The Ultimate Travel Guide to Bryson City, North Carolina

Bryson City, North Carolina is a quaint town surrounded by mountains with the quintessential mountain town vibes and full of adventure. It is the perfect place to hibernate in a cabin during the winter or cool down and drink in the cool mountain air in the summer months. No matter when you are going or who you are going with, you are sure to have the BEST time in Bryson City.

Use this ultimate travel guide to help you decide what to do, where to eat, and where to stay!

Things to Do in Bryson City, North Carolina

Although Bryson City is a small town, there is an endless number of things to do in the area. We were in Bryson City for four full days but would have loved a couple more. You could check it off your bucket list in a long weekend, but I suggest staying for longer.

I hope you love the outdoors and adventures because Bryson City has it all!

Go Whitewater Rafting Down the River

Bryson City is famous for it’s wonderful whitewater rafting. There are three rivers that offer whitewater rafting – the Nantahala River, Ocoee River, and the Cheoah River. All have varying intensities of rapids depending on your skill and experience level.

We went whitewater rafting on the Nantahala River twice while we were visiting, and it was a blast. You can definitely take kids on this adventure, but I suggest getting a guide to go with you unless you are experienced. Great for anyone up for seeing the beauty of the land with a thrill.

Recommended: Whitewater Rafting on the Nantahala River in North Carolina

Spend the Day on a Mountain Lake

There are several lakes in the area that you can spend the day at relaxing. Lake Fontana and Nantahala Lake are the two most popular. Lake Fontana is the biggest in the area and is closer to Bryson City.

We drove almost an hour to Nantahala Lake, which is smaller and further away, but has less people and is more secluded. If you head to this lake, I suggest using Lakes End Marina to rent a boat for a few hours to ride around on the lake. You could even go tubing or skiing on the lake.

Tube Down Deep Creek

A VERY popular attraction close to town is tubing down Deep Creek. You can rent a blow-up tube for crazy cheap and spend the day floating up and down the river as much as you want. Think lazy river ride in nature.

This is different from whitewater rafting, because the creek is much calmer and you are really just floating lazily and not paddling.

The pros to this are that it is cheap, you can spend as long as you want on the river, and it is easier to do with young kids. Tip: tie the kids tubes to yours so they do not float off too far away from you.

The cons to this are that you have to tote your tube up the creek after you float down each time. It is also much more crowded and does not give you that thrill of going over whitewater.

Explore the Historic Downtown Bryson City

The main downtown historic area of Bryson City is fairly small, but there are many precious little shops that you can pop into and explore. This would not take all day but plan a couple hours into your schedule (maybe before or after a meal?) to walk around the area.

Don’t forget to get a picture with the instagrammable and popular Bryson City train!

Hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

North of Bryson City is one of the few national parks located in the Southeast United States – the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A trip to Bryson City would not be complete without visiting it and going on a hike.

Some of the hikes can get long so make sure to check the length before you go and to go prepared. We went to Deep Creek Trail but did not know this is where people go tubing. If you are looking for a short trail this is great (we had a baby in our party), but otherwise, I don’t recommend as it is very crowded. This article has suggestions for short hikes around Asheville.

Take a Day Trip to Cherokee, North Carolina

Less that 20 minutes from Bryson City is the town of Cherokee, North Carolina located on an Native American reservation. Take time to learn about the Cherokee history in the Oconaluftee Village or Museum of the Cherokee Indian. Not that kind of trip? Stop by the Harrah’s Casino!

Ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Arguably the most popular attraction in Bryson City is the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Book a scenic round-trip ride on one of their steam powered locomotives and choochoo around the Great Smoky Mountains.

They offer two excursions (Nantahala Gorge and Tuckasegee River) all year, but the most popular option is their holiday experience – The Polar Express!

Tickets book up fast, but how magical would it be to ride the Polar Express through the mountains? Every kids dream!

Visit the Fly-Fishing Museum of the Southern Appalachians

For all our fly-fishing lovers, head to the Fly-Fishing Museum of the Southern Appalachians to learn all about the history and evolution of fly-fishing.

Don’t stop there though! You will see many people fishing in the rivers and creeks around Bryson City, so pick up a rod and see what you can catch.  

Stroll Through the Swain County Heritage Museum

Located in the center of the historic downtown of Bryson City, the Swain County Heritage Museum is a great way to learn about the area. And did I mention admission is FREE?

Take time to appreciate the architecture as the museum is located in the historic Bryson City courthouse. You can also find the visitors center and a bookstore in the courthouse!

Stop by the Nantahala Outdoor Center

Among it’s many accolades, the Nantahala Outdoor Center is the “nation’s largest outdoor recreation company,” according to their website. The NOC has it all, adventure, lodging, shopping and dining.

They offer whitewater rafting, ziplining, lessons & training, and more! Most likely if you go whitewater rafting you will end your trip at the Nantahala Outdoor Center. You can walk across the Nantahala River for some iconic pictures and read all about the history of the NOC while you are there.  

Take some time to stroll through their shops and dine at one of their restaurants. I highly recommend River’s End, their on-site restaurant (more in the section below).

Drive the Road to Nowhere

Although coined “the Road to Nowhere” it’s actual name is Lakeview Drive. Although construction was started, this road was never finished and now ends at a tunnel. Not only is this a unique and popular place (not to mention great for Instagram), but there are trails you can go hiking in the area.  

Places to Eat in Bryson City, North Carolina

One thing I LOVED about Bryson City, North Carolina is that it has so many unique and local restaurants that you will not find anywhere else. They are always my favorite places to go eat. We had a wonderful local from Bryson City give us a ton of recommendations before our trip and their suggestions did not disappoint!

The Everett Street Diner

Looking for a spot to get breakfast? Everett Street Diner is the place to go! It may not be very fancy, but with good diner food, it will leave you happy and satisfied.

Address: 126 Everett Street

Hours: Wednesday – Sunday 7:00am – 2:00pm

Cardinal Coffee

Although not located in the downtown area of Bryson City, the short drive to Cardinal Coffee will not disappoint. It is a little shack that you would easily miss if you were not paying attention, but that is part of the beauty. It is so unique and if you are a coffee person like me, stopping here on your trip is a must!

Address: 22 Needmore Road

Hours: Tuesday – Friday 7:00am – 3:00pm; Saturday – Sunday 8:00am – 4:00pm; Closed Monday

La Dolce Vita Bakery

If you are looking for a solid coffee and pastry shop in the heart of Bryson City, La Dolce Vita is the place to go.

Address: 191 Everett Street

Hours: Monday – Friday 7:00am – 6:00pm; Saturday 8:00am – 8:00pm; Sunday 8:00am – 6:00pm

Recommended: What to Bring on a Trip to Bryson City

The Chocolate Shoppe

When your sweet tooth needs to be satisfied, head on over to The Chocolate Shoppe for hand-made ice cream and sweets. We were told the coffee ice cream is to die for.

Address: 134 Everett Street

Hours: Monday – Sunday 11:00am – 9:00pm

High Test Deli/The Filling Station

Okay, so this place has two names? Their website is named The Filling Station, but the signage says High Test Deli… Either way, this is the best place to go for sandwiches in town.

Address: 145 Everett Street

Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 11:00am – 3:00pm; Closed Sunday and Monday

Haywood Smokehouse

Haywood Smokehouse is the place to go if nowhere else! Although it is technically located in Dillsboro, the drive is worth it when it has been named the best barbeque in North Carolina and the 5^th best in the country. You cannot leave without going here. Note that they are closed Sunday’s and Monday’s.

Address: 403 Haywood Road

Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 11:00am – 8:00pm; Closed Sunday and Monday

Anthony’s

We loved Anthony’s so much that we ended up eating here twice during our trip! They have the best pizza in town and great Italian food too. Relax and eat outside in the cool mountain air on their huge porch with tables.

Address: 15 Depot Street

Hours: Thursday – Monday 12:00pm – 8:00pm; Closed Tuesday and Wednesday

Pasqualino’s

Craving Italian, but want somewhere that is finer dining? Check out Pasqualino’s!

Address: 25 Everett Street

Hours: Thursday – Tuesday 11:30am – 10:00pm; Closed Wednesday

The Bistro at the Everett Hotel

Another great option for upscale dining is The Bistro at the Everett Hotel. The mountainous, cabin feel of the dining room and quality American food will satisfy all your mountain getaway dreams.

Address: 24 Everett Street

Hours: Wednesday – Sunday 4:30pm – 9:00pm; Closed Monday and Tuesday

Nantahala Brewing Burger + Bar

I loved the vibe at the Nantahala Brewing Burger + Bar. When we went, they had a limited menu and no indoor seating, but it was still great. It was such a relaxed setting with just good food and if you like craft beer they have several local brews you can try.

Address: 116 Ramseur Street

Hours: Sunday – Thursday 11:30am – 8:00pm; Friday – Saturday 11:30am – 9:00pm

Jimmy Mac’s

Jimmy Mac’s is a great for everyone, hometown type place. With an extensive menu, everyone is sure to find something they love.

Address: 121 Main Street

Hours: Monday 11:30am – 9:00pm; Closed Tuesday; Wednesday – Saturday 12:00pm – 9:00pm; Sunday 12:00pm – 8:00pm

Rivers End

Possibly one of my favorite places we went to eat in Bryson City is Rivers End. It is located at the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) and on the Nantahala River. You can explore the NOC while waiting or after you eat and get some great pictures on the bridge across the river. I recommend the Chicken Sherpa Bowl… yum!

Address: 13077 US-19

Hours: Sunday – Saturday 11:00am – 7:00pm

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Where to Stay in Bryson City, North Carolina

One of my favorite things when visiting the mountains is the sunset over the peaks, it moves something inside me. So, I loved staying somewhere that I can watch this every night. Here are some solid recommendations for places to stay in Bryson City – plus the link to the exact cabin we stay in on our trip!

The Everett Hotel

Originally the Bryson City Bank built in 1905, this building went through extensive renovation to bring you the “luxury boutique hotel” that you now see located in the middle of downtown Bryson City. They have several options available for your stay, along with a can’t miss restaurant located in the bottom floor (mentioned above).

Address: 16 Everett Street

Lakeview at Fontana

Described as “rustic-chic” and named one of the “top 10 best southern mountain resorts and inns,” Lakeview Fontana is the place to book if you want luxury in the mountains. Do not miss out on treating yourself to the unique treetop soaking cabanas.

Address: 171 Lakeview Lodge Drive

ALoft in the Smokies

Book your stay in the heart of Bryson City and enjoy being walking distance to most things in town. Aloft in the Smokies has four lofts each with two beds, two baths, and a dining room.

Address: 115A Everett Street

Calhoun House Hotel

A historic home dating back to before 1925, the Calhoun House Hotel still has many of it’s original features and antique accents. Enjoy a full country breakfast and the in house library during your stay.

Address: 135 Everett Street

AirBnB or VRBO

I highly suggest renting out a cabin while in the mountains. We had the best experience with our VRBO rental. The owners were great and the cabin was breathtaking, I truly cannot say enough good things.

To rent our same cabin, CLICK HERE and tell them I referred you 😊

AirBnB is also a great option to help find local cabins to rent. Create an account with AirBnb and receive $35 off your stay – CLICK HERE!

Location of Bryson City, North Carolina

Bryson City is close to many more known cities. This makes it the best of both worlds. You can stay in Bryson City and experience all of the wonderful perks of being in a small town like unique restaurants, cozy cottages, and breathtaking nature, with the perks of visiting more popular areas like popular tourist spots everyone wants to visit, upscale dining, and accessible transportation.

Extend your stay or take a day trip in one of these close places:

• 20 minutes form Cherokee, NC
• 1 hour 15 minutes from Asheville, NC
• 1 hour 30 minutes from Gatlinburg, TN

Bryson City, North Carolina is truly a southern mountain oasis. Calling all outdoor lovers, mountain pioneers, solo expats, and adventurous souls… it is time to start planning your next trip!

I hope you find this article helpful in planning your trip! Let me know if you use it. Have you been to Bryson City? If not, let me know your favorite mountain town in the comments below!

Lots of Love, Laurel McDaniel

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