The 30-second elevator ride to the base of Chimney Rock gives the short version of the story. Former fourth-generation park owner Todd Morse calls it his elevator speech: At the turn of the 20th century, Midwesterner Dr. Lucius Morse landed in the North Carolina mountains — as so many people did during that time — to recuperate from tuberculosis. He paid a local family 25 cents to ride a mule to the top of Chimney Rock, where he was awed by the expansive view of the mountains and valley below. In 1902, he purchased the property with the goal of making it a tourist attraction. Now, each year, hundreds of thousands of visitors ride the 26-story elevator inside the mountain or climb nearly 500 steps on the Outcroppings Trail to see the sweeping views that so captivated Lucius Morse. — Katie King
In busy workshops and bright stores, our state’s toymakers and purveyors keep wonder alive. Dolls, trains, and games remind us: The joy of play never grows old.
Whether it’s secret Santa or the company cookie swap, sweet gatherings get everyone into the Christmas spirit.
Among dazzling lanterns, silk creatures, and twinkling lights at the North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival, one little boy leads his parents straight to the heart of the holidays.
Sparkling streets, local traditions, and the cozy charm of a city wrapped in holiday wonder — Asheville offers merriment for every age of visitor.
