Parks around this area include Chimney Rock Park, once private property, the State of North Carolina purchased the land for all to enjoy. It includes a 400’ waterfall and several hiking trails. Part of Grandfather Mountain was also recently purchased by North Carolina, for inclusion into the park system, and is an hour’s drive north on Hwy 221 (mainstreet Rutherfordton). The state purchased land near Hendersonville, NC and created the DuPont Forest, with several gorgeous waterfalls, and it's just a short drive away. Speaking of waterfalls, Linville Falls is right off the Blue Ridge Parkway, about a 45 minute drive to the trails that lead to one of western North Carolina’s most photographed water features.
Sports The spring and summer months provide plenty of sparkle, with fireworks frequently displayed after a fun evening watching our own Forest City Owls play their minor league opponents. Many Rutherford County residents drive to Charlotte to watch the Carolina Panthers, and when winter shows up, we put on our boots and ski apparel, and head for the slopes. Sugar and Beech Mountains are just over an hour’s drive. Maybe you are a golfer? Plenty of beautiful western North Carolina courses await you, for year ‘round play.
Night Life may not resemble the big cities, but if you are not into watching a ball game, then head over to the Rowdy Rib restaurant, and listen to great music. The Little River Band, Leon Russell, and the Atlanta Rhythm Section have played here already. If you hurry, you can listen to the Allman Brothers (coming soon!). There is good, live music playing at Barley’s Taproom and M2 restaurants, as well.
Water is the name of the game at Lake Lure, with wake boarding, skiing, kayaking, boating, and the fishing is fantastic. Movies such as Dirty Dancing, and Last of the Mohicans (to name a couple), were filmed in this scenic paradise. Lake James is just 25 minutes north, and covers over 6500 acres. If you are looking for white water fun, try a French Broad River rafting trip, just north of Asheville.
Other things to enjoy may be picking up some local history at the Green River Plantation or the Biltmore Estate. Children love KidSenses museum and toy store in downtown Rutherfordton, and you won’t believe the selections from around the world at the Broad River Gem company. What a treat for the eyes! If you want a little more action, try Carowinds in Charlotte, and in July, Asheville hosts the Bele Chere festival downtown. The Blue Ridge Parkway is always a nice escape, too. Two lanes, no trucks, beautiful surroundings, tunnels and an abundance of scenic overlooks. Bring a picnic!
