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

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

  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 Guadalupe Cafe

    • relaxed dining experience with an emphasis on Southern-inspired dishes made from fresh, local ingredients.
    • Website