The best in locally-made art can be found at the Banner Elk (BE) Artists Gallery.

Formed by a group of local artists, the BE Artists Gallery features fine arts and crafts for sale to the public. All items are hand-made objects of beauty and utility created by artisans living within a 50-mile radius of Banner Elk. The gallery was so successful in its first year that its size was doubled to provide display space for more artists.

Displays vary throughout the year and include su... Read More

Hit the slopes in style with a new snowboard and all the necessary winter gear and accessories from Edge of the World.

This family-run shop feels right at home in North Carolina’s ski town. The store also rents snowboards, while the back shop provides maintenance and repair services.

Open year-round, the shop stocks sunglasses, ball caps, T-shirts and backpacks.

To learn more about the shop’s summer outfitter service for rafting, canoeing, rock climbing and rappelling,... Read More

Owned by local artist Page Smoak, this inviting gallery in downtown Banner Elk presents a diverse selection of original artwork, including paintings in oil and acrylic, mixed media, kiln-formed glass, stoneware, pottery, encaustics, silk, fabrics, jewelry and more.

Colorful tulips, friendly farm animals and bold abstracts pop off the walls.

Looking for a gift? Mountain Blue Gallery includes a nice selection of ceramic bowls, wooden cutting boards and candles.

The galle... Read More

Hardin Fine Jewelry eliminates the intimidating stereotype often associated with jewelry stores. Set in a charming cabin-like building with big windows and lots of natural light, Hardin’s salespeople welcome visitors with big smiles and warm hospitality.

The eclectic selection features one-of-a-kind pieces from artisans all over the world. From bold pink, green and blue gemstones to elegant diamonds and pearls, Hardin’s stocks a variety of jewelry to suit any occasion.

This s... Read More

Spoil those four-legged family members with a visit to My Best Friend’s Barkery, a locally-owned pet-supply store that also provides do-it-yourself wash stations for your pets.

A store specialty is a wide selection of made-in-house treats for dogs and cats, complemented by a large selection of healthy, eco-conscious foods. The Barkery carries a full line of accessories, such as collars, chew toys and bowls, along with cute outfits for canines and felines.

A recent expan... Read More

Base Camp B.E. is an outdoor recreation consignment shop featuring clothing, equipment, and accessories for hiking, backpacking, camping, paddling, cycling, climbing, skiing, snowboarding, fly fishing and other outdoor activities.

Base Camp BE is for outdoors enthusiasts who love excitement and adventure, as well as for casual outdoor recreationalists who prefer less strenuous pursuits like golfing, tennis and walking.

A big part of Base Camp BE’s mission is taking care... Read More

This culinary shop, located in a white clapboard house in downtown Banner Elk, features traditional olive oils and balsamic vinegars, as well as a selection of creative flavors.

Sample your way through oils infused with basil, blood orange, garlic, white truffle and more. Balsamic vinegar flavors include red apple, fig, jalapeño, dark chocolate and several others.

The shop’s owner also provides instruction on how to pair certain oils and vinegars together and use them t... Read More

BJ’s Resort Wear is one of those pleasant little discoveries in ladies’ shopping: a high-end boutique with unique fashion finds. Owner Sally Breslauer opened the shop in 1978 and customers have relied on her keen eye for fashion ever since.

The shop is known for quality garments and personal attention. Breslauer regularly travels to New York to purchase the finest in ready-to-wear ladies’ attire including Bogner, Basler and Belford brands, along with jewelry accessories.... Read More

Women shoppers delight in a visit to Spruced Boutique in The Shoppes at Tynecastle. This on-trend shop carries the latest in female fashion.

Several high-quality designer lines offer everything from special-occasion dresses and outfits to comfortable daily looks. Complete the ensemble with shoes, jewelry, and a clutch or purse.

Spruced Boutique also has an array of gift items such as tumblers, candles, ball caps and tote bags.

A sister store is located nearby in Spruce... Read More

Open the screen door of this general store, and you’ll find one of the largest selections of hot sauces in the High Country, along with Banner Elk souvenirs and locally made products. Bayou General Store is the place in downtown Banner Elk for vacation provisions.

Mix and match a six pack of craft beer from the cold case, or take home a bottle from nearby Banner Elk and Linville Falls wineries. Hats, T-shirts and coffee mugs commemorate a visit to Banner Elk and serve as a reminder ... Read More