wilkesboro tourism development authority

Wilkesboro Tourism Development Authority

Contact us for area information to help you plan the perfect trip to Wilkes County. Known worldwide for MerleFest, there's also offers a wide variety of activities from adrenaline-pumping BMX racing and mountain biking, to wine tasting at a local vineyard. While you are here, you can crunch a tart Pink Lady apple from a local orchard as you walk the Yadkin River Greenway or learn about the historical connection between moonshine and NASCAR at the Wilkes Heritage Museum. Marvel at the inspiring frescoes painted by world-famous artist Benjamin Long or see the jail that Tom Dooley was incarcerated in, or explore a village of 19th-century log cabins. Experience our Southern hospitality and the majestic views of the Blue Ridge and Brushy Mountains. We'll take your breath away...or let you catch it. Visit our website to learn more about Wilkes County.

• Handicap Accessible
• Internet access: Wireless high-speed

203 West Main Street Wilkesboro, NC 28697

(336) 838-3951 www.wilkescountytourism.com [email protected]

Local Information

Wilkes chamber of commerce.

Ends: 6/15/2024

2024 Outdoor NC Pledge Sweepstakes

Sweepstakes.

(336) 838-3951 - www.wilkescountytourism.com

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

My 15 Favorite Experiences In Beautiful Wilkesboro, North Carolina

• Destinations
• North Carolina
• United States

The Yadkin Valley in Western North Carolina’s High Country is home to a sparkling jewel of a town. Wilkesboro , with an estimated population of less than 4,000, wowed my husband and me with its combination of stunning surroundings, fascinating history, robust music and art scene, and some of the friendliest, most talented people we’ve ever met.

Wilkesboro is the county seat of Wilkes County and connects via a bridge across the Yadkin River to North Wilkesboro . The towns are independent municipalities, and it’s easy to wander back and forth between them and into other areas of Wilkes County while in search of activities, local art, history, excellent food, and locally crafted libations. Here’s a small sample of what awaits you in Wilkesboro .

Disclosure: Our visit to Wilkesboro was generously hosted by Wilkesboro Tourism Development Authority and Blue Ridge National Heritage Area . However, all opinions are entirely my own.

An Assortment Of Interesting And Fun Things To Do

Whether you are a history buff or outdoor enthusiast, Wilkesboro has activities to fit every interest and activity level.

1. Northwest NC Visitor’s Center

A good place to begin your visit to Wilkesboro and surrounding areas is the North West NC Visitor’s Center . This isn’t your average tourist office where you step up to a counter to pick up maps and brochures. Oh, there are plenty of those, but allow an hour or more to take in everything else.

Opened in 2009, the North West NC Visitor’s Center is the first LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) GOLD-certified visitor’s center. This means it has achieved a level of sustainability with its geothermal heating and cooling, solar panels, and a long laundry list of other environmentally-friendly specifications.

Wander through the large but welcoming space and admire regional art featuring exquisite pottery, carvings, and quilts crafted by skilled area artists. The center often hosts artist demos and live performances by local musicians. You, the kids, and the dog might even decide to burn off some energy with a walk along the nature trail, featuring native plants and a monarch butterfly sanctuary.

Pro Tip: You can purchase displayed items, but you’ll need to pick up the artist’s card and arrange your purchase directly.

2. Wilkes Heritage Museum

For a generous dose of regional history, the Wilkes Heritage Museum , located in the restored 1902 Wilkes County Courthouse, showcases Wilkes County’s unique heritage. Drink in area history as you explore exhibits of artifacts and images from early settlement, military history, and more.

The Wilkes Heritage Museum houses the Blue Ridge Music Hall of Fame and offers tours of the Old Wilkes Jail and Candlelight Ghost Tours . The latter is operated as a museum fundraiser.

You can also pick up a map for the free self-guided Old Wilkes Heritage Walking Tour , which takes you to 13 historic buildings representing Wilkesboro as it developed over time.

Pro Tip: The museum spans two levels but has been updated to fulfill ADA requirements.

3. Wilkes County Hardware

Whether or not you’re in need of DYI supplies, a visit to Wilkes County Hardware is a must. This old-fashioned store has the usual hardware — tools, nuts, bolts — and is outfitted with a freight elevator and a rolling ladder. It also has food items and high-tech toys such as the latest Traeger grill. An area in the front of the store features handcrafted pottery, wood items, soaps, and more for you to take home as original souvenirs or gifts.

4. Cub Creek Park

If you’re up for a rendezvous with nature without leaving Wilkesboro, Cub Creek Park has you covered. This 150-acre swath of green offers easy hiking and mountain bike trails, pickleball courts, a playground, a dog park, and a creek stocked with trout. An approximately 1-mile flat unpaved walking path is wheelchair accessible, and when the Cub Creek Park extension is completed in 2023, it will include an ADA-accessible fishing ramp.

Pro Tip: If you’re 16 or older, you’ll need a North Carolina fishing license to hook trout from Cub Creek.

5. A Treasure Trove Of Traditional And Modern Art

Western North Carolina inspires artists of all kinds, and many create in the mountains and foothills. The newly completed Blue Ridge Craft Trail runs through Wilkes County, so be prepared to find extraordinary original art and talented, passionate artists wherever you venture.

6. Christie Younger Art

Christie Younger has a love of color, and she knows how to use it. Her paintings of tulips, waterlilies, and hydrangeas are eye-popping. If you’re fortunate, you might catch this charming artist in her studio, But you can always shop her art on her website .

7. Taupe Gallery

If you’re looking for high-end contemporary, abstract, or somewhat edgy art, Taupe Gallery is waiting for you. One-of-a-kind pottery, paintings, glass art, and fabric wallhangings occupy this bright but welcoming space. Most of the gallery’s inventory is on the large side, but you can also find smaller gift-worthy items.

8. Wilkes Art Gallery

For art exhibits that change bi-monthly, drop into Wilkes Art Gallery and see what fascinating regional works of art are currently on display. The gallery offers workshops for children and adults and has a gift shop where you can purchase items crafted by North Carolina artists.

The Sound Of Music

Music is deeply embedded in Western North Carolina’s soul, and experiencing it live makes any visit to the area that much sweeter.

9. Concerts In The Commons

Wilkesboro’s annual Concerts in the Commons series runs every second Saturday from May to October at the Carolina West Wireless Community Commons and on the Wilkes Communications Pavilion stage in the heart of historic downtown Wilkesboro. These are family-friendly events, and most are free. The concerts feature live music by regional and nationally known artists, local food trucks, vendors, and activities for the kids.

10. MerleFest

For 4 days on the last weekend in April, the hills really do come alive with the joyful sounds of MerleFest . This event is held in honor of Merle Watson as a fundraiser for Wilkes Community College , where the annual festival is held. Country, bluegrass, and blues artists perform on multiple stages. You can purchase 4, 3, and 1-day passes through the official website .

A Robust Food And Beverage Scene

Considering that Wilkes County has a population of fewer than 70,000, The number of wineries, craft breweries, and distilleries — not to mention excellent restaurants — is truly impressive.

11. Roaring River Vineyards

Located a half-hour drive from Wilkesboro lies Roaring River Vineyards , a spectacular riverfront property featuring a restaurant, lodging, and 70 acres of lush, wine-producing vineyards. This is a superb spot to enjoy a wine tasting, a fresh, exquisitely prepared meal, and/or a night or two stay.

The dry rose was my favorite of the five wines I tried during our tasting, but the other reds definitely held their own. As for lunch, it was nothing short of heavenly. The French onion soup was everything it should be. The equally delicious salad consisted of cremini mushrooms, blistered cherry tomatoes, crumbled gorgonzola, and bacon, artfully arranged on a bed of spinach and topped with a warm vinaigrette.

Pro Tip: Roaring River Vineyards is open Thursday through Sunday. Plan ahead so you don’t miss out.

12. Dooley’s Tavern

Located in the historic Smithey Hotel, built in 1891, Dooley’s Tavern is a lively eatery that is popular with locals and visitors alike. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating and serves up a varied menu featuring healthy American-inspired cuisine, including gluten-free and vegetarian options.

I had the Pimento Cheese Burger with a side of sweet potato fries and was glad I skipped the bun. That meal was as filling as it was fiendishly scrumptious. Another good choice is the Reuben. Dooley’s also has an impressive assortment of beers.

13. Amalfi’s Italian

Amalfi’s Italian wraps you in an olfactory hug the moment you walk into this intimate eatery. And if you think the aroma of food is divine, wait until you taste it. I opted for an Amalfi salad of mixed greens, cherry tomato, Greek olives, roasted red bell peppers, artichoke, red onions, and feta cheese, topped with blackened chicken. The presentation was as impressive to the eye as it was to the palate. Amalfi’s also turns out delectable pastas, perfect pizzas by the pie or slice, and luscious desserts.

Accommodations

From rustic campsites to charming bed and breakfasts, the Wilkesboro area has the perfect accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets.

14. Holiday Inn Express Wilkesboro

Conveniently located in Wilkesboro, Holiday Inn Express Wilkesboro is a clean, comfortable place to unwind after a day of exploration. The hotel offers complimentary hot breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking.

15. Lodging At Roaring River Vineyards

If you’re willing to drive approximately 18 miles out of Wilkesboro, you can stay in a small corner of paradise in one of four units at Lodging at Roaring River Vineyards . Three of the units sleep two, and one sleeps eight. All have outdoor seating so you can watch the river flowing below. Amenities include Wi-Fi, Direct TV with premium channels, private fishing, a river beach with tables and chairs, a horseshoe court, corn hole toss, and more. You also have access to a communal outdoor fireplace furnished with Adirondack tables and chairs. An RV park is also located on the property. Reasonable pricing plus breathtaking river and mountain views make this an ideal location for a family vacation or romantic getaway.

Pro Tip: Winter can be a little on the chilly side, but there is no bad time of year to explore and enjoy Wilkesboro.

For more on North Carolina , check out these articles:

• 10 Bald Head Island Rentals Perfect For Your Next Beach Vacation
• This Newly Completed North Carolina Trail Is Perfect For Art Lovers
• My 11 Favorite Beaches To Visit In North Carolina

Penny Zibula has been a freelance writer and blogger since she retired in 2013. Her background is in public relations and community outreach, with stints as a newspaper reporter, television talk show host, and producer. She applies her life-long love of learning and passion for travel to her writing about destinations, history, culture, food, and accessibility.

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Wilkesboro Tourism Development Authority

Wilkes is your outdoor playground! With more than 750 square miles of stunning natural beauty, Wilkes is home to a spectacular array of natural experiences. Hunting, Fishing, Boating, Hiking, Rock Climbing, and top-ranked Mountain Biking and Disc Golf trails offer an inviting and challenging experience for every level. The Warrior Creek trail is home to the famous “Six Hours at Warrior Creek” an extreme test of endurance on stunning, lakeside mountain terrain.

Cub Creek parks packs more than 7 miles of mountain bike trails and a complete array of sporting facilities into a tranquil, natural setting just minutes from the charming historic main street district of Wilkesboro loaded with locally-owned shopping, restaurants, outdoor concert venue, art and history. Cub Creek is a popular destination for time trials, but also offers wooden berms and features for those wishing to test out their aerial acrobatics.

Just a short distance away from Wilkesboro center is Rolling Pines disc golf course, ranked #1 in North Carolina and #4 in the US on the iDisc app. Among the beautifully manicured hills and pine groves is a challenging and fun disc golf experience.

Whatever your speed, Wilkesboro aims to please. Pedal, Paddle, Run or Ride to Wilkesboro and seek new heights on your next sports adventure. Wilkesboro, “where the mountains begin,” is ready and willing to help your sports event climb to the top.

Member of North Carolina Sports Association

Organization

Sports information.

Thomas Salley [email protected] (336) 838-3951

Cliff Gardner [email protected] (336) 667-8804

Venues Include

• Cub Creek Park
• Lowe's Park at River's Edge
• Memorial Park

Resource Partner

Wilkesboro Tourism Development Authority (WTDA)

The mission of the Wilkesboro Tourism Development Authority (WTDA) is to bring overnight travelers to Wilkes County to grow the local economy.

Business Size Served

Large , Medium , Small

Start typing and press enter to search

• Plan Purpose
• Plan Process

"Elevating quality of life and the economy through the outdoors"

Helping create a community-led vision and a 15-year roadmap to ensure strategic decision making that grows the outdoor economy and encourages active living in wilkes county, north carolina..

Browse The Plan

Project Coordinator:

Jenn Wages, MSW

Program Director The Health Foundation

Phone: 336-838-1949

Email: [email protected]

Consultant:

Eric Woolridge, AICP

President Destination by Design Planning

Phone: (828) 386-1866

Website produced by: Destination by Design

• Site Search

See more on YouTube

Working with your Local TDA 1 & 2 with Elizabeth Slater

May 12, 2020 at 09:43 am, working with your local tourism board (part one).

Sep 25 by  inshortdirectmarketing

Your local tourism board can be a great help to your winery. Not only do they promote the city, town or county, including your winery, they also have information that can help you putting your own plans together. Invariably the local tourism board has information on who is coming to the area and why. They can usually tell you, generally, the numbers of people, their age, the average of what they spend, etc.

Not only can they help you, but you can help them by providing information on your guests to the tourism board. To find out more I turned to Thomas Salley, a friend of mine from the wine industry who is now the Director of the Wilkesboro, NC Tourism Development Authority. As Thomas has expertise in both wine and tourism, he is the perfect person to give benefits of working with your local tourism council.

Speaking as a tourism director, Thomas said:

“ It is our full-time job to attract tourists to the area and attention to our attractions.  While you’re harvesting, paying taxes, handling HR/payroll, pouring wine. We’re focused on putting heads in beds and promoting your winery. We are constantly interacting with journalists, writers, influencers. Remember that one media article for your winery is worth thousands of dollars of advertising. So spending a few minutes updating your local tourism council on what’s going on is well worth your time and can pay huge dividends. You may spend 30 minutes describing your wines to a potential customer. Spare 5 minutes and give tourism professionals a call to tell them about a new release, event, weather, etc.”

Are you hosting an overnight event? Then you may be entitled to compensation.  Many TDA’s or DMO’s, etc., have marketing dollars available for organizations who host events. IF you can tie hotel room stays back to these specific events then they may be able to help you promote them.

This week, take a look at the website for your local tourism council and see what they are involved in. They may be sponsoring or involved with projects you are not familiar with. If you already know and work with your tourism council, give them a call just to say hello. Then you will be top of mind if something comes up that your business can be a part of.

Check out the website for  www.explorewilkesboro.com  you may get some great ideas.

Next week more tourism tips from Thomas Salley.

A tip of the glass from me to you!

Working with Your Tourism Board – Part 2

Oct 2 by  inshortdirectmarketing

Continuing the theme from last week’s blog, here are more tips on working with your local tourism programs (and others) to promote your winery and increase sales. 

Thanks to Thomas Salley, Director of the  Wilkesboro, NC Tourism Development Authority  for this great information. This week, Thomas’s tips are on working with others, in addition to your local tourism office.

It’s good business and good for business to network with other attractions in your community:  It’s hard to get out and about when you’re minding the store, wines and grapes, but successful destinations always keep their Tourism director in the loop. One of my favorite things is connecting people with other people that I think complement their skill set to ignite collaboration within our district. B2B collaborations, especially online, are great ways to leverage credibility and add value to your marketing campaigns. Tourism people love to network with other tourism people, and we’ll promote what’s top of mind (ie. the last thing someone told us), grand openings, anniversaries, milestones and events.

Other Organizations:  There are many local and national organizations who can help promote your business. WineAmerica is a great resource for wineries big and small. Or band together with similar wineries to form a niche group (Rhone Rangers, etc.) or a trail. Our winery trail was able to pay for most of its marketing efforts by hosting ticketed events that generated revenue. You may also consider affiliate memberships for other local businesses with winery ties. Look for state or regional organizations that are complementary to the wine industry to affiliate with: e.g. local restaurant and lodging association or the National Restaurant Association. If you are a winery owner and you are established in your field, find ways to introduce your wine to your others. Sponsor corporate events, speaking engagements, seminars. For example: Jay Raffaldini (Raffaldini Winery) gave a Ted Talk at a local event in Raleigh, NC. The talk encouraged people to visit and established the winery as both credible and relevant.

Don’t forget Universities and Nonprofits:  Partnering with nonprofits may open doors to your desired client base,  expose you to influential members of the community and get your name out. Universities thrive from public/private partnerships. They can provide you with sound advice from other industries that they work with. Students may be willing to work on your projects as their projects for free or for a reduced fee. Students are also a good source for part-time employees. You may have the opportunity to talk to a class or two. These students will be loyal to your winery and visit when they are old enough.

Thank you for visiting https://www.wilkescountytourism.com:443/Working-with-TDA! Be sure and revisit wilkescountytourism.com frequently for content updates and more.

Upcoming Events

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Flagpole and Memorial Dedication Ceremony

PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Flagpole and Memorial Dedication Ceremony for Mountain Park Military Memorial

Wilkesboro, NC – May 30, 2024 - The Wilkesboro community is cordially invited to the dedication of the Mountain Park Military Memorial, a momentous Flagpole and Memorial Dedication Ceremony scheduled for Sunday, June 9th, 2024, at 2:00 PM. This ceremony will honor the bravery and sacrifice of military personnel, while also commemorating the rich historical significance of the site.

This Memorial Day...

Our Splash Pad is Open

WILKES COUNTY ROAD BIKE ROUTES & MAP

Each of the 15 routes is signed with Wilkes County Bike Route signs that have arrows pointing in the direction of travel. The signs direct riders to travel in a direction that matches the elevation profiles illustrated in the Route Descriptions.

Routes are signed for one direction only. Riders risk getting lost if they choose to deviate from the signed route. Some routes will overlap but cyclists should follow the arrows with the corresponding number for the route they have chosen.     

To view maps, click  map- front   or   map-back.

home  > for visitors > wilkesboro sundial > wilkes county barn quilt trail

WILKES COUNTY BARN QUILT TRAIL

Barns and quilts makes for the perfect combination in the countryside.The quilt patterns were chosen from centuries old, placed on barns of local residents wishing to ensure this legacy, and enjoyed by all who gaze and recognize it as a form of art.  Sharing rich heritage through quilting designs, Wilkes County Quilters Guild in partnership with Cultural Arts Council of Wilkes present this Barn Quilt Trail.

In recent years, a working vertical Barn Quilt Sundial was installed on the Wilkesboro Police Building and the Heritage Square Splash Pad was designed from a quilting square at the Wilkes Heritage Museum in Historic Downtown Wilkesboro and has become part of the official trail. Presently there are 16 quilts displayed throughout in Wilkes County, N.C. and these are listed in the brochure. Click on the photo of the Barn Quilt Trail for the brochure and map.    

Reminders - Safety & Respecting Private Property

Use caution when traveling along the Quilt Trail. Traveling under speed limit, pausing and/or stopping along any road can be dangerous and illegal.

All barns are located on private property and should be viewed from the public road unless otherwise indicated on site.    

home > for visitors > yadkin river greenway

 YADKIN RIVER GREENWAY  

The Yadkin River Greenway was created through the cooperative efforts of citizen volunteers, landowners, and the governments of Wilkes County, North Wilkesboro, Wilkesboro, and the State of North Carolina. The effort began in 1994, and the first phase of the greenway became a reality and was opened May 18, 2002. The Yadkin River Greenway Council, a non-profit community organization, provided coordination and leadership. 

Print or view larger map                     

home > for visitors > nc birding trails in wilkes county

WILKES COUNTY BIRDING TRAILS & SUPPLIES

   Birdwatching or birding is the observation of birds in their natural habitats as a recreational activity. Birding can be one of the quieter and more relaxed outdoor activities. It can be done with the naked eye, through a visual enhancement device like binoculars and telescopes, photography equipment, and by listening for bird sounds. Birding often involves a significant auditory component, as many bird species are more readily detected and identified by ear than by eye.

N. Blue Ridge Parkway region

Stone Mountain State Park  

Thurmond Chatham

New River region

E B Jeffress Park

Lewis Fork Overlook

Northern Foothills region

Yadkin River Greenway  - many photos posted on their Facebook

W Kerr Scott Reservoir    

Whippoorwill Village  

MerleFest, a four-day event, which USA Today described as a “happy, family friendly festival that’s loved by musicians who come to play and those who come to add their energy by listening, as well,” will once again take place on the campus of Wilkes Community College in Wilkesboro, North Carolina. MerleFest is an annual homecoming of musicians and music fans, gathering to celebrate the memory of musician Eddy Merle Watson, beloved son of American music icon Doc Watson. MerleFest also provides family activities, heritage crafts, food, dance, and shopping in a safe, alcohol-free environment. MerleFest has evolved into the most important annual ticketed event in northwest North Carolina and the world’s foremost Americana music festival. In so doing MerleFest has defined and lead the way for that field called Americana music .

MerleFest, which starts on the last Thursday in April, takes its name from Merle Watson, who died in a tractor accident in 1985. A noted finger-picking guitarist in the folk, blues, and old-time country styles, Merle performed with his legendary guitarist father, Doc, from 1965 until his death. Conceived as a benefit concert to raise funds for the Eddy Merle Watson Memorial Garden for the Senses at Wilkes Community College, MerleFest has grown into a significant economic engine.

One of the hallmarks of MerleFest has been the musical diversity, was inspired by Doc’s eclectic interests. Doc filled his concerts with hot flat-picking tunes, slow romantic ballads, gutsy blues numbers, delicately picked melodies and an old-time gospel song or two. From its two-stage beginning, MerleFest has evolved to no less than a dozen stages spread across the 151 acre Wilkes Community College campus. Each year, many performers visit the public schools in the area to further educate and cultivate the musical interest of young people.

The initial lineup reflects the diversity and quality of performers that have become the hallmark of the four-day festival. MerleFest is known for its unique mix of traditional, roots-oriented music from the Appalachian region, including bluegrass and old-time music, and expanded to include Americana, Blues, Country, Celtic, Cajun, Cowboy, Zydeco, Rock and many other styles that Doc Watson has referred to as “Traditional Plus.”

Throughout the 30 years, one of the major factors that has built MerleFest is the quality of the artists and performances that our guests see over the four days of the festival, adds Ted Hagaman, Director of the Festival. That, in turn, creates another important element of MerleFest’s success: people truly feel that the festival is a great value. That’s probably best expressed by the fact that so many music fans and families return year after year, making MerleFest a regular spring tradition. We’re tremendously proud of what we’ve built and that tradition will continue.

During MerleFest, an event the Town is equally proud of is the annual campground sponsored by the Wilkesboro Fire Department . The campground was begun about fifteen plus years ago to offer a place for MerleFest patrons to camp. Since that time, the campground has evolved into an institution of its own and has been dubbed " Sewerfest ." Free hot showers, a shuttle to MerleFest, and late night pickin’ sessions all combine to make the campground a great place to stay. More than 2,000 people will stay at the campground during MerleFest . The campground is located about 2 miles from the festival. Wilkesboro firemen work very hard to provide a pleasant experience for campers and the money made at the campground goes toward the firemen retirement fund.  

• Tourism-W. Kerr Scott Mountain Biking Trails
• Tourism-Whippoorwill
• Tourism-Wilkesboro Frescoes
• Tourism-Wilkesboro Sundial

Podcast Episode 65 - A Tourism Director Who Thinks Like an Economic Developer with Thomas Salley

Thomas Salley is the Director of the Wilkesboro Tourism Development Authority

Table of Contents

Is this episode , Dane talks with Thomas Salley .  Thomas is a tourism director who "thinks outside the box" so much so that he sounds like an economic developer.

Today's email is brought to you by Convergence .

Thomas Salley is the Director of the Wilkesboro Tourism Development Authority . He is passionate about rural development, hospitality and tourism, and it shows.

Like this show? Please leave us a review here .

Episode Links

• Wilkesboro, NC - Hotels, Music, Food, Things to Do
• Wilkesboro, NC (@visitwilkesnc) • Instagram
• Wilkes NC Tourism | Facebook
• greatstateofwilkes (@stateofwilkesNC) / Twitter
• Wilkesboro Tourism Development Authority - YouTube
• Life In the Carolina's Podcast: Thomas in Tourism
• Working with your Local TDA 1 & 2 with Elizabeth Slater
• Thomas Salley | LinkedIn
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Founder/Host of Econ Dev Show. Also: Sitehunt CEO and economic development consultant in Greater Houston, Texas.

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Past Chair 2023

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VP Membership

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[email protected]

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[email protected]

Director of Finance

[email protected]

Office Manager

[email protected]