Things To Do
Appalachian Rivers Aquarium
Small, family-friendly aquarium with regional aquatic exhibits — right downtown
Deep Creek Waterfalls & Hiking (Great Smoky Mountains National Park)
Trailheads are at the end of Deep Creek Road — this area is where you access Tom Branch Falls, Indian Creek Falls, and Juney Whank Falls.
Asheville
(~1.5–2 hour drive) — Asheville is famous for its thriving craft beer scene with 40+ breweries — including Highland Brewing Company and many downtown taprooms with beer flights or live music. Eclectic cocktail lounges, wine bars, and late-night spots fill the city’s walkable downtown and South Slope districts. A wide range of restaurants — from innovative farm-to-table dining downtown to tapas, southern BBQ, and global cuisine. Places to Visit: Asheville Art Museum — Contemporary and regional art in the heart of downtown. Folk Art Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway — Appalachian crafts and exhibits. Smith-McDowell House historic museum with local history.
Cherokee
~15–20 minutes driving time. This makes Cherokee a quick and easy day trip from Bryson City — perfect for visiting the casino, museums, cultural sites, restaurants, or exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park access points there. If in a gambling mood: Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort 777 Casino Dr, Cherokee, NC 28719 Classic casino with slots, table games, live entertainment, sports betting, shows, bars, and restaurants.