Tucked away in the Blue Ridge in Little Switzerland, Emerald Village is a slice of the past you can still experience today. Here you can mine for gems, pan for gold, or take home treasures with staff to help you identify your discoveries and also professionals that can assist in cutting and polishing your finds to make them into jewelry. This place is a true 'hidden gem.'
As an ode to its history, Emerald Village aims not to recreate the classic experience of mining but make it easy, accessible and safer for a new generation. The grounds of Emerald Village were mined for years and years, but they still keep producing treasures!
One aspect history buffs enjoy is the display of original equipment once used in the mining process. In the picture above, you'll see an ore car. In 1981 at Crabtree Emerald Mine, the ore car was loaded with emerald and brought to the surface.
A popular activity for the little ones is panning for gold or the gemstone mine. One way Emerald Village is set apart from the other popular mines is that everything you find, you get to keep. If you want to learn a bit more about the history before digging for gold, stop by the NC Mining Museum. Those seeking a more rugged, hands-on adventure have the option to dig in the dumps of the famous Crabtree Emerald Mine or McKinney Mine dumps where over 100 various rocks, gems and minerals have been discovered.
Sure, everything during the day is awesome but you'll REALLY want to come at night for the underground, black light mine tour. You'll journey underground into Bon Ami Mine, the blacklight makes visible the hidden colors earthed within the rock. Coatings in Bon Ami are mainly Hyalite Opal, a true form of opal found in this area.The black light tours are only offered ten days out of the year but you can arrange special custom group tours.
From the family and pet friendly facilities, to the Discovery Mill Building (with great mountain views), two gift shops, underground mine tours at night, and all the natural beauty...waterfall included, Emerald Village is a truly unique experience you won't find anywhere else in North Carolina.
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Wow! What a cool place, did you know this existed?
Please note: Emerald Village is only open seasonally from March til November. For more information, visit their official website.
You'll find Emerald Village at 331 McKinney Mine Rd, Spruce Pine, NC 28777.
No matter where you are in the Tar Heel State, you'll find that fall in North Carolina brings with it brilliant hues, breezes that feel as if they'll whisk you away, and a calm serenity as you enjoy both to the fullest. We're fortunate to live in such a gorgeous state to experience it all beginning in just a few weeks. Until then, dazzle your sense of adventure with an enticing look at 12 of the best places to experience fall in North Carolina.
Fall in North Carolina simply isn't complete without at least one trip to the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway. Linn Cove Viaduct can be found at milepost 304.4. The last section to be completed on the Blue Ridge Parkway is also one of the most photographed. Autumn is especially beautiful from this vantage point on the Parkway. See if you agree!
If you're looking for a "fall getaway near me," the Biltmore in Asheville is a wonderful choice. It's difficult to pinpoint the best time of year to visit America's Castle, but if you have the chance to visit in the peak season for leaf peeping, it's a sight to behold. Did you know that the Biltmore is the largest privately owned estate in the entire country? And, it's also rumored to be one of the most haunted places in North Carolina.
Head to Transylvania County to visit the highest mountain valley in the state. Graveyard Fields Valley itself is more than 5,000 feet in elevation and is surrounded by mountain peaks above 6,000 feet. You'll find it along the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 418.8. One of the best ways to experience this beautiful landmark in North Carolina is the 3-mile trail.
Julian Price Park sits at the base of Grandfather Mountain. Visitors enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and fishing here, and for those wanting to spend more than a day, there's a campground operated by the National Park Service. Imagine waking up to these vivid colors! Price Lake in North Carolina is located along the Blue Ridge Parkway near milepost 296.7.
Situated along Mingus Creek and found a short distance from the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, this 1896 grist mill is a must-see, especially when surrounded by the vibrant hues of autumn. While you're in the area, be sure to check out some of the most picturesque views during the North Carolina fall.
The westernmost end of the Sauratown Mountain range in North Carolina is marked with the towering Pilot Mountain. A visit to this legendary guidepost at the peak of the fall season is a guarantee you'll walk away with spectacular images to remind you of the day. It's easy to see why Pilot Mountain is considered one of the most beautiful natural wonders in North Carolina.
7. Stone Mountain - Stone Mountain State Park - Roaring Gap
The centerpiece and namesake for this popular state park is a stunning backdrop for the season change each fall. Photos are lovely, but they can never really make the same impact as seeing it in person. Plus, while you're there, you can hike through a former historic homestead in North Carolina.
8. Crabtree Falls - Blue Ridge Parkway - Grassy Creek
One of the most popular waterfalls on the parkway is basked in the glow of yellow, orange, and rusty red hues once the peak of the leaf-peeping season arrives. Time your visit perfectly to see it at its best. Hiking to Crabtree Falls is a short and strenuous trek but one of the best things to do in fall in North Carolina.
Found within the Pisgah National Forest, the arboretum has miles of walking trails and cultivated gardens and is aglow with color during the height of the fall season. And, if you happen to be in the area during wintertime, don't miss the famous Winter Lights garden walk in North Carolina!
The American Tobacco Trail follows an old rail line built in the 1970s for the American Tobacco Company. It passes through 22.6 miles of the Research Triangle, including the city of Durham. When it comes to unique day trips in North Carolina, this trail is definitely one you'll want to experience.
Start your colorful adventure in Robbinsville when you hop on the Cherohala Skyway, a 43-mile road that travels 18 miles before entering the state of Tennessee. Many consider the Cherohala Skyway to be the most beautiful drive in North Carolina, and it's no mystery why!
An easy, 1.3-mile hike leads to an astounding view of the tallest waterfall in North Carolina (at 411 feet). Hit this trail in the height of the season for an immersive hiking experience to dazzle your sense of adventure. Can't get enough of waterfalls in the Tar Heel State? Check out this incredible 2-day itinerary for exploring the most beautiful waterfalls in North Carolina - including Upper Whitewater Falls!
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Where is your go-to spot for enjoying everything that fall in North Carolina has to offer? And will you be going there this year, or does the pandemic have you considering just staying home? We'd love to know, so join the discussion in our Facebook comments!
If you plan on taking a road trip to see fall foliage around North Carolina, take a look at our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List for everything you need for a comfortable car ride!
These European-style getaways in North Carolina offer journeys to other worlds without the expense and complications of traveling abroad. From the mountains to the sea, the locations look and feel like you're far away. Consider these perfect escapes if you've been dreaming of visiting Europe.
Located at Mile Marker 334 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Little Switzerland is only an hour away from Asheville. Visit Geneva Hall for mountain music and folk dancing, learn the history of mining at Emerald Village, and enjoy the fantastic cuisine at the local cafes and fine dining restaurants.
See the magical wild horses that have provided a free show to residents and tourists alike for more than 400 years. We love that you arrive by ferry, adding more elements to the enchanting, old-world charm.
Visit Winston-Salem to experience Reynolda Village, offering an eclectic adventure from art galleries to furniture, home decor, and clothing. In addition, the shops sit in buildings modeled after an old English Village.
Reminiscent of something you would find in old Europe, this gorgeous destination sits in Jamestown, North Carolina. The incredible event venue captures the imaginations of old and young alike.
Known as "Chianti in the Carolinas," this destination is located in the pastoral foothills of the Swan Creek Wine Appellation within the Yadkin Valley, bringing Tuscan charm to The Tar Heel State.
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These European-style getaways in North Carolina offer affordable adventures that are closer to home. During the holidays, explore the magic of a European Christmas village. And keeping with the theme, reserve this Scandanavian-style cottage on Vrbo.
