BOONE, N.C. — Freddie Pell helps lift a vintage wooden chair off the sidewalk and back inside his art gallery. It's starting to rain in downtown Boone, and he doesn't want it to get soaked — again.

Boone, North Carolina, is a mountain town offering outdoor experiences in all seasons. Boone is a college town with a charming business district. Trails and hikes lead to panoramic views of the town ...