While You Are Here
Museum of NC Minerals
Don’t Miss a Trip to the Museum of NC Minerals! A true Smithsonian quality museum of interactive exhibits that showcase the minerals and gems unique to our area. Open 7 days a week 9-5. Free to the public.
Area Gem Mines
Be sure to make time to visit with our local gem mines while at the festival! Gem mining, mine tours, exhibits of minerals and gems and museums and gift shops are just a few of the experiences you will have!
Grassy Creek Outdoor Mineral & Gem Show
The Grassy Creek Mineral and Gem Show is a second gem show happening the same week as the NC Mineral and Gem Show and just a few miles away on Hwy 226 South. Visit this outdoor gem show while you are here!
On the Water
If you’re looking for a chance to get your toes wet, you won’t have to look far! From a leisure tube ride or kayaking to a wild rafting adventure, you can choose your dose of wet fun!
Shopping
Our area boasts three downtowns…Spruce Pine, Bakersville & Little Switzerland…. each with unique shops, dining, galleries, spas and more! Check them out while you are at the festival and take home something special from Mitchell County!
Roan Mountain
The largest naturally growing rhododendron garden in the world! Explore trails, gardens and even cross the street to hike a portion of the Appalachian Trail!
Places to Stay
From mountain lodges to bed and breakfasts to resorts, you have a wide array of incredible mountain accommodations to choose from.
Places to Eat
There’s something for everyone’s taste buds! From southern mountain cuisine to BBQ, seafood, Italian, Mexican….and so much more! Enjoy checking out some new restaurants while you are here.
101 Things to do
We invite you to stay a little longer and explore our “101 Things To Do”
Journey to the Arts
The Mitchell County area—home to the Toe River Arts Council, Penland School of Crafts, Parkway Playhouse, and many galleries, —offers something to do, something to experience, participate in, and journey to every weekend of the year, no matter the season. Find out more ->
Spruce Pine is home to the NC Mineral and Gem Festival but is also the home to a great downtown, the Toe River, Riverside Park, art galleries and other events throughout the year!
