Overview:
With 20 million annual visitors, the Blue Ridge Parkway is the most visited unit of the National Park Service. The Blue Ridge Parkway Destination Center is the first visitor center in the Parkway's more than 70-year history to provide comprehensive representation of the entire 469 miles from Virginia to North Carolina, between Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks.Also worth noting, the Destination Center building was designed and constructed to meet energy-saving LEED® certification standards, featuring a green roof, active / passive heating and cooling and other energy efficient technology.
Location:
Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 384, near Asheville, North CarolinaHours:
Open - Daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed - Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years DayFeatures and Services:
Developed as a partnership between the National Park Service and the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area, special features of the Blue Ridge Parkway Destination Center include:- A 22-foot interactive map of the entire Parkway with multi-media information about things to do and see along and the Parkway and nearby
- Staffed information desks to help visitors plan their travel itineraries, destinations and activities along the motor road and throughout the Blue Ridge region
- Interactive and other exhibits that highlight the natural and cultural diversity, traditions, and recreational opportunities of western North Carolina and along the Blue Ridge Parkway
- A 70-seat theater presenting a 24-minute film, The Blue Ridge Parkway - America’s Favorite Journey, shown in high-definition surround sound
- A retail shop, where visitors may purchase items that reflect Blue Ridge Parkway and Destination Center themes, including books, CDs and DVDs, educational toys, apparel, and collectables. (A portion of the profits is designated to support Blue Ridge Parkway educational programs.)
Additional Information
- Visit the Blue Ridge Heritage Web Site
- Telephone number of the Destination Center - 828-298-5330
