Rainy Days in Boone, North Carolina: A Guide to Indoor Fun

Rainy Days in Boone, North Carolina: A Guide to Indoor Fun

Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone, North Carolina, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with its stunning vistas, hiking trails, and ski slopes. But what happens when the weather turns sour, and the rain starts to fall? At an elevation of 3,333 feet, Boone’s temperate rainforest climate means rain is a frequent visitor—averaging about 4.4 inches per month. Fortunately, this charming mountain town offers a wealth of indoor activities to keep you entertained, no matter the forecast. From creative pursuits to craft beer adventures, here’s a comprehensive guide to making the most of a rainy day in Boone, with a special spotlight on Boone Blown’s glass blowing classes and demos, Boone Brewery Tours’ beer bus experiences, and a variety of other indoor fun options.

Boone Blown: A Fiery, Creative Escape

When the skies open up, one of the most unique and engaging activities in Boone is a visit to Boone Blown, a glass blowing studio that offers daily classes and demonstrations. Located in the heart of Boone, this hidden gem (check out their website at www.booneblown.com) transforms a dreary day into a hands-on, artistic adventure. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned crafter, Boone Blown provides an unforgettable experience that’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families looking to create something tangible to remember their trip by.

Glass Blowing Classes: Boone Blown’s introductory glass blowing classes are a standout. These sessions, led by skilled instructors like Jared (who consistently earn rave reviews for their patience and expertise), guide participants through the process of shaping molten glass into beautiful keepsakes. Imagine crafting your own glass turtle, pendant, or pumpkin—items that serve as both a memento and a conversation starter. The classes are beginner-friendly, with step-by-step instruction ensuring you feel safe and supported as you work with 2,000-degree glass. A typical class lasts about an hour, costs around $65-$85 depending on the project, and leaves you with a cooled, finished piece to pick up the next day (since the glass needs time to anneal). It’s a perfect rainy-day activity because it’s entirely indoors, and the warmth of the studio contrasts beautifully with the chilly, wet weather outside.

Daily Demonstrations: If you’re not ready to dive into a class, Boone Blown also offers free daily glass blowing demos. These short, engaging sessions let you watch artisans at work, turning raw glass into stunning creations. It’s a mesmerizing process—seeing the glowing, molten material twist and take shape—and it’s a great way to spend 20-30 minutes while staying dry. The demos are held in the same space as the classes, behind a cozy coffee shop where you can grab a latte or snack while you wait. The combination of creativity, warmth, and caffeine makes Boone Blown a top pick for rainy days.

Why prioritize Boone Blown? It’s not just the novelty of glass blowing—it’s the personal touch. Visitors frequently praise the instructors’ enthusiasm and the intimate, welcoming vibe. One Tripadvisor reviewer noted, “We stumbled upon this activity because our outdoor plans got rained out, and it was a perfect replacement.” Whether you’re crafting your own piece or watching a pro, Boone Blown turns a soggy day into a highlight of your Boone adventure.

Boone Brewery Tours: Sip Your Way Through the Rain

For those who prefer a more laid-back (and perhaps boozy) indoor experience, Boone Brewery Tours offers a fantastic way to explore Boone’s thriving craft beer scene without braving the elements. Operating beer bus tours that depart from various points in town, this service (detailed at www.boonebrewerytour.com) lets you hop aboard a comfortable shuttle and visit some of the area’s best breweries—all while staying dry. Boone’s craft beer culture is a point of pride, and these tours are a delicious way to dive in.

Tour Options: Boone Brewery Tours offers several packages to suit different tastes and schedules:

• The Classic Tour: A 3-4 hour journey visiting three breweries, such as Appalachian Mountain Brewery (AMB), Lost Province Brewing Co., and Booneshine Brewing Co. You’ll enjoy tastings at each stop, with a knowledgeable guide sharing insights about the brewing process and Boone’s beer history. Priced around $55-$65 per person, it’s a great value for a half-day adventure.

• The Full Day Experience: For the true beer aficionado, this 6-hour tour hits four or five breweries, including some lesser-known gems outside Boone’s core. It’s pricier (around $85-$100), but includes more tastings and a deeper dive into the High Country’s craft scene.

• Private Tours: Perfect for groups, these customizable tours let you pick your breweries and timing. Prices vary based on group size and itinerary, but it’s an excellent option for a rainy birthday or family reunion.

Each brewery on the tour has its own indoor taproom, often with cozy seating, food trucks, or full menus to pair with your pints. AMB, for instance, boasts a spacious indoor area and a rotating selection of 30+ beverages, including ciders and seltzers. Lost Province pairs its innovative brews with wood-fired pizzas, while Booneshine’s large restaurant space offers small-batch beers like the Berry Patch Gose. The bus keeps you sheltered between stops, and the convivial atmosphere makes it easy to chat with fellow beer lovers.

Why choose a beer bus tour? It’s hassle-free—no need to navigate wet roads or find parking—and it’s a social, guided experience that showcases Boone’s local flavor. As one visitor put it, “The rain didn’t dampen our spirits thanks to this tour. Great beer, great company, and no umbrella needed!”

More Indoor Fun in Boone: A Wealth of Options

Beyond Boone Blown and Boone Brewery Tours, Boone and its surrounding High Country area are brimming with indoor activities to keep you entertained when the weather turns. Here’s a roundup of the best options, from family-friendly fun to cultural escapes.

1. Mystery Hill: A Gravitational Anomaly

Just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Mystery Hill is a quirky, family-oriented attraction that’s ideal for a rainy day. Known for its gravitational anomaly—where objects seem to defy physics by rolling uphill—it’s a blend of science, optical illusions, and fun. The main attraction, the Mystery House, lets you experience this oddity firsthand, while the 1903 Dougherty House Heritage Museum offers a peek into 19th-century mountain life. Tickets are around $12 for adults and $8 for kids, and the indoor setting makes it a dry, delightful escape. Kids love the hands-on exhibits, and adults enjoy the puzzling phenomena.

2. Linville Caverns: Underground Wonders

A short 20-minute drive from Boone, Linville Caverns offers a subterranean adventure that’s naturally rain-proof. These limestone caves, North Carolina’s only show caverns, stay a consistent 52°F year-round. Guided tours (about 30 minutes, $10 for adults, $8 for kids) take you through stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations, with guides sharing tales of the caverns’ history. It’s a cool, educational outing that feels like a mini-expedition—perfect when the outdoors are off-limits.

3. Foggy Mountain Gem Mine: Treasure Hunting Indoors

For a hands-on activity that’s both fun and educational, head to Foggy Mountain Gem Mine. Located near Boone, this indoor gem mining experience lets you sift through buckets of dirt to uncover treasures like amethyst, ruby, and sapphire. Prices start at $25 per bucket, and you can polish your finds on-site. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, offering a cozy, dry way to spend an hour or two. One visitor raved, “We spent just under $30 for an hour of pure fun—great for a misty day!”

4. High Country Lanes: Bowling Fun

Nothing says “rainy day classic” like bowling, and High Country Lanes delivers. With 16 lanes, a remodeled bar featuring local beers, and a menu of snacks and meals, it’s a laid-back spot for families or friends. Lane rentals are hourly (around $20-$25), and Sundays offer unlimited bowling from 12-5 PM for a flat rate. It gets busy on wet days, so call ahead to reserve a lane.

5. Turchin Center for the Visual Arts: Cultural Immersion

Located at Appalachian State University, the Turchin Center is a free, indoor haven for art lovers. Its rotating exhibits showcase local and regional artists, from multimedia works to sculptures. The permanent collection is equally impressive, and the quiet, contemplative space is a soothing contrast to a stormy day. Check their schedule for workshops or events if you’re feeling inspired.

6. Mysterium Escape Adventure: Puzzle-Solving Thrills

For a mental challenge, try Mysterium Escape Adventure in downtown Boone. These escape rooms (up to 8 people, $25-$30 per person) lock you in a themed space where you must solve clues to break out within an hour. It’s a fantastic team-building activity, and the indoor setting keeps you dry while your adrenaline pumps. “The best activity of our visit,” one reviewer said. “The room was impressive, and the staff was great.”

7. Blowing Rock Art & History Museum (BRAHM): A Short Trip Away

A quick 10-minute drive to neighboring Blowing Rock brings you to BRAHM, a free museum blending Appalachian history with art. Its exhibits explore the region’s heritage, and occasional workshops let you get creative. It’s a dry, enriching stop that’s worth the short journey, especially if you pair it with a coffee break in Blowing Rock’s quaint downtown.

8. The Children’s Playhouse: Kid-Friendly Fun

If you’re traveling with young kids, The Children’s Playhouse in downtown Boone is a lifesaver. This miniature children’s museum features rotating art activities, a climbing wall, and play stations for kids from birth to eight. Open Tuesday-Saturday, it’s $8 per person, and the indoor space is a “welcoming refuge” for families dodging raindrops.

9. Center 45 Climbing: Indoor Fitness

For active types, Center 45 offers indoor rock climbing with routes for all skill levels. Day passes are around $15, with gear rentals available. It’s a great way to burn energy and learn climbing basics—skills you can take outdoors once the sun returns. The facility’s variety and expert staff make it a standout.

10. Movie Time at Regal Boone Cinema

Sometimes, a rainy day calls for a classic movie outing. Regal Boone Cinema in the New Market Center shows new releases with plush seating and concessions. Tickets are typically $10-$12, and it’s a relaxing way to unwind while the storm passes.

Tips for a Rainy Day in Boone

• Gear Up: Bring a lightweight, hooded rain jacket for quick dashes between activities. Boone’s elevation can make wet days chilly, so layering is key.

• Plan Ahead: Popular spots like Boone Blown and High Country Lanes can fill up on rainy days—call or book online when possible.

• Embrace the Cozy: Boone’s rainy, foggy vibe is part of its charm. Pair your indoor fun with a warm drink or comfort food from local spots like Boone Bagelry or The Local.

Conclusion: Rain or Shine, Boone Delivers

Boone, North Carolina, proves that bad weather doesn’t have to derail your plans. With Boone Blown offering a creative, hands-on escape through glass blowing classes and demos, and Boone Brewery Tours serving up a taste of the High Country’s craft beer scene, you’ve got two stellar starting points. Add in the diverse array of indoor options—from caverns and museums to bowling and escape rooms—and you’ll find Boone’s rainy days are just as memorable as its sunny ones. So, next time the forecast looks dreary, pack your sense of adventure and dive into the indoor wonders of this mountain town. You might just discover that the rain brings out Boone’s best.

Hewitt

Tour Boone Concierge

www.tourboone.com