The Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce (www.beechmtn.com ) would probably be a good source of information on local activities and give you a pretty good idea of what to expect in the way of weather during your visit. Also check www.fredsgeneral.com for local weather and other info. You never know what you will see in the way of wildlife and hiking is always a fun and healthy option. Banner Elk is at the bottom of the mountain (www.bannerelk.org ) with lots to see and do. Grandfather Mountain (www.grandfather.com ) is the one in the distance you can see from my deck (about 15 minutes), and the Blue Ridge Parkway is a beautiful drive. Check out Tweetsie Railroads website (www.tweetsie.com )to make sure that they are open - kids like that - and I feel sure they would be. Shopping is neat in Blowing Rock (www.blowingrock.com) (unique stores, ice cream shoppes, etc.) and there are some excellent restaurants in the area (www.blowingrock.org/dining.html ) (I have notes on many of them at the house). There is also the original Mast General Store (www.mastgeneralstore.com ) that is quite an interesting little side trip. Check out Country Retreat Family Billiards - first class and family atmosphere with video arcade, widescreen TVs (828-963-6260) in Foscoe and the home of some nationally ranked young pool players. They don’t have a website but are listed on a number of related sites – try searching on their name to see what I mean. Also, call the Beech Mountain Club (www.beechmtnclub.org ) to inquire about activities on their calendar (828-387-4208 Ext. 222). You are eligible to use their facilities as a guest at my home since I am a member. There is a very nice little horseback riding farm nearby suitable for children if they are open (Smith Quarter Horse Farm 828-898-4932) and for more experienced riders there is Blowing Rock Farm in Blowing Rock for access to Cone Park (www.mountaintimes.com/summer/mosescone.php3 ), which I have not done but would love to. I have LOTS of games and movies for down periods just in case. All the above websites have links which give you some idea of the fun and diversity to be found in the area.

Hope this helps you to plan your trip!