If you’re looking for a charming small town to explore in North Carolina, look no further than Bryson City in Swain County.
This mountain town is located in the Great Smoky Mountains and is home to some of the best tourist destinations in the state.
It was originally founded in 1887 as a logging community.
The town is also a popular destination for whitewater rafting, fishing, hiking, and camping.
From outdoor activities to historical landmarks, Bryson City has something for everyone.
Here are the 16 best things to do in Bryson City, North Carolina:
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One of the most popular destinations in Bryson City is the Clingmans Dome.
At 6,643 feet, it is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park; it’s also the third-highest peak east of the Mississippi River.
The Clingmans Dome is a challenging hike, but the views from the top are well worth the effort.
The hike to the summit takes about two hours and is a strenuous 3.8-mile climb.
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Once you reach the summit, you’ll be able to see seven states from the observation deck.
However, if you’re not up for the challenge, there’s also a shuttle that can take you to the top.
The Clingmans Dome offers some of the best views in the park, so be sure to make it to this popular destination while you’re in Bryson City.
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Darnell Farms is a family-owned farm that has been in operation for four generations.
The farm is located Governors Island Road and offers tours to visitors, where you can learn about how the farm operates and see the animals up close.
The Darnell family has been farming in the area since the 1940s.
They grow a variety of fruits and vegetables, which they sell at the Bryson City Farmers’ Market.
The farm also raises livestock, including cows, pigs, chickens, and turkeys, which you can see on the farm tour.
You can even try booking a hayride to a pumpkin patch, or you might want to explore and get lost around the farm’s corn maze.
The farm also has a gift shop, where you can buy local honey, jams, and other items.
A visit to Darnell Farms will surely be worth it for anyone interested in learning about farming and agriculture.
It’s a great place to see how a working farm operates and get up close and personal with the animals.
The Needmore Road Suspension Bridge is a historic bridge that crosses the Tuckasegee River in Swain County, North Carolina.
Also known as the Little Tennessee River Bridge, the bridge was built in 1965 and is open to pedestrians; however, its capacity is limited to just four persons.
It’s a suspension bridge, which means it hangs from cables that are attached to towers on either end.
It is the only suspension bridge in Swain County and one of only a few in western North Carolina.
The Needmore Road Suspension Bridge is an important part of the area’s history and is a popular tourist attraction.
It provides a beautiful view of the Tuckasegee River and is a great place to take photos.
If you’re in the area, be sure to check out the Needmore Road Suspension Bridge on Needmore Road!
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If you’re looking for an extraordinary adventure, go whitewater rafting on the Nantahala River at Carolina Outfitters, a company that offers half-day and full-day river rafting trips.
The Nantahala River, located in Nantahala Gorge, is one of the most popular whitewater destinations in the country.
Established in 2008, Carolina Outfitters is one of the most experienced rafting companies in the area.
They offer a variety of trip options for all experience levels, so whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rafter, they have something for you.
Be sure to check out Carolina Outfitters if you’re looking for a wild and exciting adventure at Nantahala River in Bryson City!
The Storytelling Center of the Southern Appalachians is a great place to learn about Bryson City’s history and culture.
The center features exhibits on the area’s early settlers, the railroad, and the Cherokee Indians.
You can also listen to stories told by local storytellers.
For history buffs interested in learning about Bryson City or hearing some great stories, the Storytelling Center of the Southern Appalachians at Mitchell Street is the perfect place to spend the afternoon.
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If you’re a fishing enthusiast, you’ll love fly fishing at Great Smoky Mountains National Park at Park Headquarters Road.
This park is home to some of the best trout fishing in the country.
There are several streams and rivers in the park where you can fish for trout, including the Little River, Abrams Creek, and Indian Creek.
With over 2,000 miles of streams and rivers in the park, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to cast your line.
There are also several fly fishing outfitters in the city that can provide you with everything you need for a successful day of fishing, including gear, guides, and lessons.
The park also offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and camping.
So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, be sure to check out the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for some great fly fishing opportunities.
The Nantahala River Gem Mine is a great place to find some unique souvenirs—you can mine for gems in the river and keep what you find.
The gem mine also has a gift shop where you can buy local jewelry and other items.
The Nantahala River Gem Mine is a great place for crafty people who love to gift unique souvenirs to their loved ones.
If you’re interested in mining for gems or buying local jewelry, be sure to check out the Nantahala River Gem Mine located in Everett Street.
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The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is a historic train that offers scenic rides through the mountains.
The train has been operating since 1883 and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bryson City.
There are several different routes you can take, depending on your interests.
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You can choose to ride through the Nantahala Gorge, see the sights of downtown Bryson City, or take a longer trip to Asheville.
No matter which route you choose, you’re sure to enjoy the picturesque views from the train.
If you’re looking for a unique way to see the Smoky Mountains, be sure to take a ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad located at Mitchell Street.
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The Smoky Mountain Trains Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.
The museum is located at Greenlee Street in Bryson City and features a collection of historic locomotives and train cars.
You can also learn about the railroad’s history, see how it operated during its heyday, and find out how it’s being preserved today.
If you’re a fan of trains or history, don’t forget to visit the Smoky Mountain Trains Museum; it’s a great place to learn about the railroad and see some of its historic locomotives up close.
Mountain Layers Brewing Company is a great place to try some of Bryson City’s handcrafted beers.
The brewery has a variety of different beers, from light and refreshing brews to dark and malty stouts.
You can also buy food from the brewery’s food truck.
The brewery is most known for its signature beers.
The Goodday Everyday Light Lager is a light and refreshing beer with a slightly sweet flavor.
The Fontana Hoppiness IPA is a hoppy beer with a citrus flavor that’s perfect for hop lovers.
If you’re looking for a beer with a bit more of a kick, the brewery’s Elk Watch Stout is a great option.
It’s a dark and rich beer with hints of chocolate and caramel.
Mountain Layers Brewing Company has a wide selection of beers to satisfy your taste.
Be sure to stop by Everett Street and try their signature beers.
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If you’re looking for a great place to camp in the Great Smoky Mountains, Deep Creek is a great option.
Deep Creek on Main Street is a beautiful spot in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s perfect for picnics, camping, and hiking.
This area offers plenty of campsites with access to the creek, making it the perfect spot for swimming, fishing, and kayaking; you can also go tubing or wading in the creek.
There are several different trails you can hike, ranging from easy to strenuous.
Hiking trails in the area include the Deep Creek Loop Trail, which is a moderate 4.5-mile hike.
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This trail takes you through a variety of different environments, including meadows, forests, and streams.
If you want to try a more adventurous camping experience, visit the backcountry campsites at Deep Creek.
These sites offer more solitude than regular campsites and provide access to some of the best hiking trails in the area.
For anyone looking for a peaceful spot to relax or an adventurous place to explore, be sure to check out Deep Creek.
It’s a great place to enjoy the outdoors and take in the beauty of the Smoky Mountains.
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The Appalachian Rivers Aquarium is a great place to learn about the aquatic creatures of the Appalachian Mountains.
The aquarium features exhibits of the area’s fish, mussels, and turtles.
You can watch videos about fly fishing in the Appalachian Mountains.
The aquarium also has exhibits on local amphibians and reptiles.
You can also learn about the area’s river ecosystems and how to protect them.
The Appalachian Rivers Aquarium on Island Street at the Farmer’s Market is a great place to discover the area’s river ecosystems and aquatic life.
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The Swain County Heritage Museum is a great place to learn about the culture and heritage of Bryson City and Swain County.
This museum on Everett Street features exhibits on the area’s early settlers, the Cherokee Indians, and the Civil War.
You can learn about the history of the area and see how it has changed over time.
You’ll also see a replica of a log cabin and a one-room schoolhouse.
If you’re interested in learning about the history of Bryson City and Swain County, don’t forget to add the Swain County Heritage Museum to your list of places to visit!
Deep Creek Winery is a great place to try some of Bryson City’s family-owned wines.
The winery offers a variety of different wines, from reds and whites to sparkling and sweet.
You can also buy Charcuterie platters with fresh Amish cheese and crackers to pair with your glass of wine.
The winery is most known for its signature wines: the Deep Creek Red and White are both made with North Carolina grapes and have a fruit-forward flavor.
If you’re looking for a wine with a bit more of a kick, the winery’s Carolina Devil’s Cut is a great option.
It’s a full-bodied red wine with hints of cherry and blackberry.
On the other hand, if prefer a sweet wine, the winery’s Blackberry Wine is perfect.
It has a delicious blackberry flavor that pairs well with desserts or cheese platters.
No matter what your taste in wine may be, Deep Creek Winery on Johnathan Walk has something for you.
Be sure to stop by and try their signature wines.
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The Nantahala Outdoor Center is a great place to let the kids run around and explore.
The center has a treetop adventure course where kids can climb, swing, and walk across bridges high above the ground.
There are also zip lines for active teenagers at the Zipline Adventure Park, which features an aerial 550-foot-long dual zip line.
Meanwhile, the less adventurous kids can try out their luck with some gem-mining adventures.
If you’re looking for a place where the kids can have fun and explore, be sure to check out the Nantahala Outdoor Center at 19 West.
Smoky Mountain Ziplines is a great place to experience the thrill of zip lining, and it’s guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping!
The ziplining course at Smoky Mountain Ziplines is one of the longest in North Carolina—you can zip through the trees for over 2,000 feet.
There are a variety of different courses, including an obstacle course and a course with a Tarzan swing.
Smoky Mountain Ziplines also has treetop adventure courses, where you can climb, swing, and walk across bridges high above the ground.
Stop by Mill Creek Road at Pigeon Forge in Tennessee for a one-of-a-kind adventure.
Bryson City is a great place to visit for anyone who loves the outdoors.
With so many things to do, you’ll never be bored in this mountain town!
This charming small town is a great place to visit for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.
Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy whitewater rafting, fishing, hiking, and camping in the Great Smoky Mountains.
There’s no shortage of things to do in Bryson City!
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip now with our guide on the best things to do in Bryson City!
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