Are you planning a trip & looking for things to do in Old Fort, NC?
Was Old Fort Impacted by Hurricane Helene?
On September 27th, 2024, Old Fort was devastated by Hurricane Helene and is currently in the process of rebuilding.
Are Visitors Welcome in Old Fort After Hurricane Helene?
No, the town is not ready for visitors as the community works to clean up and restore the area. Many homes were lost or severely damaged, particularly outside historic flood zones, leaving residents without flood insurance to cover the costs.
Over 50 homes in McDowell County were lost alone.
For those who would like to contribute to the recovery efforts, donations are being accepted through the Old Fort Strong Fund. Managed by Camp Grier, a 501(c)(3) organization that has been actively supporting the community since the hurricane’s aftermath, this fund is dedicated to helping those who have lost their homes and will not receive insurance assistance.
The goal is to raise $2 million to directly aid residents in rebuilding their lives.
I’ll provide a link for anyone who would like to contribute to this vital cause. Every dollar raised goes straight to those in need within the Old Fort community.
Continue reading below to experience the wonderful town of Old Fort that I remember and why this town is worth saving. Let’s do what we can to support this wonderful town and their amazing people until we’re able to celebrate with them once more when their town is ready for visitors once more!
Old Fort, Before Hurricane Helene, 2024
I’m sharing everything you need to know about this endearing North Carolina gem.
Plus I have a 1 day itinerary planned out for you to follow along with other ideas for things to do in Old Fort NC, so you can personalize your trip to suit your needs.
Use The Table Of Contents To Help You Get to Where You Want to Go, Faster!
⬇ ⬇ ⬇
🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡
Don’t Be Fooled!
I totally Missed it!
I remember my first visit to Old Fort, NC, vividly.
I must admit, I didn’t give Old Fort the attention it deserved.
My daughter and I headed out to Old Fort a few years ago, specifically to hike the Catawba Falls waterfall, making a quick pit stop in town for a Subway sandwich and a bathroom break.
At first glance, Old Fort seemed unassuming, and exploring the downtown area didn’t cross my mind. Truth be told, it didn’t even cross my mind that there was a downtown to be explored.
Big mistake!
There’s so many things to do in Old Fort, NC!
🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡
So I had to Come Back & Check it out!
Recently we came back to Old Fort to attend the reopening of the Catawba Falls Trail after a 2 year closure for improvements.
We decided to stay overnight and explore what this charming town has to offer and I was blown away! 🤯
This town maybe small but it sure packs a big punch with its vibrant charm. So, I’m here to share my wisdom with you so you can make the most of your time when you come to Old Fort.
🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡
Let’s Get to the Nitty Gritty
Where is Old Fort, NC?
With a population of just 611, Old Fort might be small in size, but it’s big in spirit. It makes a perfect day trip, longer getaway or a hub to stay when exploring Western North Carolina!
I live in Raleigh, and some may think that over 200 miles is too long for a day trip, but I’ve done it!
Sure, yeah, I prefer overnight stays if time allows, but if you’re like me and don’t mind a few hours in the car, it’s totally worth a day trip.
Here’s a quick guide to give you an idea of how far Old Fort is from some more well-known NC cities:
⬇ ⬇ ⬇
🚙 9 miles from Black Mountain
🚙 25 miles from Lake Lure
🚙 30 miles from Asheville
🚙 103 miles from Charlotte
🚙 149 miles from Greensboro
🚙 225 miles from Raleigh
🚙 352 miles from Wilmington
🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡
How to Get to Old Fort
If you’re flying, the closest airport is Asheville Regional Airport. (AVL)
Airlines that fly to Asheville Regional Airport:
✈ Allegiant Air LLC
✈ American Airlines
✈ Delta Air Lines
✈ Spirit Airlines
✈ United Airlines
🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡
Who Would Love to Visit Old Fort?
Old Fort is an ideal destination for a day trip or longer if time allows.
Old Fort is the Perfect Location for:
✅ outdoor enthusiasts
✅ adventure seekers
✅ hikers
✅ fishermen
✅ those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy life at a slower, small-town pace.
✅ vacationers looking for a nice hub to stay in with easy access to popular surrounding Western NC cities and towns, such as Marion, Black Mountain, Lake Lure and Asheville.
🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡
Pro Tip for Road Trip Planning
If you’re making it a road trip, I suggest using Roadtrippers.com. It helps you plan your route, decide on what restaurants, attractions and points of interest to stop at along the way.
It even helps you find gas stations and estimates your cost for gas.
Map Of Old Fort NC
Roadtrippers is FREE but use this code
⬇⬇⬇
BTR5QTP
for $5 off if you want to upgrade to an advanced plan.
🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡
A Glimpse into Old Fort’s History
Before European settlers arrived, the Catawba and Cherokee tribes called this area home. Spanish explorers ventured here in the 1500s, followed by English and Scottish settlers in the mid-1700s.
During the Revolutionary War, Davidson’s Fort was established as the westernmost outpost of Colonial civilization and a trading post between settlers and Native Americans.
The Arrowhead monument, near the train depot, commemorates how the Town received its name
The arrival of the Western North Carolina Railway in 1869 spurred the town’s development. Initially named Catawba Vale in 1872, it was renamed Old Fort in 1873.
The town hosted free weekly mountain music concerts starting in 1984, which continued for 27 years until 2014.
🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡
What Are Things To Do In Old Fort, NC Today?
Today, visitors flock to Old Fort for its outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing and waterfall chasing, as well as its vibrant festivals.
Old Fort is the perfect destination for a day trip or an overnight escape, especially for outdoor and adventure seekers.
With nearby waterfalls, scenic trails, and excellent fishing spots, it’s an ideal spot for those looking to slow down and savor life small-town-style.
So, next time you’re planning an adventure, give Old Fort the full attention it deserves. You won’t be disappointed!
🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡
One Day Sample Itinerary for Old Fort, NC
Morning:
Kick off your morning with a savory Southern twist at Headwaters Kitchen. Indulge in classics like Southern Chicken and Waffles or Biscuits and Gravy.
Feeling adventurous? Dive into their Shakshuka, a mouthwatering Middle Eastern breakfast stew that’s sure to spice up your day.
Got a sweet tooth? Then you can’t miss GoGo’s Cinnamon Rolls. These unique, freshly made delights come in flavors that’ll make your taste buds dance – think Maple Bacon, Orange Creamsicle, Apple Pie, and even Birthday Cake!
Or, if you’re in the mood for a quick bite and a cup of coffee, one of my favorite places to stop in Old Fort is The Davis Country Store & Cafe.
They are also one of the few places in town that are open on Sundays and the county store sells locally hand crafted items.
Whether you’re a savory or sweet breakfast person, Old Fort has mouth-watering options!
Things to Do:
Hike Catawba Falls
A trip to Catawba Falls (one of my personal favorite NC waterfalls) is an absolute must. It’s arguably one of North Carolina’s most stunning waterfalls, boasting a breathtaking 100-foot cascade and a lush, picturesque landscape.
Thanks to recent improvements, the upper falls are now easier to access, and the trail itself has been extended into a loop, adding just over 2 miles of scenic hiking bliss.
Trust me, there’s more to love about this place than ever before.
You can do an out and back trail or hike the new loop.
If you take the loop and make your way up to the Upper Falls, I recommend packing a snack and taking time to rest and enjoy the scenery at this gorgeous section of the trail.
I had a picnic with my kids at the Upper Falls on our last visit and it has gone down as one of my top favorite memories of the year. It was pure magic!
Pro tip:
⬇ ⬇ ⬇
Parking at Catawba Falls:
🚗 🚗 🚗 🚗 🚗
While the entrance and parking are free, the lot is small and this trail is a popular spot. Your best bet? Arrive early to beat the crowds and secure a good parking spot.
Afternoon:
Lunch and Explore Downtown
After your hike you’ll be ready to refuel. Have some lunch at whistle stop pizza and subs. The menu at this quaint eatery offers a variety of specialty pizzas, subs, salads, sandwiches and more.
Once you’ve filled your belly and had a chance to recharge, it’s time to explore the downtown area.
Make a stop at the Visitors Center to grab some free maps and get ideas for other things to do in the area, because surely, by now, you’re starting to think about extending your stay or you’re planning to come back.
Shop for locally crafted and handmade goods at the Davis Country Store & Cafe.
Swing by the Mountain Gateway Museum! Check their website to see if there’s a special event during your visit. If you’re lucky, you might join in on a Music Jam or a social event.
Feeling adventurous? Borrow a PATH Outdoor Explorer Pack and explore beyond the museum. Each pack is packed (pun intended) with goodies like a regional book, a step tracker, tree ID guides, a magnifying glass, a compass, measuring tape, and fun activities to do on the museum grounds. Enjoy!
Restaurants in Old Fort
After some exploring, you may be in need of a snack or may want to grab a drink. Some spots that you should check out are:
🍩 Gogo’s Handcrafted Cinnamon Rolls
🍕 Whilstle Stop Pizza and Subs
While I strongly encourage people to eat at locally owned and operated restaurants, breweries and cafe’s I do know that sometimes a familiar chain establishment may be needed. If so, you can find a McDonalds and Subway Sandwiches in Old Fort.
Attend a special event or performance.
The last time I was in Old Fort I was excited to walk by a flyer about a theater production of “Shakespeare In The Wrong Hands” put on by a local community Theater group (The Actors Lab at Studio Two)! Check out their Facebook page to see if they have a production taking place during your visit!
I reached out to the director of The Actors Lab, Connie Hurst, and asked her to tell us a bit about what they do.
“Actors Lab at Studio Two in Old Fort, NC was established nearly a year ago (2023). Their mission statement is to offer residents and visitors an opportunity to express and experience live performance. They produce plays, readings, classes, workshops and musical events. Everyone is invited to participate on stage, behind the scenes or as part of the audience. Theatre and performing arts are vital to the welfare and health of any community. It enriches the lives of its members, young and old, and instills the satisfaction that comes with working and creating together.” ~Connie Hurst
So go on out and support the local arts in Old Fort! What a great way to immerse yourself in the community culture!
Connect With Actors Lab at Studio Two on Facebook to see what’s going on during your visit.
Take a Class
Arrowhead Gallery and Studios is an art shop that offer ongoing classes in Pottery and Ceramics, as well as one and two-day project-focused workshops in Drawing, Painting, Glass, Basketry, and other mediums. If you’re traveling with your besties you can book a private group art session.
Evening:
Dinner & Sunset
Wind down your day with dinner at Hillman Beer, the coolest riverside spot in Old Fort with the best view in town.
It’s arguably the most well-known restaurant in the area, drawing folks from near and far just to dine there.
The menu offers a delightful mix of small bites, salads, bowls, sandwiches, and rotating specials.
If you’re in the mood for something with a Mediterranean flair, I highly recommend the falafel wrap. The pickle slaw that comes on the side is a unique treat, especially for pickle lovers like me—trust me, it’s amazing!
The signature burger and fried chicken sandwich are also top-notch. Pair your meal with one of their craft beers or cocktails for the perfect end to your day.
Old Fort isn’t known for it’s nightlife, but there are times when you can catch live music at one of the restaurants, breweries or the winery.
Sunset on the Blue Ridge Parkway
If you’re in the mood for some live music, be sure to check out the local venues during your visit. However, my top pick for an evening activity is catching a sunset on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
How to Get to the Blue Ridge Parkway from Old Fort
I recommend heading out about an hour or two before sunset. The nearest entrance to the Blue Ridge Parkway is the Tunnel Road Access point in Asheville, a mere 21-minute drive or about 20 miles away.
Once you’re on the Parkway, you can cruise along until you find a scenic overlook or parking area to watch the sun dip below the mountain tops.
Make your drive extra fun by listening to a self guided audio tour of the BRP!
Craggy Gardens Visitors Center (Milepost 364)
There are plenty of marked overlooks along the Parkway, but my personal favorite spot for a sunset is around the Craggy Gardens Visitor Center (Milepost 364). Here, you’ll find two excellent overlooks that offer views from both sides of the road.
It will take approximately 50 minutes to get to the Craggy Pinnacle Visitors Center from Old Fort.
Craggy Pinnacle Trail
Drive a short distance past the Visitor Center, take the first left, and you’ll arrive at the Craggy Pinnacle Trail parking lot. This area provides a fantastic view of the sunset, or you can opt for the short, one-mile out-and-back hike to the summit for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the sunset over the Blue Ridge Mountains.
If you decide to hike the Craggy Pinnacle Trail, make sure to bring a flashlight or ensure your phone battery is charged for the return trip. Although the trail is easy, it’s rocky and uneven, and proper lighting is essential for your safety once the sun goes down.
Pro Tip:
⬇ ⬇ ⬇
Bring a cordless power bank to make sure your phone will always be charged!
My Personal favorite for hiking is a Solar Powered, Fast Charge Power Bank that also works as a flashlight!
🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡
Things to Do While Visiting Old Fort, NC
- Old Fort Visitors Center = Make a stop at the Visitors Center to grab some free maps and get ideas for other things to do in the area, because surely you’re thinking about extending your stay or you’re planning to come back.
- Waterfalls = Hike nearby waterfalls on your own or hire a guide.
- Old Fort NC Restaurants & Cafes = See above for a list of restaurants and cafes in Old Fort.
- Old fort NC Breweries = 🍺 Hillman Beer 🍺 Whaley Farm Brewery
- Wineries in Old Fort NC = 🍷 Euda Wine
- Camping in Old Fort NC = Check out Roadtrippers for a list of campsites near Old Fort.
- Attend a Performance = Check out the Actors Lab at Studio Two to see if they have a production taking place during your visit.
- Cycling = Check out a map of Mountain Biking Trails in Old Fort Here.
- Hiking = For a map of hiking trails near Old Fort, Click here.
- Kayaking & Watersports = You’ll find a variety of water activities like kayaking, tubing, white water rafting and more!
- Shopping in Old Fort NC = Some of the not-to-miss shops in Old Fort are:
- Andrews Geyser = Andrews Geyser in Old Fort, NC, is a historic man-made fountain that shoots water high into the air, originally built in the late 19th century as part of a railway promotional effort. Surrounded by a scenic park, it’s a tranquil spot for picnics and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
- Take a Class at Arrowhead Gallery and Studios = Find classes and workshops here.
- Special Events and Festivals = From square dancing, live music, festivals, art classes and more, search to see what’s happening in Old Fort during your visit.
- Mountain Railway Museum = Find hour of operation, directions and info here.
- Mountain Gateway Museum = This museum showcases the rich cultural and natural history of the region, featuring exhibits on Native American heritage, early settlers, and the development of local industries. It’s a fascinating destination for history buffs and curious visitors alike.
- Davidson’s Fort Historic Park = This park is a reconstructed Revolutionary War-era fort offering visitors a glimpse into 18th-century frontier life through its interactive exhibits, living history demonstrations, and scenic trails. The park serves as a historical and cultural landmark, preserving the heritage of the early settlers in Western North Carolina.
- Fishing = Click here to get info on fishing info in the Old Fort Area. Find hatchery-supported trout waters, how to purchase a license, and where you can borrow a rod and reel for FREE!
Go kayak fishing with a guide!
- Walk Around Town and Enjoy the Sites = There’s so many fun and quirky things to see when walking around Old Fort. Enjoy the sites!
- Have a Picnic: There are several great spots to have a picnic in Old Fort:
🌭 You’ll find some picnic tables outside of the Gateway Museum.
🌭 When you’re at the Catawba Falls Trail there are picnic tables to the left soon after you enter the River Trail Entrance.
🌭 There’s also the Old Fort Picnic Area. This U.S. Forest Service property has picnic tables scattered through the property near a babbling creek. The trailhead for Young’s Ridge Trail, is located here if you’re up for a hike.
- Keep Your Eyes Peeled for the Brown Mountain Lights: The Brown Mountain Lights are mysterious, unexplained orbs of light that have been observed for centuries near Brown Mountain in Old Fort, NC. These eerie, glowing lights appear to float above the mountain, sparking legends and scientific curiosity alike.
- Discover Neighboring Towns
Neighboring Towns to Explore
Black Mountain: 9 miles from Old Fort
Marion: 13 miles from Old Fort
Nebo: 21 miles from Old Fort
Chimney Rock: 22 miles from Old Fort
Lake Lure: 24 miles from Old Fort
Asheville: 25 miles from Old Fort
Lake James: 29 miles from Old Fort
Fletcher: 30 Miles from Old Fort
Mount Mitchell State Park: 32 miles from Old Fort
Morganton: 33 miles from Old Fort
Hendersonville: 34 miles from Old Fort
Brevard: 55 miles from Old Fort
🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡
Old Fort FAQ & Tips
Parking
Do you have to pay for parking in Old Fort?
Nope!
Parking is FREE!
🚗 🚗 🚗 🚗 🚗
Closed on Sundays!
All I wanted was a cup of coffee!
I found out the hard way that most small mountain towns in NC are closed on Sundays. I was in Marion, NC for the Big Foot Festival. I was set to make my way home on a Sunday. All I wanted to do was grab a cup of coffee for the road.
I always prefer to purchase from local establishments when I can, so I set out to find a locally owned coffee shop in Marion instead of driving to the nearest Starbucks.
I was shocked to find that the closest local coffee shop that was open was The Davis Country Store in Old Fort!
While the whole town may not be closed on Sundays, it may feel like it.
It was a little out of my way, but it was close enough that I made the drive to find the cutest little coffee shop that also has a shop that sells locally crafted goods.
Best Time to see Fall Foliage in Old Fort?
Mid to late October is the best time to see fall colors in Old Fort. For more details about the best time to plan your fall visit, check out the NC Fall Colors Prediction Guide.
Weather in Old Fort
Spring: March-May = Temperature in Spring fluctuates greatly. The start of March can average at a low of 37F and the highs going into May can get up to an average of 73. It’s not unusual to have some unseasonable warm weather in the Spring.
Summer: June – August = In the beginning of June temperatures can still reach an average low of 57F with highs into July and August averaging around 87F.
Fall: September-November = Temperatures in the Fall can fluctuate drastically with lows averaging around 37F and a high of 77F.
Winter: December – February = Winter in Old Fort typically fluctuates between a low of 23F to a high of 48F. January is typically the coldest month with lows averaging around 23F and highs of 45F. However, it’s not uncommon to have unseasonably warm days from time to time.
Are there EV charging stations in Old Fort?
There are currently 11 charging station within a 10 mile radius of Old Fort’s city center. Click on the button below for locations and updates.
🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡 🏡
Travel Resources
Discover some of my handpicked travel-related resources below complete with affiliate links. Using one of my affiliate links won’t impact your costs in anyway, but it will earn North Carolina Traveler a small token of gratitude from the company for directing you their way. I only recommend products and services that I truly like and trust. This helps to keep my web-site and content free for all my readers.
- Plan your road trip itinerary for FREE here. Use this coupon code to get $5 off if you decide to upgrade to a plan: BTR5QTP
- Find the cheapest rental car rates
- Save TONS on flights with FareDrop
- Save Money on Hotel bookings with this link -> expedia.com
- Find activities and things to do in North Carolina by clicking here
