Upcoming Events in Marion
Marion, N.C. - Where Main Street Meets The Mountains
"Where Main Street Meets the Mountains"
With it's historic buildings set against the backdrop of picturesque Mount Ida, Marion is the heart of our county and a great middle point for your next Blue Ridge Mountain adventure. Get a taste of local flavors in our eclectic downtown, or explore the surrounding mountains by foot, bike, RV, or car.
Stroll the sidewalks of Marion’s historic Main Street where you’ll find former banks and warehouses brought back to life as locally-owned restaurants, craft breweries, bakeries, ice cream parlors, unique shopping boutiques and art galleries.
Main Street is the site of several mountain craft fairs and community celebrations throughout the year. Stop by the Historic Marion Tailgate Market on Tuesdays, May through October, to pick up local produce and artisan goods like bread, jams and handmade soaps. And don’t miss the family-friendly WNC Bigfoot Festival in Marion each September. Check the event calendar for more Marion festivals and happenings.
Marion is conveniently located to a variety of outdoor adventures, many accessible all year round. Walk or bike along the river on the Joseph McDowell Historic Catawba River Greenway at the edge of town, or take a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway to see stunning mountain vistas, visit beautiful waterfalls and access many more hiking trails. Just a few miles away is Lake James State Park where you’ll find hiking and biking trails, canoe and kayak rentals and a swimming beach perfect for staying cool on a hot summer day.
At the end of the day, find your home away from home at one of Marion’s accommodations, including hotels, motels, campgrounds and private cabin rentals.
Explore Marion Attractions
Fishing Lake James
All Wildlife Resources commission regulations apply. A fishing license is required. Cool, deep waters and warm surface waters provide a…
Comfort Inn
Conveniently located off Marion's By-Pass US Hwy. 221-226 North with easy access to Lake James, the Blue Ridge Parkway, Linville…
Hampton Inn
Conveniently located off I-40 at Exit 85/Hwy. 221 North. Minutes to downtown Marion, Lake James, Blue Ridge Parkway and Old…
Armstrong Creek
3640 Ft./6 mile trail. Primitive hiking on Armstrong Fish Hatchery Rd. Trail begins past hatchery parking lot. Easy-moderate.Including tributaries -game…
The Box Factory
Located inside the Larry D. Miller Building in the heart of downtown Marion, NC, the Municipal Events center is soon to be an indoor shopping venue.
Budget Inn
Small renovated motor court style motel located on North Main Street in Marion.
Mountains-To-Sea Trail/Section 4
Section 4 of this iconic trail runs through the county just north of Old Fort and Marion. A favorite site…
The Marion Pickle Barrel
Women's BoutiqueHome Decor, Gifts, & MoreVintage, New, & Renewed Items