Tourism

Tourism

Tourism is a varied and strong industry in Mitchell County, visitor spending has increased over 30% since 2020, with more local emphasis on development since.  Between 2021 and 2022 visitor spending increased by $10 million dollars for a total of $44,280,000.

Visitors can pursue several kinds of 4-season outdoor recreation such as hiking, bicycling, fishing, paddling, floating, or even going for a scenic drive, all in spectacular settings.  Visitors can also shop or take advantage of the many restaurants in Spruce Pine or Bakersville, that range from casual to fine dining.  Many people visit to see the work of hundreds of local artists, either at the Penland School of Crafts or at studios affiliated with the Toe River Arts.  Festivals make up a big part of the tourist attractions in Mitchell County, with the Fire of the Mountain Blacksmith Festival, the Rhododendron Festival, the NC Mineral & Gem Festival, the Barbecue and Blue Grass Festival, NC Mountaineer & Apple Butter Festival and others occurring throughout the year.