May 19th-25th, 2024 marks National Travel and Tourism Week across the United States. It's a great way to recognize all the important parts of traveling to and from destinations, plus some of the reasons (and places) that make road trips or arrivals to new locations so much more memorable!
Finding that memorable "first stop" on your trip usually revolves around food, coffee, or just a quick break. National Travel & Tourism Week has given us a great excuse to highlight all the wonderful parts of our hometown (Old Fort, NC) to new and returning visitors of the Blue Ridge Mountains region.
With Summer just around the corner, here are some of the new and #lovedbylocals restaurants that visitors come back for year after year. We want you to check out these great stops in Old Fort when you make your #DestinationMcDowell this Summer.
GoGos Handcrafted Cinnamon Rolls: If you could wrap yourself up in a sweet, cinnamon and frosted blanket, GoGos Original Cinnamon rolls would be that blanket. This local bakery continues to win awards in top travel magazines and “best of” rankings in North Carolina.
- Local Tip: Everyone at the Blue Ridge Traveler Visitor Center LOVES Gogo’s Oatmeal Creme pie, featuring two buttery crisp Oatmeal Cookies and their original, handmade buttercream frosting filling. Check out savory items like their Jalapeno Cheddar roll for a different take on breakfast!
Davis Country Store: It’s hard to find an original, local-inspired Country store these days, but we’re proud to have this Cafe and Store in the heart of Old Fort, NC. Featuring an assortment of gifts, locally made gifts, in-house blends of jams, seasonings, take-away and general store goods, the Cafe serves up hot quick breakfast and lunch, plus a full menu of drink items.
- Local Tip: If you want biscuits better than grandmammy used to make, head down for breakfast to this cute cafe!
Seeker Coffee: Weary Roadtrippers rejoice as you head into Old Fort, NC for this unique coffee bar experience. Featuring regionally roasted beans and tea blends, Seeker Coffee serves up a range of coffees, teas, and quick bites with a side of regular music shows through the year.
- Local Tip: Nathan at Seeker Coffee blends together his own in-house Chai. Get a Chai Latte with Oatmilk to really savor the extra spiciness!
27 Main: Formerly “The Whistle Stop”, this locals-loved location in the heart of Old Fort cooks up quick lunches and pizza with a classic Old Fort vibe.
- Local Tip: Check their Facebook Page as they post hot, quick, affordable specials often.
Hillman Beer -Old Fort: What isn’t there to say about one of NC’s top breweries?!?! With a wide selection of in-house brewed beverages, weekly burger specials, and new spins on classic appetizers, this is a must-visit restaurant while vacationing in Old Fort.
- Local Tip: Hillman’s popular Bread Pudding dessert gets changed seasonally, so depending on your visit, enjoy everything from Strawberry Pistachio to Salted Caramel!
Whaley Farm Brewery: Chris and Jessica Whaley bring years of combined brewing and regenerative farming experience to their brewery. This unique addition to the downtown Old Fort scene specializes in Appalachian farm beers, English pub ales, and European lager styles. Abbiocco Pizzeria is the pizza truck parked next to Whaley, and they make fresh, wood-fired pizza to order.
- Local Tip: Whaley Farm Brewery is best experienced Thursday-Friday and keep an eye on their Social Media for new brews!
