Discover the Wonders of Emerald Village
Explore Emerald Village in Spruce Pine, NC – a gem mining paradise offering hands-on adventures, stunning scenery, and a rich history of geology.
Nestled in the heart of North Carolina, Emerald Village is a captivating gem for tourists seeking adventure and discovery. This unique tourist attraction offers visitors the chance to explore the rich history of gem mining while engaging in hands-on experiences that are perfect for families and friends alike. With its scenic beauty and exciting activities, Emerald Village is a must-visit destination.
A brief summary to Emerald Village
- 331 McKinney Mine Rd, Spruce Pine, North Carolina, 28777, US
- +1828-765-6463
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes, as you'll be spending time outdoors and may encounter uneven terrain.
- Don't forget to bring sunscreen and a hat, especially during the warmer months when you'll be outside for longer periods.
- Plan to spend at least half a day to fully enjoy all the attractions, including gem mining and museum exhibits.
- Check the website for any seasonal events or special activities that might be happening during your visit.
- Bring a small bag to carry your gems home – you’ll want to keep your treasures safe!
Getting There
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Public Bus
To reach Emerald Village from downtown Asheville, start by taking the ART (Asheville Rides Transit) bus route 170 towards Black Mountain. Board the bus at any ART stop in downtown. Stay on the bus for approximately 30 minutes, and get off at the stop near US-70. From there, transfer to a regional bus that goes towards Spruce Pine. After another 30 minutes, disembark at the Spruce Pine stop closest to McKinney Mine Rd. Walk approximately 1 mile down McKinney Mine Rd to reach Emerald Village.
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Ride Share
You can use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. Open the app and set your pickup location in Asheville. Enter '331 McKinney Mine Rd, Spruce Pine, NC 28777' as your destination. The ride will take about 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Make sure to confirm with the driver that they are aware of the destination, which is located in Spruce Pine.
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Bicycle
If you're feeling adventurous and want to cycle, you can rent a bike from one of the local rental shops in Asheville. Start by heading north on Broadway St, then take a left onto Merrimon Ave and continue until you reach US-19. Follow US-19 towards Spruce Pine. Be cautious of traffic as this route is along a busy road. The ride is approximately 25 miles and can take around 2-3 hours depending on your cycling speed.
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Walking (Long Distance)
For those who are up for a long hike, you can walk from downtown Asheville to Emerald Village. Start at Pack Square Park and head north on Broadway St before taking a left on Merrimon Ave. Continue straight until you reach US-19, and follow this road for approximately 25 miles. This will take several hours, so ensure you're prepared with water and snacks, and wear comfortable hiking shoes.
Discover more about Emerald Village
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Curtis Valley Overlook
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Laurel Knob Overlook
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Top of Mt. Mitchell
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Mt. Mitchell Overlook
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Davidson's Fort Historic Park
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Big Ivy Trailhead
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Craggy Pinnacle Summit
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Craggy Pinnacle Tunnel
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Craggy Gardens Visitor Center
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Roan Mountain
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Carvers Gap
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Craggy Gardens
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Catawba Falls
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Swannanoa Valley Museum & History Center
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Avery County Museum
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Unmissable attractions to see
North Carolina Mining Museum
0.0 km
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Deerlick Gap Overlook
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Little Switzerland Tunnel
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Crabtree Falls
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Museum Of North Carolina Minerals
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Black Mountains Overlook
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Table Rock Mountain Overlook
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Toms Creek Falls Trail
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Mayland Earth to Sky Park
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Roaring Fork Falls Trailhead
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Singecat Ridge Overlook
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Setrock Falls
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Mount Mitchell State Park
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Blue Ridge Mountains
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Bear Den Overlook
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Essential places to dine
Chalet Restaurant
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live oak gastropub
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Hawtree's Pub and Grill
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Louise's Rock House Restaurant
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La Guinguette
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Bush Farmhouse
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Que Sera
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Coach House Seafood & Steak
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Tartan Restaurant
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Mildred's Grill
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Reid's Cafe & Catering Co.
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Bella's Italian Neighborhood Restaurant
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The Pedalin' Pig
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Stonewalls Restaurant
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Sorrento's Italian Bistro
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Rocks & Things
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Stitch & Save Fabric Shop
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Vintage Market Marion
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The OG Shoppe
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The Curiosity Shoppe
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The JAMB
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Luna Thai & Sushi Restaurant
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Blind Elk Tap Room
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Highlands Prohibition Kitchen
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