Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Bryson City is an adventurer’s dream. Think elk at sunrise, whitewater rafting, mountain ziplining, mountain views, and unique stays. We were so excited to make it back to the first National Park we ever visited together that sparked our love for the National Parks!
This area is so special that we even got married nearby. This long weekend Bryson City itinerary covers everything you need to see, do, and eat to make the most of your time in one of North Carolina’s most charming mountain towns.
Day 1: Arrive and Settle In
Check into the Hemlocks Mountainside Bungalow
Your Bryson City itinerary begins at the Hemlocks at Nantahala Outdoor Center, where you’ll find luxury bungalows perched above the river. Expect a warm welcome, stylish mountain decor, and the perfect spot to unwind after a travel day.
Dinner at The Bistro at the Everett Hotel
Enjoy an elevated dining experience at this rustic-yet-refined bistro. Their contemporary American menu is complemented by cozy interiors and warm service. Highly recommend the pecan crusted trout!
Sunset at Waterrock Knob
Take a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway to end the first day of your Bryson City itinerary! The Waterrock Knob overlook offers sweeping vistas of the Great Smoky Mountains. The short, uphill trail to the summit is well worth the effort to see the panoramic golden-hour glow, but the view from the parking lot is just as good!
Day 2: Rafting and Exploring
Sunrise Elk Viewing in Cherokee
Make the short drive to Oconaluftee Visitor Center and catch a magical sunrise while watching elk graze in open meadows. If the elk aren’t at the visitor center, they sometimes hang out in downtown Cherokee or the open meadows just past the visitor center.
Overcast mornings tend to bring more elk activity throughout the day. If you have extra time and want some mountain views, keep driving to the Charles A. Webb Overlook!
Breakfast and coffee at Mountain Perks
This cozy cafe offers a welcoming atmosphere with fresh coffee, specialty lattes, and a selection of breakfast sandwiches and pastries.
Guided Whitewater Rafting with NOC
Hit the water with a thrilling guided rafting trip on the Nantahala River. This trip is suitable for families and is mostly class I rapids with a class III rapid at the end. We were surrounded by lush greenery and we got lucky to go when the mountain laurels were in bloom! We found this trip a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
Lunch at River’s End Restaurant
A local institution with riverside views, stop at River’s End for a post-rafting meal with an unbeatable atmosphere.
Explore downtown Bryson City
Spend the afternoon browsing local galleries, bookstores, and artisan boutiques. Downtown Bryson City is extremely walkable and charming. We loved popping into the cute stores and getting tea at MaeBlue.
Dinner at The Fryemont Inn Restaurant
Dining at this historic inn built in 1923 was a highlight of our trip! It’s a local favorite with hearty Southern fare and a cozy, wood-paneled dining room. Definitely try to get a fireside table if you can! We loved strolling the charming property after our meal and learning the history from our amazing hostess.
Day 3: Ziplining and Waterfalls
Breakfast at Bryson City Bakery
Bryson City Bakery is a must-visit spot for fresh-baked goods and quality coffee. We loved the inviting atmosphere and there’s also a cute gift shop attached to the bakery.
Ziplining at Nantahala Outdoor Center
Fly through the treetops on the NOC’s Mountaintop Zipline Tour. This guided tour features multiple zips that send you soaring through a canopy of lush greenery with stunning panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains. It was definitely the most scenic ziplining we have ever done!
Lunch at Big Wesser Riverside Pub
This riverside laid-back pub offering burgers, beers, and often live music with scenic views. We could have stayed here all day!
Explore Downtown Bryson City
Spend the afternoon browsing local galleries, bookstores, and artisan boutiques. Don’t miss shops like MaeBlu, Bryson City Outdoors, and the nostalgic Chocolate Shoppe.
Waterfall Hike and Tubing at Deep Creek
Hike the 2.5-mile Waterfall Loop Trail in the Deep Creek Recreation Area. This easy trail leads past three beautiful waterfalls. After your hike, we highly recommend renting a tube for $10/person from Deep Creek Campground before floating down Deep Creek. The float is a mix of lazy river and thrilling rapids and can be more adventurous after a recent rain. Tubing was a highlight of our trip
Craft Beer and Comfort Food
Relax on the last evening of your Bryson City itinerary! Have dinner at Bryson City Brewing, a historic Coca-Cola bottling plant turned brewery and restaurant, before grabbing more brews from Mountain Layers Brewing Company. End your night with a sweet treat from Soda Pop’s Ice Cream Parlor or The Chocolate Shoppe.
Monday: Farewell Adventures
Cardinal Coffee
Start your final day with a slow breakfast near The Hemlocks at NOC. Cardinal Coffee is a cute cafe with delicious specialty coffee and breakfast items like breakfast sandwiches and smoothies.
Visit Walnut Creek Farm
Meet Scottish Highland cattle and learn about these gentle giants with a farm tour. We loved interacting with the sweet cows who acted like giant dogs!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re rafting down the Nantahala, sipping a craft beer with a view, or watching elk at sunrise, this Bryson City itinerary offers a well-balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s a hidden gem in the Smokies that is perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers looking to reconnect with nature.
