Shopping, Spectacular Scenery & Savory Stew In Stokes County

Stokes County, NC

Autumn is a festive time in Stokes County, North Carolina. Around every turn, a weekend festival or black pot Stew event to taste the local flavor, or bluegrass and traditional music event to sit a spell while tuning into stringed instruments, and more! In Stokes Co., it’s easy to explore the local flavors at local country diners, ethnic restaurants, taprooms, wineries, or restaurants featuring chef-prepared meals, including Big Creek Lodge in Westfield or Town and Country in King.

As the fall leaves change into vibrant colors, you’ll find more than just vibrant yellows of Walnut Trees in Walnut Cove. Venture down Main Street and explore the many local offerings from Antiquing at The Just Plain Country Store, or a latte from Oma’s Coffee and Chocolate Shop, a meal from El Cabo, Sam’s Pizza, or The Milk Bar. Stay around for a while and enjoy a concert at Cove Square on a Thursday or Friday evening. Check their Facebook Page for a lineup of events at Cove Square. Cove Square often features a food truck, or you can enjoy a local food truck with your craft beer, spirits, or wine at the NEW 1889 Taphouse. 1889 Taphouse features live bands and entertainment on weekends, monthly trivia night, and a charming space and atmosphere to meet up with friends, make new friends, or find out what’s going on in and around Walnut Cove from the locals.

In the center of Stokes Co, you find Danbury, the county seat of fewer than 180 people, but crossroads and home to outdoor adventure in every season at Hanging Rock State Park and along the banks of the mighty Dan River. Enjoy the last moments of fall foliage in the lower elevations of North Carolina on a hike along the easy River Bluffs Trail winding by the Dan River and linking with Indian Creek Trail, a lesser-known, more moderate hike. Enjoy a show at The Arts Place and shop for unique holiday gift-giving items after enjoying the Soup of the Day at River Rock Café.

Explore the downtown areas of the City of King, which is south of the Sauratown Mountains in Stokes Co. Development of Main Street and Dalton Road continues to expand as the year comes to a close. Explore two new bakeries on Dalton Road, including “Liv For Sweets,” a locally-owned bakery and sweet shop! Close out your evening with an event or Food Truck options at StoCo Provisions on Main Street across from the City Hall. StoCo Provisions is a taproom, coffee shop, and local gathering space that brings the nightlife to Stokes Co. 


The perfect mountain getaway, closer than you think. Experience hiking trails, waterfalls, rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, fishing, and more. Enjoy a leisurely float down the Dan River by canoe, kayak, paddleboard, or tube. www.hangingrock.com