Blowing Rock is just off the Parkway near Milepost 294. Take the exit for Hwy. 221/321. Blowing Rock is also known as the "Crown of the Blue Ridge". and offers beautiful vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Blowing Rock is only 3 square miles yet is home to more than 100 shops, about two dozen restaurants, and nearly 20 hotels and inns. It is a neat little town to stroll and browse the many shops.
Don't forget to take a train ride on the Tweetise Railroad Park; a park with a focus on children. Board the train for a scenic 3 mile ride packed with adventure. Hours of operation.