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A mural downtown Chimney Rock, NC by Reese Moore Photography

There's a whiff of Myrtle Beach about this little mountain town nestled beside Chimney Rock State Park and the Broad River. Equal parts small town charm and blatant tourist trap, Chimney Rock offers stunning vistas along the river, questionable shopping, and a really delightful mini golf course.

Both Lake Lure and Chimney Rock are products of the vision of Dr. Lucius B. Morse, who purchased 64 acres of Chimney Rock Mountain in 1902 for a whopping $5,000.The US Census Bureau notes a population of fewer than 200 people in Chimney Rock, but it feels considerably larger thanks to the swells of visitors that flock to the state park each summer and fall.

(If you're looking for an in-depth insider's guide to Chimney Rock, I wrote that for Jen over at Honestly Modern. Give it a read!)

The Vibe:

Chimney Rock blends cheesy tourist attractions with history and old-school charm, making it a popular destination for those passing through the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Mini golf in Chimney Rock, NC — Miniature golf is one of the best things to do in Chimney Rock, NC.

The Charm Factor:

It's hard not to fall in love with the hand-painted murals and decks overlooking the river (you'll find them at most restaurants). The stores specialize in your average tourist paraphernalia and, well, rocks. Lots of rocks. Polished rocks. Big rocks. Rocks with magical powers. Rocks you can wear. All sorts of rocks. The Esmeralda Inn is absolutely beautiful, and the floor of the inn was repurposed from the set of Dirty Dancing.

The Esmeralda Inn is one of the most charming buildings in Chimney Rock, NC.

Best Things to Do in Chimney Rock:

Enjoy a meal on the river.
Play mini golf.
Visit Chimney Rock State Park.
Go hiking, bouldering, or rock climbing.
Visit the Hickory Nut Brewery.
Stroll the River Walk.
Pan for gold at the gem mine.
Ride the vintage carnival rides.
Shop at Bubba O'Leary's General Store.

Kids will love the vintage carnival rides at the end of town.

Must-see During Your Stay:

Chimney Rock State Park
The Rocky Broad River
The Flowering Bridge at Lake Lure

Restaurants in Chimney Rock:

The Stagecoach Saloon is conveniently located inside the Broad River Inn and was actually once a stagecoach stop. Their “mountain-style pizzas” are a favorite among locals.
The Burntshirt Vineyards Tasting Room & Bistro boasts a spacious outdoor patio with impressive views of Chimney Rock State Park, and they frequently have live music. Their menu will be a sigh of relief for any lost foodies wandering the streets of Chimney Rock. The menu rotates seasonally, but the house salad, brussel sprouts, salmon dip, and trout are usually great.
If you're planning a date night in Chimney Rock, make a reservation at the Esmeralda Inn. The building is a study in rustic elegance, and the restaurant consistently offers up a traditional fine dining experience in a quiet, welcoming setting.
Are you looking for a solid, no-frills lunch on-the-go? The Old Rock Cafe serves a variety of sandwiches and salads on their picturesque deck overlooking the Broad River. They get bonus points for having a pup menu.

The River Walk in downtown Chimney Rock, NC

Reusable Water Bottle

Astrals Water Shoes

Small Hiking Backpack

Full-length Athletic Pants

What to Pack:

Reusable water bottle for hikes and exploring
Astrals water shoes for tubing, kayaking, and exploring the lakes and river
Small hiking backpack for snacks, water, and first aid
Full-length hiking pants for maximum tick protection
Light-weight parka for weather-proof outdoor adventures
DEET bug repellent to avoid chiggers, mosquitos, and ticks
NC Waterfalls Guide for day trips
Collapsible dog bowl for comfortable traveling with Fido

Light-weight Parka (Copy)

DEET Bug Repellent (Copy)

NC Waterfalls Guide

Collapsible Dog Bowl

Vintage gasoline pump outside Bubba O’Leary’s General Store and Outfitters in Chimney Rock, NC

Know Before You Go:

It may seem bizarre that there are traffic jams in a town that only boasts two blinking yellow lights; alas, welcome to Chimney Rock. This tiny town requires a little bit of good old-fashioned patience during peak season, so leave the road rage at home, city slickers.

Like the neighboring town of Lake Lure, the businesses in Chimney Rock frequently close on a seasonal basis. Do not be shocked if it's a ghost town in December, January, and February.

Take note of signs indicating swift currents that make areas of the river unfit for swimming, and as always in the mountains, watch where you’re walking. Snakes, poison ivy, ticks, and bears can be found throughout this beautiful part of the world.

Finally, Chimney Rock State Park is absolutely a must-see, but remember that there is an entry fee per person that goes toward maintaining and improving the park. The Chimney Rock Bouldering area off Boys Camp Road (also known as the Rumbling Bald Loop Trail) is accessible and offers a spacious, level parking area.