The quaint mountain community of West Jefferson is located in a valley in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The captivating history, cutting-edge creative culture, and stunning surroundings come together well in this little, unique town.
Walking about the city and breathing in the fresh mountain air will reveal so many great things to uncover. The Blue Ridge Mountains will still seem far away from you, even though West Jefferson is in a prime location just 20 minutes from Boone and an hour from Winston-Salem.
The Virginia-Carolina Railroad, sometimes known as the Virginia Creeper, passed through this area instead of via Jefferson, North Carolina, in the early 1900s, marking the beginning of West Jefferson’s history. The Town of West Jefferson was established in 1909 when several businesses in the region opened.
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Activities In West Jefferson, NC
Discover museums, galleries, town murals, unique mountain restaurants, cafés, and stunning natural formations—West Jefferson is a little town with a lot to see and do. In the article below, we’ve provided you with a helpful travel guide for when you next visit this part of Western North Carolina.
1. The Natural area of Mount Jefferson State
Address: West Jefferson, NC 28694, 1481 Mount Jefferson Road
The more than 1,000-acre Mount Jefferson State Natural Area offers some of West Jefferson’s most stunning views. There are over seven hundred plant species to discover on the site thanks to hiking routes that extend over five km.
The Jefferson Overlook and the Sunrise Overlook are two popular viewing spots. A very easy one-mile trek through the forest leads to the Sunrise Overlook. The Jefferson Overlook is located on the opposite path from the Sunrise Overlook and may be reached by hiking one mile. This overlook offers stunning views of Mount Jefferson and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
2. THEATRE PARKWAY
10 E Main St., West Jefferson, NC 28694 is the address.
The Parkway Theatre is a locally owned, family-friendly theatre that has been serving the community for nearly 40 years. It’s a lovely place to visit whether it’s chilly outside or pouring. They provide a cozy, moderately priced cinema with all the newest films and added extras.
3. CURIOSITY SHOPPE & ESCAPE ROOM IN THE GREAT SOUTHERN GOTHIC
103 N Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson, NC 28694 is the address.
First presented as an exhibition, The Great Southern Gothic included an uncommon and fascinating range of antique and vintage items. A superior escape room was later created on the second story by the store’s proprietor. Every few months, the escape room changes themes and can hold up to eight individuals at once. When you are there, make a stop by the store to grab a unique gift or memento.
4. The Ashe County Historical Museum
301 E Main St., Jefferson, NC 28640 is the address.
The Museum of Ashe County History is a non-profit historical organization that is located in the original 1904 Ashe County courthouse building. A well-written history of Ashe County is presented via a number of both temporary and permanent exhibitions at the museum, which include artifacts, documents, images, films, and more.
5. ASHE CENTRE FOR ARTS
303 School Ave., West Jefferson, NC 28694 is the address.
The Ashe Arts Centre is a museum, event venue, and exhibition hall open all year round. The center offers a space for local artists to show their work, connect with other artists, and find inspiration in the rich history of Ashe County. Plays, concerts, and live music events are held in the large Ashe County Little Theatre.
6. Cheese from Ashe County
106 E Main St., West Jefferson, NC 28694 is the address.
West Jefferson used to be home to the state’s largest cheese-making facility. At Ashe County Cheese, which debuted in the 1930s, all the cheese-making was done. Ashe County Cheese is the highest-caliber cheese produced by the oldest cheese plant still in operation.
The public is always welcome to watch the actual process of manufacturing cheese at the Ashe County Cheese viewing room; admission is free. In addition, there’s a charming gift shop with cheese and other cheese-related things. Plus, don’t miss their food truck, which is outdoors and sells fried cheese curds, gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, and other goodies.
7. PARK BACKSTREET
2nd Ave, West Jefferson, NC 28694 is the address.
Backstreet Park is a trendy pocket park in the middle of the city with a variety of historical elements. The park’s performance stage hosts the popular summer music series and holiday plays. It’s also possible for you to explore and investigate the train caboose.
Conclusion
When you inquire about the best communities to visit in Western North Carolina, West Jefferson may not be the first town that comes to mind. But this tiny town has so much love in it, and there are so many wonderful things to find. Make a trip plan for it right now!
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