Discover the perfect day trip itinerary for Old Fort, NC featuring Hillman Beer and the area’s top attractions. Plan your visit for craft beer, local food, and scenic mountain adventures.
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Day Trip Guide: Hillman Beer and Old Fort’s Must-See Attractions

Planning a day trip that combines great craft beer, delicious food, and local attractions? Look no further than Old Fort, North Carolina. Nestled at the edge of Pisgah National Forest, this charming town offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, small-town charm, and craft brewing excellence. At the center of your adventure: Hillman Beer, a family-owned brewery bringing authentic pub-style hospitality to the mountains. This guide will help you make the most of your visit to Old Fort, with Hillman Beer as your anchor point for a day of exploration and enjoyment.

Start Your Day: Morning Exploration in Old Fort

Begin your Old Fort adventure with some morning exploration before the brewery opens. The town’s rich history and natural surroundings provide plenty to discover. Start at the Old Fort Visitor Center and Railroad Museum, where you can learn about the town’s railroad heritage and pick up maps of local attractions. The building itself, a historic train depot, offers a glimpse into the past with its collection of artifacts and memorabilia.

After the museum, take a short drive to Catawba Falls in Pisgah National Forest. This moderate 3-mile round-trip hike rewards visitors with stunning waterfalls and lush forest scenery. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for most skill levels, making it perfect for a morning outdoor activity. If hiking isn’t your thing, Davidson’s Fort Historic Park recreates an 18th-century colonial fort with living history demonstrations on select days.

Midday: Lunch and Brews at Hillman Beer

As lunchtime approaches, make your way to Hillman Beer’s Old Fort location. Since opening in July 2020, this second outpost of the beloved Asheville brewery has become a community gathering spot where visitors and locals alike come together for quality craft beer and hearty pub fare. The brewery opens daily at noon, making it the perfect midday destination.

Inside, you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere that embodies the Hillman family’s philosophy of comfort without pretension. The industrial-yet-cozy space invites conversation and connection, with friendly staff who treat everyone like family. Order a flight of their award-winning beers, including the GABF gold medal-winning ESB or their refreshing Kölsch, alongside comfort food classics from their full kitchen. Try the grass-fed beef patty melt or falafel wrap for a satisfying lunch that pairs perfectly with their well-balanced brews.

Take your time here—Hillman Beer isn’t just about the drinks but about slowing down and enjoying the moment. Chat with the bartenders about their brewing process or strike up a conversation with locals for insider tips on other area attractions. If you have your four-legged friend along, they’re welcome too, as long as they’re leashed and well-behaved.

Afternoon: Local Art and Outdoor Adventures

After lunch, explore Old Fort’s creative side at Arrowhead Gallery and Studios, where local artists display and sell their work. This artist cooperative showcases the region’s rich artistic heritage with pottery, paintings, jewelry, and more. It’s the perfect place to find a unique souvenir of your visit.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the afternoon offers several options. Mountain bikers should check out the Kitsuma Peak Trail, known for its thrilling descents and beautiful views. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, the Point Lookout Greenway Trail follows a former railroad route with gentle grades and scenic overlooks of the surrounding mountains.

During summer months, cool off with a visit to the Old Fort Swimming Pool, a community favorite featuring mountain spring-fed waters. The refreshing temperatures and mountain views make it a uniquely local experience.

Evening: Return to Hillman for Dinner and Community

As the day winds down, head back to Hillman Beer for dinner and evening relaxation. Their kitchen serves food until 9pm daily, with hearty options like buffalo chicken wraps and daily specials that satisfy after a day of exploration. Pair your meal with one of their seasonal offerings, such as the Summer Crush (a refreshing ale-lager hybrid) or their traditional Oktoberfest when available.

Hillman Beer stays open until 9pm Sunday through Tuesday and 10pm Wednesday through Saturday, giving you plenty of time to unwind. The evening atmosphere often includes locals gathering after work and visitors sharing stories of their day’s adventures, creating a genuine community feeling that’s increasingly rare in today’s world.

Planning Your Visit: Practical Tips

When planning your day trip to Old Fort and Hillman Beer, keep these practical tips in mind. Weekdays generally offer a quieter experience, while weekends bring more energy and sometimes live music or events. If you’re visiting during peak fall foliage season (October) or summer holidays, consider arriving early as popular spots can get busy.

For those who decide one day isn’t enough, nearby accommodations include charming B&Bs and cabin rentals that allow you to extend your stay and explore more of what Old Fort and the surrounding area have to offer.