A Year-Round Guide to Franklin and Nantahala

Hugged by the brackish waters of the Scuppernong River and miles of pocosin wetlands, Columbia is the last stretch of civilization for those barreling down U.S. Route 64 on their

Rosemary and Goat Cheese Strata

Hugged by the brackish waters of the Scuppernong River and miles of pocosin wetlands, Columbia is the last stretch of civilization for those barreling down U.S. Route 64 on their

5 Can’t-Miss Spots in Columbia

Pocosin Arts School of Fine Craft in Columbia

Hugged by the brackish waters of the Scuppernong River and miles of pocosin wetlands, Columbia is the last stretch of civilization for those barreling down U.S. Route 64 on their way to the Outer Banks. It’s utterly remote, yet the tiny town boasts features that make it feel bigger than its roughly 600-person population would lead you to believe: A world-class arts program (click here to read more from our November 2024 issue), stand-out food, and a picturesque inn make Columbia a destination worth lingering in for a day or even overnight. Depending on how much time you have, don’t miss these downtown highlights:

 

Interior of Inner Banks Mercantile in Columbia, NC

Before or after you eat, browse the eclectic array of household goods and accessories in Inner Banks Mercantile. photograph by Chris Rogers

Eat

Inner Banks Mercantile

For a late-morning bite or an afternoon pick-me-up, you can fuel up and enjoy people-watching from the patio at this storefront-meets-café. Housed within a former winery, this eclectic spot offers a robust selection of locally made sandwiches, pimento cheese, cookies, and cheesecake by the slice — all made locally by Farmer & the Dail — to satisfy your sweet and/or salty cravings. Looking to pick up something to go? Head to the freezer for their take-and-bake options. After you eat, order a seasonal latte or cold brew to sip while you browse the shelves of gourmet foodstuffs, cheeky home decor, coffee table books, candles, and artisanal gifts. Be sure to return in the evening for open mic nights, live music, and other events; check their social media pages for upcoming happenings.

117 Elm Street
Columbia, NC, 27925
(252) 766-0180
ibxmercantile.com

 

Tienda Mexicana Peniel No. 2

Authentic Mexican food bursts with fresh flavors and ingredients inside this historic, red-brick building on Columbia’s Main Street. The menu ranges from tacos to tortas and fajitas to sopes. And although there’s comfort in the fact that you can’t order wrong, the quesabirria tacos, three tacos stuffed with melty mozzarella cheese and beef and pan-fried until crispy, are the way to go. Order chips with salsa and guacamole while you wait (paired with the Jarritos soda flavor of your choice) and grab a seat at the barstools on the porch, which overlook Pocosin Arts School of Fine Crafts and offer peeks of the Scuppernong River at the end of the street. Come hungry and order generously, you’ll definitely want leftovers to take when you leave.

201 Main Street
Columbia, NC 27925
(252) 796-7528
facebook.com/p/Tienda-Mexicana-Peniel-2-100027974756332

 

Instructor Ryan Lutz sands a table at Pocosin Arts School of Fine Craft in Columbia. NC

Students come to Pocosin Arts School of Fine Craft for both its acclaimed instructors — like Ryan Lutz — and its inviting setting along the Scuppernong River in downtown Columbia. photograph by Chris Hannant

Play

Pocosin Arts School of Fine Craft

A fixture in downtown Columbia for 30 years, Pocosin Arts School of Fine Craft functions as a gallery, artists’ studios, and community workshop space that overlooks the Scuppernong River. It offers hands-on programs, classes, and coveted residency programs to nurture the talents of local creatives and artists from across the country. Swing by to browse handmade pottery, woodworking, jewelry, sculptures, and more in the gallery. If you want to linger a little longer, sign up for one of the on-campus workshops or community classes led by expert instructors.

202 Main Street
Columbia, NC 27925
(252) 796-2787
pocosinarts.org

A raccoon in Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge

Keep an eye out for the animal residents, from winter waterfowl to raccoons, at Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge. photograph by chapelhilltar/iStock/Getty Images Plus

Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge

Before you head to Pocosin School of Fine Arts’s workshops, immerse yourself in the inspiring natural surroundings within this 110,000-acre refuge. Throughout the year, it’s a haven for endangered red wolves and, during the fall and winter months, migratory waterfowl. Ease into your experience by hiking along the .75-mile Scuppernong River Interpretive Boardwalk, located just behind the Walter B. Jones Sr. Center for the Sounds. Once you’re warmed up, you can tackle the unimproved roads that lead through the refuge — they’re closed to vehicles but open to hikers, cyclists, and nature photographers. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for birds, black bears, bobcats, otters, and other wildlife (animals tend to be most active during dawn and dusk, so plan accordingly).

Walter B. Jones, Sr. Center for the Sounds
205 South Ludington Drive
Columbia, NC 27925
(252) 796-3004
fws.gov/refuge/pocosin-lakes

 

Stay

Blue Juniper Inn

Just a three-minute walk from Pocosin Arts School of Fine Craft, this boutique inn invites guests to unwind and savor Columbia’s peaceful pace. Wrap yourself in one of the cozy robes and settle into your room or drift downstairs to enjoy complimentary wine and beer from your perch on the wraparound porch. In the morning, rise and shine with a continental breakfast and your choice of espresso drink as you plan the day’s activities.

415 Main Street
Columbia, NC, 27925
(252) 766-0763
bluejuniperinn.com

This story was published on Oct 15, 2024

Hannah Lee Leidy

Hannah Lee is a born-and-raised North Carolinian and the digital editor for Our State magazine. Her contributions have appeared in Condé Nast Traveler, Bon Appétit, Epicurious, Culture, and the Local Palate. When not parenting her Bernese mountain pup named Ava, she's visiting the nearest cheese counter.