Burnsville is often described as a “Norman Rockwell” kind of town, and that is truly the best way to describe this quaint locale that centers around a grassy town square. Catch some zzzs like a star at the Nu Wray Inn, the oldest operating inn in western North Carolina, which has counted Elvis, Mark Twain, and Jimmy Carter among its guests. For one heck of a view, hike to Mount Mitchell’s peak(the tallest east of the Mississippi); don’t miss the Toe River Studio Tour in June, when 100 artists open their studios along the scenic mountain back roads (there’s also the Mt.Mitchell Crafts Fair in August). The Terrell House Bed and Breakfast is a great place to stay when in Burnsville for the Burnsville Metric Bike Ride, Parkway Playhouse, TRAC Studio Tour, Mt. Mitchell Crafts Fair and much more.