Over the span of its 30 years, Whistlin’ Dixie Garden & Gifts has become a retail powerhouse and, just as important, a local touchstone. It’s located on Rosman Highway in Sapphire, and open May through October. For information, call (828) 966-9619 (but you owe yourself a careful browse).

Charlie’s Hot Buns are a touch of magic in the morning or throughout the day. Find out for yourself at locations throughout the Plateau or at charlieshotbuns.com.

Tradition and a commitment to quality lie at the heart of Lauren and Chris Wiener’s purchase of the Historic Toxaway Market.

Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute’s Summer STEM and Space Exploration Camps are looking for young adventurers – visit pari.edu/camps/summer-camps.

With 63 years of community commitment, Lake Toxaway Company has fueled Lake Toxaway’s astonishing resurgence.

Currently in their eighth season, the Historic Toxaway Market and Sweetwater Perk and Creamery have become famous in the community for friendly service and great products. And there’s ice cream!

It fostered a host of mysteries during its earlier incarnations, but today the Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute in Balsam Grove is dedicated to helping the public explore the mysteries of deep space.
To learn more and to schedule a visit, go to pari.edu.

Whether you’re in the habit of roughing it or whether you prefer the more genteel glamping, Gorges State Park has a spot waiting for you.

Meraki Escape is a retreat from the stresses of 21st Century life and a passport to adventure and discovery. For more information, visit merakiescape.com.