greenville, SC

Visiting the NC Arboretum

Baker Exhibit Center

The Gardens at the NC Arboretum

Bonsai Exhibit

Rocky Cove Railroad

Trails to Hike

Education Center at the NC Arboretum

Mom Review: NC Arboretum

Special Events

Day Trips in WNC: Asheville, NC

Biltmore Estate

Asheville Botanical Gardens

Asheville Museum of Science

Folk Art Center

Grove Park Inn

North Carolina Arboretum

Splasheville in Pack Square Park

Western North Carolina Nature Center

French Broad Chocolate Factory Tour

Zen Tubing

Explore Downtown Asheville

Day Trips in WNC: Brevard, NC

Downtown Brevard

Cradle of Forestry

Davidson River Tubing

Looking Glass Falls

Sliding Rock

Day Trips in WNC: Hendersonville, NC

Carl Sandburg Home and Goat Farm

The Park at Flat Rock

Jump Off Rock

Hands On! Children’s Museum

Jackson Park in Hendersonville, NC

Ellaberry Llama Farm

Holmes Educational State Forest

Kidsenses Museum

Jeter Mountain Farms

Justus Orchard

Western North Carolina Air Museum

Bullington Gardens

Day Trips in NC Mountains: National and State Parks

Chimney Rock

DuPont State Forest

Lake Lure Beach and Water Works

Nantahala National Forest

Pisgah National Forest

Cradle of Forestry: Historic Site and Discovery Center

Whitewater Falls

Donut Tour Tips