The town of West Jefferson NC is about ten miles northwest of our Blue Ridge Parkway vacation cabins. It is easily accessible by bike, and the ride is lovely. Head up to West Jefferson NC in the morning, have lunch at one of several excellent restaurants, and browse the quaint shops and galleries before heading back to the cabin.
Should you prefer traveling by car, you may have more energy to explore this interesting small town, especially the Arts District. Notice the public art that is so widespread – especially the murals. Does any other town of this size have so many breathtaking murals? It would be hard to believe.
There are over a dozen art galleries and artist studios in West Jefferson, making it a great place for unique holiday shopping. If you are willing to linger into the evening, you may just stumble across an interesting event. Last weekend the Hunt Family Fiddlers and Step Dancers took the town by storm. This weekend, Kelly Swanson will be in West Jefferson telling smart and humorous stories. You never know what will be happening in West Jefferson, but you can be sure it will be something worth your while.
A day in West Jefferson is a fun addition to a weekend getaway in the Blue Ridge Mountains. On your way there, keep an eye out for barns with quilts – part of the Ashe Arts Barn Quilt Project. Small towns like West Jefferson reveal the heart and soul of the culture of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and this is definitely worth experiencing.