In a significant stride towards revitalizing local tourism, McDowell County unveiled its newly renovated visitor center in Old Fort. This opening marks a comeback for the county, which had to rebuild after Hurricane Helene caused extensive damage over a year ago.
Local community members, officials, and business leaders gathered in downtown Old Fort to celebrate the reopening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The event was met with enthusiasm as the new center promises to boost tourism in the area.
“When Helene flooded this office, it wasn’t just a building that took on water,” shared Kimberly Effler, president and CEO of the McDowell County Chamber of Commerce, with attendees. “It was the heart of our tourism economy, our front door to the world, and a place where countless travelers begin their McDowell story.” Effler highlighted the team’s resilience, stating that they “rebuilt while rebuilding our community.”
According to Shannon Odom, executive director for Destination McDowell, the reopening serves as a pivotal moment for the county in its recovery from Helene and as a fresh start for enhancing tourism. Odom expressed excitement about the transformation, noting, “This visitor center was damaged, and we really just took that opportunity to reinvent it while we had everything sort of demolished.”
Once thriving as a manufacturing hub, McDowell County has shifted focus towards attracting outdoor enthusiasts. This shift began before the hurricane and has only gained momentum since. Odom indicated that the loss of industrial jobs necessitated a change in strategy, with small businesses playing a key role in the county’s revitalization.
Located on South Catawba Avenue, the visitor center includes interactive maps directing visitors to sites like Linville Falls, Lake James, and Little Switzerland. For more information about McDowell County’s recreational offerings, visit DestinationMcDowell.com.
