If you're seeking to have a big vacation in a small town, then North Carolina's Bryson City is a superb location to make it happen. This small town of approximately 1,500 people is full of irresistible charm and gracious hospitality. Whether you seek to spend your time indoors sampling the fruits of the local breweries and restaurants, or want to get outside and play, you will find an astonishing amount of options in, and near, Bryson City. Take a look:
Located in Western North Carolina, Bryson City is teeming with adventure.
So much so, that TripAdvisor recently ranked the town #8 among honeymoon destinations.
Honeymoon, or not, there are several bucket list-worthy things to do when in town — and a ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is one of them!
Hop aboard for a scenic ride through Western North Carolina. Plan your trip accordingly to partake in special events throughout the year, like the Polar Express, for even more fun.
Hiking trails in this neck of the woods deliver some big shock and awe too.
The Goldmine Loop Trail, for instance, is a moderate 3.1 mile loop that leads to an abandoned tunnel deep in the woods. It's known as The Road To Nowhere. The trail has a fair amount of traffic, so you can count on meeting some new friends along the way.
If you want a hike that's significantly more challenging, then you can tackle the Newfound Gap to Clingman's Dome trail.
At a little more than 15 miles, it's guaranteed to push your limits. The trek is part of the Appalachian Trail. On this section alone, you'll need to conquer seven gaps, four knobs and three mountains. Or...
You could just get in your car and cross the border into Tennessee and drive there instead.
Afterall, not every trip to Bryson City can include a couple of days JUST for hiking, right?
Fontana Lake is another day trip from Bryson City just waiting to happen.
Relax and unwind along the shores — or atop Western North Carolina's largest lake, a man-made reservoir near town.
If a day on the lake is a little too serene, then you can opt to kick it up a notch with a whitewater rafting trip.
There are several outfitters in town that can get you on (or in!) the water, including Wildwater, Inc., shown in the photo above.
Drive a short 10 miles to the East for an authentic cultural Cherokee Indian experience on their reservation in Cherokee, North Carolina.
Take a guided tour hosted by a real Cherokee Indian and learn about the history and culture of the reservation. After, check out the arts and crafts made by the residents.
Great shopping abounds in the quaint streets of this little town in the Smokies.
Bryson City is abundantly populated with charming little shops and galleries. You're sure to find that perfect something to remember your trip by.
All this adventure is certain to help you work up an appetite (several times a day, in fact!). You'll be pleasantly surprised by the number and quality of restaurants in Bryson City.
From the Bistro at the Everett Hotel (shown above) to the Everett Street Diner (shown below), you're sure to find something to fit every occasion and everyone's taste.
There's no doubt about it: if you're seeking to have a great BIG vacation and want that small town charm, then Bryson City is the spot for you.
We'd love to hear about the last time you stay-cationed in North Carolina in the Bryson City area! Join the discussion below.
For another family adventure, head to this incredible wildlife park outside of Charlotte, North Carolina.
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