NC Smoky Mountains

Guests can take advantage of the Nantahala Outdoor Center in Bryson City, a hub for everything that is outdoorsy. Here guests can enjoy biking, hiking, fishing, camping, white water rafting, tubing, and much more. All the while being surrounded by five national parks. Bryson City is also home to a steam train attraction that runs year-round. In the winter months, they do a polar express event as well.

A little to the east is Cherokee, which has been an increasing tourist destination since the 1930s. With its many attractions and huge grand casino, Cherokee continues to draw attention from all over western NC. While you must be of the eastern band of Cherokee to own property here, it is definitely a close and easy drive-to spot that many visitors take advantage of.

Continuing on Maggie Valley and Waynesville, often called the gateway to the Smokys. They might be small towns but they have a big appeal to tourists. With their awesome views and their scenic sightseeing, the beauty is unmatched. It is also home to Lake Junaluska and Cataloochee Ski Area which draw guests at all times of the year. With the year-round festivals and the aforementioned amenities, it is no wonder that it catches the tourists and continues to bring back more every year.

Jogging over to Asheville, a town that began in 1797 full of rich history and a busy downtown life. It is home to many unique shops and a river arts district that has gained in popularity and continues to grow every year. The Biltmore House sits on an 8,000-acre tract in Asheville and was built in 1895 by George Vanderbilt. Now open to the public, it draws around 1.4 million tourists every year to see the beautiful gardens and tour the gigantic French-style mansion. While Asheville Proper no longer takes on new short-term rentals, the surrounding cities and outskirts do, and this does not stop people from coming to Asheville to enjoy all that it has to offer.

Going north of Asheville you run into Mars Hill. A nice little ski community home to the Wolf Ridge Ski Resort. When guests are not skiing they can enjoy a hike to the big bald or have an evening at the Southern Appalachian Repertory Theatre. Being only 20 minutes from Asheville, it makes this place a great destination for vacationers.

Southeast of Asheville is Lake Lure, a popular lake destination. The many lake activities and the Lake Lure Beach and Water Park, makes Lake Lure a wonderful tourist destination. Lake Lure also has many beautiful hikes, including Chimney Rock, one of our most popular natural landmarks in the state park of its namesake. After a day in the sun, guests can unwind in the cozy town atmosphere and visit the many restaurants or even The Right Track Toy Train Museum.