Our Wilkesboro Travel Guides

Where is Wilkesboro?

Wilkesboro is located in northwestern North Carolina along US-421, about 30 minutes south of Boone and just over an hour northwest of Winston-Salem. The Yadkin River separates Wilkesboro from its sister city, North Wilkesboro, and together they make up what locals call “The Wilkesboros.”

Downtown Wilkesboro is easy to reach and simple to explore, with most attractions, restaurants, and shops within a short walk of one another. The town’s small-scale layout makes it ideal for a relaxed weekend visit — you can park once and spend the day discovering its historic buildings, local businesses, and friendly community atmosphere.

Why Visit?

Wilkesboro blends outdoor fun, real Appalachian history, and a friendly downtown that just keeps getting better the more you explore. A few reasons we think it’s worth a trip:

• Outdoor access that’s actually close — lake, trails, river, and bike parks within a short drive
• Deep musical roots and festival energy throughout the year
• A walkable downtown with independent shops, public art, and family-friendly events
• Easy hop to Boone/Blowing Rock while paying far less for lodging and food
• Great restaurants, bars, coffee shops and more.

Things to Do

Most of the best things to do in Wilkesboro are centered right around downtown. The area is walkable, welcoming, and full of character, with restored historic buildings, local shops, and plenty of spots to relax and explore.

During our visit, we toured the Wilkes Heritage Museum and the Historic Wilkes County Jail, both offering a fascinating look at the town’s past and the people who helped shape it. The museum complex alone is worth the stop — it’s packed with local history, exhibits, and even a few surprises.

Downtown Wilkesboro is also home to a growing collection of boutiques, antique stores, and galleries. We enjoyed visiting several different shops with clothing, home decor, gifts, and of course, southern charm. You’ll also find a few great antique stores and locally owned shops scattered around Main Street that are perfect for browsing.

Throughout the year, downtown comes alive with events, festivals, and live music.

See our full guide on Things to do in Wilkesboro, NC.

Restaurants

We ate our way through town and found friendly service and big portions across the board, from casual bakeries and pizza to hearty Italian dinners and sweet treats. If you’re planning a foodie weekend, you’ll be in good shape here.

See our photos, notes, and top picks in our Fantastic Restaurants in Wilkesboro, NC guide.

Where to Stay

Our Pick

During our visit, we stayed at the Holiday Inn Express Wilkesboro, and it turned out to be an excellent choice. The rooms were clean, quiet, and comfortable; the staff was friendly; and the location made it easy to get around town.

They have an outdoor pool, full exercise room, and complimentary breakfast. We’d definitely stay here again on a future visit.

Other Options

Wilkesboro also has a few other solid hotel options, including the Hampton Inn Wilkesboro and Quality Inn & Suites, both close to dining and shopping along US-421.

If you prefer more space or a home-like stay, there are also vacation rentals available in and around Wilkesboro and nearby North Wilkesboro. These range from small in-town apartments to cozy countryside cabins just a few minutes from downtown.

Planning Your Visit

Best time to visit

Spring brings wildflowers and comfortable temps for hiking and biking. Summer is prime for the lake and river. Fall delivers orchard season and color in the nearby mountains, with easy day trips up to the Boone area. Winter is quieter and a good time for budget travelers.

How long to stay

A weekend covers downtown, the museum/jail, a lake day, and a couple of meals out. Add a third night if you want more trail or outdoor time.

Getting around

Parking in Wilkesboro is easy and free throughout downtown. Most of what you’ll want to see is close together, so you can park once and explore on foot. The streets are walkable, and it’s a pleasant area to spend a few hours visiting shops, restaurants, and historic sites. If you’re venturing beyond downtown or visiting both Wilkesboro and North Wilkesboro, everything is only a short drive apart.

Grab Coffee at Talia Espresso

Our first stop when we arrived in North Wilkesboro was at Talia Espresso in downtown, and it was a great way to kick off our visit. The cafe has a warm, welcoming vibe, with plenty of tables and comfy places to relax, enjoy some coffee and food, or get some work done. We really liked that they have both indoor and outdoor seating as well.

We ordered some coffees (a honey, lavender latte and a salted caramel pumpkin spice latte), and some food as well, since it was lunch time. Sitting with our coffee, we noticed a steady stream of locals stopping in, chatting with the staff, and catching up with friends. It’s clear that Talia’s is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a community hub.

It set the tone for the rest of our trip — a relaxed, small-town charm paired with genuinely good food and drink. If you’re spending time in downtown Wilkesboro, Talia Espresso is a must-stop for your morning caffeine fix.

Roaring River Vineyards and Restaurant

One of the most memorable stops during our visit to Wilkes County was Roaring River Vineyards. Located along the river, this vineyard is as much about the setting and experience as it is about the wine — and we loved every part of it.

We started with lunch at the restaurant, and it was fantastic. The highlight was a massive charcuterie board, loaded with meats, cheeses, fruits, and accompaniments that paired beautifully with their wines. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and thoughtfully prepared. We highly recommend grabbing a table outside if the weather is nice — there’s nothing quite like enjoying good food and wine while listening to the river rushing by just a few feet away.

During our visit, we had the chance to meet Tom Silvey, the owner, who shared the story of how Roaring River Vineyards came to be. His vision was to create a unique vineyard and winery right on the river, a place where people could relax, celebrate, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Tom graciously showed us around the property, including their rental homes, multi-purpose space for weddings and events, and even their campground. We also toured the vineyards themselves, which added an extra layer of appreciation when sipping their wines.

Roaring River Vineyards is located in Traphill, about 25 minutes from Wilkesboro. The winery and restaurant are generally open Thursday through Sunday, but hours can vary seasonally, so it’s best to check their website before visiting. Reservations are recommended for the restaurant, especially if you want outdoor seating by the river.

The Lost Wombat

We stopped at The Lost Wombat during the our food tour and were immediately drawn in by its fun Aussie vibe and creative menu. We tried their Aussie Burger — a true Australian classic “with the lot.” It came piled high with a 7oz rissole patty, cheese, fried egg, bacon, pineapple ring, tomato, lettuce, fried onion, pickled beet slices, and BBQ sauce, all served with crispy fries. It was every bit as good as it sounds.

To go with it, we had a refreshing Moonshine Lemonade, which paired perfectly with the meal. While there, we met the owner — who also owns the Liberty Theater — and he told us all about the food and their signature Kangaroo Burger (yes, made with real kangaroo meat). You can tell he takes a lot of pride in what they’re doing here.

The Lost Wombat has something for everyone — great food and drinks, a family-friendly “yard” next door, and an adults-only tavern upstairs. 

Cinder Bistro

As part of the Blue Ridge Food Tour, we stopped into Cinder Bistro and were treated to an incredible sample of their barbecue — pulled smoked chicken, pulled pork, and brisket — along with some perfectly seasoned collard greens. Every bite was melt-in-your-mouth good. We’ve had a lot of BBQ during our travels, and Cinder Bistro easily ranks in our top favorites.

They also served us a fresh blackberry dessert created by the chef that looked as good as it tasted — the perfect sweet finish to the meal. To go with everything, we sampled a flight of local beers, which paired perfectly with the smoky flavors.

We had a chance to meet the owners, who were as warm and welcoming as the food was delicious. Their passion for great food and excellent customer service really shows in every detail.

Cagney’s Kitchen of Wilkesboro

We started one morning with breakfast at Cagney’s Kitchen, a popular local favorite known for its hearty Southern comfort food. Jenn went healthy with eggs, turkey bacon, and fresh fruit, while I went all in with corned beef hash and eggs, biscuits and gravy, and crispy hashbrowns — all washed down with plenty of hot coffee.

The food was really good, the portions generous, and our server was super friendly and attentive. The atmosphere is casual, family-friendly, and comfortable — the kind of place where you can relax and enjoy a good meal without any fuss.

We’d definitely eat at Cagney’s again next time we’re in town.

6th and Main

We visited 6th and Main as part of the food tour we did and immediately understood why it’s considered the nicest restaurant in town. While we wouldn’t call it “fine dining,” it definitely has a more upscale feel, with a cozy, inviting atmosphere and a full bar.

During our visit, we sat in the bar area and enjoyed a sample of their spicy pecan-encrusted chicken served with mashed potatoes, along with a glass of both red and white wine. The chicken was fantastic — tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.

We had planned to come back for a full meal the next night, but the restaurant was closed for the weekend. It’s definitely on our short list for our next trip to Wilkesboro, and exactly the kind of restaurant we love — comfortable, welcoming, and a touch upscale.

Glenn’s

We stopped in at Glenn’s restaurant for breakfast, a longtime local spot near the Tyson processing plant that’s been serving Wilkes County for decades. Glenn’s is known as a gathering place for locals — the kind of restaurant where everyone seems to know each other, and the coffee never stops pouring.

The menu features classic country-style comfort food, with simple and familiar dishes like biscuits and gravy, eggs, and sausage.

It wasn’t quite our favorite meal of the trip, but we can appreciate its history, down-home charm, and the loyal crowd of regulars who clearly love starting their day here.

Moravian Falls Grill

We stopped at Moravian Falls Grill for lunch on our way back from visiting Perry Lowe Orchards. I ordered the chicken quesadilla special with fries, while Jenn went for the popcorn chicken and fries.

In addition to their regular menu, they offer daily specials like beef tips with gravy and a variety of Southern sides — fried potatoes and onions, green beans, pinto beans, and more. They even had peach cobbler for dessert.

The restaurant is small and cozy, with a focus on simple Southern comfort food. It’s clearly a local favorite and a convenient spot to grab a hearty meal when visiting Moravian Falls or the orchard nearby. The food was good, the service friendly, and it definitely has that home-cooked, small-town feel.

Dom Bakeries

Dom Bakeries was our first stop on the Blue Ridge Food Tours, and it was a great way to kick things off. We sampled their cheese pizza and an apple cider donut — both simple but delicious. The pizza had that classic New York–style flavor, and the donut was soft, sweet, and full of fall flavor.

The staff was friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere is very casual — the kind of place you can pop into for a quick bite, a coffee, or a treat to go. It’s a solid local spot for anyone craving something fresh and homemade in Wilkesboro.

Amalfi’s Italian Restaurant

We had dinner at Amalfi’s one evening and found the place packed with customers — always a good sign. We started with glasses of wine and an order of cheese sticks before moving on to our entrees. I had the Salmon Mediterraneo, and Jenn went with the Chicken Parmesan. Both dishes were delicious, generously portioned, and full of flavor.

Our server was friendly and attentive, and we even had a nice chat with the owner during our meal. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, and the value is hard to beat — the portions are huge for the price. We were too full for dessert, but it’s definitely on our list for next time.

Step Back in Time at the Wilkes Heritage Museum

One of the highlights of our visit was touring the Wilkes Heritage Museum in downtown Wilkesboro. 

We had the pleasure of meeting George Childers, the Board Chairman, who guided us through the museum. George’s passion for local history was contagious — he not only walked us through the various rooms and exhibits, but also shared fascinating stories about the people, places, and events that helped shape Wilkes County.

After exploring the main museum, George walked us over to two historic buildings on the property: the Old Wilkes County Jail and the Robert Cleveland House, which dates back to the 1770s. Walking through those spaces gave us a real sense of what life was like in Wilkesboro centuries ago.

The museum is full of treasures, but a few exhibits really stood out to us:

• The Old Jail – This former county jail is still intact, complete with its original cells and the living quarters for the jailers. Walking through, we could almost imagine what it must have been like for inmates housed there years ago.
• The NASCAR Section – Wilkes County has deep racing roots, and this exhibit highlights legendary driver Junior Johnson. Seeing his story displayed was both inspiring and a reminder of how much this area has contributed to stock car racing.
• Medical and Dental Room – Filled with vintage equipment, this exhibit gave us a glimpse into what healthcare looked like decades ago. Some of the tools looked more intimidating than helpful!
• Classroom Schoolhouse – Stepping into this recreated one-room schoolhouse felt like stepping back in time. With old desks, chalkboards, and books, it gave us a real sense of how children in Wilkes County learned generations ago.
• Blue Ridge Music Hall of Fame – We also loved exploring this section, which honors the musicians and traditions that shaped the sound of the Blue Ridge Mountains. From bluegrass pioneers to gospel legends, it’s a moving tribute to the region’s musical roots.

The Wilkes Heritage Museum is located at 100 East Main Street in Wilkesboro. Parking is available nearby in downtown Wilkesboro.

Indulge at Suck It Up Milkshakes

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, you can’t miss Suck It Up Milkshakes in downtown North Wilkesboro. This spot takes milkshakes to a whole new level — ours came loaded with whipped cream, sprinkles, cotton candy, and over the top toppings that turn your shake into an edible work of art.

We tried two of their creations: the Blondie, a strawberry shake topped with an ice cream cone, strawberry wafer cookies, and strawberry drizzle; and the Butterlicious, a decadent mix of cookie butter, Biscoff cookies, and caramel drizzle, all topped with a snickerdoodle cookie. Both were just as fun as they were delicious — rich, creamy, and so over the top that we couldn’t stop smiling as we tried to figure out how to even start eating them.

The shop itself is in an old gas station, and outdoor picnic tables are available for seating. Beyond milkshakes, they also serve boba tea, ice cream nachos, cookies, and more — but let’s be honest, it’s those wild shakes that steal the show.

If you’re downtown and craving something sweet, Suck It Up Milkshakes is an absolute must. Just make sure to bring your appetite (and grab lots of napkins).

Taste and Explore with Blue Ridge Food Tours

One of the absolute highlights of our time in Wilkesboro was going on a Wilkesboro food tour with Blue Ridge Food Tours, led by our wonderful guide, Mya. The tour was the perfect mix of food, history, and local flavor.

As we walked through town, Mya shared stories about Wilkesboro, the surrounding mountains, and the South — everything from quirky bits of history to fascinating details about the food we were sampling. It felt like we were experiencing the town in a way we never could have on our own.

And the food? Incredible. Each stop offered something unique:

• Dom Bakeries – We kicked things off with fresh-baked treats, including pizza and apple donuts.
• Tripp’s Mercantile – Their Limoncello Cake from Amalfi's was light, sweet, and unforgettable. We also enjoyed shopping and exploring the store while there as well.
• 6th and Main – A local favorite, offering delicious bites in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. We sampled their spicy pecan glazed chicken, with mashed potatoes and a glass of wine.
• Key City Antiques – Not only did we browse vintage treasures, but we also tried old-fashioned sodas that took us straight back in time.
• Cinder Bistro – Hands down, some of the best BBQ and beer we’ve ever had. We enjoyed their pulled chicken, pulled pork, and brisket along with some smoked collards and a flight of local craft beers. 
• C’est La Vin – A stop for wine lovers, where we enjoyed a charcuterie board and wine tasting that felt both refined and relaxed.
• The Lost Wombat – Our final stop, where we indulged in a hearty Aussie Burger and a moonshine lemonade. To top it off, the owner gave us a behind-the-scenes tour of the historic movie theater next door (see below), where we even got to see pieces of the original film reel from Star Wars: A New Hope.

From start to finish, the food tour gave us a real taste of Wilkesboro — both literally and figuratively. We really enjoyed the balance of trying amazing food, walking through the charming downtown, and learning more about the area’s history and culture.

Tours usually run about 3 hours, include multiple stops, and are best booked in advance online. Tour cost is $65 per person, and you can upgrade to alcoholic beverages for an additional $14. You can check their schedule and reserve tickets directly through their website.

Sip and Savor at Merle’s Craft Cocktails

After a day of exploring, we made our way to Merle’s Craft Cocktails in downtown Wilkesboro, and it quickly became one of our favorite stops. The last time we had cocktails to this level, were during a visit to San Diego. The atmosphere here is local, relaxed and stylish. A perfect spot for unwinding with friends or starting a night out.

We sampled a few different drinks, but the standout for us was the Smoked Old Fashioned. Merle’s offers a couple of variations on the classic Old Fashioned, but the smoked version was hands-down our favorite — smooth, bold, and beautifully balanced with just the right amount of smokiness. Watching it prepared and then enjoying that first sip was an experience!

What made Merle’s even more memorable was the people. We chatted with the owner LB, who was not only incredibly friendly but also passionate about her craft. Every cocktail on the menu is made with thought, care, and an aim to give guests something truly special.  

Merle’s is clearly a local favorite, with plenty of regulars mixing in alongside visitors. It’s the perfect spot to sip on some fantastic cocktails, socialize, and soak in the Wilkesboro vibe.

If you’re looking for a place to enjoy high-quality drinks and good conversation, Merle’s should be at the top of your list. We'll definitely be back.

Pick-Your-Own Fun at Perry Lowe Orchards

No trip to Wilkes County in late summer or fall would be complete without a stop at Perry Lowe Orchards. This family-run orchard has been welcoming visitors for more than 6 generations, and it shows in the warm, welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere.

We hopped on one of the tractor rides that take you up into the orchards and spent time picking a variety of apples right from the trees. The scenery from the fields was beautiful — rolling hills, crisp air, and the satisfying crunch of apples fresh off the branch.

The fields are well labeled, and there are even apple washing stations so you can taste your apples and decide which ones you want to bring home. We've been a number of North Carolina apple orchards, and this was our first time seeing this feature, and we loved it.

Back at the farm stand, we sampled some of their delicious offerings: fresh-pressed cider, cider apples, and even icy cold apple slushies (which were a big hit on a warm afternoon). There was also merchandise, and other food items available as well.

This orchard is also very family-friendly, with activities that go far beyond apple picking. Kids (and adults too!) can enjoy the Super Mega Slide — Larry tried it and can confirm it’s just as fun as it looks. 

The slide is big with a number of different lanes. You grab a tube on the way up, and the staff at the top will lubricate the bottom, and help you slide down.  

There is also a giant jump pad, tractor-themed playground, and a bee train ride. For something extra unique, there’s even an apple cannon, where you can shoot apples at fun targets.

Perry Lowe Orchards is located just outside Wilkesboro and is open seasonally, from late summer through the fall. Hours vary depending on the harvest and activities, so it’s best to check their website before your visit. Admission is free; you simply pay for the apples and any extra activities you choose. Tractor rides and kids’ attractions may have a small additional fee.

Explore Downtown Wilkesboro and North Wilkesboro

One of our favorite parts of the trip was simply spending time in downtown Wilkesboro and North Wilkesboro.

Wilkesboro is kind of unique in that there are two towns literally right next to each other and separated by the Yadkin River. While the two towns are separate, they are treated as one. Wilkesboro was first, and North Wilkesboro came later when the railroad came through. Both have downtown areas to explore, with North Wilkesboro having the largest downtown area.

We did spend time in both and enjoyed them both. In this section, we'll feature our visit to downtown North Wilkesboro, as that is where many of the shops are located.

The historic main street of North Wilkesboro is lined with a mix of shops, cafes, and local businesses, all set against a backdrop of beautifully restored buildings that give the area so much character.

We strolled through town, popping into boutiques, antique stores, and specialty shops. A few of our favorite stops include:

• Key City Antiques - This large shop has antiques, collectibles, furniture, local items, and more. It's a treasure trove of vintage finds.
• Carolina Treasures on Main - a large antique shop full of unique gifts and antiques.
• Fruit of the Vine Boutique - A beautiful mix of fashion, art, and faith. The shop offers a thoughtfully curated selection of fine fashion, artwork, and handcrafted pieces from Christian artists and makers — all centered around their inspiring theme, “The Art of Living Well.”
• Wilkes County Hardware - A historic old-school hardware store that offers repair and assembly services, and essential home items. This store is fun to browse. Be sure to check out the operating historic elevator!
• Ivy Ridge Traditions - a boutique full of stylish clothing, home décor, and gifts that perfectly blend Southern charm with modern style. We picked up a few items to bring home with us!

Another must-see downtown is the historic Liberty Theater, which still stands as a reminder of Wilkesboro’s long-running love for film and entertainment. Even just admiring the marquee and building from the outside gave us a sense of nostalgia and history.  

Downtown also has some wonderful spots to pause and relax, whether that’s sipping coffee at Talia Espresso, grabbing a bite to eat, or just sitting outside and people-watching in the heart of town. We noticed how the area is continuing to grow, with new businesses opening alongside longtime favorites, giving it a lively but still small-town feel.

If you’re visiting Wilkesboro, make sure to allow time just to explore both downtown areas — it’s the best way to soak in the local charm and discover hidden gems.

Hike at Stone Mountain State Park

About 30 minutes from Wilkesboro, Stone Mountain State Park offers some of the most stunning outdoor scenery in the region. The park is named after its massive granite dome — a 600-foot rock face that towers above the surrounding forest — and it’s every bit as impressive in person as it sounds.

During our visit, we hiked the Stone Mountain Loop Trail, a 4.5-mile loop that takes you across the top of Stone Mountain and then down and around its base. The trail is a workout in spots, but absolutely worth it. As we made our way up, the views just kept getting better — sweeping panoramas of the Blue Ridge foothills and the dramatic granite dome stretching out before us.

On the back half of the trail, we followed paths through shaded forest and alongside streams and waterfalls. The sound of rushing water and the cool mist from the falls were a refreshing break after the climb. By the time we finished, we felt like we’d gotten the perfect mix of mountain views, forest trails, and peaceful water features all in one hike.

Stone Mountain State Park is about 30 minutes from Wilkesboro and offers more than 18 miles of hiking trails. The Stone Mountain Loop Trail is moderate to strenuous in difficulty, so be sure to bring plenty of water, good shoes, and allow at least 3–4 hours to complete it.

The park also features camping, trout fishing, climbing, and picnic areas, making it a great spot for a half-day or full-day trip. There’s no entrance fee, but parking areas can fill up on weekends, so plan to arrive early if you’re visiting during peak season.

If you love hiking and want to experience the best of the park, the Stone Mountain Loop Trail is a must-do while you're in Wilkesboro!