Nestled in the heart of Mitchell County, Spruce Pine is a small quaint town that is filled with artistic spirit, natural beauty and a welcome atmosphere that will make you feel right at home. From local dining to unique shops to gem mining, Spruce Pine has something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you are an outdoorsman or just a looking for a day of adventure, you will find what you are seeking in Spruce Pine. Looking for a day of fun and relaxation with the family and dogs? Be sure to visit Riverside Park in Spruce Pine. Riverside Park is located along the Toe River and has many activities such as a paved riverside walking trail, a large playground for children, a baseball field and plenty of benches to stop and take in the scenery. There is also access to the Toe River from Riverside Park where many flyfishermen have landed “the one” in these hatchery supported waters and kayakers and tubers have launched their crafts for a relaxing float down the river. If you get hungry or decide you would like to do a little sightseeing, there is a historic walking bridge that connects the park with Lower Street in Downtown Spruce Pine. This bridge is suspended high above the Toe River and is perfect for getting a great view of the park, the river, the railroad and the town.
While in Spruce Pine, shopping should be a priority on the list. From ladies boutiques to art galleries, from antique shops to bookstores, you can fill an afternoon just shopping and browsing the unique stops.
If you are looking for a great way to spend a weekend in Spruce Pine, you should visit one of the festivals that the town hosts every year. These festivals include the North Carolina Mineral and Gem Festival the first weekend in August, the Troutacular Kids Fishing Event the first Saturday in June, the Bluegrass and Barbeque Festival in July, and the Fire on the Mountain Blacksmith Festival the last Saturday in April and the Potters Market in October. There are vendors, artists, and craftsman, some local and some invited from around the country to represent the best of the best.
Art and culture is embedded in the history of Spruce Pine, and is one of the things that make this town so unique. Spruce Pine is the ideal place for art lovers, with many local potters, woodworkers, and artists calling it home. While visiting, be sure to stop by the Toe River Arts (TRA) Gallery to take a look at work from local artists. TRA hosts exhibits and events throughout the year as well as the famous Toe River Studio Tours in June and November.
There is a little something for every taste bud when it comes to dining options downtown. From international flavors to a great burger and fries, your group will most certainly find a place to gather round the table after your day of exploring.
Spruce Pine is gem-lovers dream and this is our number one claim to fame. Home to the purest quartz in the world, the area has long been known for its wealth of gems and minerals. Since the late 1950s, Spruce Pine has hosted the North Carolina Mineral and Gem Festival every August when thousands of people from around the country come to see Spruce Pine at its best. And did you know that for over 40 years the “sand” in the bunkers at Augusta Nationals (The Masters) has comes from Spruce Pine? Pretty cool huh?
When you come to visit, be sure to drop in Spruce Pine and meet some of our great local shop owners and restaurant owners. They’ll be happy to see you!
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Continental Divide Retreat on Apple Mountain
