Appalachian State University (ASU) is an integral part of Watauga County. The University's 17,000 students and some 300 faculty are major contributors to the county"s economic engine. ASU is one of the most popular colleges in the UNC system. The University offers many resources for entrepreneurs and is a source of cultural richness, diversity, and great sports activities. Attending an ASU football game is an awesome experience!
The county also has a branch of Caldwell Community College that offers training, counseling and connections for small businesses, and dozens of associate degree and certificate programs for students. The public school system is also excellent; all nine schools are either Schools of Excellence or Schools of Distinction.
Boone, population about 14,000 including ASU students, is the county seat. It's a classic college town, full of energy and learning opportunities. The downtown area includes a funky drug store complete with lunch counter and an amazing outdoor recreation store
Blowing Rock is a thriving tourist destination offering excellent shopping, dining, and natural attractions. It was recently named "Prettiest Small Town in NC" by NC travel professionals and writers. Beech Mountain, Seven Devils, Valle Crucis and a handful of other small towns offer other shopping, dining, and outdoor activities.
Outdoor Attractions
The High Country is a haven for outdoor adventure. The state's largest ski and snow board resort area is here, including Beech, Sugar, and Appalachian Ski Mountain. Rock climbing is also huge in the area—Rock & Ice magazine named Boone one of the US top ten climbing towns. Cycling, hiking, rafting, mountain biking, kayaking, fishing are also popular.
Grandfather Mountain, Linville Caverns, the Blowing Rock, Tweetsie Railroad, and the Blue Ridge Parkway include magnificent views and days of fun exploration.
Cultural Activities
Museums, art galleries, nonprofit events, and festivals honoring everything from apples to wooly worms assure there's always a pleasant diversion. ASU offers amazing cultural opportunities ranging from theatre to visual to performing arts.
