Beer culture in North Carolina is part of the state’s DNA. Even in our gorgeous little mountain town, you can find a great spot that will pour you a craft beer to pair with our stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains. Try our 3 Favorite (and best) Beer Spots in Bryson City…
Bryson City Outdoors & Taproom

Beer and gear! What better pairing is there for a getaway in nature than some of our state’s famous craft beer?! Bryson City Outdoors is our choice as locals and we believe anyone passing through town must experience it.
First, we are big fans of the intention of a space, and this place is owned and run by people who are genuinely good at what they do and care about serving their community. There’s always a friendly face behind the counter pouring beers or selling gear.
Second, these folks have some of the best curated taps we’ve had in Western North Carolina. The BCO team have elevated pallets and are constantly rotating their taps with something for any flavor profile. We’ve discovered a few local favorites here.
Third, they’ve always got a terrific food truck so grabbing a bite is easy. And lastly, they allow dogs… inside too! This is one of the most pet friendly spots in town and we like a place that welcomes patrons and pets alike. Our resident Hygge Pups agree.
Mountain Layers Brewing Co

Want to enjoy a beer on a rooftop overlooking sweeping views of The Smokies? This full fledged brewery makes really smooth seasonal and flagship beers right here in town. Mountain Layers frequently has live music so enjoying the rooftop is also great at night amidst the stars, tea lights and the sounds of local folk music.
It’s truly one of the best ways to enjoy our small mountain town. The staff is always friendly and they too have a food truck stationed there a few nights a week! If not, they’ll let you order or bring in anything you’d like.
Innovation Brewing Co
Okay, so to be fair… Innovation Brewing is technically in Sylva (a 20 minute drive away). They also have a location in Dillsboro called Innovation Station (same distance more or less). BUT we had to make an exception and include it on the list because we are neighbors and Inno (as the locals call it) makes the best beer in Western North Carolina (yes, we’d even group in Asheville to this comparison… a BOLD claim indeed).
Both breweries are by the river, so you can enjoy the breeze as you sip your brew on hotter days. They each have food options nearby or on premise. Innovation Brewing has Cosmic Carry-Out (excellent burgers with veggie-friendly options), and Innovation Station has several restaurants who deliver right to your table!
Wherever you go in town or nearby, we know you’ll enjoy North Carolina’s coveted craft beer from the locals who love to make and pour them. Cheers!
Psst… looking for a quickie all-in-one guide to Bryson City (Western North Carolina area)? Check out our travel guide to The Smokies! These are our favorite spots we’d recommend to friends and family.
Ps. We create weekly videos of life here in Bryson City and things to do in town and the surrounding Great Smoky Mountain area 😊 Subscribe to our channel for a weekly dose of life in the mountains.