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 that leads to a tunnel with hiking trails 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:
- The Everett Street Diner
- Known for Southern comfort food and hearty breakfasts. Breakfast and Lunch
- Website
- The Bistro at the Everett Hotel
- A fine dining experience offering locally sourced ingredients and Southern-inspired dishes.
- Website
- The Fryemont Inn
- Authentic local flavor with family style dinners in a historic, 1923 mountain inn
- Website
- Pasqualino’s Italian Restaurant
- Known for classic Italian dishes like pasta, lasagna, and calzones in a cozy setting.
- Website
Dillsboro:
- Haywood Smokehouse
- Famous for authentic BBQ, smoked meats, and Southern sides. Amazing!
- Website
- The Well House
- Serves American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and farm-to-table dining.
- Website
- Boots Steakhouse
- Known for its tender steaks and warm, inviting 1800's saloon style ambiance. Amazing!
Sylva:
- Ilda
- A modern Italian restaurant with a focus on locally sourced Appalachian ingredients.
- Website
Creekside Oyster House & Grill
- Locally owned restaurant specializing in oysters, trout, and catfish.
- Website
- Lulu’s on Main
- Offers eclectic cuisine featuring vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, along with seafood and meat dishes.
Cherokee:
- Brio Tuscan Grille
- Located at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino, Brio offers upscale Italian cuisine with a modern twist.
- Website
- Peter's Pancakes & Waffles
- A local favorite known for its hearty breakfasts and friendly service.
- Yelp
- Sassy Sunflowers Bakery & Café
- Known for fresh salads, sandwiches, and homemade bakery items in a charming café setting.
- Website
Nantahala:
- River’s End Restaurant
- Located at the Nantahala Outdoor Center, this restaurant offers riverside dining with burgers, sandwiches, and Southern classics.
- Website
- Kallisto Restaurant and Lounge
- relaxed dining experience with an emphasis on Southern-inspired dishes made from fresh, local ingredients.
- Website