The sheer majesty of the Blue Ridge Mountains draws people to visit and walk along these ancient mountain ranges and mingle with the ancestral folk that reside here. No matter where your time is spent in McDowell County – in Old Fort, Linville Falls, Marion, Little Switzerland, Nebo or Lake James – the delights and surprises aren’t limited to the outdoors.
In a place where the mountains are millions of years old and multi-generations of families have inhabited the area for decades, it's perfect for antiquing and rare vintage finds.
It’s okay to skip a day on the trails for a day in town... we promise! Here’s to making it a memorable day of antiquing in McDowell County:
Nebo & Lake James Treasures
- The Lake James Antique Mall is an antiquarian’s paradise. In true antique mall style, around every corner is another treasure to catch your eye and draw you in. The hunt is really fun when you’re surrounded by it all, and all in one place.
- While you’re enjoying Nebo and the shores of Lake James, stop in to Mica Town Brewing for a breather with a cold, brewed beverage and a delicious meal at one of their rotating food trucks.
Old Fort Finds:
- Sheehan's Estate Sales and Auction opens their doors twice a month with estate collections ranging from antiques to the bizarre. Collections include antique knives, gold, jewelry, and currency.
- Old Fort Fancy will be welcoming shoppers late Summer 2025 and offers a range of curated men's and women's boutique items.
Little Switzerland Best
- Books and Beans has a classic section of rare books you can’t find anywhere else. You’ll find treasures of all types.
- Stop and grab a quick meal at The Fowl Play Pub and Taproom. Reminder that they are open seasonally from April to November.
Marion’s Lineup
- Go back in time at the Time Travelers Trading Company for games, comics, and toys galore.
- The Vintage Market is a multiple-vendor, antique and vintage destination. Eat up because you will need the stamina, for there is a lot to see!
- For clothing, go to the Marion Pickle Barrel on Main Street and scratch that itch for vintage pieces.
- The mix of furniture, collectible curios, art, and antiques at Phoenix on Main creates a delightful shopping experience and strong potential for a gift-buying situation.
- Phoenix on Main is a new downtown boutique with specially curated home decor, art, jewelry, antiques and collections.
- Thrifting with a Purpose is a new resale store featuring new and old items, with every donation directly supporting programs and services for vulnerable and at risk residents of McDowell.
Now, you deserve a nice meal and rest! Have no fear… the restaurant, eatery, deli, and bar scene in McDowell County can cover your cravings. Haven’t booked a place to stay yet? There are plenty of choices here, too.
