Bakersville is centrally located for most of the attractions in western North Carolina. It is the Gateway to Roan Mountain, site of the world's largest natural rhododendron gardens and home of the NC Rhododendron Festival. Within an hour's drive are located such attractions as Grandfather Mountain, Mount Mitchell, Craggy Gardens, Asheville (and its attractions such as the Biltmore House and the Grove Park Inn), Boone, Blowing Rock, Little Switzerland, and the ski slopes and resorts of Banner Elk. The Appalachian Trail is a 20 minute drive away. The Bakersville Creek Walk is adjacent to a designated catch and release trout stream. Some of the finest restaurants and golf courses in the Southeast are within a few minutes drive. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a dozen miles away. The Bakersville area is recognized as one of the leading artist colonies in the nation. Studio glass, ceramics, basketry, wood, fabric, and pottery studios abound as well as world class galleries such as Twisted Laurel and the Penland Gallery.