Tryon, the largest town in Polk County, is famous for being one of the select retirement areas in the United States. Incorporated in 1885 at the height of American railroad expansion, the town soon developed into a thriving artisan village with a 21st-centurytrian tradition and a nationally known tourism industry, all traits which remain today.
Thriving small businesses, dynamic civic organizations and active cultural and equestrian communities have transformed this little stop in the foothills into a 21st century sanctuary very much in tune with the times. Tryon also has many cultural events. The Tryon Fine Arts Center has been a focal point of arts and entertainment since 1969 and supports several institutions and activities, including the Tryon Painters and Sculptors, Tryon Little Theater, Upstairs Artspace, Tryon Concert Association, Tryon Crafts, Foothills Home School Coop, Carolina Community Chorus and Children’s Theater Festival.
An equestrian emphasis strong in our community long since the days when Tryon served as the training ground for the U.S. Olympic equestrian teams runs deep throughout the area. Standing at the heart and geographical center of Tryon’s downtown is Morris, the Tryon Horse, a globally famed icon, rising an impressive twenty-two hands high, who has presided over downtown festivities as the town mascot since 1928. With its unique natural beauty and delightful downtown, Tryon is a great place to live, work and visit.
Tryon is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina and is equally convenient to nearby cities Asheville and Charlotte in North Carolina and Greenville and Spartanburg in South Carolina. Tryon is known for its wonderful people, outdoor activities, mild climate, small town shops and great restaurants.
