A couple of weeks ago, we found ourselves sitting outside a local coffee shop in Saluda, sipping vanilla lattes and watching folks stroll in and out of art galleries and shops along Main Street. It was one of those perfect moments that reminded us why we do what we do.
Saluda is one of those towns people often pass by without realizing what they’re missing—charming downtown streets, creative energy, rich history, and easy access to outdoor adventure. The problem is, unless you know someone who’s been, it’s easy to overlook. We know we've done this a number of times over the years.
That’s where we come in. We’ve spent years exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains, and during our recent visit to Saluda, we discovered a town full of surprises—great food, local art, mountain views, a heart-pounding zipline ride through the treetops, and a friendly, welcoming community.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best things to do in Saluda, based on our own personal experiences—from local eats and shops to museums, festivals, and outdoor fun.
If you’re looking for a unique small-town escape that blends mountain charm with art and adventure, Saluda should be on your radar.
Explore the Downtown Shops and Art Galleries
One of our favorite things to do in Saluda was wandering through the downtown shops and galleries. Main Street may be small, but it’s packed with charm, creativity, and that easygoing mountain vibe that makes you want to stay awhile.
We visited during the 20th Annual Saluda Arts Festival, so there were plenty of people in town and all the shops were opening and inviting visitors in to look around.
M. A. Pace General Store
We started at M.A. Pace General Store, a true step back in time. This place has been around since 1899 and still feels like an old-fashioned general store. You’ll find everything from hardware and dry goods to local honey and nostalgic gifts—plus plenty of history packed into every corner. While visiting, we even met the town Mayor, Tangie Morgan, who owns and runs the store.
Here are a few photos from inside the historic store:
Thompson's Grocery Store
Just down the street is the Historic Thompson Store, the oldest operating grocery store in North Carolina. It’s connected to Ward’s Grill, a local diner. The store carries a mix of grocery staples, gourmet foods, regional products, and unique items perfect for souvenirs or a picnic lunch.
River Dog Run
River Dog Run caught our eye with its selection of merchandise, including local art, soaps, candles, leather journals, art, furniture, and home decor. It’s a fun shop to explore.
The Gardener’s Cottage and The Brass Latch
We also enjoyed exploring The Gardener’s Cottage and The Brass Latch, which share a space and are owned by the same owner—offering two unique shopping experiences in one stop.
The shops blend garden-inspired decor with whimsical gifts, home goods, clothing, and much more. Both shops are full of merchandise with a curated feel and are the kind of shops you could easily spend an hour in.
eARThly Minds Gallery
Art lovers will enjoy eARThly Minds Gallery, where the owners showcase their own art alongside the work of other talented local creators. It’s a warm, welcoming space that really reflects the spirit of the Saluda arts scene and one of our favorite shops to browse.
Elm and Owl Art Gallery
We also visited Elm and Owl Art Gallery, one of the town’s newest additions, and were having their soft-opening. This gallery features a range of styles from regional and local artists and offers a fresh, contemporary feel compared to some of the more rustic shops.
Spring Creek Interiors
Spring Creek Interiors blends mountain-style home decor with upscale design elements and furniture—worth a visit if you're looking to bring some mountain style home with you.
Visit the Saluda Tailgate Market
If you're in town on a Friday afternoon between May and October, make time to stop by the Saluda Tailgate Market. This small but lively market is a great way to get a taste of the local flavor—literally.
You’ll find fresh produce, baked goods, local meats, handmade crafts, and more—all from area farmers and artisans. It’s also a good spot to grab a snack, chat with locals, and pick up something unique to take home.
When we visited in May, there were a number of local vendors, including:
- Let It Be Flowers - A super cute flower truck
- Appalachian Ways - selling Elderberry Syrup and herbs.
- Crafty Champster - Preserved fern handcrafted resin keychains, flower gifts, floral keychains and pressed flowers.
- Salt & Light Acres - Local Homestead offering goat's milk bath + body products, with minimal and clean ingredients
- Beagle Hill Honey - Providing fresh, local, raw honey to the community.
- Kinder Garden - Kinder Garden is a heartwarming community program where local residents donate seeds, plants, and gardening supplies to elementary school students. The kids learn by growing and caring for the plants, then share their harvest or plants back with the community—creating a full circle of learning, giving, and growing together.
The market has a relaxed, friendly vibe and reflects the community spirit that makes Saluda such a special place. Whether you're shopping or just browsing, it’s a fun and easy addition to your weekend plans.
Enjoy Great Local Food
Brisket plate at Green River BBQ
Don’t let Saluda’s small size fool you—the food scene here is full of flavor and character. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxed brunch with mountain views, a cozy cup of coffee, or a casual lunch downtown, this little town delivers.
During our visit, we sipped lattes at The Wakey Monkey, enjoyed a fresh and scenic breakfast at Newman’s, grabbed a quick bite at K’s NY Pizza, and explored a few other local favorites, including the popular Purple Onion. From elevated Southern fare to family-owned diners, Saluda has a little something for everyone.
We put together a full guide to the best places to eat in town—including photos, what we ordered, and our personal take on each spot.
Check out the full Saluda Restaurant Guide
Grab a Coffee or a snack at the Wakey Monkey
If you’re looking for a good cup of coffee and a relaxed spot to hang out, The Wakey Monkey is the place to go in Saluda. We stopped in for breakfast one morning and were immediately drawn in by the cozy atmosphere and friendly vibe.
We ordered a couple of vanilla lattes and two breakfast sandwiches, all of which were freshly made and really hit the spot. The coffee was smooth, not too sweet, and made just right. The breakfast sandwiches were simple, hearty, and perfect fuel for a day of exploring.
Whether you’re grabbing a drink to-go or hanging around to enjoy the quiet charm of downtown, The Wakey Monkey makes a great stop. It’s also a solid place to recharge mid-afternoon with a snack, smoothie, or another round of caffeine.
Step Back in Time at the Saluda Historic Depot & Museum
If you're even remotely interested in trains, history, or just love learning about small-town roots, the Saluda Historic Depot & Museum is well worth a visit. Housed in a restored 1903 train depot right on Main Street, this small but thoughtfully curated museum tells the fascinating story of Saluda’s railroad past.
What makes it especially interesting is Saluda Grade—once the steepest mainline standard-gauge railroad grade in the U.S. The museum dives into how trains tackled the treacherous incline and the impact the railroad had on Saluda’s growth and economy.
Inside, you’ll find historic photographs, railway tools, artifacts, and even a non-working model train that replicates the full route. The volunteers here are friendly and full of knowledge—they’re happy to answer questions or share stories about the town’s railroading days.
We really enjoyed hearing about the history of the town, depot, and railroad line, along with seeing all the historic artifacts the museum has, including menus from Southern Railroad's dining cars!
It’s a great stop for families, history buffs, or anyone looking to better understand how this quiet mountain town came to be. Plus, it’s right in the heart of downtown, so it’s easy to pop in while exploring the shops.
Discover Local Art at Saluda Studios
Tucked just a short walk from Main Street and directly across from Green River BBQ, Saluda Studios is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates local art and creativity. The space is bright, welcoming, and filled with the work of regional artists—from paintings and photography to pottery, sculpture, and mixed media.
What makes Saluda Studios stand out is its focus on showcasing both established and emerging local talent. You’ll find pieces that reflect the mountain landscapes, culture, and personality of the region, often created by artists who live right in or around Saluda.
During our visit, we loved exploring the variety of styles and mediums. It’s not just a gallery—it feels more like a creative hub. If you're lucky, you might even catch an artist working on something new or hear the backstory behind a particular piece.
Saluda Studios showcases contemporary art inspired by the historic landscapes of Picturesque America. Featuring work from artists across the country, the gallery celebrates and supports the preservation of these iconic places through modern interpretations. With a rotating collection, each piece connects art, history, and conservation—offering you a chance to take home a meaningful piece that helps protect the places that inspire us all.
Whether you’re in the market for something special or just want to soak up some creative inspiration, Saluda Studios is a refreshing and authentic stop that adds even more depth to Saluda’s artistic side.
Experience the Saluda Arts Festival
We happened to be in town during the 20th Annual Saluda Arts Festival, and it ended up being one of the highlights of our trip. This annual event brings Main Street to life with artists, music, food, and a great sense of community. It’s the kind of small-town festival that feels genuine and welcoming—and it draws some seriously talented artists from across the region.
To our surprise, it drew quite a crowd! Saluda was full of energy and really buzzing that Saturday.
Booths lined the street, showcasing everything from fine art and handmade jewelry to woodwork, pottery, photography, and more. We spent hours walking from booth to booth, talking with the artists, and admiring the variety of creative work on display.
Besides the art, the festival features live music, food trucks, and activities for kids—making it a fun event for all ages. The entire downtown transforms into a vibrant, walkable gallery, and it’s a great time to experience Saluda at its most lively.
If you’re planning a visit in May, we highly recommend timing your trip around the festival. It occurs on the third Saturday of each May. It’s a wonderful way to support local artists, experience the town’s creative spirit, and enjoy a laid-back, family-friendly day in the mountains.
Get Your Adrenaline Fix at The Gorge Zipline
Larry shooting down one of the 11 zip lines at The Gorge
If you’re looking to add a little adventure to your Saluda visit, The Gorge Zipline is the place to do it. Just a short drive from downtown, this zipline course takes you high above the Green River Gorge for one of the most thrilling experiences in the region.
We spent an afternoon zipping through the treetops, and it was an absolute blast. The course features 11 zip lines, three rappels, and a sky-bridge—all set in a stunning old-growth forest with sweeping views of the gorge below. It’s fast, fun, and surprisingly peaceful once you’re flying above the trees.
Our guides, Emma and Trey, were top-notch—professional, friendly, and clearly passionate about what they do. They made us feel completely safe while still keeping the experience super fun and relaxed.
If you want to record your adventure, they offer GoPros for rent, or you can bring your own - They just have to mount on your helmet.
If you’re craving a little adrenaline, The Gorge delivers. It’s an unforgettable way to experience the mountains from a whole new angle—and a great way to balance out a weekend of art, food, and small-town charm with some high-flying fun.
Check Out ¡Salud! Sip & Strum
One of the more unique experiences in Saluda is ¡Salud! Sip & Strum, a laid-back music and wine shop that invites you to do more than just listen—you’re encouraged to join in. This cozy spot combines live acoustic music, a carefully curated wine selection, and a welcoming, creative atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.
What sets it apart is their “Sip & Strum” events, where visitors can pick up an instrument (or bring their own), sip wine, and play along—no experience needed. It’s relaxed, fun, and a great way to connect with both locals and other visitors.
Even if you’re not musically inclined, it’s worth stopping in to browse their selection of instruments, enjoy a glass of wine, and soak up the good vibes. ¡Salud! adds a fun, offbeat touch to Saluda’s arts and culture scene—and it’s the kind of experience you’ll talk about long after your trip.
They are dog friendly too!
Make a Weekend of It
We spent a full weekend in Saluda and still felt like there was more to explore. It’s the kind of town that invites you to slow down, unplug, and enjoy everything at your own pace. Between the food, the shops, the art, the ziplining, and the quiet mountain charm—it makes for a perfect getaway.
We stayed at The Orchard Inn, just a few minutes outside of downtown. It’s peaceful, surrounded by nature, and offers some of the best views in the area. The front porch (shown above) is the perfect spot for morning coffee or an evening glass of wine, and having Newman’s Restaurant right on site for breakfast and dinner was a huge plus.
Over the course of the weekend, we browsed downtown shops and galleries, attended the Saluda Arts Festival, grabbed coffee at The Wakey Monkey, dove into local history at the Saluda Historic Depot, explored art at Saluda Studios, and even went ziplining at The Gorge. We also made plenty of time for great meals at local restaurants—each one offering something a little different.
Saluda is easy to explore on foot, and the slower pace gives you time to really enjoy each experience. Whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend, a fun girls’ trip, or a low-key mountain retreat with a bit of adventure, Saluda fits the bill.
We left feeling refreshed—and already planning our next visit to this wonderful small mountain town. Spend a weekend, or longer, you won't regret it.
Photography Tips when Visiting
Saluda is full of photo-worthy moments, from historic downtown charm to mountain views and vibrant local art. It's a fun town for street photography, given the railroad tracks, murals, and small details sprinkled around town.
Whether you're using a DSLR or just your phone, there are plenty of opportunities to capture the beauty and personality of this small mountain town.
Here are a few tips based on our own visit:
1. Get Up Early – The soft morning light along Main Street is perfect for capturing storefronts and architecture without crowds. It’s also a great time to shoot the fog or low clouds rolling over the nearby ridges if you're staying somewhere like the Orchard Inn. You'll also find very few cars and people, if you prefer those types of shots.
2. Use a Tripod for Scenic Shots – Especially helpful if you’re photographing landscapes or want to get that smooth, blurry water effect on nearby creeks or waterfalls. A compact travel tripod works great and won’t weigh you down.
3. Don’t Skip the Details – Look for textures, signage, and close-up shots in the shops and galleries. Things like hand-lettered signs, weathered wood, and colorful art make for great storytelling images. Find glass art with background lighting, for some dramatic effects.
4. Capture Action at The Gorge – If you're ziplining, bring a GoPro with a mount if you want to document the experience. The Gorge has helmets with GoPro mounts.
5. Festival Days Offer Great Candid Moments – If you’re visiting during the Saluda Arts Festival or other local events, focus on capturing people interacting with artists, music performances, and wide shots of the vibrant street scene.
6. Take Advantage of Golden Hour at The Orchard Inn – Sunset light on the porch or overlooking the mountains offers some of the best natural lighting you’ll find all weekend.
Saluda may be small, but it’s rich with texture, color, and mountain light—perfect ingredients for great photos. Take your time, explore different angles, and don’t be afraid to put the camera down now and then to enjoy the moment.
