Welcome to the pet-friendly Purple Martin Greenway. Hidden right off Hwy 221, just outside of downtown Rutherfordton, the nature, wildlife, and other outdoor elements may go unnoticed by many; however, the picturesque surroundings are right in front of our eyes!

To begin your journey, we suggest

I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice-cream…and cookies, and donuts, and all things sweet, really! Plan a visit to these 5 incredible Rutherford County eateries that are sure to make your summer complete!

Bee Happy

If your sweet tooth gets a little bossy at times, we have just the diagnosis!

Reserve a seat and spend your food obsessed getaway in a destination filled with accomplished cooking, from inns and lodges to resorts and one-of-a-kind surprises, our list has your fine cravings covered.

Restaurant @ the Esmeralda Inn

The 1892 historic inn brings the outside in with a unique,

The burgeoning pub scene is lighting up our friendly small towns and drawing visitors from near and far who are in search of tasting something new.

Twisted Pear Bottle Shop and Taproom

A one stop bottle shop, Twisted Pear provides all your craft beer, wine and home decor desires nestled inside a

Western Carolina is full of hidden gems, gorgeous views and trails to explore - some you might have to go off the beaten path to enjoy. That can be said for food as well...here’s a few of our favorite “off the grid” restaurants.

Big Al’s

When you feel like unwinding and unplugging, look to Big

Shop local. Support local. And most importantly, EAT Local! Rutherford County is filled with amazing restaurants. From the oldest restaurant in the county to the newest flavor in town...we’re always eatin’ good in the Foothills!

The Fountain at Smith’s Drugs

This local shop has been around for

Lake Lure, North Carolina is best known to visitors for the remarkable, panoramic sights seen from every direction. Whether you are on the lake, in the village or within the mountainside, there’s a scenic picture waiting to be captured. Seize the moments that will be remembered for a lifetime and

With so many retail therapy options - Lake Lure and the Blue Ridge Foothills can be a consumers oasis! From specialty retailers to the general stores that have diverse items, you’ll not only find everything you need but view sweeping mountain landscapes that are gorgeous and serene along the way!

One of the largest sporting events in the equestrian world is taking place just minutes away from the us here in Lake Lure and the Blue Ridge Foothills of Rutherford County, NC. The 2018 FEI World Equestrian Games are expected to draw nearly 500,000 people from more than 70 countries to the Tryon

When it comes to agreeing on things to do or places to eat during your summer getaway, it can be a challenge to land on that one choice that everyone will love equally the same.

That’s where the classic American picnic can become a great unifier.

With gorgeous parks, trails and picnic tables