Tryon, North Carolina, is a small town located at the base of the Saluda Grade, the steepest standard-gauge railway grade in the country. Today, this historic railroad town is conveniently located a short drive from many of the Southeast’s top cities and destinations. But if you’re looking for a fun evening, you don’t have to go far. Tryon offers a variety of entertainment options of its own—without breaking the bank!
Here’s how to have a fantastic date night in Tryon, NC for around $40.
Walk Trade Street: $FREE
Tryon’s main thoroughfare, Trade Street, is a destination in itself. Within a few very walkable blocks (pictured above), you’ll find a number of restaurants, antique and vintage shops, independent bookstores, and eclectic art galleries. Cross the street to explore Nina Simone Plaza, dedicated to the great musician and activist. Nina Simone was born in Tryon in 1933 before becoming known for her “Black Classical Music,” a blend of gospel, classical, jazz, folk, and traditional ballads that would inform the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s.
Have dinner nearby: $20+
There are a number of great dining options in downtown Tryon. Longtime favorite Huckleberry’s has recently moved to a take-out menu with al fresco dining—a great option if the weather is nice. For a sit-down option that’s more high class (and slightly higher dollar), we recommend the amazing options at K.D.’s Sea Shack. With oysters, mussels, clams, lobster, and fish delivered fresh, they bring the coast directly to the foothills.
However, in keeping with the theme of this post, it’s easy to have a great meal and save a few bucks at Buck’s Pizza. Buck’s Pizza offers menu choices of pasta, wings, salads, sandwiches, desserts, and the best pizza around using the freshest ingredients. You’ll fall head over heels for their pizza made with handmade dough and carefully selected tomatoes, hot and crispy chicken tenders, and healthy salads. And with a large pizza priced at under $16, you and your date can grab a couple sodas, or even an appetizer, and leave for around $20.
Catch a show: $FREE+
If you can, we strongly recommend you take in a show in downtown Tryon. Tryon Theatre is an independent cinema with comfortable seating and “the best popcorn around,” according to their patrons. Tickets for all shows are $10 for all people to all screenings. You can even rent out the theatre for film parties, business events, fundraisers, or whatever you need a theatre for (within reason, of course).
If live entertainment is more your speed, Tryon Fine Arts Center has been a focal point for entertainment and the arts since 1969. They offer live concerts and theater performances throughout the year. Prices vary for these performances, so check ahead for ticket offerings. However, you don’t need to drop any money at all to enjoy their visual arts exhibits at the JP Gallery. From artist showcases to juried arts competitions, there’s always something interesting to view.
Visit a vineyard: $20+
If your date night is going well, extend it to one more stop. Three wineries exist just a short drive from town: Mountain Brook Vineyards, Overmountain Vineyards, and Burntshirt Vineyards. From classic French styles to unique Appalachian blends, these independently-owned wineries offer award-winning creations from mountain-grown grapes. Overmountain also offers a you-pick blueberry patch, open seasonally in June and July. And each location offers their own mix of live music and events. Grab a glass of wine, and talk long into the night. Or at least until closing time. It’s the perfect ending to your date night!
Make it a full day!
The area surrounding Tryon is an internationally renowned stopping point for outdoor enthusiasts and equestrian professionals. If you’re looking for more ways to create a unique date night in Tryon, consider saddling up and hitting the trail.
There are a number of great parks and hiking trails in and around Tryon. One short but exquisitely beautiful hike is Pearson’s Falls. The quarter-mile Glen Trail takes hikers past the 90-foot Pearson’s Falls and through a native wildflower garden. You’ll see plants of remarkable diversity, including over 300 varieties of ferns, flowering plants, algae, and mosses.
You can also find the Tryon International Equestrian Center a few miles east of town. This world-class facility was the home of the 2018 FEI World Equestrian Games. Locals and visitors alike enjoy attending equine events regularly throughout the year.
Find a home in Tryon, NC
Calling itself “The Friendliest Town in the South,” Tryon is currently home to about 1,600 residents. However, that number is expected to change dramatically over the next few years. Tryon has been rediscovered by people flocking to the area for its equestrian events and facilities. In fact, Tryon has been one of the South’s top equestrian destinations for more than 100 years.
Does that sound like the perfect lifestyle to you? Don’t just flirt with the idea of living in Tryon. Find your dream home in Tryon now!
