Mast Store Annex
Step back in time at the Mast Store Annex, a historic gem in Valle Crucis offering nostalgic candies, mountain gear, and local treasures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing
Mast Store Annex
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed browsing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at the Mast Store Annex, a historic gem in Valle Crucis offering nostalgic candies, mountain gear, and local treasures.
"It's a nostalgic place with outdoor apparel, candy, the best popcorn, and cool building too."
🎯 Bring a Bucket for Candy!
Grab a bucket and fill it with your favorite old-school candies, paying by the pound.
🍦 Don't Miss the Ice Cream
There's an ice cream shop out back, perfect for a sweet treat after exploring the store.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Candy Barrels Galore
Main retail floor
Dive into barrels overflowing with classic and retro candies. A sweet paradise for kids and adults alike!
Historic Building Charm
Entire store
Explore a building steeped in history, originally a competitor to the Mast Store, now a treasure trove of goods.
Mountain Apparel & Gear
Clothing and outdoor section
Discover a curated selection of cozy mountain wear and essential outdoor gear for your adventures.
Local Jams & Jellies
Food section
Sample and purchase a variety of local jams, jellies, and other artisanal food products.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Nostalgia
Accessibility Considerations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Bring a Bucket for Candy!
Grab a bucket and fill it with your favorite old-school candies, paying by the pound.
🍦 Don't Miss the Ice Cream
There's an ice cream shop out back, perfect for a sweet treat after exploring the store.
🏞️ Creek Play Area
Kids can enjoy playing in the nearby creek, making it a fun family outing.
🚗 Plenty of Parking
Ample parking is available, making your visit convenient.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bring a Bucket for Candy!
Grab a bucket and fill it with your favorite old-school candies, paying by the pound.
🍦 Don't Miss the Ice Cream
There's an ice cream shop out back, perfect for a sweet treat after exploring the store.
🏞️ Creek Play Area
Kids can enjoy playing in the nearby creek, making it a fun family outing.
🚗 Plenty of Parking
Ample parking is available, making your visit convenient.
🛍️ Support the Parkway
Sales at the Annex help support the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Mast Store Annex's nostalgic atmosphere and incredible candy selection, calling it a 'sweet paradise' and a 'trip down memory lane.' The historic building and local goods also receive high praise. However, some note that the store's uneven floors can present accessibility challenges.
"Nostalgic place. Outdoor apparel, candy, the best popcorn, and local tzachki stuff. Cool building too."
John Abrahamson
"Such a cool historic place. If you’re ok with your kids having candy, they will be in heaven here! There are barrels full of candy!! There’s also popcorn, tons of glass bottle drinks, and ice cream shop out back and a creek to play in. Definitely worth the drive out from Boone. There also plenty of parking."
Shawn Dunning
"Quaint historical store, but not handicap friendly! Beware of the uneven floors. I would have bought a T-shirt if they had any v-necks."
Marilee Peterson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mast Store Annex is a scenic drive from Boone, North Carolina. While specific directions can vary, it's generally located in Valle Crucis, a short drive away. Many visitors find it a worthwhile trip from Boone.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available at the Mast Store Annex, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
The Mast Store Annex is an extension of the original Mast General Store, located just down the road. While walkable, it's a short distance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to enter the Mast Store Annex. It is a retail store open to the public.
Operating hours can vary, especially after events like hurricanes. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
There is no admission fee to enter the Mast Store Annex. You pay for the goods you purchase inside.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can find a wide variety of items including classic and retro candies, local jams and jellies, dried foods, chocolate, apparel, outdoor gear, and rustic home goods.
Absolutely! Kids love the extensive candy selection, the ice cream shop out back, and the nearby creek for playing. It's a nostalgic experience for all ages.
Some visitors have noted that the historic building has uneven floors and may not be fully handicap-friendly.
Yes, you can find a selection of food items like jams, jellies, and candies, as well as glass bottle drinks and ice cream.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the Mast Store Annex for personal use. Capturing the nostalgic atmosphere and candy displays is popular.
The candy barrels, the historic interior, and the exterior of the charming building are popular spots for photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🛍️ Shoppers Seeking Unique Finds
🚗 Day-Trippers from Boone
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Taste of History: The Candy Experience
This candy paradise is especially magical for children, evoking a sense of wonder and excitement. The experience is often described as being 'happier than a kid in a candy store.'
Beyond the Sweets: Apparel and Outdoor Gear
This section offers a more practical side to the store, catering to those looking for durable and comfortable clothing for hiking, exploring, or simply enjoying the mountain lifestyle. The store's connection to the Blue Ridge Mountains is evident in its offerings, providing items that are both functional and stylish. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or just looking for a comfortable souvenir, the apparel and gear sections are worth exploring.
Some visitors have specifically looked for items like v-neck t-shirts, indicating a desire for specific apparel styles. The Annex's Historical Roots
It carried many similar items, alongside unique offerings. In 1982, the Annex presented an opportunity to the Coopers, who eventually integrated it into the Mast General Store family. This historical significance adds a layer of charm and authenticity to the visitor experience. Walking through the Annex, you're stepping into a building that has witnessed decades of commerce and community life in Valle Crucis.
The rustic Americana and nostalgic vibes are palpable, making it more than just a shopping trip, but a journey through time. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit