Discover the most popular places to visit in Bryson City
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
9.4/10 (652 reviews)
Wind through Western North Carolina's breathtaking landscapes aboard vintage locomotives on this historic railway. Upgrade to first-class dining cars for a gourmet meal while passing over trestles and rivers.
Island Park
8.0/10 (33 reviews)
This secluded 4.5-acre island retreat is accessible only by footbridge over the Tuckasegee River. Explore shaded trails, observe wildlife, or cast a line in one of the Blue Ridge Snorkel Trail's pristine spots.
Smokey Mountain Trains Museum
8.8/10 (209 reviews)
This impressive museum houses over 7,000 Lionel™ model trains with interactive exhibits for all ages. Pair your visit with a Great Smoky Mountains Railroad excursion for a complete railway experience.
Bryson City Gem Mine
8.2/10 (52 reviews)
Unearth treasures at this family-friendly gem mining center where visitors sift through dirt for genuine gemstones. Take home your discoveries and visit the on-site rock shop for expert identification.
Cooper Creek Trout Farm & Pond
8.0/10 (34 reviews)
Catch your own trout in this mountain setting where no fishing license is required. Staff will clean your fresh catch on-site, allowing you to take home a delicious mountain meal.
Nantahala Brewing Company
8.6/10 (121 reviews)
This mountain brewery crafts artisanal beers using pure Smoky Mountain water and fresh ingredients. Sample a flight of their 32 taps while enjoying live music on their dog-friendly patio.
The Storytelling Center of the Southern Appalachians
7.8/10 (26 reviews)
This intimate center preserves Southern Appalachian oral traditions through engaging storytelling sessions. Visitors experience cultural narratives firsthand in an atmosphere that brings regional folklore to life.
The Cottage Craftsman
7.2/10 (26 reviews)
This charming yellow cottage showcases Western North Carolina's finest handcrafted treasures. Browse local art, specialty foods, and wines while chatting with knowledgeable staff about the artisans' stories.
"Great place to stay. Very clean and well managed. One block from the shops and restaurants in Bryson City. Older motel but we appreciated the warm welcome and a clean place to stay and everything was in working order. Small shower. Water pressure was adequate. Only thing I didn’t care for was the extra inside deadbolt or chain was missing from the door. We like the extra door lock. Would stay there again to be close to town."
"The mini houses are uniquely decorated and very clean and comfortable. The host is wonderful and went out of her way to communicate with us the check in process."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.