Appalachian Regional Commission Map
The Appalachian Region, located in the eastern United States, is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, or delicious food, this region has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the Appalachian Region and highlight the top attractions, hidden gems, and budget-friendly tips that will make your trip unforgettable.
Top Attractions
When visiting the Appalachian Region, there are several must-see attractions that you won’t want to miss. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive that offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. The Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, is a stunning mansion that offers tours and tastings at their winery.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, the Appalachian Region has plenty to offer. The Ocoee River in Tennessee is a popular spot for whitewater rafting, but the nearby Hiwassee River offers a more relaxed float trip with stunning scenery. The small town of Berea, Kentucky, is home to a vibrant arts community and offers workshops and demonstrations by local artisans. The Breaks Interstate Park, located on the border of Virginia and Kentucky, offers stunning views of the “Grand Canyon of the South.”
Food Scene
The Appalachian Region is known for its comfort food and Southern hospitality. Be sure to stop by a local diner for a hearty breakfast or try some barbecue at a roadside stand. The city of Nashville, Tennessee, is known for its hot chicken, while Louisville, Kentucky, is famous for its bourbon and fried chicken. Don’t forget to try some apple cider donuts in the fall or homemade ice cream in the summer.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? The Appalachian Region has plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy. Take a hike on one of the many trails in the region, visit a local museum or historical site, or attend a free concert or festival. Camping is also a budget-friendly option, with many campgrounds offering amenities like showers and fire pits.
Outdoor Adventures
If you love the great outdoors, the Appalachian Region is the perfect destination for you. From hiking and camping to fishing and kayaking, there are plenty of ways to explore the region’s natural beauty. The New River Gorge in West Virginia is a popular spot for rock climbing and whitewater rafting, while the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers over 800 miles of hiking trails.
Historical Landmarks
The Appalachian Region is rich in history, with many landmarks and museums dedicated to preserving its past. The Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park in Kentucky is a must-visit for history buffs, as is the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, Tennessee. The Harpers Ferry National Historical Park in West Virginia offers a glimpse into the region’s role in the Civil War.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with kids, there are plenty of family-friendly activities in the Appalachian Region. The Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, offers rides and attractions for all ages, while the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky, offers horseback riding and educational exhibits. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in Bryson City, North Carolina, is a fun way to explore the region’s scenery.
Natural Wonders
The Appalachian Region is home to many natural wonders, from towering waterfalls to underground caves. The Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky offers guided tours of its vast cave system, while the Linville Gorge in North Carolina offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The Natural Bridge in Virginia is a unique geological formation that is worth a visit.
Vibrant Nightlife
Looking for some nightlife? Several cities in the Appalachian Region offer a vibrant bar and music scene. Nashville, Tennessee, is known for its live music, while Asheville, North Carolina, offers a wide variety of craft breweries and bars. The city of Louisville, Kentucky, is home to the famous Bourbon Trail, which offers tours and tastings at several distilleries.
Local Markets
One of the best ways to experience the culture of the Appalachian Region is to visit a local market. The Nashville Farmers’ Market offers locally grown produce and artisanal products, while the Lexington Farmers’ Market in Kentucky offers a wide variety of fresh foods and crafts. The City Market in Charleston, West Virginia, is a great spot to pick up souvenirs and handmade goods.
Beaches and Mountains
The Appalachian Region offers a unique combination of beaches and mountains, making it a great destination for all seasons. The Outer Banks in North Carolina is a popular spot for beach vacations, while the mountains of West Virginia offer skiing and snowboarding in the winter. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a great destination for both hiking and camping.
Cultural Immersion
If you’re interested in learning about the culture of the Appalachian Region, there are several ways to immerse yourself in the local traditions. The Kentucky Bourbon Festival offers tastings and events celebrating the region’s famous spirit, while the Bristol Rhythm and Roots Reunion in Tennessee showcases the best of Appalachian music. The Cherokee Indian Reservation in North Carolina offers a glimpse into the region’s Native American heritage.
Art and Music Scene
The Appalachian Region has a rich tradition of music and art, with many local festivals and events celebrating these cultural traditions. The Kentucky Derby Festival in Louisville, Kentucky, offers parades and concerts, while the Mountain Heritage Festival in Hindman, Kentucky, showcases local crafts and music. The Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival in Manchester, Tennessee, is a popular destination for music lovers.
Walking Tours
If you prefer to explore on foot, there are several walking tours available in the Appalachian Region. The Historic Downtown Walking Tour in Roanoke, Virginia, offers a glimpse into the city’s past, while the Asheville Urban Trail in North Carolina showcases the city’s art and architecture. The Old Louisville Walking Tour in Kentucky offers a glimpse into the city’s Victorian-era architecture.
Architectural Marvels
The Appalachian Region is home to many architectural marvels, from historic mansions to modern skyscrapers. The Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, is a stunning example of Gilded Age architecture, while the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum in Weston, West Virginia, is a haunting example of Gothic Revival architecture. The Kentucky State Capitol in Frankfort, Kentucky, is a beautiful example of Beaux-Arts architecture.
Historical Sites
The Appalachian Region is full of historical sites that offer a glimpse into the region’s past. The Birthplace of Country Music Museum in Bristol, Tennessee, showcases the history of country music in the region, while the Andrew Johnson National Historic Site in Greeneville, Tennessee, offers a glimpse into the life of the 17th President of the United States. The National Museum of the Civil War Soldier in Petersburg, Virginia, offers a unique perspective on the Civil War.
Biking Routes
If you’re a cycling enthusiast, the Appalachian Region offers several scenic biking routes. The Virginia Creeper Trail in Damascus, Virginia, is a popular spot for mountain biking, while the Great Allegheny Passage in Pennsylvania offers a smooth ride through the mountains. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail also offers a scenic biking route through the rolling hills of the Bluegrass State.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, the Appalachian Region has several wellness retreats that offer yoga, meditation, and spa treatments. The Art of Living Retreat Center in Boone, North Carolina, offers a variety of wellness programs, while the Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, offers world-class spa treatments and activities like golf and tennis. The Om Sanctuary in Asheville, North Carolina, offers yoga and meditation classes in a peaceful setting.
Adventure Sports
The Appalachian Region is a great destination for adventure sports, with plenty of opportunities for rock climbing, whitewater rafting, and zip-lining. The New River Gorge in West Virginia is a popular spot for rock climbing and rappelling, while the Gauley River offers some of the best whitewater rafting in the country. The Nantahala Outdoor Center in Bryson City, North Carolina, offers zip-lining and other adventure activities.
With so much to see and do in the Appalachian Region, it’s no wonder that it’s a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, this region has something for everyone. Use this travel guide to plan your next trip and discover all that the Appalachian Region has to offer.