Murphy Travel Guide

Explore the hidden jewel of North Carolina Mountains, Murphy, with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, food scene, local culture, hiking routes, and much more.


Introduction to Murphy

Tucked away in the western region of North Carolina Mountains, lies a hidden jewel that goes by the name of Murphy. With its serene landscapes, picturesque views, and tranquil surroundings, Murphy is a perfect getaway for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.

List of Places to Visit in Murphy

Whether you’re looking for cultural attractions, natural wonders, or thrilling adventures, Murphy has something to offer to every type of traveler. Here’s a list of must-visit places in Murphy:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cherokee County Historical Museum
  • Fields of the Wood Bible Park
  • Old Jail Museum
  • Murphy Art Walk
  • John C. Campbell Folk School

Natural Attractions of Murphy: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Nantahala National Forest
  • Hiwassee River
  • Murphy River Walk
  • Konehete Park
  • Murphy Mountain Bike Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Murphy

Murphy offers a vast expanse of hiking and biking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. Here are some of the popular ones:

  • Appalachian Trail
  • Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest
  • Fires Creek Recreation Area
  • Valley River Walk
  • Murphy River Walk

Best Things to Do in Murphy: Activities and Tours

Murphy has a plethora of outdoor activities and tours that are worth experiencing. Here are some of the best things to do in Murphy:

  • Whitewater Rafting on Ocoee River
  • North Carolina Trout Fishing
  • Tail of the Dragon
  • Zipline Canopy Tours
  • Cherokee Indian Reservation

Week-Long Itinerary for Murphy

If you’re planning to spend a week in Murphy, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Murphy and explore the surrounding areas. Day 2: Go hiking in Appalachian Trail and visit the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest. Day 3: Take a rafting trip on the Ocoee River. Day 4: Visit the Cherokee Indian Reservation and explore the cultural museum. Day 5: Go trout fishing in Nantahala River or Hiwassee River. Day 6: Go zip-lining and experience the Adrenaline Rush Zip Line Canopy Tour. Day 7: Visit Fields of the Wood Bible Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Murphy

Murphy’s food scene offers a wide variety of dishes with a blend of Southern cuisine, barbeque, and traditional American fare. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • North Carolina barbeque
  • Fried Chicken and Waffles
  • Sweet Potato Casserole
  • Brunswick Stew
  • Banana Pudding

Local Beverages

  • Asheville Craft Breweries
  • North Carolina Wine Trail
  • Craft Spirits of Western North Carolina
  • Freshly brewed coffee

Where to Stay in Murphy: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Murphy offers a range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels, here are some recommended places to stay in Murphy:

  • Murphy Motel
  • Best Western Of Murphy
  • Quality Inn Andrews
  • Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel
  • Blue Ridge Inn Bed & Breakfast

What to Buy in Murphy: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring back home, here are some options:

  • North Carolina pottery
  • Handcrafted jewelry
  • Southern pecans
  • Ashe County Cheese
  • Homemade jellies and jams

Local Culture and Customs of Murphy

Murphy is known for its southern hospitality, laid-back lifestyle, and proud mountain heritage. Some of the local customs and cultures include celebrating fall festivals, enjoying live music performances, and indulging in outdoor activities.

Best Time to Visit Murphy

The best time to visit Murphy is during the fall season, from September to November, when the foliage turns into shades of red and yellow, and the temperatures are mild and pleasant. Spring and summer are also good times to visit if you’re looking for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Murphy

Do:

  • Tip your servers at restaurants (18-20% is standard).
  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take advantage of the scenic beauty and outdoor activities.
  • Visit the Cherokee Indian Reservation and learn about their history and culture.

Don’t:

  • Litter and pollute the natural surroundings.
  • Be loud and disruptive in public places.
  • Be disrespectful towards the local culture and customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Murphy

Murphy is generally safe; however, travelers should take precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night and securing their valuables. Additionally, visitors should be cautious when driving on the mountainous roads.

Health in Murphy

Murphy has adequate medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics, which provide essential medical care. However, visitors are recommended to carry health insurance for emergencies.

Getting to Murphy: Transportation Options and Logistics

Murphy is accessible via various modes of transportation, including air, road, and rail. Here are some options:

Airports Near Murphy

  • Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (70 miles)
  • Asheville Regional Airport (90 miles)
  • Tri-Cities Regional Airport (100 miles)

Bus Stations Near Murphy

  • Greyhound Bus Lines, Chattanooga (79 miles)
  • Greyhound Bus Lines, Asheville (94 miles)
  • Greyhound Bus Lines, Johnson City (103 miles)

Other Options

  • Amtrak Train Station, Etowah (59 miles)
  • Car rentals available from nearby airports and cities.

How to Get Around in Murphy

The most convenient mode of transportation in Murphy is a car. Visitors can also explore the Murphy River Walk on foot or rent a bike from nearby shops.

Where to Go Next from Murphy: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re planning to extend your trip from Murphy, here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Asheville, North Carolina (2-hour drive)
  • Blue Ridge Parkway (1-hour drive)
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park (2-hour drive)
  • Chattanooga, Tennessee (2-hour drive)

Conclusion

Murphy is an idyllic destination that provides a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and southern hospitality. With its incredible natural beauty, diverse cultural offerings, and exciting activities, Murphy is the perfect destination for a fulfilling and rejuvenating vacation.