Mountain Day Trip Idea: Sparta, NC Jul 11, 2019  By Guest Blogger Suzy Fielders Sparta is truly like one of those small towns that you see in the movies or on a TV show. It’s a quaint little town that clearly loves their neighbors and enjoys welcoming visitors. As it’s only an hour and a half from Winston-Salem, it’s the perfect day trip getaway. Or, if you want to experience the mountain town for a weekend there are many cabin rental options. My mother and stepdad recently bought a house in Sparta, and it seemed like the perfect place for a beginning of summer weekend getaway for me and my daughter.

First off, be sure to walk through their adorable ‘downtown.’ There are some really cool shops and restaurants. Our favorite shop was absolutely Ofelia’s on Main. Not only did they have all kinds of neat things to buy, but the owner, Ofelia, is seriously the sweetest person. How many shops do you know where you not only met the owner, but it seriously feels like you just met a long lost friend? Another don’t miss in downtown is Muddy Creek Café. You might recognize that name. The same wonderful owners from the one in our very own Bethania also own this one. That delicious southern style food is just as good at this location! We also really enjoyed the Alleghany Arts and Crafts… not to be confused with the one in Virginia! There were so many unique pieces of art in this store. We also loved the large selections of jams and jellies you could buy there as well. After much debate we went home with the Chocolate Raspberry Jam. There is even a cute little park, Crouse Park, right beside the downtown area, and also right beside the Farmer’s Market. If you plan to go this summer, don’t miss their Summer Street Party a.k.a Music on Main the first Friday’s in June through September. Music venues include Muddy Creek Café, Ofelia’s on Main, Becca’s Backwoods Bean, Blue Ridge Grill, Horizon Bistro, Laconia Ale Works, and Main Street Pizzeria. Other than the downtown Sparta area there is a ton of other nearby fun places to visit. We decided to visit Thistle Meadow Winery, which is only 12 miles from Sparta. This charming winery has a surprisingly large, and unique, selection of wines. It has a great outdoors area, and if schedule in advance they will do tours on week days!    For outdoor lovers, Stone Mountain Park is the perfect choice. It actually happens to be right off 21 on the way from the Triad to Sparta. Check out this past Triad Mom’s on Main blog on what to do and see there, as well as tips when visiting Stone Mountain Park. If you want to get yourself and the family out of the summer heat, then head to the mountains and Sparta. This sweet little inviting town is a fun day trip or weekend adventure!!