Rocking out in Robbinsville

The quaint, picturesque town of Robbinsville is situated in the foothills of the Great Smokey Mountains. This county seat of Graham County may be small with a population of 578, but they are no stranger to the spotlight.

Robbinsville and surrounding Graham County served as filming locations for several major motion pictures. These include The Fugitive (1993) starring Harrison Ford and Tommy Lee Jones, and Nell (1994) starring Jodie Foster and Liam Neeson.

Robbinsville’s music ties run deep as well, being the birthplace of Ronnie Milsap, one of country music’s most popular and influential artists of the 1970s and 1980s. In the indie and alternative music world, Ethan Goodpaster of Rainbow Kitten Surprise also has ties to the town.

Suggested Music-Themed Day Trip Itinerary*

Morning

On any given day, live music can be heard in the quaint small businesses located throughout Robbinsville. Coffee houses in particular have been the natural domain of folk singers, poets, and the like. Of course, Robbinsville is no different in this respect. Local spots like the Kin Café- coffee shop by day, evening bar by night- have hosted a number of local acts; entertaining and delighting patrons. You can’t go wrong with coffee and great live music!

Website and Address: Kin Cafe, 34 Court St., Robbinsville, NC 28771

Midday

When visiting Robbinsville, be sure to go downtown and see muralist Scott Nurkin’s lifelike tribute to hometown hero and country music legend Ronnie Milsap. This mural is part of the statewideNorth Carolina Musician Murals Trail. Afterwards, swing by one of several local eateries for lunch, peruse the local shops, and take in the scenic mountain views!

Website and Address: Ronnie Milsap Mural, 39 S Main St, Robbinsville, NC 28771

Afternoon

Make time for the Graham County Heritage Festival. This two-day, fun-filled festival is the perfect family-friendly way to spend a July afternoon. In addition to food, fireworks, and more, each day features live musical performances from local artists.

Website and Address: Graham County Heritage Festival, 86 Knight Street, Robbinsville, NC 28771

Evening

Each Friday night, you can find live music on the Robbinsville Courthouse Square. These family-friendly concerts are a great way to get out and dance or just sit back and take in the music. With different acts each week, there's no better way to bring in the weekend!

Website and Address: Graham County Courthouse Square, 12 Court St, Robbinsville, NC 28771

Music