Bryson City NC
Bryson City, the county seat of Swain County, is a small mountain town on the banks of the Tuckasegee River at the southern edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. At last count, the population was approaching 1500. In stark contrast to the towns on the Tennessee side of the Park, Bryson City has kept its laid-back, small town charm and offers a more relaxed way to enjoy the Smokies.
Driving through the sleepy downtown, you may wonder why the towns advertising proclaims Have a Big Vacation in a Small Town. Or why Bryson City is often called The outdoor adventure capital of the Smoky Mountains. Its because all the activities take place in the mountains, gorges, rivers and lakes surrounding the downtown. Downtown Bryson City is where you go to relax, dine and shop after a busy day of outdoor activities.
| Every Saturday night from June through October, you can enjoy a FREE concert at the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Depot from 6:30 to 8:00 pm. Regional and local musicians play everything from bluegrass, to old time country to rock and roll. Sit in one of the old church pews on the covered depot deck or bring a lawn chair to enjoy the show. |
| Location: |
Everett Street, Bryson City |
| Bryson City’s two main streets — Main and Everett — are dotted with an enticing variety of shops and galleries, many showcasing the work of local artists and craftsman and several working studios. Other shops feature interesting clothing, books and creative gifts. And there’s an old hardware store and a dry goods store that have been downtown fixtures for generations. Current shopping guide: |
| Bryson City offers an array of options ranging from fine dining to country cooking to burgers. Plus bakeries, chocolate shops and ice cream parlors. Download a current list of restaurants. |
| Bryson City’s contribution to the growing Western North Carolina brewing scene. |
Island Park
| Have a picnic or walk your dog on this downtown Bryson City island on the Tuckaseigee River. Or put your kayak in at a great whitewater hole. Accessible by a foot bridge. |
| Location: |
Bryson Street, Bryson City |
