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Bryson City

Welcome to Bryson City, the ultimate gateway to adventure in the stunning Smoky Mountains! Kayak the Nantahala River, hike the Appalachian Trail, or zip-line through the lush forests. Unwind at local breweries and savor lip-smacking BBQ. This charming town also offers scenic views at Deep Creek and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

From the Community

Recommendations

Landmark4.5/5

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure at Great Smoky Mountains Railroad! Hop aboard and be transported back in time as you chug through stunning landscapes and majestic mountains. This family-friendly attraction offers scenic excursions, themed train rides, and even a Polar Express experience during the holidays. Don't miss out on this thrilling ride that will leave you with lifelong memories. All aboard!

Culture4.8/5

Swain County Visitor Center and Heritage Museum

Welcome to the Swain County Visitor Center and Heritage Museum, where adventure and culture collide! Located at 2 Everett St, this gem in Bryson City, NC is a must-visit for wanderers seeking a taste of local history and outdoor bliss. From interactive exhibits to helpful staff, this is your go-to spot for planning your unforgettable expedition through the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. Let the fun begin!

Cafe$$4.4/5

Mountain Perks

Mountain Perks, nestled in the heart of Bryson City, is a vibrant coffee shop that will satisfy all your caffeine cravings. Step through the doors and be greeted by the aromatic symphony of freshly roasted beans. With friendly baristas, cozy seating, and an array of delicious treats, this charming spot is a must-visit for coffee enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Eat$$$4.8/5

The Bistro at the Everett Hotel

This small Bryson City bistro serves a short American menu, including trout and meatloaf. You can wait upstairs by the rooftop fire pit.

Eat$$4.8/5

High Test Deli & Sweet Shop

Welcome to High Test Deli, a hidden gem in Bryson City, North Carolina! Located at 145 Everett St, this lively deli offers mouthwatering sandwiches made with love and piled high with fresh ingredients. Whether you're hiking the Smoky Mountains or exploring downtown, swing by for a tasty lunch. Don't miss their famous homemade pickles and craft sodas! A true delight for any hungry traveler.

Eat$$$4.7/5

La Dolce Vita Bakery

This Bryson City bakery serves breakfast sandwiches and sweet potato bowls. The Charleston layers pimiento cheese, grits, egg and pickled onion on an everything bagel.

Stays

Stay$$$4.35/5

Riverbend Lodging

Riverbend Lodging is located in Bryson City, 16 km from Nantahala Outdoor Center. Each room at this motel is air conditioned and is equipped with a flat-screen TV, coffee maker, mini-refrigerator and a microwave. Each room is fitted with a private bathroom fitted with a bath or shower. Riverbend Lodging features free WiFi throughout the property. A selection of activities are offered in the area, such as horse riding and cycling. The nearest major airport is Asheville Regional Airport 112 km from the property.

Stay$$4.25/5

Nantahala Village Resort

Nantahala Village in Maple Springs offers family rooms with private balconies and mountain views. Each room includes air-conditioning, a private bathroom, and a work desk. Guests appreciate the room comfort and bed comfort. The resort features a swimming pool with a view, fitness centre, sun terrace, and a lush garden. Additional amenities include a tennis court, free WiFi, and a games room. Free on-site private parking is available. A family-friendly restaurant serves American cuisine with dinner options. The restaurant offers a traditional and romantic ambience, catering to all guests. Nearby attractions include Smoky Mountain Jet Boats (1.4 km), Great Smoky Mountains Railroad (17 km), and Harrah's Casino (34 km). McGhee Tyson Airport is 114 km away.

Stay4.9/5

The Everett Hotel

Welcome to The Everett Hotel, located at 16 Everett St in charming Bryson City, NC! This boutique hotel offers a perfect mix of comfort and adventure. With cozy rooms and breathtaking mountain views, it's a haven for nature enthusiasts. Unwind at the rooftop bar, explore the Great Smoky Mountains, or indulge in delicious local cuisine. Your adventurous getaway awaits at The Everett Hotel!

Stay3.9/5

Chestnut Tree Inn

Welcome to Chestnut Tree Inn! Located at 37 Tsalagi Rd in Cherokee, NC, our cozy and vibrant hotel is perfect for adventurous travelers. Get ready to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or indulge in the nearby Harrah's Cherokee Casino. With comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and a sprinkle of Southern charm, your stay with us is sure to be a memorable one!

Things To Do
Provided by

4.9/5

5 h

Over the Top Tour in Oconaluftee

This tour travels over the crest of the Smokies from Tennessee into North Carolina. Along the way we'll experience one of the most scenic roads in the Southeast along with several panoramic mountain vistas. When we arrive in the Oconaluftee Valley we'll visit historic structures learning about the culture of the native Cherokee and European-descended mountaineers. While exploring this historic valley, we'll keep an eye out for elk. The largest animal in the Smokies, they were reintroduced by the park service in 2001.

$150.00

4.7/5

Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Great Smoky Mountains

Don't miss a thing as GuideAlong's Great Smoky Mountains Audio Driving Tour takes you on an incredible journey through the most visited US national park. Along the way you'll be guided to all of the park's famous highlights as well as lessor known gems including the lowest drivable pass, historic Cades Cove buildings and the park's highest point. Download discover more on your Smokies road trip with fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, local tips and directions that plays automatically along the drive. With GyPSy Guide you have the freedom to explore offline at your own pace so you can spend more time at places that interest you, bypass any that don’t. ✅ Stories, tips and directions play automatically based on your location ✅ Travel at your own pace ✅ Tours work offline using GPS, no cell service or WiFi needed ✅ Suggested itineraries & tips for half, full or multi day use ✅ Buy once, use forever! No expiry, includes free updates ✅ Like having a tour guide along for the drive

$19.99

4.3/5

Great Smoky Mountains & Cades Cove Self-Guided Driving Tours

Purchase only one tour per vehicle, not per person. Everyone listens together! Get the full Smoky Mountain experience with this ultimate bundle tour! Explore these picturesque mountains, uncover the rich history of the Cherokee and early settlers, and find out why this is the most-visited national park in the entire country. You’ll discover beautiful overlooks, hiking trails, and waterfalls on one tour, then dive into the pioneer and Civil War history of Cades Cove with the next! If you don’t want to miss a thing, this is the deal for you. After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

$24.99

4.1/5

24 h

Museum of the Cherokee People Admission Ticket

General admission includes: Main Exhibit: We are a museum in transition! Take a step behind the scenes as we consider how to update our 27-year-old main exhibit to authentically share Cherokee history, culture, and stories from a Cherokee perspective. sov·er·eign·ty: Expressions in Sovereignty of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians illuminates the complexities of tribal sovereignty and the EBCI’s continuing legacy of resilience. ᏗᏓᏂᏏᏍᎩ ᎦᏓᏆᏟ Didanisisgi Gadagwatli: A Showcase of Pottery from the Mud Dauber Community Workshop: Enjoy an exhibition of work by students in the Museum’s annual community learning pottery workshop. Charles George Beloved Veterans Hall: Meet heroes of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Established in 1948, the Museum of the Cherokee People shares the history, culture, and stories of the Cherokee people through its exhibitions, collections, and programs.

$15.00

4.1/5

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Self-Guided Driving Tour

Recommended: Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park and discover why it’s the most visited National Park in the country! Tour these famous mountains while learning about Cherokee history and legends, Appalachian life, and much more. There’s no better way to see Clingman’s Dome (Kuwohi), Cades Cove, or Rainbow Falls. Plus, enjoy a free bonus tour of Roaring Forks Motor Trail! After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

$16.99

2/5

Great Smoky Mountains Self-Guided Scenic Drive and Audio Tour

Explore America’s most visited national park at your own pace with this self-guided scenic drive through the Great Smoky Mountains. Journey along Newfound Gap Road from Gatlinburg's lush valleys to the stunning ridges along the Tennessee–North Carolina border. Includes optional side trips to Kuwohi, Cades Cove, and Roaring Fork, where you can expand the adventure for big views, wildlife sightings, and historic cabins. Listen to captivating audio stories about the park's history, from ancient mountain formations to the impact of settlers and conservationists. Whether seeking vibrant fall colors or breathtaking mountain views, this tour unveils the natural and cultural heritage of this biodiverse region. — Self-guided audio tour for flexible exploration — Drive along Newfound Gap Road with scenic detours — Learn about the Smokies' rich history and ecology — Perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike

$14.99

5/5

Sevierville & County-Pigeon Forge-Smoky Mtns Dolly Backroads tour

Travel the only tour that goes to the site of Dolly's childhood cabin and explore Dolly's Sevier County from Locust Ridge Rd., to beautiful Wears Valley, The Foothills Parkway and back to a walking tour of Sevierville, and the Dolly Statue. Enjoy a full factual narration about Dolly along with her music playing in the background throughout the tour. A sweet ending awaits the tour with a final stop at Red's Ice Cream Fountain and Soda Shop, one of Dolly's favorite hangouts.

$135.00

5/5

2 h

Sharing Nature with Children: Hands-On Smoky Mountain Discovery

Designed for curious kids and families, Exploring Nature with Children turns the forest into a living classroom. This hands-on guided nature walk helps children slow down, look closely, ask questions, and connect with the natural world in a meaningful way through nature games, stories and fun activities. Depending on the season and trail conditions, children may explore streams, plants, salamanders, animal signs, textures, forest sounds, leaves, insects, and small wonders along the trail. The goal is not to rush or cover big miles, but to help kids build confidence, curiosity, and a deeper connection to the outdoors. Caution: Side effects may include dirty knees, happy faces, deep curiosity, and stories they’ll still be telling at dinner. Best for: Families with children, homeschool groups, young explorers, first-time hikers, and kids who enjoy hands-on discovery.

$55.00

5/5

Smoky Mountain Elk & Waterfall Jeep Tour

• Guided safari-style Jeep tour through Great Smoky Mountains National Park • Scenic Blue Ridge Parkway adventure through 5 historic mountain tunnels • 20+ mile mountain views from elevations over a mile high • Panoramic overlooks across Cherokee and deep into the Smokies • 99% elk sighting success rate on PM Elk Tours • Explore prime elk and wildlife habitat • Possible sightings of elk, deer, wild turkey, black bears, and more • Visit 120-foot Mingo Falls on the Qualla Boundary • Explore historic Occonaluftee Baptist Church and local legends • Scenic drive across Soco Gap at 4,340 feet elevation • Guided by local Cherokee & Appalachian descendant guides • Authentic Smoky Mountain storytelling and history • Incredible scenic and wildlife photography opportunities • Small-group open-air safari Jeep experience

$149.99

5/5

3 h

Great Smoky Mountains Rare Synchronous Firefly Waterfalls Walk

Discover the enchanting world of rare synchronous fireflies in the Great Smoky Mountains during a guided night hike. As twilight descends, witness the mesmerizing light show of these unique creatures as they synchronize their flashes in a pulsating rhythm. Along the way, enjoy the soothing sights and sounds of rivers and rapids and learn from a certified Wilderness First Responder with over a decade of experience. Settle in with provided chairs and headlamps for an unforgettable evening under the stars, where you have the opportunity to see rare synchronous fireflies and capture stunning time-lapse photos. Don't miss this unique opportunity to connect with nature.

$70.00

5/5

8 h

Best of the Smokies: Full-Day Private Guided Adventure

Spend a full day exploring the Smokies your way. Best of the Smokies: Full-Day Private Guided Adventure is customized around your group’s interests, pace, and sense of adventure, making it one of the most flexible ways to experience Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Your day may include waterfalls, mountain views, historic sites, scenic drives, quiet trails, wildflowers, wildlife stories, old-growth forest, or a custom mix of the park’s best experiences. Because this is a private tour, your guide can adapt the day to your group and help you make the most of your time in the Smokies. Transportation and lunches are included. Best for: Private groups, families, couples, photographers, first-time visitors, mixed-interest groups, and guests who want a full-day custom Smoky Mountain experience. Duration: 7-8 Hours | Difficulty: Your Choice | Ages: Your Choice Meeting Location: Sugarlands Visitors Center or Pick-up from Downtown Gatlinburg Location

$325.00

5/5

Private Boutique Blue Ridge Parkway Full Day Tour

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Western North Carolina on this full-day private adventure along the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway. Departing Asheville, we’ll head south into some of the highest scenery in the eastern United States, stopping at overlooks including Mount Pisgah, Looking Glass Rock, Cold Mountain, Graveyard Fields, Devil’s Courthouse, and Richland Balsam—the highest point on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Guests wanting adventure can choose the short optional hike to Devil’s Courthouse for panoramic views. Descending into Cherokee, we’ll visit the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, where elk are often spotted, and continue to beautiful Mingo Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in the Southern Appalachians. We’ll also make scenic photo stops, including a charming mountain suspension bridge, before returning to Asheville through stunning mountain landscapes. As this is a private tour, the day is flexible and tailored to your group while we handle the driving.

$300.00

5/5

3 h

The River Remembers: A Smoky Mountain History Walk

The River Remembers is an easy guided walk in the more quiet section of the Smokies, along a cascading mountain stream where nature and history meet. This relaxed Smoky Mountain tour follows an old roadbed through forest beauty, seasonal wildflowers, historic cabins, old rock walls, a springhouse, and the traces of families who once lived in these mountains. This is more than a history walk. It is a gentle riverside hike with moving water, forest sounds, mountain plants, and meaningful stories woven together by an experienced guide. It’s a strong introduction to the Smokies for guests who want scenery, interpretation, and a relaxed pace. Best for: History lovers, families, seniors, beginners, wildflower lovers, and guests who want an easy Smoky Mountain walk with pristine streams, nature and cultural history. Duration: 3 Hours | Difficulty: Easy | Mileage: 2.5 | Elevation Change: 347' | Ages: All Meeting Location: Greenbrier Parking Area 1, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

$95.00

5/5

4 h 30 mins

Blue Creek Cascades: Waterfalls, Whitewater & Wild Forest

Step away from the busiest park corridors and into a wilder side of the Smokies. Blue Creek Cascades follows brilliant mountain water, whitewater cascades, forested trail, and a beautiful waterfall while revealing the quieter beauty of the Big Creek area. This guided hike combines water, forest scenery, natural history, and traces of the region’s past. It is a strong choice for guests who want cascades and waterfalls but also want to explore beyond the most crowded destinations. Best for: Waterfall lovers, moderate hikers, photographers, Big Creek visitors, and guests looking for a quieter Smoky Mountain hike. Duration: 4.5 Hours | Difficulty: Moderate | Mileage: 4.5 | Elevation Change: 500' | Ages: All Meeting Location: Big Creek Ranger Station

$125.00

5/5

7 h

Kuwohi (Clingmans Dome) Smoky Mountains Tour

Kuwohi is a sacred place for the Cherokee people and is the highest point within the traditional Cherokee homeland. Kuwohi is one of the most popular sites in Great Smoky Mountains National Park with more than 650,000 visitors per year. It is the tallest point in Tennessee and the third-highest summit east of the Mississippi River.

$160.50

5/5

8 h

Into the Ancient Forest: Waterfalls & Old-Growth Adventure

This is a powerful Smoky Mountain hike for guests who want the real thing: ancient trees, rhododendron tunnels, moss-covered boulders, rushing cascades, mountain streams, and a destination waterfall deep in one of the park’s most beautiful old-growth forests. Into the Ancient Forest is a more strenuous guided adventure that rewards effort with a rich, immersive landscape. Along the way, your guide will help interpret the old-growth ecosystem, stream life, forest layers, and the natural forces that shape this lush mountain environment. Best for: Strong hikers, waterfall lovers, old-growth forest enthusiasts, active travelers, and guests who want a more challenging Smoky Mountain adventure. Duration: 8 Hours | Difficulty: Strenuous | Mileage: 7.8 | Elevation Change: 2200' | Ages: 12 and up Meeting Location: Greenbrier Entrance | Greenbrier Parking Area 1, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

$215.00

5/5

Clingmans Dome (Kuwohi) Self Guided Walking Audio Tour

Take your hike up Clingmans Dome (Kuwohi) to the next level with this self-guided walking tour. As you make the ascent to the famous observation deck, you’ll discover fascinating facts about this area’s history, geology, and scenery. And once you reach the top, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the lush landscape beyond. This self-guided walking tour of Clingmans Dome (Kuwohi) serves as an audio companion on this half-mile hike, with plenty of stories to keep you company along the way. After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

$9.99

5/5

Tail of the Dragon Polaris Slingshot Adventure-Bryson City NC

Rent a brand-new Polaris Slingshot from the areas only Polaris Outfitter and enjoy the thrill as you drive one of Americas most famous roads. Twists, turns, and thick woods, this drive isn’t about scenic overlooks or nature. The Tail of the Dragon is about you, the pavement, and two white knuckles grasping the steering wheel. Considered one of the most exciting roads in America, with 318 curves in 11 miles you will figure out why. Come see why it’s world renowned, and why the locals call it “that damn road to Tennessee”. Make sure to see the Fontana Dam, the largest dam east of the Rockies!

$349.99

5/5

3 h 30 mins

Guided Hike & Outdoor Painting Class in Smoky Mtns Nat’l Park

Begin your adventure with a beginner-friendly hike through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As you walk, your guide will share fascinating stories about the park's history and help you identify plants, including those used by the Cherokee for medicinal purposes. After the hike, set up your painting station and learn to capture the beauty of your surroundings with acrylic paint. Whether it’s a waterfall, a historic cabin, the "troll" bridge, or a sunset vista, your guide will lead you through a step-by-step painting lesson suitable for beginners or the experienced painter. Depending on the time of year, we can try to find elk in North Carolina or witness the magic of rare synchronous lightning bugs. With all painting supplies provided and a forgiving medium like acrylic paint, you can relax and enjoy the creative process.

$125.00

5/5

3 h 30 mins

River Magic: An Easy Smoky Mountain Guided Walk

Slow down beside one of the Smokies’ biggest and among the most beautiful mountain rivers. River Magic is an easy guided walk designed for guests who want the peace of moving water, forest shade, deep pools, sparkling cascades, wildflowers, and stories of the landscape without a demanding climb and without the crowds. This gentle riverside experience blends natural beauty with interpretation from an expert guide. You’ll learn about the plants, wildlife, stream life, and human history connected to these mountain valleys while enjoying one of the most approachable ways to experience Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Best for: Families, beginners, seniors, first-time visitors, nature lovers, and anyone who wants an easy guided river walk near Gatlinburg. Duration: 3.5 Hours | Difficulty: Easy | Mileage: 4.2 Miles | Elevation Change: 300’ | Ages: All Meeting Location: Sugarlands Visitors Center