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Samaritan’s Purse is working with hurricane survivors across western North Carolina and parts of Tennessee where flooding damaged or destroyed more than 100,000 residences across myriad mountain communities.

Flooding and landslides in the wake of Hurricane Helene left many mountain communities reeling with loss of life and property in September 2024. Samaritan’s Purse initially provided disaster relief across a broad expanse of rugged mountains in western North Carolina and far eastern Tennessee, as well as in Georgia and Florida.

So many of our neighbors are hurting. We're thankful that we can respond and help in Jesus' Name.

Franklin Graham

Learn about volunteer opportunities with our rebuild efforts and other disaster relief opportunities, and please continue to pray for all those affected by the storm and for our teams as they serve as the hands and feet of Jesus.

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Samaritan's Purse is providing a number of mobile home units, built by Fleetwood Homes, to families who lost houses during Hurricane Helene.

Franklin Graham meets homeowners and first responders in Swannanoa, North Carolina. Donald Trump joined Franklin Graham in North Carolina to meet homeowners. A plumber and his wife received a new work van from Samaritan's Purse. Vice President JD Vance met Samaritan's Purse staff, volunteers, and North Carolina homeowners. Orange-shirted volunteers continue to encourage the devastated Asheville, North Carolina, area. As they wrap up every job, volunteers pause to sign a Bible for the homeowner they served. Volunteers remove damaged drywall and insulation at a home in the Tampa area. Samaritan's Purse President Franklin Graham visits a local Boone runway where U.S. Army Chinook Helicopters are picking up our relief supplies—including generators—for transport to remote mountain locations. Areas around Asheville are in great need right now; more volunteers are needed. Samaritan's Purse volunteer doing specialized tree work in Valdosta, Georgia. We're using our Samaritan's Purse helicopter to deliver relief to communities isolated by the storm. Samaritan's Purse is helping in Jesus' Name throughout Buncombe County, North Carolina, among the areas hit hardest by Hurricane Helene. Volunteers pray with homeowners and share the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Historic Destruction Across Western North Carolina

Helene tore a deadly path through the mountains of western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee, dumping extreme rainfall and causing catastrophic flash flooding. Numerous locations received from 12 to 31 inches of rain between Sept. 25–27.

Some towns were left in ruins. Toppled trees covered the landscape. Roads and bridges were washed out. Homes and businesses were destroyed by flooding and landslides. Many homes remained without power or running water for weeks.

Samaritan's Purse responded quickly, transporting supplies aboard trucks and also on hundreds of relief flights using our own helicopter and the fixed-wing assets of partnering organizations to assist cut-off communities. We airlifted many tons of food, water, generators, fuel, Starlink systems, heaters, solar lights, and blankets.

We also used ground transportation to deliver critically needed items, including generators, cold weather clothing, and other items.

For weeks after the storm, we deployed tens of thousands of volunteers across the region to clean out flooded homes, tarp roofs, and cut up fallen trees. Through this work, we shared the Good News of Jesus Christ, and more than 350 individuals received Him as Lord and Savior.

Our relief efforts included areas throughout Watauga County—home to Samaritan’s Purse international headquarters in the town of Boone—and in neighboring counties (Avery/Ashe) around North Carolina’s high country and into Tennessee (Johnson County).

We also had a Burnsville base for Mitchell and Yancey Counties and an Asheville base for Buncombe County and beyond.

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In addition to cutting up downed trees, mudding out homes, removing debris, and tarping roofs, our teams operated heavy equipment to clear private driveways and private roads.

Volunteers also stayed hard at work for weeks after the storm in Florida and in Valdosta, Georgia. We continue to serve areas of Georgia impacted by the Category 4 storm.

Home » HOTEL NEWS » The Horton Hotel Expands Luxury Accommodations in Boone, North Carolina, Adding Premium Suites, Wellness Amenities, and Event Spaces by Fall 2025

Monday, March 10, 2025

The Horton Hotel & Rooftop Lounge has announced an ambitious expansion set to redefine luxury hospitality in Boone, North Carolina. Positioned in the heart of downtown Boone at 611 West King Street, the boutique hotel has long been a premier destination for travelers seeking stylish accommodations paired with breathtaking 360-degree mountain views.

Now, with the acquisition of 589 King Street, just a few doors down from the original property, The Horton is preparing to introduce eight additional luxury hotel rooms and an array of upscale amenities. Expected to debut in Fall 2025, these enhancements will elevate the guest experience, reinforcing Boone’s position as a growing hub for high-end hospitality.

The Horton has consistently delivered refined comfort and impeccable service, and its upcoming expansion will build upon this legacy. The eight new hotel rooms will overlook King Street and Boone’s charming downtown, offering the same signature design aesthetic and attention to detail that has become synonymous with the brand.

To complement these additional rooms, The Horton is introducing several premium amenities designed to enhance the travel experience for both business and leisure guests.

Boone has long been celebrated for its outdoor attractions, Appalachian charm, and vibrant local culture. The expansion of The Horton Hotel is expected to attract more luxury travelers, strengthening the town’s reputation as a must-visit destination in North Carolina.

By introducing modern wellness amenities and upscale event spaces, the hotel is setting a new standard for boutique luxury travel in the region. Visitors looking for a refined yet authentic mountain getaway will find The Horton’s expansion to be a game-changer.

According to SPA Properties, owners of The Horton and alumni of Appalachian State University, this expansion is a direct reflection of their commitment to providing a world-class guest experience. The team behind the hotel emphasized that the new additions are designed to blend modern elegance with Boone’s rich cultural heritage, ensuring that every guest enjoys an unforgettable stay.

The Horton Rooftop Lounge, already a favorite for both locals and travelers, will continue to serve as a social hotspot, offering panoramic views of Boone’s rolling landscapes. As a result, the hotel will cater to an even broader audience, from adventure-seeking tourists to business travelers in search of a unique and inspiring stay.

The hospitality sector in North Carolina continues to evolve, with a growing emphasis on luxury boutique experiences. The Horton’s expansion signals a broader trend in high-end tourism, where wellness, exclusivity, and curated experiences are taking precedence over traditional accommodations.

While this expansion is focused on Boone, it aligns with a broader global trend where travelers are seeking more intimate, design-forward hotel experiences over conventional chain accommodations. Cities across the U.S. and beyond are witnessing a surge in demand for independent, boutique properties that offer a sense of place and exclusivity.

With The Horton setting a new precedent in Boone, it further emphasizes how smaller towns are now competing with major metropolitan areas for luxury tourism appeal. This could inspire other destinations to elevate their offerings, fostering competition and innovation in boutique hospitality worldwide.

As The Horton moves forward with its highly anticipated expansion, the hospitality landscape in Boone is set for a transformative shift. By combining modern luxury with local charm, the hotel is ensuring that visitors will continue to choose Boone as a premium destination.

For travelers who value comfort, exclusivity, and top-tier amenities, The Horton’s new rooms, gym, sauna, and event space will provide a memorable and elevated experience. As Fall 2025 approaches, anticipation is already building, with guests eager to witness the next chapter of Boone’s most iconic boutique hotel.

When the cozy comforts of a ski town call, skip the trip out west — you’ll find what you need in Boone, North Carolina. Just a couple hours northeast of Asheville, and home to Appalachian State University, the mountain town emanates a quirky, hippie vibe. Situated in the Blue Ridge mountains at an elevation of 3,300 feet, a sense of place comes through the menus at local restaurants, often featuring locally sourced ingredients. There’s also a strong coffee scene (gotta keep those students and professors fueled) with local roasters and skilled baristas.

Some of Boone’s best restaurants are found in its downtown district, where historic buildings offer charm and vibrant folk art lines the walls. The town’s main drag, Blowing Rock Road, also hosts several eateries. It isn’t as walkable, but it is easy to drive around. Rhodes Motor Lodge, a revamped motel with a Scandinavian-meets-Appalachian vibe, welcomes family and pets, while the boutique Horton Hotel sits in a prime spot downtown. For the skiers, Appalachian Ski Co. is a 15-minute drive from downtown, and Beech Mountain is about a 40-minute drive. In the warmer months, hiking nearby trails, like Grandfather Mountain and the Boone Greenway, becomes the thing to do.

Whether planning to enjoy the great outdoors or exploring the cute mountain town, here’s how to spend a day eating in Boone.

A hearty breakfast at Melanie’s sets the right tone for the day. The windows give way to views of King Street (downtown’s main thoroughfare), and sunlight fills the petite, yet bustling, dining room. In the warmer months, the patio allows for alfresco, pet-friendly dining. Standout dishes here include the grits and greens with pickled onions, goat cheese, and eggs; and the French toast made with batard from nearby Stick Boy Bread Company.

Breakfast alternatives: If there’s a biscuit craving (it is the South after all), Betty’s Biscuits on King Street quells it. The chefs work sweet and savory wonders with options like the Tobacco Road (a bacon and tomato biscuit sandwich) and the French toast biscuit. Stick Boy Bread Co. sells pastries for grab-and-go.

An outdoor adventure after breakfast sounds appealing, but downtown also invites exploration. A caffeine fix may be in order after visiting shops like Common Good Company for home decor and Footsloggers for outdoor gear. Espresso News sits a block off the main drag in a nearly 100-year-old building that once housed an automotive shop. It’s a high-energy spot with a whirring espresso machine, upbeat music, and young folks chatting at tables. The coffee is made in-house (the roaster sits in the dining room), and snacks, like scones, are on standby if needed.

Coffee alternative:

On King Street, Drip Coffee Bar also roasts coffee for its drinks and sells tasty baked goods by Oh Dang Desserts. A window counter seat makes an ideal people-watching spot.

Wildwood Community Market sells grocery items ranging from house cleaning supplies to locally grown produce. The best part, however, may be its deli counter, where customers order salads, sandwiches, and soups. Lunch combos help the indecisive diner, but the dill and pasta salad stands out among the options with its creamy, zesty flavor. There are plenty of tables in the dining room and a kids’ play area for the littlest guests.

Lunch alternative:

A quick drive from downtown, Taqueria El Paso makes its masa in-house, resulting in tender sopes and gorditas. The customer chooses among proteins like pork al pastor and grilled chicken to top or fill the masa treats.

A busy day of running around town calls for a little afternoon treat. Fortunately, Local Lion is the rare doughnut shop that stays open well into the evening, consistently well-stocked with yeast and cake doughnuts (and vegan ones for our plant-based friends). The maple glazed doughnut with its not-to-sweet profile hits just right, but all of the treats delight. Local Lion also roasts its own coffee right with ample seating in the dining room. Pottery made by local ceramicists adds a unique layer to its merch selection.

It doesn’t get more mountainy than the Cardinal with its wood beams and stone fireplace. The family-friendly bar specializes in indulgent pub grub like the “Hot Damn” ham dip, a creamy, piping hot blend of Watauga County country ham, cream cheese, and toasted pecans (and fried saltines for dunking), hearty burgers with fun toppings like the gringo, a bison burger with avocado and salsa verde, and clever cocktails like the Surface Tension with coconut washed rye, pandan, and orange honey.

Dinner alternative: If an evening of bar crawling on King Street is in the cards, consider kicking things off at Black Cat Burrito. The fast-casual joint appeals to college kids and fully realized grown-ups with its laidback atmosphere, over-stuffed burritos, and perfectly made margaritas. Feeling swanky? CoBu’s known for stellar sushi rolls in a refined setting.

Appalachian Cookie Company isn’t a usual cookie shop. The cookies are hefty but not flavorless sugar bombs, and strike the right balance of chewy and gooey. Flavor-wise, it offers classics like chocolate chip and peanut butter, but it’s the creative varieties like Biscoff butter and chocolate peanut butter porter that shine. It recently relocated to a charming new space outfitted with cloud-shaped lighting fixtures, beautiful tile work, and a handful of tables. Plan on staying a few minutes, the cookies are baked fresh to order (yes, there’s coffee, too).

After-dinner alternative: Venture Chocolate + Wine’s downstairs wine cellar makes a great spot to post up in the evening with a nightcap and dessert.