Bryson City NC: A 3-Day Adventure Itinerary Exploring Nature and City Life

Day 1: Explore Bryson City

Bryson City, NC

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Filling Station Diner

Start your day with a hearty southern breakfast at The Filling Station Diner, famous for their omelets and biscuits.
Walk to the diner from any central hotel.
USD15, 1.5 hours

9:30 AM

Great Smoky Mountains Railway

Take a scenic train ride with the Great Smoky Mountains Railway, enjoying stunning views of the mountains and rivers.
Just a short walk to the railway station.
USD72, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Bistro at the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts

Enjoy a delightful lunch with locally sourced ingredients at The Bistro before your next adventure.
Drive or take a short walk from the railway.
USD20, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Tuckasegee River Rafting

Experience the rush of river rafting on the Tuckasegee River, perfect for both beginners and seasoned rafters.
Meet at the rafting company’s location, approximately 10 minutes away by car.
USD45, 3 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at The Cork and Bean

Unwind at The Cork and Bean with a delicious dinner and a selection of fine wines.
Just a short drive from the rafting location.
USD30, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Evening Stroll through Downtown

Cap off your day with a leisurely stroll along the vibrant streets of Bryson City, visiting local shops.
Explore on foot; everything is within walking distance.
USD0, 1 hour
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Day 2: Great Smoky Mountains Adventure

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, NC

7:00 AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Shop

Fuel up with a fresh coffee and a tasty breakfast burrito at The Coffee Shop, known for their cozy ambiance.
Walk to the coffee shop from your accommodation.
USD10, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Drive to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Take a leisurely 30-minute drive to the park, enhancing your excitement for a day of exploration in nature.
Follow US-74 E towards the park entrance.
USD0, 30 minutes

9:00 AM

Hiking at Clingmans Dome

Hike the short but steep trail to Clingmans Dome for breathtaking panoramic views of the Smokies.
Follow signs within the park to Clingmans Dome.
USD0, 3 hours

12:00 PM

Picnic Lunch at Look Rock

Enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch at Look Rock, bringing along sandwiches and snacks for a meal surrounded by nature.
Drive to Look Rock's picnic area.
USD10 (for picnic supplies), 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Wildlife Spotting at Cades Cove

Spend the afternoon driving the scenic loop in Cades Cove, famous for its rich wildlife and historical cabins.
Drive to Cades Cove, approximately 30 minutes from Look Rock.
USD0, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Hiking to Abrams Falls

Venture on a 5-mile hike to Abrams Falls, a stunning waterfall with a delightful resting spot.
Hike from the Abrams Falls parking area.
USD0, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Old Mill Restaurant

Drive back to Bryson City for a comforting dinner at The Old Mill Restaurant, where Southern cuisine shines.
Drive back via US-74 W.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Discover Bryson City and Surroundings

Bryson City, NC

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Celtic Tavern

Savor traditional Irish breakfast dishes at Celtic Tavern, with a warm and lively atmosphere.
Walk over from your accommodation.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Nantahala Outdoor Center

Explore the Nantahala Outdoor Center, where you can try various water sports or relax in the beautiful surroundings.
Drive for about 20 minutes.
USD0 (additional cost for activities), 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at River’s Edge Restaurant

Enjoy riverside dining at River’s Edge Restaurant with a casual atmosphere and great views.
Located within the Nantahala Outdoor Center.
USD20, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Explore Deep Creek

Spend the afternoon at Deep Creek, which offers lovely hiking trails and refreshing creek-side spaces for relaxation.
Drive approximately 15 minutes to the trailhead.
USD0, 3 hours

4:00 PM

Coffee Break at The Chocolate Shop

Stop by The Chocolate Shop for a delicious coffee and a sweet treat to recharge after your hiking adventures.
Return to Bryson City and walk to the shop.
USD10, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Dinner at Pasqualino's Italian Restaurant

End your journey with an exquisite Italian dinner at Pasqualino's, enjoying homemade pasta and classic dishes.
Drive 5 minutes to the restaurant.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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