What can you do openly and safely in Boone after Hurricane Helene hits western North Carolina?

As Western North Carolina recovers from the devastation of Hurricane Helene, many restaurants and small businesses that rely on tourism dollars during the fall travel season are struggling.

While major road construction will be underway for the foreseeable future and the North Carolina Department of Transportation has urged only essential travel in the region, some cities are now accessible and cautiously welcoming return travelers.

We take a look at several cities in Western North Carolina to consider with safety and support in mind for those who rely on tourism for their livelihoods.

Here’s what you need to know about traveling to Boone soon.

Is it safe to travel to Boone?

While a state of emergency continues to be declared in Boone, the city is also seeing a return to normality. Appalachian State University has resumed classes and visitors are slowly returning.

David Jackson, president and CEO of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce, said via Instagram that those visitors on their way to Boone should pay attention to the destruction that has taken place.

“As we continue the careful return of students and visitors to our region in the coming days and weeks, it is important to understand that you are not returning to the same community you saw just a few weeks ago,” Jackson said.

“While some areas have restored their infrastructure and ability to operate quickly, other areas throughout Watauga County and the Highlands region are still heavily involved in the recovery effort and will continue to do so for quite some time.”

Jackson added in a similar statement on the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce website: “Please be respectful and exercise great grace and patience.”

How do I get to Boone?

• Boone is accessible from Charlotte via I-85 North to US 321 North and I-77 North to US 421 North. From Raleigh or Durham, take I-40 West to US 421 North. (Note: I-40 West is closed indefinitely past the Maggie Valley interchange, but traffic eastbound from Asheville has reopened.)

• Major roads including US 421 South/W. King Street in downtown Boone are open to travel.

• Many secondary roads are currently undergoing repairs and lane closures and detours remain in place, particularly along NC Hwy 105 and US Hwy 421 North toward the Tennessee Line. Stay on main routes and follow posted advice.

Can I stay in Boone?

• Many hotels and shelters are overcrowded with displaced families, relief workers and repair teams. Explore Boone encourages visitors to consider a day trip to support local shops, restaurants and businesses, adding, “Thank you for your understanding and for helping us prioritize those most in need.”

What restaurants are open in Boone?

Restaurants in Boone may have limited hours and limited menus. Here are a few local places to check out:

Betty’s cookies

Location: 640 West King Street, Boone, NC 28604

Betty’s Biscuits serves savory and sweet biscuits, as well as bowls and plates made with ingredients sourced from local farms and purveyors. The cookies can also be ordered by the dozen – with jam, butter or sauce – packed in take-away boxes. Currently, hours are 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. with a limited menu. Gift cards and store items are also available online.

Black Cat Burrito

Location: 127 S. Depot St., Boone, NC 28607

Black Cat Burrito is back open for regular hours, operating in downtown Boone Tuesday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Of course, you’ll find a variety of burritos there. (It’s in the name, after all.) There are also tacos, enchiladas, loaded fries, and salad.

FARM Cafe

Location: 617 W King St, Boone, NC 28607

In addition to preparing meals that can be donated to community members, the FARM Café is open for lunch Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The menu includes breakfast burritos, soups, salads and desserts. There are vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free and nut-free options to choose from.

Gamekeeper

Location: 3005 Shulls Mill Rd, Boone, NC 28607

Gamekeeper, an upscale restaurant in the mountains between Boone and Blowing Rock, has reopened for dinner Wednesday through Sunday from 5 to 9 p.m. Reservations are required for the “adventurous” menu featuring emu, duck, elk and bison. Please also note that valet parking is available as the driveway and parking areas are steep and access may be difficult. Gift cards are also available.

Melanie’s food fantasy

Location: 664 W King St, Boone, NC 28607

Currently, Melanie’s Food Fantasy is open daily from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Customers can purchase gift certificates at the cafe, which help fund the restaurant’s free meals to the community. Melanie’s calls its vegan-friendly menu “eclectic,” and dishes include pimento cheese grits, tempeh scramble, corned beef hash and more.

Troy’s 105 Diner

Location: 1286 Highway 105, Boone, NC, 28607

Troy’s 105 Diner offers breakfast all day, as well as homemade soups, thick burgers, comfort food platters and a selection of salads. You can choose from daily specials and a large selection of desserts. It is open Sunday to Tuesday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Wednesday to Saturday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m

Important information for Boone travelers

Here are key points to consider when visiting Boone and the surrounding area:

[STATE PARKS UPDATES: 13 state parks closed in Western NC after Hurricane Helene. Estimated reopening timeline.]

Resources to check before your trip

Storm cleanup is an ever-changing situation. Therefore, make sure you get as up-to-date information as possible before you leave.