Visitor Center

The McDowell Chamber of Commerce is proud to operate the McDowell Visitor's Center. The Visitor Center houses our Chamber offices as well as a beautiful, living room-style lobby complete with free coffee, a cozy fireplace and sofa and lots of information about area attractions and local businesses for travelers and locals.

The Visitor Center is located off the Hwy 221/226 Bypass on the Tate Street exit and has a spectacular view of the Blue Ridge Mountains that will make a great backdrop for your photos.  On a clear day, you will even spot the peak of Mount Mitchell!  Stay a while and have a picnic at one the many tables around the grounds or spread a blanket right on the grass. Don't forget to stop inside to gather information and talk to one of our knowledgeable volunteer hosts and hostesses who are ready to help you plan your day and point you in the direction of the many beautiful spots in McDowell and the surrounding area.

We are happy to show off the talented artists from around the area inside the center. You’ll find a variety of handcrafted pieces available for purchase in our shop. From pottery, woodwork, jewelry, quilted items, glasswork, and painted artwork there is bound to be something that you can take home to remind you of your visit. We also have postcards and stamps available to purchase, magnets, calendars, books about the area and books written by local authors. Take a moment to check out the extensive gem and mineral collection from all over the United States that was donated to the Visitor Center from a local doctor back in 1995.

If you are an artist or crafter and a member of the Chamber that is interested in putting your creations in front of thousands of visitors and locals call our gift store manager, Dee Koegal at dkoegal@mcdowellchamber.com.