The NC Smokies and Haywood County lure travelers with captivating scenery, unforgettable wildlife viewing, mountain culture and local eateries
Itinerary at a Glance: The impressive NC Smokies is the place you want to gather. Discover ‘Why the Elk’ experiences in Haywood County, covering everything from elk watching and live theater performances to classic motorcycles and adorable alpacas. When you’re not ascending a mountain or trekking through a national park, enjoy local restaurants, shops, and museums.
Authentic Appalachian experiences are happening daily in Haywood County. Come explore 46 of the most scenic miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway, view Elk in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, or take a guided tour of a family farm. It’s time to gather in the unparalleled Smokey Mountains of North Carolina.
Duration: 3 Days
DAY 1
Arrive by lunchtime in downtown Waynesville to explore its award-winning Main Street. Find local fare at The Patio Bistro, Smoky Mountain Sub Shop, or BooJum Brewery Taproom. Afterward, visit the local galleries and don’t forget to stop by Mast General Store to gear-up for the adventures that await.
Afterward, head over to the Shelton House for a personalized tour of the Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts. Peruse a unique collection of traditional crafts and folk art created by some of North Carolina’s most renowned artisans. In fact, the charming farmhouse, built in 1875, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
In the evening, enjoy dinner at Harmon’s Den followed by a performance at the Haywood Arts Regional Theatre, known by the locals as the “HART.” This year-round theater features productions from classics like Macbeth to Broadway musicals like Mamma Mia!
Great Smoky Mountain National Park is home to elk and other beautiful wildlife. Visit NC Smokies.
DAY 2
Head into the Great Smoky Mountain National Park to see the elk and other wildlife in the Cataloochee Valley. While there, you can tour an old school, a church, several homes and other structures dating back to 1910. There are also numerous hiking trails and streams to explore before having a picnic lunch.
It’s on to Maggie Valley and the Wheels Through Time Museum. Celebrating more than 20 years, the 38,000-square-foot facility features a premier collection of Vintage American Transportation. The automobile and motorcycle collections are equally interesting and provide a walk-through history for visitors to discover.
Take time to drive the Blue Ridge Parkway and you won’t be disappointed. Stop at WaterRock Knob for jaw-dropping views or a short hike and chat with a ranger at the visitor’s center. There are numerous overlooks along this section of the parkway for group photos. Be on the look out for bald eagles, hawks and other unique birds.
Enjoy a relaxing dinner at any of the area’s group friendly restaurants.
Winchester Creek Farm is a 20-acre family-owned and operated farm in Haywood County featuring alpacas and miniature animals.
DAY 3
It’s time to recharge at Joey’s Pancake House which has been a go-to breakfast spot in Maggie Valley since 1966. And when you’re done, grab a coffee mug or box of their pancake mix to take home!
Just outside of Waynesville with the Smoky Mountains as a backdrop, you’ll find Winchester Creek Farm, a 20-acre family owned and operated outfit featuring alpacas and miniature animals. The family loves sharing their farm and animal knowledge with visitors. Register in advance for the 45-minute educational tour to meet some of the animal families.
Visit NC Smokies
Ben Wilder
800-334-9036
YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/user/SmokyMountainsNC
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