We were so thankful for the opportunity to attend MerleFest for the first time!
MerleFest
MerleFest is one of North Carolina’s most beloved music festivals, bringing good vibes and great tunes to Wilkesboro every spring. Held on the campus of Wilkes Community College, it’s four full days of bluegrass, country, folk, Americana, and everything in between. Started by the legendary Doc Watson in memory of his son, Merle, the festival has grown into a huge celebration of “traditional plus” music – with big-named artists, laid-back jams, and something for every kind of music lover. You’ll find food trucks, craft booths, family-friendly fun, and even a stage just for kids. MerleFest is a feel-good weekend that keeps people coming back year after year!
MerleFest brought us to Wilkes County, but music wasn’t the only entertainment we experienced in this special spot on the North Carolina map.
Tastes of the Town
The first restaurant listed on our itinerary was of Italian descent. Amalfis Italian Restaurant did not disappoint. After great service and even better pizza and stromboli, we met Chef Tony. He’s the owner and teaches cooking classes at Raffaldini Vineyards. Excellent ending to an exhausting (travel) day!
Thursday began with breakfast at Talia Espresso – is it a boutique or bistro? Art depicting the region filled the rooms. A family-run spot, founded by Jim and Kathy Kozak, Talia has become a community staple. Fast, friendly service, top-notch espresso drinks, smoothies, teas and breakfast sandwiches add to the local flavor and genuine hospitality every time.
Lunch was at Cinder Bistro. Barbecue was served on quesadillas (and even on top of hamburgers). That was a surprising treat!
Friday morning, we had breakfast at The 50s Snack Bar, a down home diner in North Wilkesboro, This throw-back to a simpler time diner had pictures of local heroes covering the walls. The food and staff were exceptional. The whole time, I felt like I was sitting in my grandmother’s kitchen, waiting on her scratch-made biscuits to pop out of the oven.
On Saturday, we stopped at Dooley’s Tavern & Grill and Two Boros Brewery. The food and family were exceptional and unique. There is not enough space to write everything I have to say about this place in one travel story. The father/son duo went out of their way to share their story and we’re going to give them a spot of their own. Stay tuned to my personal newsletter for all the delicious details.
In the meantime, if you are in town, grab a plate at Dooley’s and then walk across the street and order the S’mores pizza at Two Boros!
Shop the Blocks
Downtown North Wilkesboro blends historic charm, electric community energy, and an impressive variety of shopping experiences. The walk-able downtown offers something at every turn, housed in charming early 20th Century buildings.
Stores along Main Street, and beyond, ranged from antique shops to Bead Bars. Here’s a list of the quaint stores we visited (and you should too): Key City Antiques, (502 Main Street) features more than 100 vendors selling top-quality antiques in this renovated 1930s furniture factory. Carolina Treasures on Main, (519 Main Street) a four floor antique emporium filled with furniture, tools, jewelry, glassware, sports memorabilia, and collectibles. Fruit of the Vine Boutique, (818 Main Street) founded by Beth Vannoy (alongside Christie Younger & Ashley Frazier), the boutique invites you to enjoy a faith-based environment where creativity flourishes – check out The Charm Bar! Customers have described the spot as “upscale, yet affordable.”
Insider Tips for Downtown North Wilkesboro
- Fuel up with a coffee or small bite at one of the trendy cafes (we’re partial to Talia) before you begin your stroll
- Park on the side streets for easy access
- Time your visit with events like the Concerts on the Deck or Brushy Mountain Apple Festival for extra local flair
Wilkes County Hardware
Today the store is run by the Searcy family in a building dating back to the early 1900s. The spot is home to one of Western North Carolina’s oldest working freight elevators – a charming reminder of its days as a moonshine supplier and poultry processing plant.
Wilkes County Hardware is one of those small town gems that feels like stepping back in time in the best possible way. Tucked right in the heart of North Wilkesboro, this family-run business is more than just a hardware store. It’s the kind of place where you’re greeted by name, and someone is always around to help you find exactly what you need (even if you’re not sure what that is). Wilkes Hardware is a living slice of North Wilkesboro’s history, where community and craftsmanship come together. We left feeling like part of the family.
Fun Fact: Comedian, Zach Galifianakis is from North Wilkesboro and has been known to pop in and say hello. Look for the rocking chair in the middle of the store. Zach’s dad, Harry, used to rock him in the chair when he was a young boy. Donating the chair to one of Harry’s favorite spots only seemed natural.
Wilkes Heritage Museum
If you’re wandering through downtown Wilkesboro, (and we’ve established that you should wander through downtown Wilkesboro), the Wilkes Heritage Museum is worth a relaxed stroll-through. Housed in the old courthouse, it’s got that perfect mix of small town charm and deep Appalachian roots. From moonshine stories to old-timey jail cells, the exhibits give a glimpse into what life was like “way back when.” It’s a very cool way to soak up some local history without feeling like you’re in a classroom!
As part of our tour, we were led through the Old Wilkes County Jail. In the interest of time, you can read all about that part of the tour HERE!
It’s easy to see why Wilkesboro leaves such a lasting impression. It’s a place where history and hospitality go hand in hand, where music is always playing and the people still wave from their front porches. Whether you’re here for the festivals, the food, or the mountain air, Wilkesboro welcomes you like family.
Chances are, you’ll be planning your next visit before you even leave!