Bryson City
Bryson City is a small town in North Carolina. It’s a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with wildflowers, streams and part of the Appalachian Trail. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad offers train rides through the park, plus the Smoky Mountain Trains Museum. The Tuckasegee River is popular for white-water rafting. The Fly Fishing Museum of the Southern Appalachians has fishing gear and 1800s fly rods.
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Bryson City Trip Planner
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Top attractions in Bryson City
1. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
4.5
(6696)
Museums
Scenic spot
Vintage steam trains with dining cars travel from a historic depot through scenic countryside.
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Such an amazing experience. The whole trip was about 4-5 hours long and so you can buy your lunch before the trip or pack lunch for yourself. The train ride was full of scenic forests, lakes, etc. The host and caretaker of each cabin was extremely nice and helpful with little drops of knowledge provided to the whole visitors. They also have a singer that entertains people with beautiful country songs. You do stop by a kayak/water rafting area for about an hour which was nice so you can rest for a little bit before heading back. Overall a amazing experience.
We booked the Polar Express train ride for Christmas Eve. The parking is free and was easy to navigate.
I was able to pick up the tickets with ease and hd plenty of time to look around before boarding the train.
The boxcar that we were on was warm and had enough space to walk around and find our seat.
We were disappointed that despite choosing seats together that initially assigned being at different at tables. Fortunately we were able to switch seats and sit together.
The train ride was smooth and there were songs and cocoa with chocolate. I was most disappointed in the scenery which included excessive trash, tires, a car with two people strung out on drugs and things that took away from the experience of being on the "Polar Express".
At the "North Pole" we were directed to look at different places related to Santa and Christmas. In reality, it was a persons house for each location with a sign in front stating what we should imagine it to be.
For the price and the distance to get there, I would not book this experience again.
Wonderful trip, Kim, in first class, it was really great at giving us lots of information along the way. The young lady, (sorry I forgot your name), who sold us our tickets, was fantastic at getting us the best seats. Definitely recommend doing this trip lots of fun for all members of the family.
It was a nice relaxing ride on a steam train with great views of the Smokey Mountains. The food served was good and the service, great. However, this experience was made possible only by our server and hostess, Ginger! She was very knowledgeable of the history around the Nantahala. I think I can say that many of us in the Harper car loved talking with her. I can tell that she loves what she does and it shows. Kudos to you, Ginger! Once again, thank you for a memorable experience (and not because the my drink was knocked onto me)!
This was a really amazing way to easily see the landscape of the Smokies! Great for any train enthusiast and the tour was laid back and relaxing. An easy one-hour drive from Asheville. We went in early April in the first class open-air car. Bring a sweater as it was a bit breezy, but the fresh air was fantastic.
Two things that detracted from the experience: First, on one side of the car (right as you are departing Bryson City) you face a lot of mountainside, which is not much of a view for a lot of the trip. Thankfully there is plenty of space for you to walk around the car and look over your neighbors to see the other side’s view. Secondly, a more formal spiel from the tour guide would have been appreciated for a history buff like me that isn’t too familiar with the area. This isn’t to say we didn’t learn a lot, but I think some of it got lost in the weeds.
All in all, we had a great, relaxing time taking in the surroundings. When we visit NC next, we hope to catch this later in the spring or in the fall when the mountains have more color. Highly recommend!
Oh, also, there’s a free model train museum!
A great experience amazing staff but I do recommend if you travel during cooler/cold temps especially with rain bring a BLANKET & heavy jacket for open cars. We road today with temps and rain we froze on the open car. The layover is to short especially if you get the last train car the walk takes most of your time. But overall would recommend for people to see this beautiful scenery
We thoroughly enjoyed our trip! Kyle was our guide, and he was super informative and educated about the area. We had the first car with controlled climate, and has the meal service. Food was average but the train ride was awesome. No kids were on the car, so it was a nice trip for adults with some good humor to be had.
Most excellent. Started off rainy and cloudy, but it cleared up. It was a great experience! Friendly and knowledgeable staff.
Was in first class. Food was excellent.
Did the Gorge run with a Diesel engine.
They had an on board musician that went from car to car as well as a dedicated storyteller who grew up in the mountains that also went car to car.
Recommend the excursion all the way!
Such a wonderful experience! Great for people of all ages! The loading process was quick and easy. There were many rail experiences to choose from and we chose the Nantahala Gorge trip. We had an absolute blast (even the teenager)! The rail car we were in was the Jackson and it was very cool and comfortable. There was a rail car that had a cafe for snacks, drinks, and eats (which we enjoyed). We will absolutely do this again and pick one of the other rail trips to see more of this beautiful place!
What a Wonderful way to see the Beautiful country side and Mountains of North Carolina. Very enjoyable ride in the open air. The town of Dillsboro for a layover was nice lots of shops to explore and places to grab a quick lunch. Would ABSOLUTELY do it again. Our 5 year old Grandson loved it as well. All around Great experience
We took the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad for our daughter's birthday. We had a wonderful day. The open air car was perfect late September. The views were great, the concessions were plentiful and very reasonably priced. We stopped at the Natahala Outdoor Center to stretch our legs. The staff was wonderful and entertaining. They answered all of our questions. We will be taking this train again. I would love to see what these views when the leaves have changed to Fall colors. I highly recommend this attraction if you are in the area. Don't miss it.
We booked the Sunset ride on a fairly warmer fall day in late October. We did the open air car and would recommend over an inside train car. The bench seats face the outside and you can easily get up and walk around vs the inside cars feel stuffy and seats are facing each other in the inside.
Take a blanket and dress warm for once sun goes down, but completely worth it to have the open air to have better views and experience in my opinion.
Views were awesome, ride was fun.
Food, snacks, drinks, alcohol all available.
If you love fall foliage then be sure to book an autumn train ride in advance. They fill up fast and for good reason ... the views are incredible and the leaves are gorgeous! We rode about a week ahead of peak and it was still stunning. I highly recommend the open-air cars! There are speakers on them so you can hear all the interesting stories and facts about what you see on the ride. Halfway through you stop at the Nantahala Outdoor Center and can get off the train for a short bit. We had blankets and jackets/hats on-hand but ended up not needing them. We look forward to doing it again!
My experience may have been slightly different considering the theme/event selected for our train ride.
The, "Uncorked" wine tasting train ride was absolutely remarkable. There are pros and cons to every experience you'll take part in.
For starters, the cost was reasonable to say the least. Once you're on board you have the option to buy additional beverages and snacks but its not necessary. The ride was approximately 3 to 4 hours long. You will make a stop in a small town where you can grab a beer or 5 and a bite if you're not pleased by the meals served on board.
A friendly reminder: YOU ARE ABLE TO CALL PROIR TO HAVE YOUR DIETARY NEEDS MEET!
The food was not the best but it did the job after a little salt and pepper was added. They were a bit short staffed but who isn't right now? It was a bit cold on the train so bring a jacket if you get cold like me.
There wasn't much of a sight as the ride went along outside of the river located in this area. Personally, I think train rides are soothing but if you're looking for a scenery the only one you'll get is of trash, locals waving from their porch and that river mentioned before.
It's quite the experience and if you like a little country feeling on a train, good adult beverages with some historical facts about the area thrown in the mix this is an ideal adventure for you.
We went on the 5 hour steam train ride and it was great! We rode in the open air car and the speed was perfect to help keep us cool on a VERY hot day but not windy at all. So if the wind is a reservation for you, it's not a problem. It was so nice having wide unobstructed views! The only time it was stuffy was waiting to move before getting started and when leaving the NOC. Employees were all friendly! Bring on your own snacks or you can purchase from the concessions car.
We did the first class seats where lunch is included. I got the pot roast and it was good, but the portions were a bit small. My wife got the pulled pork, she said the pork wasn't hot (temperature-wise) and the coleslaw wasn't cool - as if the food had been sitting out for a while. The ride was scenic and informative. Overall it was a nice way to spend a day. After it was over we toured their train museum and walked around Bryson City and checked out the various shops there.
A nostalgic and fun afternoon. We took an adult only wine sampler trip. Plenty to drink and our hostesses were entertaining and attentive.
The food portion was well thought out, but the shrimp were over cooked. Everything else was fine and we sure didn't leave hungry. In fact, don't eat a big breakfast if you book the Uncorked. You're going to start eating right after the train rolls.
Using the steam locomotive on the way out was very cool. Lots of opportunities for photography.
Fun trip. The "layover" was kind of useless if you want to eat or shop since there's not much time and it can be a long walk. Depends on which rail car you're in. Aside from that, the trip was awesome. There is so much to see. It's really beautiful. The storyteller was very interesting and informative. The crew was top-notch.
Our host, Nancy, was amazing!!
We loved the trip and lunch.
So much fun! The lunch and desserts were good. The entertainment was a nice touch. We like the souvenir bag and mugs.
Brought the kids and my mother. It was great. Although we were the loudest in our cart. We were in the Catamount and it was decorated so perfect for the occasion. Don't know if I would spend that kinda money again but glad we experienced the Polar Express.
Such a fun experience! Train ride was relaxing and informative and the food and drinks on board were nice too! I'd suggest not even buying a boxed lunch but bringing your own or buying a hotdog or snack on the train from the little diner train car.
Also make sure to buy tickets on the correct side of the train. One side has better viewing potential. (If that side of the train is sold out, you honestly can't go wrong with either side as you'll still be able to see out to the other side.)
The train ride was very enjoyable. We chose First Class with a meal that was fantastic. A tour guide, in the train car, that shared the points of interest including the train wreck from “The Fugitive”with Harrison Ford. The train followed the river where we saw some Elk. We looked in the tree top for Eagles but were shut out this trip. We stopped in a lovely town with several shops. Definitely worth the trip.
It's a really fun experience and a beautiful ride. We prefer the open air cars for the views they offer. Just be aware this can be quite cold in the winter so wear thick clothing and bring/buy a blanket. The food offered is fine but not something to look forward to.
Had a very relaxing ride seeing the scenery. We booked the open car with a meal. The day was beautiful! We had been years ago on the steam engine. This time we went further and saw Fontana. The trip takes about 4 hours.
Don't worry.. restrooms and stops are included. You can also shop at Nantahala if you like.
Book in advance so you will not be disappointed that they are sold out.
They also do a Polar Express at Christmas 🎄. Check them out for themed trips down the rails. There is a variety of car options and food.
Our second year making the Polar Express a tradition and had a great time. They go above and beyond to ensure you have an awesome experience and get in the Christmas mood. We usually go after Christmas but still thoroughly enjoy it. Can't wait to go back next year!!
The Polar Express was a wonderful holiday experience for my son. I’m not sure about all cabins, but we got a premium one and had a great time. The staff made it truly special for the kiddos and it was an overall great holiday memory. Gorgeous scenery.
2. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Retail Store & Train Museum
4.6
(290)
Gift shop
Museums
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Absolutely a beautiful ride along the river. If you're lucky like we were, we swapped sides of the car on the return trip with another family so you get to see much more. Refreshments are served on board like sodas and tea. Alcohol is served as well but remember this is a family oriented gig so please keep your comments about the wine selection to yourself... it's not that important.
We learned a lot along the route of local history and saw things you'd never see from the road. You'll enjoy it, and the friendly staff from start to end.
We had a lovely time riding the Polar Express train ride. Everyone was very friendly and kind. The gift shop attendant was pleasant, the atmosphere was great, the train ride was so fun! Would definitely return for another visit!!
Sad...we made a special trip over here to do this. Hours must not be updated. No one answered the phone either. We just wanted to go through the museum. All door locked, no one around. No signs. Hours on Google say it is supposed to be open. So we just took a couple photos across the street. Finding google information (hours and whether it's open or not) is not updated for ALOT of businesses in the area.
My family and I visited this place for the Polar Express train just before Christmas. It is a unique store within the town of Bryson City, NC. Inside, they offered merchandise for the Polar Express ride and a model train museum in the back of the store. The model trains were really cool to admire as it represented the life of the Smoky Mountains. Kids and adults can do a scavenger hunt to find objects within the display.
Definitely worth a walk through. The displays of trains is interactive. Very detailed displays with descriptions of the trains and facts about the displays themselves. We enjoyed the stroll through the museum and learning about history.
If you have a train obsessed one (my son) then a trip to the GMSM museum is a must stop. If you have tickets to an event such as Polar Express, the museum is free otherwise if just visiting it is a small fee. My son enjoyed watching and pushing all the buttons to see what lit up. For those interested in collections, they have it all. That was not our focus but everything is laid out nicely, labeled, clean, and worth a stop
Om goodness. This was absolutely beautiful. I brought my husband here for his birthday. First time for both. It was a bit cold waiting, but definitely worth it. Going at night was gorgeous because they had the Christmas lights on and even seen 🎅.
What a great Gift Shop! Jo was super friendly and we got to sing her Happy Birthday! Picked up a couple of great decorations for our "Bear Motif" house. Be sure to stop in!
It’s a nice place to visit and see the various model trains but I was disappointed in the lack of interactive experiences and there weren’t too many model trains that went through the little towns, etc. It’s a must go to if you go on the train but I wouldn’t recommend making a special trip.
Always a pleasure to visit. Gift shops have things there I've never seen anywhere else.
Great place to see different types of model trains. Spent a lot of time looking at old and new models. Interactive so children can push a button and control some trains. Good place to wait to ride the train.
The allure of trains captivates me, and my appreciation extends to the intricacy and charm of model trains. The attention to detail in these miniature locomotives, coupled with the meticulously crafted landscapes they traverse, creates a captivating and immersive place that allows enthusiasts to experience the magic of railroads on a smaller scale.
We love model trains so the museum was a must-do for us when visiting the Smokies. At the entrance, be sure to pick up a scavenger hunt to complete in the second room where the massive model train layout is. It makes you appreciate the detail and handiwork so much more! The front section is very interactive and great for kids. The staff is very kind and likes to engage with their guests. We did not ride the steam train outside, but you can walk alongside it if it's parked there and check it out. My kids, 7 and 9, loved it and so did we!
The gift shop has all kinds of train merchandise from magnets, books, coffee mugs, and apparel.
Admission to the train museum is included in the price of your train excursion ticket. It costs $9.00 for adults and $5.00 for children 3-11 years old for everyone else.
As we were waiting for the Smoky Mountain Train Excursion, we were able to tour the museum for free. It was so interesting and interactive. We will definitely spend more time there during our next train ride. Although it was very crowded while we were there, the employees were very friendly and knowledgeable. Everyone we came in contact with seemed genuinely happy to see us!
The train ride was spectacular! I had booked an outdoor car and was a little hesitant as my 92 year old mother was going with us. However, workers delivered us to the car in a golf cart and she was encouraged to board early. The weather was absolutely gorgeous and the others in the car with us were fun. We had the best seats on the way up but traded with others on the way back. Even then, the views were beautiful. The stop was a little too much of a walk for my Mother so we stayed on the train. We definitely want to do it again!
3. Nantahala Brewing
4.0
(600)
Restaurant
Food & Drink
This brewery provides tours & tastings, plus a rustic taproom with draft beers & regular live music.
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I consider myself a bit of an expert on baked pretzels and this is by far one of the best. Crunch on the outside and soft on the inside-can’t beat it. I hope this is how it always is prepared and mine wasn’t a one off.
Beer, chicken tendies, outside ambiance all fit the bill. Highly recommend
Great atmosphere, friendly staff. Indoor and outdoor seating. I recommend a spot outdoors to watch the great smoky mountains railroad load and unload passengers. We visited during Christmas time and enjoyed the holiday drinks. Highly recommend the Brussels they were amazing. We also got the Bryson city nachos and they were ok. We got the outpost burger and it was good. Pricing was expected for the location.
Good loaded tots and a decent burger, at least better than Balsam Brewing. The chicken sandwich was decent as well.
My husband and I love to go to local breweries and try the beer they make & food whenever we are out of town! We came to this place when it was in the airplane hangar, while it seemed sort of bare bones it was really endearing, the staff was welcoming, the beer was good!
We were excited to come back - but we’re left really disappointed.
After looking at the beer menu and realizing they only had 4 of their own we went up to order a brew & some wings. They were out of the beer we were already settling for so we went with the amber ESB, not bad! The other options were a potter or a stout..
We got 10 wings, 1/2 one sauce and 1/2 the other, they came out mostly dry and all drums even though we didn’t specify one way or the other ~ we understand there has been a shortage and wings have been heavy hit but $15 for 10 drums barely sauced… 😬
We ordered a side of fries as well, they came out cold and it seemed like the bottom of the warm plate. While it was already a small portion, we couldn’t have even eaten half of it if we wanted to it was just crumbs.
I understand how a review good or bad effects a place and I don’t like to leave bad ones but my husband and I both felt compelled after this experience..
Stopped with our dog after exploring the smokies. Dinner for 2 and 2 beers was $70. Wings weren't done enough and were still raw. Burger was ok. Bacon was on point. Local draft was a big treat.
We came in the afternoon on a weekday, and it was not too busy. I got the chicken tenders, and they were so delicious. The breading was seasoned and they had a nice crunch to them. The chicken was juicy and tender, and went great with the ranch. The fries were crispy and nice. The service was excellent, and I really appreciated the nice cup of ice water. Unfortunately I didn’t know the name of the person who took our order, but he was amazing. He served us our food, was very friendly, and impressed me with how he was willing to go the extra mile to help us have a nice meal.
I was visiting my daughter and decided to come here. It had a very nice vibe and crowd considering we were there late on the night before the 4th of July. The staff was very friendly. My daughter had already eaten and I wasn't very hungry, so we shared a pretzel and two beers. They have a stage for live bands and a patio out back, but it was raining so we stayed inside. The place isn't huge, and parking may become a challenge down the road when Western Carolina students return in the fall, but I think it will be a hit with most people and a great place for a bite and brew.
We decided to take a trip to Bryson City for a walkabout and came upon this brewing company. The beer was amazing & the scenic Smoky Mountains Railway train came right past us; the staff was very friendly & knowledgeable. It was clean with a long bar, a big inside dining room, & a massive outdoor seating area that is very dog friendly
Were a Brewery family so naturally after a train ride through the Smokies we made a stop here. The beer was good. The location of the brewery was cool right outside the train station. The environment was relaxed and easy going. We visited with a 6 and 3 year old and were welcomed warmly by the staff. They made fun Sprite with Cherries 🍒 for our kids and we enjoyed a few beers before walking around shopping a bit. Overall a good experience. They were working of some parts of their building so Id be interested to see what it looks like when they’re done.
We stopped in after a long day of tubing nearby.
I had the BBQ plate and my wife had a cheese burger.
The baked beans tasted like they were fresh out of a can and had to distinct flavor. Pulled pork was dry as can be, and the slaw was tasteless. It was the worst BBQ I have had in the last 10 years.
The burger is just okay. It didn’t taste seasoned.
Now the price was crazy high for such small amounts and low quality. Maybe their beer is way better. I would steer clear unless it’s the only place you can find a spot at. It was moderately busy when we went. You got to seat yourself but had to wait about 39 minutes for food.
Had a blast here! The staff were super cool and funny, and our food and drinks were great! 👌 We ordered a lot, too - and all of it tasted great! The jalapeño/pineapple Margherita was on point! 😉
4. Lakeview Dr E
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
5. Cooper Creek Trout Farm
4.7
(228)
Fishing lake
Nature & Parks
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Brought the kids here for a Grampas vacation fishing lesson. It was a friday and we had the lake to ourselves. Each kid, ages 3,4,5 and 6 caught 2+ fish almost instantly. The owner was a nice guy.
A must-stop for anyone in the area, from beginner fishermen to experts. We primarily do salt water fishing but were up camping with the family. We took our 13, 7, and 7-month-old here to have a little fun and within the hour had 9 fish. It is easy for those who truly fish but still fun to bring home dinner. The kids had a boatload of fun since they caught a ton of fish. Definitely recommend it to all.
We had a great time. Very friendly and fun place. My daughter was able to catch 4 very nice trout in less than an hour. Was about 50 bucks including the fish being filleted for us. Can't make a day of it because the fish bite fast and you pay per pound, but my kids had a blast
Great place to grab live trout fast ! well stocked and beautiful scenery. I was a little upset that they would not clean the fish the day I was there I had to bring them back to my hotel and cleaned them myself in the river. I paid about 50 bucks plus for five trout that I caught. A great place to test your hooks your bait and your gear before you head to a live stream.
We brought our kids here, ages 4, 10, and 12, so they could catch some trout. My oldest caught 2, and the other 2 kids each caught one. We could've stayed longer and let them catch more, but at $7+ per pound, the cost adds up. However, we'd spend that buying dinner anyway, so it was worth it! They'll clean and filet the fish for you on site. Definitely visit if you're looking for a place for your little ones to catch a fish!
This was such a fantastic experience. Great place to bring kids. The trout are easy to catch so you kids will definitely not get bored. The lady that helped us that day was so nice.
House built in 1880's on premises, Pond is heavily stocked w/Rainbow Trout & current rate is $6.50lb. for the fish you catch(no catch & release)and you catch fish extremely fast so experience is short unfortunately. $1.50 for fish cleaning(per fish)Owners brother is useless unfortunately and girl that was working was great, but she went down the street to pick up milk while we waited 10 min. because the guy there was unable to do anything(per him). I'm just analyzing everything, but definitely a cool little spot.
We had the best time here! Don was so helpful in making sure we waked away with some fish. We sliced them up and ate them for dinner at the campsite. Real mountain living. If you don't have luck on your own definitely stop by here, great spot
What a great place to spend the day with the family. Everyone enjoyed themselves. Everyone got to catch fish beautiful little waterfalls. There was a pig walking around , the drive to the farm is beautiful. What a beautiful property the people that work here are very kind,a little pricey but the price to do everything has gone up.
What an awesome time caught plenty of fish, people were outstanding and hospitable! We will come back every year. Thanks for the Amazing Memories! Love this place!!
We’ve been twice in two years. Stayed in Maggie valley and pigeon forge and well worth the trip. We like that it is a bigger pond, real bait, and have smaller poles for kiddos. Staff is friendly, helpful, and will clean your catch. Fresh trout for dinner! It is a must do if visiting the area.
It was an amazing family outing for our vacation! Our kids are 2,3 and 9 and they caught so many fish! They even cleaned the fish for us!! The prices were good too!! We plan on coming back next year!!!
I saw a review on here from a Roger Hutchings I think it was about the cost, and the reply from Cooper Creek (which was awesome by the way) and we decided to go here just because of that....expensive is a subjective term whats expensive to some may not be to others, in our opinion it priced well for the hospitality, and the memories you u get to make, great place for kids being introduced to fishing no bored moments of not catching, making it exciting for the kids which was our main concern...would recommend to anyone with kids or anyone who just wants to catch fresh trout to take home for dinner!! Date went was Jan 3rd for those of yall thinking it might be to cold to catch any we caught 12 in an hr or so.
A little late (6 months)making this review, but we enjoyed every minute. Me and my husband were in the area for our honeymoon. Although it was raining and cold the fishing experience was amazing and easy to catch. Thank you to the kind people who helped us. We will be back... this Sunday with family.
We had an awesome time there. There is a gravel road that you follow a few miles to get to it. It's $3 a person to fish and they supply the gear and bait. It was $6.80 a pound for the fish. We caught 9 fish and came out with about 13.5 pounds. Plus the cleaning fee. We spent $125 and it was well worth it. You can't buy rainbow trout for that at the grocery store and the experience was well worth it.
6. Swain County Visitor Center and Heritage Museum
4.7
(237)
Visitor center
Museums
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The Swain County Visitors Center is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of our community, offering an enriching experience for visitors of all ages.
Step into the Swain County Visitors Center, and you're instantly transported back in time. The museum boasts a captivating collection of local history, providing insight into the rich heritage and culture of the region. From exhibits detailing the indigenous peoples who once called this land home to the stories of early settlers and pioneers, the center offers a comprehensive overview of Swain County's
What truly sets the Swain County Visitors Center apart is its family-friendly atmosphere. The museum is designed to engage and entertain visitors of all ages, with interactive displays and hands-on activities that spark curiosity and imagination. Kids, in particular, will delight in exploring the exhibits and discovering the fascinating stories that shaped the community we know today.
Beyond its entertainment value, the Swain County Visitors Center serves as an invaluable educational resource. Visitors have the opportunity to learn about the area's natural beauty, wildlife, and conservation efforts, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment and the importance of preserving it for future generations.
The center also plays a vital role in fostering community engagement and pride. Through its exhibitions and programming, the Swain County Visitors Center celebrates the diverse tapestry of voices and experiences that make up our community, promoting understanding and unity among residents and visitors alike.
In conclusion, the Swain County Visitors Center is more than just a museum—it's a gateway to the past, a catalyst for learning, and a hub of community activity. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun and educational outing for the family, the Swain County Visitors Center is a must-visit destination. Prepare to be inspired, informed, and entertained as you embark on a journey through the storied landscapes and rich heritage of Swain County.
A nice museum, filled with good information and great staff! I found it very interesting and educational.
This was a pretty cool place with an interesting museum upstairs. The shop was closed while we were there and not sure why, but it was a great place to start in the great smoky mountains.
This is a small town museum hitting above it's weight limit. Like all the best museums, it makes you interested in a subject you never thought to be interested in beforehand. The museums is interesting, inviting, and insightful. The main floor has some exhibits and clean restrooms along with a sizeable gift shop. Other floors have other exhibits, and parking is very easy. There's also a national park stamp inside this museum. It's worth a visit when passing through.
The Swain County Visitor Center and Heritage Museum is located in the old courthouse building. The visitor center is downstairs and offers souvenirs, such as stuffed animals, jellies, books and stickers. The upstairs area houses the museum. The stairs are quite steep, but the have an elevator if someone needs it. The museum was my favorite part. It was so interesting and informative.
Truly a gem of Bryson City.
Easy handicap ♿️ access and an elevator to the second floor.
Downstairs is the welcome desk and gift shop.
Any questions about our little town will be answered here by a very nice staff.
My favorite is the upstairs.
There you can learn all about the area and its past.
Terrific genuine artifacts are on display here.
So much to see and even touch.
A small 'theater' gives you a guided tour with it's video.
My favorite is the replica of the old cabin.
With porch and rocking chairs.
During the Christmas season they decorate the place.
Sit in the rocking chair, the perfect picture for Facebook.
Look around and you'll realize how much passion and love went into the decor.
Step back into a time long gone.
A place worth visiting.
Very nice. My wife and I enjoyed our visit. It's bright, open, and cheery. It's a good place to take a stroller and get away from the crowded streets.
So much to see and discover about the history of Bryson City and Swain County, the area and is preserved for everyone, we highly recommend it.
The service is excellent and employees friendly and knowledgeable. The quality of the merchandise is excellent. The building and landscaping are beautiful. I plan to stop there every time I end a trip in NC and head back to Atlanta. .
Opening at 9am, this should be your first stop in Bryson City. It's free and there's a world of history here waiting to be seen! Friendly staff and clean restrooms as well.
You have to visit this place, Interesting and very impressive
Very nice museum free To enter but they do take donations lots of maps and information about the local attractions waterfalls movies that have been made in the city, a real wealth of information make sure you take a trip up stairs. Check out the gift shop on the way out.
Swain County is a beautiful part of the Smoky Mountains and Bryson City is the gateway to the Smoky Mountains. The visitor center is an excellent way to see just what is so intriguing about these beautiful mountains and the Heritage Museum gives you a great chance to see how the earliest settlers dealt with the challenges of living so far from major cities. You will see the tools they used to meet the challenges they faced. Plus, there's a nice little shop with a great selection of memorabilia and items for sale. It's a really good place to start your exploration of these beautiful mountains.
Adorable museum with so many displays of the history of American culture and life in the Great Smoky Mountains!
Sweet little spot with lots of interesting items to view and read about. My boys loved the kayak video game, but my husband and I read everything and looked at all the gadgets and tools, quilts, etc.
I liked it. It's a small museum with old pictures of the town. No admission price but donations are accepted. The staff are friendly.
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Other notable attractions
Pincu Pottery
Pottery store
Museums
Mountain Layers Brewing Company
Brewery
Food & Drink
Darnell Farms
Farm
Sights & Landmarks
Storytelling Center Of The Southern Appalachians
Entertainer
Museums
The Cottage Craftsman
Art gallery
Museums
Nantahala River Gem Mine
Jewelry store
Sights & Landmarks
𝒩𝒶𝓃𝓉𝒶𝒽𝒶𝓁𝒶 𝒢ℴ𝓇𝒢ℯ ℛ𝓊𝒷𝓎 ℳ𝒾𝓃ℯ
Store
Sights & Landmarks
Deep Creek Campground Kiosk
Tourist information center
Sights & Landmarks
Charles Heath Studios
Artist
Museums
Deep Creek Winery
Winery
Food & Drink
Best-of categories in Bryson City
Popular road trips from Bryson City
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All road trips from Bryson City
- Bryson City to Orlando drive
- Bryson City to Atlanta drive
- Bryson City to Washington DC drive
- Bryson City to Nashville drive
- Bryson City to Chicago drive
- Bryson City to New Orleans drive
- Bryson City to Chattanooga drive
- Bryson City to Savannah drive
- Bryson City to Charleston drive
- Bryson City to Asheville drive
- Bryson City to Toronto drive
- Bryson City to Memphis drive
- Bryson City to St. Augustine drive
- Bryson City to Myrtle Beach drive
- Bryson City to Philadelphia drive
- Bryson City to Niagara Falls drive
- Bryson City to Baltimore drive
- Bryson City to Louisville drive
- Bryson City to Charlotte drive
- Bryson City to Saint Louis drive
- Bryson City to Hartford drive
- Bryson City to Branson drive
- Bryson City to Williamsburg drive
- Bryson City to Tampa drive
- Bryson City to Greenville drive
- Bryson City to Knoxville drive
- Bryson City to Pittsburgh drive
- Bryson City to Cleveland drive
- Bryson City to Cincinnati drive
- Bryson City to Sarasota drive
Explore nearby places
- Bryson City
- Whittier
- Almond
- Cherokee
- Nantahala Township
- the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Dillsboro
- Sylva
- Franklin
- Cullowhee
- Topton
- Tremont
- Fontana Dam
- Robbinsville
- Balsam
- Gatlinburg
- the Maggie Valley
- Tuckasegee
- Lake Santeetlah
- the Wears Valley
- Glenville
- Townsend
- Otto
- Andrews
- Pigeon Forge
- Waynesville
- Scaly Mountain
- Cashiers
- Highlands
- Cosby
All related maps of Bryson City
- Map of Bryson City
- Map of Whittier
- Map of Almond
- Map of Cherokee
- Map of Nantahala Township
- Map of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Map of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Map of Dillsboro
- Map of Sylva
- Map of Franklin
- Map of Cullowhee
- Map of Topton
- Map of Tremont
- Map of Fontana Dam
- Map of Robbinsville
- Map of Balsam
- Map of Gatlinburg
- Map of the Maggie Valley
- Map of Tuckasegee
- Map of Lake Santeetlah
- Map of the Wears Valley
- Map of Glenville
- Map of Townsend
- Map of Otto
- Map of Andrews
- Map of Pigeon Forge
- Map of Waynesville
- Map of Scaly Mountain
- Map of Cashiers
- Map of Highlands
- Map of Cosby
Bryson City throughout the year
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Q&A about Bryson City
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I’m not sure if this would be close to your holiday, but it’s a lovely place!
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Thurman Lind
I have an airbnb in the area I just bought last year. There is so much beauty there. Fontana dam is awesome and one of the most beautiful dams in the world. Cherokee is a cute town. Unplugged is a music venue with live music on the weekends. Get there by 730 so you can get in before capacity. Lake Santeetlah is awesome. My insta page @halahideaway has a lot of to dos in the area! Nantahala outdoor center has lots of things to do and is even just fun to visit and hangout. Tons of hikes! I could word vomit all day on this area. Cellphone service can be choppy so download the map. Fontana lake has some of the best fishing and so many varieties. Fontana marina has a great price on boats! Definitely a hidden 💎💎💎!!! White water rafting!
T
Tara Runte
Weather in Bryson City
Here's the historical average temperature in Bryson City over a full year based on data compiled by NASA: for more details by month, see the weather in Bryson City in January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, or December
Monthly temperature highs and lows in Bryson City
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Plan on the go with our free travel app
With Wanderlog's mobile travel planner on Android and iOS, access and edit your trips wherever you go — even while offline.
Access and edit your trips wherever you go — even without a connection.
4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play
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