To our friends, visitors, local businesses and stakeholders- we're all in this together.

To our friends, visitors, local businesses and stakeholders- we're all in this together.

With LoveThe RCTDA continues to closely monitor the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic as it relates to our Nation, North Carolina and Rutherford County.Our top priority is always the safety, health, and wellbeing of our community, its residents, and visitors.  We understand that these times are confusing and can be difficult for many.  We encourage you to continue supporting each other and our community's small businesses and ask that you reference individual websites and social media platforms for updates on local businesses and events. At this time and until further notice, our two Welcome Centers are closed and the Tourism Development Authority office is seeing guests by appointment only.  Please call 828.287.6013 or email Taylor at Taylor.Hardin@rutherfordcountync.gov if you have any questions or to make an appointment. Click here to view our dedicated page & to stay informed throughout the Covid-19 crisis.

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Small Towns in North Carolina

Welcome to the small towns of Lake Lure, Chimney Rock, Rutherfordton, Spindale, Forest City, Ellenboro, and Bostic. What makes these small towns so unique?  Each town has something different to offer, and they are close enough to each other that you can explore them all in a weekend!  From main streets and side streets to outdoor adventures and expansive views, there is a world waiting for you to explore, enjoy and love. Take a scenic drive, attend a local festival or explore their many parks and trails and experience fall color like never before.

Lake Lure

Lake Lure is a cathedral of mountain cliffs and our forefront is a rushing river and a serene lake. Here romance and charm converge in a stunning setting as the water reflects the beautiful mountain...

Chimney Rock Village

Visit Chimney Rock Village this holiday season to find the best in shopping, dining and lodging.  Historic B&B's, Riverfront lodging and dining, brewery, a top-rated NC State Park, and a...

Rutherfordton

Established in 1787 and once home to the man who minted America’s first one-dollar gold coin, the Town of Rutherfordton is one of the oldest towns in western North Carolina. With the tagline...

Forest City

A wonderland of Christmas lights surround you at Forest City's Hometown Holidays, a lighting extravaganza that dates back to the 1930s. Spend the evening taking a carriage ride through...

Spindale

In Spindale, history is preserved in the small-town charm of the eclectic shops and restaurants that line Main Street and the brick buildings that have stood strong for generations. A main corridor of...

Bostic/Golden Valley

The Town of Bostic, NC includes the scenic area known as Golden Valley. Known for the famous Cherry Bounce Moonshine made by Amos Owens, treasures are hidden away on dusty, dirt roads along the most...

Ellenboro

Possibly the quaintest of all Rutherford County’s small towns, Ellenboro is home to less than 1,000 residents and favors landscapes over luxuries. Drink in the quiet tranquility of country life!

Ruth

Ruth is one of our small towns that is home to the Thermal Belt Rail Trail as well as a mural along our Art Mural Trail. Known by locals as one of the prettiest little light displays during the...

Scenic Drives and Tours

NC Trout at Lodge on Lake Lure NC Trout at Lodge on Lake Lure

Taste of the Carolinas Foodie Tour

Tickle your taste buds with our Taste of the Carolinas Foodie Tour. View More

Horses and Goats at Hardscrabble Hollow Farm

Agritourism

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Rumbling Bald Fall

Lakeview Tour

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Rutherfordton Selfie Mural

Art Mural Tour

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