Would anyone mind answer this question for me.

Yes they are but sign up online. They are staggering the amount of people coming in so the park isn't crowded as it would be if you just arrived whenever

Yes, there is a parking lot near it!

Green park inn in Blowing Rock us Expensive and over 20 mi away from Grandfather.

It is by car and it depends on the month. The highest of course is the busiest part of summer. Check on line

The small town of Blowing Rock is a beautiful little walking place.

Besides Grandfather Mt, try Blowing Rock, Roan Mt, and maybe a couple of wineries.

It does not cost anything to park and hike in the state park. It only costs to go to the tourist area which is still privately owned.

Dogs are allowed as long as they are on a leash. Small yap dogs would probably have a problem with some of the trails. My Lab had a great time on the trail and playing in the streams.

On the Blue Ridge Parkway it's around an hour to an hour and a half normally - however the weather in the mountains is certainly perfect right now and the leaves have changed color - in fact my son is there this weekend! So I would allow extra time. Generally in peak times, Grandfather will have extra staff on hand actually positioned on 221 to help people in and out of the park. If you are on the parkway, you might also consider Julian Price Park, Daughton Park and the Moses Cone Park and Craft Center. A little more effort will take you to Elk Knob State Park at Todd - get off the parkway at 421, and come back towards Boone. This is a newer park and there will way more solitude - especially if you hike to the top - it's a strenuous hike but not technical - i.e. there are no outlandish physical requirements. At the top, there are two sides at the top of the ridge and you feel as though you can see forever.