It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Black Mnt Fire Tower gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Black Mountain, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“I'm so happy to have such a professional and reliable agency that I can refer”
“Always Best Care Seniors Services provide the personal touch in-home care! From our initial”
“Highly professional and very caring. A great company”
“I love this company. They are always very responsive. They truly care about the ones”
“Wonderful service, very helpful, great communication.”
“All their caregivers are nice, show up, rarely late, and very helpful and kind. They”
“I am a current client of this provider They give me the peace of mind. They are”
“My husband has dementia. They have helped me continue to work and feel comfortable in”
“Very great place to work! The staff is very supportive!”
“This place is absolutely amazing to work for!! The office team is so welcoming and”
“They do what I ask them to do which makes my life easier. They are”
“The most caring compassionate place i have ever been to”
“Outstanding care and compassion for both clients and employees”
“They really appreciate to have their employees there . And that makes me feel happy”
“I went for my interview there a week ago and the staff were so nice”
“I am a current client of this provider It could just be his cooperation or lack”
“I am a current client of this provider They do what I ask them to do”
“I am Kathryn Merrell and for the past several months I have been under the”
“I am a current client of this provider She does whatever is needed without being asked. I”
“I am a current client of this provider Just being here and making meals is great.”
“As a caregiver I am so pleased with the care for the clients. I've never”
“I would recommend them because they provide good services. I've been down on my”
“They're very prompt about coming when they're supposed to and they do what we need”
“I am a current client of this provider They've helped the most just by being here,”
“I have honestly never met a group of people who care as much as the”
“I'm so happy to have such a professional and reliable agency that I can refer my caregivers to and know that they will receive the service they need to assist with the care of their loved ones with dementia,”
“Always Best Care Seniors Services provide the personal touch in-home care! From our initial call inquiring about services, to meeting the owner Jim Smeaton to discuss our unique family needs, to the caring compassionate and understanding caregivers we are thoroughly impressed. Its such a relief knowing our loved ones are receiving the care they deserve.”
“Highly professional and very caring. A great company”
“I love this company. They are always very responsive. They truly care about the ones that they care for.”
“Wonderful service, very helpful, great communication.”
“All their caregivers are nice, show up, rarely late, and very helpful and kind. They are reliable, and the caregivers are sweet and attentive.”
“I am a current client of this provider They give me the peace of mind. They are always able to be reached and are willing to work with you.”
“My husband has dementia. They have helped me continue to work and feel comfortable in knowing my husband is safe with excellent care. The office listens, really hears and is helpful to support and meet needs. Our caregiver, Chip, has become family. He was very personable, attentive to needs, brings extra in music, stories, making sure to pay attention to the patient and give accordingly. He is always kind and gracious. We are blessed to have them.”
“Very great place to work! The staff is very supportive!”
“This place is absolutely amazing to work for!! The office team is so welcoming and helpful anytime I call or come in, and my clients are wonderful! It’s more like helping a friend all day instead of working like clockwork!”
“They do what I ask them to do which makes my life easier. They are always on time and they always finish the job during the day.”
“The most caring compassionate place i have ever been to”
“Outstanding care and compassion for both clients and employees”
“They really appreciate to have their employees there . And that makes me feel happy just being in there in their organization .. my google is under Stephanie young but my last name is now Duarte . Young was my married name , I’m divorced now”
“I went for my interview there a week ago and the staff were so nice and welcoming. I’m excited to join the team and see the great things they have in store.”
“I am a current client of this provider It could just be his cooperation or lack thereof. It is regarding his cooperation regarding the service. He tends to not wake the caregiver for assistance during the night time. I would give specific names of individuals in this organization that I would request over others.”
“I am a current client of this provider They do what I ask them to do which makes my life easier. They are always on time and they always finish the job during the day.”
“I am Kathryn Merrell and for the past several months I have been under the care of ABC Senior Services. I have had the privilege of enjoying the care of Lois C. She is the best advertisement for your agency. When I am asked, which happens frequently, about my experience with ABC, I refer to Lois as being your prime example of the type of care they can expect from you. She goes beyond just basic care and does all she can to help remedy any problem we have. I love that I can trust her and feel safe having her share my home with me. She is very professional yet very "down home", a rare combination. You should be very thankful she is on your "team"! Because of her, I have no problem recommending your company to all who ask.”
“I am a current client of this provider She does whatever is needed without being asked. I have had a couple of very good people, one of which I have now. When I was getting going with them, I had a couple of people I would never like to have again, but that has all been ironed out.”
“I am a current client of this provider Just being here and making meals is great. But they could be more proactive. They need to be better at communicating.”
“As a caregiver I am so pleased with the care for the clients. I've never worked for a company that was so dedicated to clients and caregivers. Everyone is always happy, clients and staff. I am blessed to work here.”
“I would recommend them because they provide good services. I've been down on my health, so it's been a blessing to have them taking care of him for me. I appreciate that the caregivers are friendly.”
“They're very prompt about coming when they're supposed to and they do what we need them to do. They've helped the most just by being here.”
“I am a current client of this provider They've helped the most just by being here, and doing what they're supposed to. They're very prompt about coming when they're supposed to and they do what we need them to do.”
“I have honestly never met a group of people who care as much as the Always Best Care team. I have watched the staff there change lives for the better, not only for clients but each other as well. It is a pleasure to be a part of this team, nothing compares to it!!”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Veterans Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Que Sera or visit Swannanoa Valley Museum & History Center, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Black Mountain, NC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Black Mountain, NC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Black Mountain, NC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
NEWSBlack Mountain NewsChaney Harrison and his wife Dana had planned to open a new food trailer in Swannanoa in the fall of 2024.They had acquired a commercial kitchen in August 2024 before Chaney Harrison, who serves in the Air Force Reserves, left for a month for military work.In that month, Tropical Storm Helene hit Western North Carolina, devastating the region.“Everything changed for everybody,” Harrison said.In the aftermath of the storm, Harrison said he applied his ...
NEWS
Black Mountain News
Chaney Harrison and his wife Dana had planned to open a new food trailer in Swannanoa in the fall of 2024.
They had acquired a commercial kitchen in August 2024 before Chaney Harrison, who serves in the Air Force Reserves, left for a month for military work.
In that month, Tropical Storm Helene hit Western North Carolina, devastating the region.
“Everything changed for everybody,” Harrison said.
In the aftermath of the storm, Harrison said he applied his more tactical skills to help with the disaster. He worked with Savage Freedom Relief Operations helping with medical support and deliveries.
Harrison said his background is in special operations search and rescue, work he has been doing in the Air Force and reserves for the past 21 years.
During COVID, Harrison went to New York where he helped build a field hospital and treat patients.
Harrison helped found a staffing company during this time to help bring in those in the military to help work in these hospitals.
He said the last time he was in New York for this work was 2023, when he came back home to the Swannanoa Valley to start a family.
“The COVID situation was a little bit of a boom and a bust in the sense that it’s only a disaster for so long,” Harrison said. “When you’re in that services space, once the need goes away, then the demand for your services goes away.”
Back in Swannanoa, Harrison said he had been looking for an opportunity that was closer to home and that he would have more control over. He said he had been thinking about the idea of doing a mobile food business “for a long time.”
After spending the first half of 2024 working on recipes, Harrison said he was starting the process of opening when Helene hit.
After he finished his search and rescue work, he turned to using the system he had in place for the food trailer and started preparing meals for those who needed them. Harrison said he served approximately 16,000 meals between October 2024 and January 2025.
At that point, Harrison said he needed to make the change to operating as a food trailer to provide for his growing family.
“We finally made the pivot to we need to get open and get back to business ourselves,” Harrison said. “We kind of reached the end of what we could donate in time and money and started working the process to get open.”
In April, Harrison and his new food trailer, Defiance Cafe, received the necessary permits to operate.
Harrison said Defiance Cafe focuses on grab-and-go foods that he makes in the commissary kitchen and sells in the food trailer.
The main dishes at Defiance Cafe are his take on Jamaican patties “with a southern twist.” The current menu offers a spiced beef filling and a veggie filling.
For side dishes, Defiance Cafe serves Harrison’s grandmothers macaroni and cheese made with pimento cheese, a cucumber salad and pimento cheese.
There are several desserts on the menu, including a heavy cream, bread pudding, bourbon fudge pie and cookies that Harrison described as being “as big as your face.”
He said he wants to keep the menu relatively simple right now as he is “a one-man show,” but as he hires staff he will be able to expand the menu. Harrison said he is looking to hire employees because he wants to make sure to be able to maintain a balance in his life.
“This business is one baby right now,” Harrison said. “We’ve got to make sure we have time for the family.”
Harrison said his goal is to “put out a good product” that customers can feel good about buying.
“I don’t have any illusions of being any kind of chef,” Harrison said. “But I do really enjoy making good food for people.”
Looking to the future, Harrison said he wants to be “fairly prolific in the Valley” and expand into other areas of Western North Carolina.
Defiance Cafe is doing lunch service at 2288 U.S. 70 in Swannanoa, but Harrison said it has been difficult to get potential customers to know the trailer is there, and he is looking into other options.
“I am emotionally and personally invested in having a physical presence in the Valley,” Harrison said. “I just don’t know if we’re going to be able to afford that out of the gate.”
Harrison said he is “inspired to create” a space where people can come together and interact, something he said is missing in Swannanoa.
“I want to be a part of helping create a network of those places that people can come and interact with each other positively,” Harrison said. “For right now, we’ve just got a little truck in the parking lot, but we’ve got to start somewhere, right?”
Karrigan Monk is the Swannanoa Valley communities reporter for Black Mountain News, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at [email protected].
Including scenic views, outdoor fun, and small-town spots not to miss.There’s just something about heading to the mountains with their natural beauty, bubbling streams, and fresh air. Part of what makes the North Carolina mountains unique is the people who pepper the area with creativity and hospitality throughout their beloved m...
Including scenic views, outdoor fun, and small-town spots not to miss.
There’s just something about heading to the mountains with their natural beauty, bubbling streams, and fresh air. Part of what makes the North Carolina mountains unique is the people who pepper the area with creativity and hospitality throughout their beloved mountain hamlets. Plus, visiting the villages, unincorporated towns, and small cities of the Tar Heel State always brings something unexpected.
From creative festivals and outdoor adventures to craft beverages and gastronomic delights, the mountain folks put their best foot forward to take care of their own while welcoming visitors from all over the globe. So, if you’ve been searching for a vacation or weekend getaway that’s a quaint step back in time while immersing yourself into the local flair, these 15 North Carolina mountain towns await.
Mountain getaways are often best when big-city activities accompany the small-town feel. Such is the case with Banner Elk—don't let the fact that it has one stoplight deceive you. Outdoor activities abound, but visitors can also visit downtown shops, sip at wineries, enjoy live theater, and taste the magic of mountain cuisine. Outside Banner Elk is the biosphere reserve Grandfather Mountain, also home to the Mile High Swinging Bridge, where you'll find the best mountain landscapes.
Because Boone is a college town, there are plenty of shops and restaurants to serve visitors. The newly renovated Rhodes Inn Motor Lodge will set the tone with its cozy rooms and retro-modern charm. Vintage lovers will enjoy perusing the many antique shops and vintage clothing stores. At the same time, brew-enthusiasts can tour and taste at Lost Province Brewing Co. Outdoor activities also call many to Boone, and depending on when you visit, you can hike, ski, or go mountain biking.
Because the town of Cashiers has fewer than 1,000 residents, it offers a laid-back experience without the threat of crowds. The area is surrounded by the mountain peaks of the Nantahala National Forest, which provide natural beauty accompanied by rivers and waterfalls. Visitors can also hike, visit the farmers market, go antique shopping, and savor the local cuisine. Also of note nearby are the smallest U.S. post office just outside town and the Zachary-Tolbert House, a historic home that is seasonally open for touring.
Hendersonville offers a taste of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with lovely views and activities, no matter the time of year you go. Local farms provide seasonal you-pick events where you can collect apples, lavender, and strawberries to take home. Trail lovers can hit the traditional hiking paths or have fun stopping at different points along various trails, focusing on ice cream, crafts, or beverages. There's also a local playhouse with Broadway-style shows and a pedestrian-friendly downtown.
Labeled as one of North Carolina's small, cool towns, Saluda has been drawing tourists since the late 1800s. If you're considering planning a visit, check their events calendar first, as this active town has something going on just about every day of the week. History buffs will enjoy a walk through the one-street downtown, where many of the original buildings (most are on the National Register of Historic Places) remain. As expected, there are plenty of outdoor activities and even a summer festival focused on the arts to keep visitors busy.
If you love being by the water, Brevard is the North Carolina mountain town for you. The area boasts 250 waterfalls, so there's one for folks of every activity level, whether you want to hike to a fall, swim in natural pools, or wait your turn to glide down Sliding Rock. While other outdoor adventures await, such as fly fishing and horseback riding, the town also has a thriving downtown area where you can eat, shop, and take a self-guided sculpture tour. Their live webcam also gives a peek into daily life in Brevard.
When you hear "highlands," your thoughts may go to the Scottish mountains. However, the town of Highlands, North Carolina, is also beautiful and situated within a mountain range—the Nantahala National Forest. Relax in the spa at Old Edwards Inn and Spa or experience a live performance of local theater, music, or improv. There are also several golf courses close by, and don't miss the Shadow of the Bear that shows up across the mountains on sunny fall evenings. Bridal Veil Falls is also a highlight you can see from the road or walk behind it to get a closer look.
While Sylva has many claims to fame, one of its highlights is the presence of several breweries. Innovation Brewing keeps 32 brews on tap—and a bonus housemade ginger ale—while Balsam Falls Brewing Co. is the perfect place to satiate your appetite for food and beer. The town also has many eco-friendly initiatives, including its Tree Walk, which showcases over 50 species. The Art Stroll highlights galleries, local murals, and art pieces, and make time to attend one of the Concerts on the Creek in summertime.
Often called the "friendliest town in the South," Tryon offers a deep history to its visitors. Of special interest are the community's many equine-related events. Horse lovers from all over the globe head to the Block House Steeplechase and the Tryon International Equestrian Center, which is known for its seasonal events and experiences. Like many mountain towns, Tryon started as a railroad town that beckoned creatives to make it their home due to its gorgeous setting and appealing climate.
Many travelers enjoy browsing shops on a sunny afternoon, and Waynesville's central area is the perfect place to cure the shopping bug. With brick sidewalks and boutiques housed in historic buildings, this town provides a true glimpse into the past. Whether you're looking for artisan goods or want to dine on farm-to-table fare, Waynesville delivers an immersive experience for those who wish to find themselves in the mountains. Natural areas like hiking trails and rushing waterfalls also satiate the appetite of outdoor lovers who visit.
While the city of Asheville is on many travel bucket lists, the nearby town of Black Mountain is also a worthy stop that highlights arts and creativity. The walkable downtown houses artisan shops and culinary delights set against historic buildings. Beverage connoisseurs will enjoy locally produced spirits, ciders, and beers on tap. Other highlights are taking a sunrise hike to see the Seven Sisters mountains and enjoying time at Lake Tomahawk, where you can walk, swim, and relax surrounded by a stunning vista.
West Jefferson is in the northwestern part of North Carolina, which borders Tennessee and Virginia, meaning that folks from several states frequent the area for its wealth of things to do. As a popular mountain town, it has several art galleries, eateries that feature local fare, and a local farmers market, yet other aspects make it unique. While in town, head to Ashe County Cheese to see products being made or plan to attend their Christmas in July event, which draws thousands of visitors.
Head to Bryson City, where natural adventures blossom, to get away from it all and immerse yourself in the mountains. Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where you can view elk or explore via a hike. Shoppers will also delight in the local boutiques, galleries, and antique shops. If you enjoy water activities, plan to boat on Fontana Lake or raft down the Nantahala River. Book a brewery and fly fishing tour for a unique glimpse into the local scene and experience life on land and in the water.
The town of Blowing Rock is a delight for those who want to live like a local for a few days. Book a room at the Hellbender Bed & Beverage, where you can rest, eat, and walk to local shops without moving your vehicle. While you can ski, fish for trout, and hike in season, be sure to visit the actual Blowing Rock, which offers a breathtaking vantage point of the North Carolina mountains. It is also handicap accessible so that all family members can enjoy the scenery.
Morganton, located in Burke County, is a quintessential North Carolina mountain town at the range's foothills. Because it's right off of I-40, the area attracts many folks who simply want to stop by for a peek into the town. Morganton focuses on the arts with live shows, creative artists, and cultural events at the helm. During the summer, you can pull up a chair—or blanket—and enjoy one of their Friday night summer concerts on the Historic Courthouse Square.
BLACK MOUNTAIN – Tom Haney can bring “magic” to a still figure.Haney, a Black Mountain resident, is also an artist specializing in automata, which he described as a “kinetic, figurative sculpture” that moves with the help of cranks and levers or motors and weights.“It’s kind of like adding a little bit of magic to a static figure,” Haney said.The Cincinnati native went to school for industrial design and spent the early part of his career designing and buildi...
BLACK MOUNTAIN – Tom Haney can bring “magic” to a still figure.
Haney, a Black Mountain resident, is also an artist specializing in automata, which he described as a “kinetic, figurative sculpture” that moves with the help of cranks and levers or motors and weights.
“It’s kind of like adding a little bit of magic to a static figure,” Haney said.
The Cincinnati native went to school for industrial design and spent the early part of his career designing and building props for television commercials and photographers.
In 2000, while living in Atlanta, Haney made the move to art full-time starting as an independent artist before moving into galleries. He is now an independent artist again living in Black Mountain. Haney said he makes a living selling his pieces and doing commissions.
He said he got his start in automata by making whirligigs. He was at a show with his whirligigs when he saw another artist making pieces similar to what Haney makes now.
His first automata piece depicts a man on a stage, able to move by someone tapping keys on the front of the diorama. Haney said he didn’t know where the piece was going as he was making it, but he is happy with the way it turned out.
“It was amazing,” Haney said. “It really set me on this path that I’ve been on.”
Haney said he is “influenced heavily” by Southern folk art. While he draws inspiration from these artists, he said he has now created a style of his own.
“Over the years I’ve kind of developed into a little bit sort of my own style where I’m now using polymer clay for the heads,” Haney said. “I’m sculpting my heads. I’m using fabric for the clothes and using various found objects for the sort of settings.”
When creating a new piece, Haney said he starts with the figure and builds around that.
“The figure dictates what the mechanism is going to be,” Haney said. “I can’t just create a mechanism and then try to hope that it works with the figure. … I basically go from there and work backwards and reverse engineer.”
Haney said what he likes about the work is that it involves so many different processes. He said to make a piece, one has to not only carve and sculpt the figure while also painting it and making clothes for it, but also has to work with the mechanisms to get the figure to move.
“I like working with mechanisms,” Haney said. “That’s always a challenge and always kind of a puzzle to solve. … I like the challenge.”
Haney’s work has landed him a feature on the PBS-NC show “My Home, NC.” His episode will air May 22, and his feature is available to view online now.
Haney said his Black Mountain studio is open to visits; he just asks that those interested arrange a time with him first by contacting him on his website tomhaney.com.
He said he has not made a piece he doesn’t like because, even when working on commissions, he works to make sure the piece is something that he enjoys.
“I started out making pieces for myself, something that I want to see and I want to bring to life,” Haney said. “Even with the commission piece, I still make stuff that I like and I want to see and hopefully I think people have been attracted to my pieces.”
MARCH 30, 2024 - Asheville Parks and Recreation held its 2024 Spring Eggstravaganza. (Photo: WLOS staff)(WLOS) — Communities across Western North Carolina are preparing for a weekend of festivities in celebration of Easter Sunday on April 20.Here are some Easter events and fun spring-themed activities happening this weekend:Asheville Spring EggstravaganzaThis free event will feature an outdoor egg hunt, entertainment, crafts and more.Click ...
MARCH 30, 2024 - Asheville Parks and Recreation held its 2024 Spring Eggstravaganza. (Photo: WLOS staff)
(WLOS) — Communities across Western North Carolina are preparing for a weekend of festivities in celebration of Easter Sunday on April 20.
Here are some Easter events and fun spring-themed activities happening this weekend:
This free event will feature an outdoor egg hunt, entertainment, crafts and more.
Click here for more information.
Attendees can discover 25 large, decorated Easter eggs hidden within the Biltmore House and gardens and Antler Hill Village. This event is included with admission to the Biltmore Estate.
Children ages nine and younger will be given a treat bag. Click here for more information.
This service traditionally takes place at Chimney Rock State Park, but due to residual damages left by Hurricane Helene, the location has been changed for 2025.
The sunrise service will be led by Foothills Village Chapel and feature live music by the Chimney Rock Bagpipe Band. After the service, attendees can participate in an Easter egg hunt, breakfast buffet and more.
Click here for more information.
Attendees can participate in an egg hunt at Monteith Park at 11 a.m. to search for more than 4,000 eggs. Registration for the hat parade begins at noon, and the parade begins at 2 p.m. There will also be an array of prizes.
Click here for more information.
The Omni Grove Park Inn is inviting families to celebrate Easter with a variety of activities and culinary experiences. The celebration features an Easter brunch, craft and cookie decorating parties and more.
Click here for more information.
Celebrate Easter Sunday at the amphitheater below the Lake Junaluska Cross. Rev. Amy Coles will be the guest speaker, with music by the Biltmore Brass.
Click here for more information.
First Christian Church of Asheville is hosting Easter egg hunts for children with autism on the church lawn. There will be multiple sessions for different age groups. After the Easter egg hunt, children can play in the church's Sensory Room and decorate an Easter cookie.
Click here for more information.
A helicopter will drop thousands of Easter eggs filled with different treats and surprises for children. The event is free and will also feature music, entertainment, games and a meet and greet with the Easter Bunny.
Click here for more information.
SKYLARANNA is hosting a free easter egg hunt on its resort grounds for Easter Sunday. The event is open to all kids for a chance to win treats and other prizes. The Easter Bunny will also make a surprise appearance.
Click here for more information.
The town of Black Mountain is hoping to open the back nine holes of the town-owned Black Mountain Golf Course by early May, according to Town Manager Josh Harrold.The course has been closed since September, when Tropical Storm Helene tore through Western North Carolina. Harrold said the damages to the golf course alone totaled approximately $2 million.This $2 million in damages includes:More: ...
The town of Black Mountain is hoping to open the back nine holes of the town-owned Black Mountain Golf Course by early May, according to Town Manager Josh Harrold.
The course has been closed since September, when Tropical Storm Helene tore through Western North Carolina. Harrold said the damages to the golf course alone totaled approximately $2 million.
This $2 million in damages includes:
Harrold said so far, the town has started repairs on the irrigation pump and electrical and the pro shop. The culverts are being replaced, and the stream banks undermining the cart paths are also being repaired. He said work on bridges will begin the week of March 31.
At the March 10 Black Mountain Town Council meeting, Assistant Town Manager Jessica Trotman described the golf course as “a complex project because there’s so many different elements.” She said the priority with the golf course is to prevent further damage, including grass dying on the course.
In order to pay for the repairs for the golf course, Harrold said current funding is coming from the general fund. He said the town anticipates getting reimbursed by FEMA for the project.
The town has spent more than $130,000 so far in repairing the golf course:
In 2023, the golf course generated more than $837,000 in operating revenue. In 2024, that number increased to more than $1 million despite Helene.
Harrold said the town lost more than $313,000 from October 2024 to March 2025 by the golf course being closed.
“This is of course just gross revenue and doesn’t factor in any associated operating costs,” Harrold said. “Luckily, we generate most of our revenue from April through September.”
Harrold said the town is looking forward “to getting the back nine holes operating again as quickly as possible.”
“Having irrigation and a few pieces of loaner equipment are the major steps needed to make that happen,” Harrold said. “We will be working with roughly one-third of the mowers we typically have to operate 18 holes, so even nine holes will be a challenge.”
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