1. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

• Enjoy scenic train rides through the Smoky Mountains, including the popular Nantahala Gorge and Tuckasegee River excursions.
• Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

2. Deep Creek Hiking and Waterfalls

• Explore the Deep Creek area for hiking, tubing, and visiting three beautiful waterfalls: Juney Whank, Tom Branch, and Indian Creek Falls.
• Deep Creek Area Information

3. Road to Nowhere

• A scenic drive with the entrance located next to the Retreat that leads to a tunnel with hiking trails (Nolands Creek Trail-Easy, Goldmine Loop-Moderate, Tunnel Trail-Easy, and trails that go for miles and all the way up to Kituwah (Climgman's Dome)) and stunning views. It’s known as the “Road to Nowhere,” and offers solitude and natural beauty.
• Road to Nowhere Information

4. Fontana Lake

• A great destination for boating, kayaking, fishing, and swimming. The lake offers access to remote parts of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
• Fontana Lake Information

5. Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC)

• A premier destination for whitewater rafting, kayaking, zip-lining, and other outdoor activities along the Nantahala River.
• Nantahala Outdoor Center

6. Fly Fishing Museum of the Southern Appalachians

• Discover the history and culture of fly fishing in the Appalachian region with exhibits and interactive displays.
• Fly Fishing Museum Information

7. Tsali Recreation Area

• Famous for its mountain biking and hiking trails, Tsali is a must-visit for adventure enthusiasts looking for scenic trails by Fontana Lake.
• Tsali Recreation Area Information

8. Smoky Mountain Trains Museum

• Located adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, this museum showcases model trains and railroad memorabilia.
• Smoky Mountain Trains Museum

9. Nantahala Gorge

• A natural wonder offering whitewater rafting, scenic views, and hiking opportunities along the Nantahala River.
• Nantahala Gorge Information

10. The Everett Street Diner

• A popular local restaurant offering hearty Southern breakfasts and lunches, right in the heart of Bryson City.
• Everett Street Diner

11. Alarka Falls

• A hidden gem for hikers, Alarka Falls is a lesser-known but stunning waterfall hike located just outside Bryson City.
• Alarka Falls Hiking Guide

Restaurants! 

Bryson City:

1. The Everett Street Diner
   • Known for Southern comfort food and hearty breakfasts. Breakfast and Lunch
   • Website
2. The Bistro at the Everett Hotel
   • A fine dining experience offering locally sourced ingredients and Southern-inspired dishes.
   • Website
3. The Fryemont Inn
   • Authentic local flavor with family style dinners in a historic, 1923 mountain inn
   • Website
4. Pasqualino’s Italian Restaurant
   • Known for classic Italian dishes like pasta, lasagna, and calzones in a cozy setting.
   • Website

Dillsboro:

1. Haywood Smokehouse
   • Famous for authentic BBQ, smoked meats, and Southern sides. Amazing!
   • Website
2. The Well House
   • Serves American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and farm-to-table dining.
   • Website
3. Boots Steakhouse
   • Known for its tender steaks and warm, inviting 1800's saloon style ambiance. Amazing!
   • Facebook

Sylva:

1. Ilda
   • A modern Italian restaurant with a focus on locally sourced Appalachian ingredients.
   • Website
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2. Creekside Oyster House & Grill

   • Locally owned restaurant specializing in oysters, trout, and catfish. 
   • Website
3. Lulu’s on Main
   • Offers eclectic cuisine featuring vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, along with seafood and meat dishes.
   • Facebook

Cherokee:

1. Brio Tuscan Grille
   • Located at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino, Brio offers upscale Italian cuisine with a modern twist.
   • Website
2. Peter's Pancakes & Waffles
   • A local favorite known for its hearty breakfasts and friendly service.
   • Yelp
3. Sassy Sunflowers Bakery & Café
   • Known for fresh salads, sandwiches, and homemade bakery items in a charming café setting.
   • Website

Nantahala:

1. River’s End Restaurant
   • Located at the Nantahala Outdoor Center, this restaurant offers riverside dining with burgers, sandwiches, and Southern classics.
   • Website
2. Kallisto Restaurant and Lounge 
   • relaxed dining experience with an emphasis on Southern-inspired dishes made from fresh, local ingredients.
   • Website