Explore Burnsville

06/05/2026

It’s back!

The Toe River Arts Spring Studio Tour is happening today, Saturday, and Sunday, June 5–7, 2026 from 10 AM–5 PM daily across Burnsville, Spruce Pine, and Bakersville.

Meander across our scenic hills and valleys as you explore artist studios and galleries, meet the makers, and experience the creative spirit that thrives here. Browse the interactive map through the link in our comments to plan your adventure and discover participating artists by location and medium.

Don’t miss a special milestone: Toe River Crafts is celebrating its Grand Re-opening Weekend at its new location following Hurricane Helene. Stop by 4990 NC Hwy 80 S., Burnsville, for music, food, giveaways, and incredible local art as this beloved gallery begins an exciting new chapter.

Best of all, this self-guided Studio Tour adventure is FREE!
June 5–7, 2026
10 AM–5 PM daily

See you there!

06/01/2026

There’s something for everyone in Burnsville, NC! Enjoy fresh mountain air, endless outdoor adventures, iconic American charm, and starry dark skies.

🗓️ JUNE EVENTS

Sister Act
Parkway Playhouse
Showing through Saturday, June 7

Toe River Arts Studio Tour
Friday, June 5 through Sunday, June 7
Yancey and Mitchell Counties

Toe River Crafts
Grand Opening Weekend
Friday, June 5 through Sunday, June 7

History Happy Hour with Jeremy Heidenfelder
Thursday, June 4
Center for Pioneer Life

Sister Act Pop-Up Preview Performance
Friday, June 5
Homeplace Beer Company

Disney’s Finding Nemo Junior
Friday, June 19 and Saturday, June 20
Parkway Playhouse

Clogging in the Cabin Workshop
Center for Pioneer Life
Friday, June 26

Annie Opening Night
Parkway Playhouse
Friday, June 26
Showing through Friday, July 12

Blue Ridge Storytelling Summit & Book Fair
Saturday, June 27
Center for Pioneer Life

🗓️ WEEKLY EVENTS

Yancey County Farmers Market
Saturdays
8:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Yancey County Resource Center

Partners Aligned Toward Health Sizzlin’ Summer Series
Saturdays
Burnsville Town Square

Mayland Earth to Sky Park
Visitor Center, Planetarium, Observatory

Summer Music Series
Homeplace Beer Company

Live Music
Roland’s and Washroom Bar
The NuWray Hotel

Did we miss something happening in June? Kindly note in the comment section. Please note: Schedules are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, check directly with the venue or event organizers.

05/23/2026

You deserve a “playcation!” As the curtain rises on a fabulous 2026 season, the historic Parkway Playhouse in Burnsville, North Carolina has just the ticket you’re looking for! The 79th season’s lineup has something for everyone:

2026 MAINSTAGE SEASON
•Sister Act: May 29 – June 7
•Annie: June 26 – July 12
•Peter and the Starcatcher: July 31 – August 9
•Carswell Holler: August 20-23
•Her Name Was Frankie: A Frankie Silver Story: October 2 – 11

UPCOMING 2026 JUNIOR PRODUCTIONS
•Disney’s Finding Nemo: June 19 – 20
•Mean Girls: July 17 – 29
•Into the Woods: November 6 - 14
•Elf: December 17-18

Visit the official Parkway Playhouse website or call the box office at 828-682-4285 for tickets and details.

Once the applause has ended, let Burnsville take center stage. Stroll our Main Street shops, enjoy a relaxed meal, and stay at one of our hotels, inns, or rentals for the perfect “playcation.” Your Parkway Playhouse ticket can be used for special pricing at The NuWray Hotel. To find other one-of-a-kind places to stay, click 🔗 link in comments section.

05/22/2026

"Big News! It’s time for the Toe River Arts Spring Studio Tour in Burnsville, Spruce Pine, and Bakersville, North Carolina June 5th – 7th, 2026." — Speaking of Travel

Check it out! ➡️ www.speakingoftravel.net/stories

📸: Bernstein Glass

05/16/2026

Out on one of our trails on this glorious day? Or maybe even just wandering on the side of a quiet road?

If you spot a tiny hint of purple in the grass, stop and take a closer look. It's blue-eyed grass and is actually a member of the iris family.

05/15/2026

Heading to the mountains this summer? There’s something for everyone in Burnsville, NC. To discover unique places to stay, click the link in the comments section.

05/12/2026

In 1974, a group of artists built a gallery by hand with one shared vision: create a welcoming space to showcase work from the Toe River Valley. On August 4, 1974, Toe River Crafts opened its doors for the very first time.

In the midst of celebrating its 50th anniversary, Hurricane Helene washed the gallery down the river. But it didn’t wash away the spirit of this community.

Thanks to the support of friends and patrons from across the country, the next chapter is about to be written, and written in style. The grand re-opening of Toe River Crafts coincides with the Toe River Arts Studio Tour, June 5–7, 2026 — one of the country’s largest and longest-running (and free) self-guided tours, featuring 85+ artists across Yancey and Mitchell counties.

This is more than a gallery reopening. It’s a comeback story for the entire region.

We invite you to come and support our local artists and share in the beauty they see and the beauty they bring to life.

05/10/2026

We're excited to see The Ingles Open Road cover both Terrell House Bed and Breakfast and Page Pottery here in Burnsville. They're both rather awesome!!!

And here's a thought... in case you didn't get around to taking care of Mom today, either of these folks would be a great place to pick up a certificate for a Mother's Day IOU.

Of course, there's also time to head downtown to our local shops and get her (or you) an extra gift just because you can.

Welcome to the Terrell House Bed and Breakfast. Originally a girls dormitory, this home was built in 1905 and became a B&B in the 1990s.

05/07/2026

Happy National Travel and Tourism Week from Burnsville, NC!

Did you know? National Travel and Tourism Week was created by the U.S Travel Association to recognize the importance of travel to our economy and our way of life.

Here in Burnsville, when we think of iconic must-visit destinations, the first place that comes to mind is Mt. Mitchell State Park, home to the highest peak east of the Mississippi. Founded in 1915, it is recognized as North Carolina’s first state park, established to protect the peak from logging.

Whether you’re a casual meanderer or skilled hiker, there’s a trail with your name on it. For photo opportunities and the chance to be surrounded by an amazing 360 degree view, simply follow the paved .25 mile trail to the observation deck, all while breathing in the sweet balsam scent from surrounding frasier firs. In case you didn’t know, Mt. Mitchell has one of the most ecologically unique environments in North America. No matter the season, you can count on temperatures being cooler than Burnsville, so you may want to dress in layers.

Most park services, including the museum, gift shop, and restaurant are open May through October. Please check ncparks.gov for hours and potential weather closures. Given current construction and closures along the Blue Ridge Parkway, the best way to access the Parkway from Burnsville is through Weaverville.

This peak experience is one you won’t forget!

05/03/2026

Do you remember what Ferris Bueller said in "Ferris Bueller's Day Off?"

"Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it."

The same is true of our spring wildflowers. Here's who has been spotted in the woods this weekend.