Explore Mount Airy NC without breaking the bank! From outdoor activities like hiking and fishing to and , there’s something for everyone. Check out our list of the best in Mount Airy NC.
Outdoor Activities
Are you an outdoor enthusiast looking for exciting activities to engage in? Look no further than Mount Airy, where you’ll find an array of outdoor activities to satisfy your adventurous spirit.
Hiking Trails
One of the most popular outdoor activities in Mount Airy is hiking. The town boasts several suitable for all levels of experience. If you’re a beginner, you can start with the easy trails such as the Pilot Mountain State Park Trail or the Fisher River Trail. These trails offer breathtaking views of the surrounding nature and are perfect for a leisurely walk.
For the more experienced hikers, the Hanging Rock State Park Trail might be just what you need. This trail provides a challenging yet rewarding experience as you traverse the rocky terrain, streams, and waterfalls. You can also explore the trails at the Blue Ridge Parkway, which offer outstanding views of the mountains.
Picnic Spots
If you’re looking for a relaxing and peaceful outdoor activity, then consider picnicking in one of Mount Airy’s beautiful parks. Creekside Park, for instance, is a perfect spot for picnics, with its lush greenery, picnic tables, and grills. You can also enjoy a riverside picnic at the Riverside Park, which offers stunning views of the river.
Fishing Spots
Fishing is another popular outdoor activity in Mount Airy, and the town has several spots where you can cast your line. The Ararat River, for instance, is a favorite spot for trout fishing, while the Yadkin River offers excellent fishing opportunities for smallmouth bass and catfish. You can also fish at the Pilot Mountain State Park, which is home to several species of fish, including bluegill, crappie, and largemouth bass.
Disc Golf Course
For the more competitive individuals, Mount Airy has a disc golf course that offers a fun and challenging outdoor activity. The course is located at the Veterans Memorial Park and comprises of 18 holes, with varying levels of difficulty. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, you’ll enjoy the scenic views, the challenging layout, and the friendly competition.
Historical Sites
When it comes to , Mount Airy has plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re a fan of classic TV shows or just interested in the town’s rich history, there’s something for everyone here.
Andy Griffith Museum
The Andy Griffith Museum is a must-see for fans of the iconic TV show. Located in downtown Mount Airy, the museum is dedicated to the life and career of Andy Griffith, who grew up in the area. Visitors can see a wide variety of memorabilia, including costumes, scripts, and props from the show. There’s even a replica of the jail cell from the show’s opening credits.
Mount Airy Downtown Historic District
For a more general look at the town’s history, the Mount Airy Downtown Historic District is a great place to start. This area is filled with beautifully preserved buildings dating back to the early 1900s. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour, or join one of the guided tours offered by the Mount Airy Museum of Regional History. Highlights include the Earle Theatre, which has been showing movies since the 1930s, and the Mount Airy Visitors Center, which is housed in a former post office.
Mayberry Squad Car Tours
Finally, for a truly immersive experience, you can take a Mayberry Squad Car Tour. These tours take visitors around town in a replica of the squad car from the show. Along the way, you’ll visit various filming locations and other important sites from the show’s history. The tour guides are knowledgeable and entertaining, and the tour is a great way to see the town while learning more about its history.
Overall, Mount Airy is a great destination for history buffs and TV fans alike. Whether you’re interested in Andy Griffith, the town’s architecture, or just its general history, there’s plenty to see and do here. So why not come and explore for yourself?
Arts and Culture
When it comes to arts and culture, Mount Airy has a range of events and activities that will satisfy any enthusiast. Whether you are a lover of music, art, or just enjoy a good time, Mount Airy has a variety of events that you will enjoy.
Old-Time Music Jam Sessions
If you’re a fan of old-time music, then you will love the old-time music jam sessions that take place in Mount Airy. These jam sessions are held every Thursday night at the Earle Theatre, and they are free to attend. The sessions are open to anyone who wants to play or listen to some great old-time music. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, and you will be sure to have a great time.
Downtown Street Festivals
If you’re looking for a fun and lively event, then you won’t want to miss the downtown street festivals. These festivals are held throughout the year and feature live music, food vendors, crafts, and more. The festivals are a great way to experience the local culture and enjoy the community atmosphere. Some of the most popular festivals include the Autumn Leaves Festival and the Mayberry Days Festival.
Gallery Crawls
If you’re an art lover, then you will want to check out the gallery crawls that take place in Mount Airy. These crawls are held on the first Friday of every month and feature a variety of art galleries and studios that are open to the public. The galleries feature a range of artwork from local and regional artists, and you will be sure to find something that catches your eye. The gallery crawls are a great way to meet local artists and learn more about the local art scene.
- Old-Time Music Jam Sessions every Thursday night at the Earle Theatre
- Downtown Street Festivals throughout the year, including the Autumn Leaves Festival and Mayberry Days Festival
- Gallery Crawls on the first Friday of every month featuring local and regional artists
Family-Friendly Activities
Family-friendly activities are a great way to spend quality time with your loved ones, creating memories that will last a lifetime. In Mount Airy, there are several options for family-friendly activities that are sure to please everyone, young and old.
Pilot Mountain State Park
Pilot Mountain State Park is a must-visit destination for families looking to enjoy the great outdoors. With over 3,700 acres of land, there are endless opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and fishing. The park offers several trails, ranging from easy to strenuous, so there is something for everyone. The Little Pinnacle Overlook Trail is a great option for families with young children, as it is only a half-mile long and offers breathtaking views of Pilot Mountain.
In addition to hiking, the park has several picnic areas that are perfect for a family lunch. The Bean Shoals Canal Trail picnic area is a popular spot, with plenty of tables and grills available. For those looking to fish, the park has several lakes and streams with a variety of fish, including bass, catfish, and trout.
Mount Airy Public Library
The Mount Airy Public Library is a great option for families looking for a quieter activity. The library offers a variety of resources, including books, movies, and educational programs for children. Storytime is a popular program for young children, where they can listen to stories and participate in fun activities. The library also offers homework help and tutoring for older children.
In addition to the resources available at the library, there are several events and activities throughout the year. The Summer Reading Program is a popular program for children of all ages, where they can earn prizes for reading books. The library also hosts movie nights and craft events for families to enjoy together.
Creekside Park
Creekside Park is a great option for families looking for a fun outdoor activity. The park offers several amenities, including a playground, walking trail, and basketball court. The playground is a popular spot for children, with several slides, swings, and climbing structures. The walking trail is a great option for families looking to get some exercise, with a loop that is just over half a mile long.
For those looking to play a game of basketball, the park has a court available. There is also a large pavilion that can be reserved for events and gatherings. The park is a popular spot for birthday parties and family reunions.
Food and Drinks
When it comes to food and drinks, Mount Airy has a lot to offer. From wine tastings to local brewery tours, there is something for everyone. Let’s take a closer look at the options available in this charming town.
Wine Tastings
Mount Airy is home to several wineries that offer tastings and tours. One of the most popular is Shelton Vineyards, which is located just a short drive from the town center. This winery is known for its award-winning wines and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
If you’re looking for something a little closer to town, head to Old North State Winery. This winery is located in the heart of downtown and offers a variety of wines, as well as a full menu of food options. They also have a tasting room where you can sample their wines and learn more about the winemaking process.
Downtown Farmers Market
If you’re a fan of fresh, locally grown produce, you won’t want to miss the Mount Airy Downtown Farmers Market. This market is open every Saturday morning from May through October and features a variety of vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to baked goods and handmade crafts.
In addition to the vendors, the market also features live music and other entertainment. It’s a great way to spend a Saturday morning and support local farmers and artisans.
Local Brewery Tours
For beer lovers, Mount Airy has several local breweries that offer tours and tastings. One of the most popular is Thirsty Souls Community Brewing, which is located in downtown Mount Airy. This brewery is known for its unique flavors and creative brewing techniques.
Another popular brewery is Skull Camp Brewing, which is located just outside of town. This brewery has a rustic, laid-back vibe and offers a variety of beers, as well as live music and other events.
Overall, Mount Airy is a great destination for food and drink enthusiasts. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a beer lover, there is something for everyone in this charming town. So why not plan a visit and explore all that Mount Airy has to offer?
Here’s a table showing the information at a glance:
| Location | Type of Establishment | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Shelton Vineyards | Winery | Award-winning wines, stunning views |
| Old North State Winery | Winery & Tasting Room | Variety of wines, full menu of food options |
| Mount Airy Downtown Farmers Market | Farmers Market | Fresh, locally grown produce, baked goods, handmade crafts |
| Thirsty Souls Community Brewing | Brewery & Tasting Room | Unique flavors, creative brewing techniques, downtown location |
| Skull Camp Brewing | Brewery & Tasting Room | Rustic atmosphere, variety of beers, live music and events |
