Hi friends! We’ve compiled a quick guide to some of our favorite Bryson City spots in town and nearby for your weekend getaway. This helpful listacle is your insider’s guide to Bryson City and features where to eat, shop, stay and things to do. We hope our family-friendly locals guide will give you plenty to choose from during your Bryson City vacation.
We also share these experiences and more about life on our Youtube Channel The Greene Home โบ๏ธ
About Bryson City
Bryson City is often called the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park due to its proximity to all the amazing outdoor activities the park has to offer. This small outdoor town has a Hallmark-esque downtown area with quaint shops and restaurants. It’s a great way to spend a day and is an Instagrammable walk with the Tuckaseegee River running right through it and mountains surrounding you everywhere! Throw in the Smoky Mountain Railroad and you now know why this charming place is the ultimate family-friendly escape.
THINGS TO DO IN BRYSON CITY & SURROUNDING WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA AREA
OUTDOORS
Being outside and connecting to nature is the biggest attraction in Bryson City. There are tons of hiking opportunities of all levels since the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a few miles away. The Nantahala National Forest and scenic Blue Ridge Parkway are also a short drive from town! Waterfall hikes are especially common (and worth seeing!).
All of these amazing outdoor experiences are only a 5 to 20 minute drive from la casa del pueblo and downtown Bryson City, with everything from hiking, kayaking, swimming, boating, fishing, canoeing and more right at your fingertips.
Here are a few of our favorite outdoor spots. ๐ฒ๐
– IN TOWN –
Deep Creek – Located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it’s known for its famous streams and waterfalls: Tom Branch Falls, Indian Creek Falls and Juney Whank Falls. You can choose from several loop hikes leading to the waterfalls (ranging from challenging to very easy). Mountain bikers can take advantage of one of the few park trails where bicycles are permitted. Also, there’s picnic areas and camping! ๐ฒ
The Road to Nowhere – How do we explain this?! Picture a scenic mountain highway that takes you six miles into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park… and ends at the mouth of a tunnel. Definitely worth seeing. ๐๐ง
Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) – Great for outdoor adventures, like rafting, zip lining, tubing, paddling and more, or grabbing a beer and picnicking as you watch the white water rafters and AT hikers. This place is a must-visit. Sometimes there’s live music too! ๐๐ต๐ฝโโ๏ธ
Blue Ridge Parkway – The parkway is known as โAmericaโs Favorite Drive” for a reason. It is a stunning road that will lead you to plenty of hiking trails, picnic areas and look off points for breathtaking photos.
Lake Fontana – Often called “the best kept secret in the mountains,” Lake Fontana is gorgeous! Rent a boat, go paddling or kayaking and enjoy a lovely day in a serene body of water surrounded by mountain views. ๐ค๐
Great Smoky & Tsali Mountain Biking – The Tsali (SAH-lee) Recreation Area in Nantahala National Forest is one of the top destinations for mountain biking in North Carolina and the Eastern USA! You’ve got 40 miles of trails with four loops. No wonder it’s rated one of the top 10 places to ride in the country. ๐
THINGS TO DO
Bryson City is such a central location to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and all the other nearby attractions families and outdoor enthusiasts travel to see. Here’s our must-see list. ๐บ๐
– IN TOWN –
Darnell Farms – a true agritourism experience located in a beautiful mountain valley on the Tuckasegee River in town! This family-owned farm sells local produce and is open every day. Great place to walk around and there’s a picnic and park area for kiddos. ๐๐ฉ๐ฝโ๐พ
Great Smoky Mountain Railroad – The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is a scenic train that takes you through the North Carolina mountains along the Nantahala and Tuckasegee rivers. All of the train rides depart from the depot in Downtown Bryson City. They’ve got a ton of themed trips and special event train rides, their most famous being the Polar Express! ๐
Hang out at your casa del pueblo during your Bryson City vacation – Booking a mountain home that feels cozy is so important! After you go exploring, don’t forget to take the time to relax at your home away for the weekend. Our property features several ways to rent the space for all groups and family sizes. Did we mention the mountain views? Sit back, relax and have a warm beverage or some s’mores as you drink in this view. Nothing recharges you like connecting with your loved ones in the Smoky Mountains. Find out more here.
Stroll Downtown Bryson City – Historic Downtown Bryson City has all the small town charm! There are plenty of places to grab coffee, chill and shop! See our favorites below! ๐๐ผ
– NEARBY –
Mountain Farm Museum, Oconaluftee Visitor Center & Mingus Mill – Located at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on U.S. Highway 441 and Newfound Gap Road near Cherokee, NC (The Blue Ridge Parkway ends nearby). Stop by the Visitor Center and peruse the museums, historic farm houses dating back to the 1900’s and walk the bike and pet friendly trails!
See the elk in Cherokee – You MUST see the majestic elk graze in meadows at the Great Smoky Mountains Oconaluftee Visitor Center and other areas around Cherokee. ๐ฆ
Clingmans Dome Trail – Visit the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! This is THE spot to see the best views in the Smokies at the highest point in Tennessee. Fun fact: it’s third highest mountain east of the Mississippi. The beautiful drive to the top is open April-November and there’s no admission charge.
COFFEE OR TEA
There’s nothing better on vacation then sharing a sweet cup of java. As remote workers and an author, trust us, we’ve been to all the coffee shops in town and nearby.
– IN TOWN –
Bryson City Bakery – This coffee shop has an awesome atmosphere if you have kiddos or are looking to chill out in a unique spot surrounded by local art. There’s excellent coffee and home-made pastries! Itโs easily our favorite spot in town. Bonus: itโs located inside BCO MRKT, a sister shop to Bryson City Outdoors, that sells toys, apparel and unique gifts.
Dolce Vita – A+ for ambiance, specialty coffee and lunch. Great for people watching all the downtown traffic with its big windows and small patio ๐
Mountain Perks – Amazing coffee and every bagel you can imagine. Also right in downtown, making it the perfect spot to watch the train or grab some java to go.
Mae|BLU – a boutique tea bar and beauty shop. Sweet little stop for a refreshment and makeup run. The ultimate treat yo self ๐๐ต๐ง๐ผโโ๏ธ
– NEARBY –
Cardinal Coffee – Conveniently located 5 minutes out of town right off the highway on the way to the NOC and most hikes… and the coffee is so good!
The Farmhouse Mercantile & Coffee Bar – Dog friendly, locally-owned and a shop right next door, what else do you want? We love hanging out in this instagrammable coffee shop in Sylva.
White Moon – Great coffee right in Downtown Sylva. Locally owned by a sweet couple who’s always trying new styles and approaches to familiar flavors. Must try!
City Lights Cafe – All the good coffee and sweets here! Plus, they also serve wine and beer, and have a dog-friendly patio. Like books? There’s a bookshop here too! ๐
BREAKFAST
– IN TOWN –
Everett Street Diner – Southern breakfast at its finest. This family-owned restaurant is right in town and you’ll leave with a belly full of warm comfort food and a smile on your face.
Bryson City Bakery at BCO MRKT, Mountain Perks + Dolce Vita also serve a more casual style yummy breakfast!
LUNCH + DINNER
– IN TOWN –
High Test Deli – The best sandwich you’ll ever have is served here! Pick it up to-go and picnic on The Blue Ridge, NOC or a trail! ๐ฅช
The Bistro at the Everett Hotel – We recommend this spot if you’re in the mood for a fancy romantic dinner or night out with the family. Totally worth it. ๐ทpro tip: make a reservation ahead of time.
Anthony’s – Located right across from the train, this is a great people-watching spot too. Known for pizza and pasta! ๐
La Poblana – Authentic Mexican food right in town! The tacos are out of this world, people. ๐ฎ
Pasqualino’s – Great place to get pasta with the family right in town. Bon appรฉtit! ๐
Bryson city Outdoors (BCO) – Though this is a taproom, BCO typically has a delicious food truck parked right out front for some great casual dining. Call ahead to see which truck is pulling in for the day! ๐ป๐
Mountain Layers Brewery – The Rice Wagon food truck is permanently stationed at Mountain Layers! This amazing Hawaiian fusion is mouth wateringly yummy and can be enjoyed at the brewery or to-go! ๐ป๐
Bryson City Brewing –this casual restaurant has a fenced in grassy field, which is great for your kiddos and fur babies alike. ๐
Snak Shak – this is a hole in the wall, unpretentious spot to grab burgers and wings. Great for a quick meal! ๐๐ฅค
– NEARBY –
Big Wesser Riverside Pub at the NOC – Located at the Nantahala Outdoor Center, this casual spot is awesome for some lunch and brews facing the beauty of the Nantahala River! ๐ป๐
Mad Batter Kitchen at Lazy Hiker – Located inside of an awesome brewery, Mad Batter’s pizza is out of hand and they have a ton of other amazing bar food. ๐
Dark Moon – White Moon’s day time coffee shop converts into a speakeasy-like cocktail bar with delicious bites by night! The ambiance alone is worth going. Great date night spot! ๐
Santรฉ Wine bar – Great ambiance, curated-wine selection (many of which are organic) and delicious bites. A must-visit for our fellow wine lovers. ๐ท
Cosmic Burger at Innovation Brewing – Located in Downtown Sylva, this permanent food truck has been providing the best brewery in town with the best burgers (yes, even their veggie burger is seriously good!). Go have a pint and a burger. ๐ป๐
Dalaya – This is an authentic, hole-in-the-wall Thai food spot! This teeny restaurant sits only a few, so spots are limited. Call ahead! Great takeout option as well. ๐
Lucy in the rye – Besides the amazing name, this is a terrific breakfast and lunch spot. Their comfort food as delicious as their fresher options. ๐ฅ๐ฅฏ
ILDA – AMAZING homemade pasta and epic wine selection. The atmosphere is definitely for a fancier night out and well worth the splurge. ๐๐ท
Creekside Oyster House & Grill – Oysters in a land locked town you say?! Yes… trust us, this seafood is fresh and delicious! It’s also right by the bay, which makes a beautiful scenic meal! ๐ฆ
Haywood Smoke House – Best. BBQ. In. Town. Go! ๐
BEER, WINE + COCKTAILS
– IN TOWN –
Bryson city Outdoors (BCO) – Beer and gear, that’s what this delightful locally-owned shop does best! You can sit on their amazing patio overlooking downtown or pick up your beer and wine to go. The rotating options are curated by locals who know their spirits! Plus, all the cool locals hang here. ๐๐ป๐ท
Mountain Layers Brewery – Brewed right here in town, this lovely locally-owned brewery has amazing views from their rooftop! There’s all kinds of great beers on tap constantly changing! ๐ป๐
The Bistro at the Everett Hotel – Cocktails and wine are specially crafted and curated here. A few great local brews available as well. ๐ธ๐ท๐ป
Unplugged – Here’s a non-pretentious lounge-style bar that’s perfect for a cozy cocktail and occasional live music. ๐ธ๐ถ
Deep Creek Winery – Locally-made wine with an amazing view! To be totally upfront, their wines are on the sweeter side (still tasty) and their hours are a bit strange so make sure to call ahead!
Derailed – All right folks, this is for anyone looking for a little dive bar and no nonsense cocktails (nothing fancy or hand crafted here). Good people-watching spot and you’re directly next to Anthony’s, so there’s another plus. ๐บ
– NEARBY –
Innovation Brewing – Okay, this is hands down, the BEST beer we have in Western North Carolina (we would include every brewery in Asheville in this comparison). You’ve got two locations: Downtown Sylva (cozier location by downtown) and Dillsboro (a tad farther, also right by a river, much more spacious, great for dog owners and families). Do yourself a favor and go try their beer! ๐บ
Lazy Hiker Brewery – Awesome atmosphere, great beer and pet friendly inside and outside! Live music and trivia nights too! ๐ป๐
Dark Moon – Speakeasy-like cocktail bar with delicious bites by night! Hand-crafted cocktails, great wine and a few brews available too. Amazing date night! ๐
Santรฉ Wine bar– Great ambiance, curated-wine selection (many of which are organic) and delicious bites. ๐ท
The Cut Cocktail Lounge – This super swanky hipster spot has a cool ambiance and delicious hand-crafted cocktails. Their wine and beer selection is nice too. ๐น๐ค
SWEETS
– IN TOWN –
The Chocolate Shoppe – Taking a stroll through downtown Bryson City? You must visit this adorable little chocolate shop. Everything is made locally. Pro tip: this is a great take-home gift… for people you REALLY like. ๐ซ๐
Soda Pop’s Ice Cream Parlor – This 1950’s style soda pop shop is the CUTEST place to grab sweets, take photos and spend time with the family. ๐ฆ๐จโ๐จโ๐ฆโ๐ฆ
Bryson City Bakery at BCO MRKT – whether itโs pastries at the Bryson City Bakery (located inside the shop) or sweet treats available for purchase, youโre sure to satisfy your sweet tooth here!
Honey Bear’s Cupcake & More – Grab some coffee, tea or sweets at this awesome shop run by locals. Located in downtown, it’s a perfect stop while you stroll ๐งโ๏ธ
SHOPPING
– IN TOWN –
Local shopping is such a fun part of walking Bryson City’s charming downtown! There are so many eclectic and thoughtfully curated locally-owned shops where you can pick up something to remember your time here by. ๐
Bryson city Outdoors (BCO) – Need something for the outdoors? Or how about originally-designed apparel? Everyone we know has a BCO shirt. Go get one! ๐๐
BCO MRKT – grab a coffee while you shop for a unique gift for your kiddos or friends back home. Located right across the street from Bryson City outdoors.
One Twenty Main – How do we describe this shop? Run by local artist Ashley Hackshaw, this is her studio and a place she curates with interesting books, gifts and art pieces.
Humanitรฉ Boutique – Locally owned. Great style. Shop hand selected, on-trend clothes, accessories and home decor here! ๐งฅ
Southbound Marketplace – Clothing, jewelry and accessories! Also locally-owned. ๐
Madison’s on Main – A terrific stop for women’s clothing, jewelry and some assorted pieces for littles! ๐๐ ๐ถ๐ผ
Smoky Mountain Harley Davidson Outpost – for the biker in your life, this is a must visit. Peruse some of the prettiest motorcycles you’ll ever see plus fun merch. ๐ต
The Selah Collection – Women’s clothing, home gifts and accessories with a focus on feeling empowered. โจ
The Artsy Olive – this is a gift shop for the food and beverage lover. Snag a unique infused olive oil, drink mixer or the like in this quirky small town shop! ๐พ
Friends of the Marianna Black Library used book shop – Are you a book lover and thrifter? This is the spot to chill out and peruse books for cheap. ๐๐ค
North Carolina Clampitt Hardware – Travel back in town and grab a special gift for yourself or a loved one back home. This is one of those little gift shops you only find in small towns!
Loose Moose – A non-cheesy local stop to grab some memorabilia. Tee-shirts, key chains, home goods and more.
McClanahan’s – this adorable shop has been a staple in Bryson City for years. They have jewelry, home goods and other interesting trinkets.
