Waynesville Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit in Waynesville, North Carolina Mountains. Explore natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, local culture, safety and health, and more.


Introduction to Waynesville

Waynesville is a charming mountain town in the western part of North Carolina, nestled in the scenic Great Smoky Mountains. It is a perfect destination for those looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and small-town charm. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, adventure seeker, or foodie, Waynesville has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Waynesville

From museums and historical sites to natural attractions and outdoor adventures, Waynesville has a lot to offer. Here is a list of the top places to visit in Waynesville:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts - This museum showcases the works of local artisans and craftspeople, who preserve and carry on the traditions of handmade crafts in the region.
  • Haywood Arts Regional Theater - Known as HART, this theater is a cultural hub in Waynesville and hosts a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, and concerts.
  • Shelton House Museum of American History - This museum is a historic house that offers a glimpse into the daily life and culture of the Appalachian people in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
  • Pigeon Street Pottery - This studio showcases the works of local potters and offers pottery classes for those interested in learning the craft.

Natural Attractions of Waynesville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park - Waynesville is a gateway to this iconic national park, where you can enjoy hiking, camping, wildlife watching, and scenic drives.
  • Blue Ridge Parkway - This scenic road offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and is a popular spot for biking, hiking, picnicking, and exploring.
  • Cold Mountain - This peak is featured in Charles Frazier’s novel “Cold Mountain,” and is a popular hiking destination with stunning views of the surrounding valleys.
  • Lake Junaluska - This serene lake is a perfect spot for fishing, boating, picnicking, and relaxing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Waynesville

Waynesville is a hiker’s and biker’s paradise, with miles of trails and scenic routes to explore. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Waynesville:

  • Mount Cammerer via the Appalachian Trail - This challenging hike takes you along the iconic Appalachian Trail, with stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains and Mount Cammerer fire tower.
  • Cataloochee Valley Loop - This scenic drive takes you through the historic Cataloochee Valley, where you can see elk, historic buildings, and stunning views of the mountains.
  • Boyd Mountain Nature Trail - This 1.5-mile loop trail offers a scenic hike through the forest, with views of wildlife and wildflowers.
  • Tsali Recreation Area - This mountain bike trail system offers over 40 miles of trails, with scenic views of the Fontana Lake and Nantahala National Forest.

Best Things to Do in Waynesville: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and biking, Waynesville offers a range of activities and tours for visitors. Here are some of the best things to do in Waynesville:

  • Whitewater Rafting - Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Nantahala River, with rapids ranging from class I-IV.
  • Farm Tours - Visit local farms and learn about sustainable agriculture practices, taste farm-fresh produce, and even milk a cow.
  • Craft Beer Tour - Take a tour of the local craft breweries in Waynesville and taste a variety of beers made with local ingredients.
  • Leaf Peeping - Enjoy the fall foliage in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Blue Ridge Parkway, with stunning views of red, orange, and yellow leaves.

Week-Long Itinerary for Waynesville

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Waynesville:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts and Pigeon Street Pottery
2 Hike to Mount Cammerer via the Appalachian Trail
3 Take a farm tour and taste farm-fresh produce
4 Explore the Cataloochee Valley and go wildlife watching
5 Go whitewater rafting on the Nantahala River
6 Visit the Shelton House Museum of American History
7 Take a craft beer tour of the local breweries in Waynesville

Food and Drink Scene of Waynesville

Waynesville’s food and drink scene is a reflection of its mountain heritage and local ingredients. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages in Waynesville:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried Apple Pie - This dessert is a local favorite, made with locally grown apples and a flaky crust.
  • Pork Rinds - These crispy snacks are made with local pork, seasoned with spices, and served with dipping sauce.
  • Cornbread - This classic Southern staple is a must-eat in Waynesville, with variations like sweet cornbread, buttermilk cornbread, and jalapeno cornbread.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer - Waynesville has a thriving craft beer scene, with local breweries like Frog Level Brewing Company, BearWaters Brewing Company, and Boojum Brewing Company.
  • Moonshine - This traditional Appalachian drink is made with corn mash, distilled in copper stills, and flavored with fruits and herbs.
  • Cider - Waynesville is home to a few apple orchards that make delicious hard cider, using locally grown apples and traditional cider-making techniques.

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

Waynesville offers a range of accommodation options, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious resorts. Here are some recommendations for where to stay in Waynesville:

  • The Swag - This luxury mountain resort offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a range of outdoor activities, like hiking, horseback riding, and fly fishing.
  • The Yellow House on Plott Creek Road - This charming bed and breakfast offers comfortable rooms, delicious breakfast, and easy access to downtown Waynesville.
  • Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center - This lakeside property offers a range of accommodation options, from hotel rooms to cabins, and a variety of amenities, like a golf course, tennis courts, and a pool.

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

If you’re looking for souvenirs and unique gifts to bring home from Waynesville, here are some recommendations:

  • Handmade Crafts - Visit the Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts and Pigeon Street Pottery to buy handmade crafts made by local artisans.
  • Local Foods - Buy locally grown produce, jams, and jellies at the Haywood’s Historic Farmers Market or the Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project Farmers Market.
  • Moonshine and Cider - Bring home a bottle of locally made moonshine or hard cider from Elevated Mountain Distilling Company or Dry Ridge Distillery.

Local Culture and Customs of Waynesville

Waynesville’s local culture reflects its mountain heritage and history. Appalachian music, crafts, and food are all important parts of the culture. The people are friendly and welcoming, with a strong sense of community and tradition.

Best Time to Visit Waynesville

The best time to visit Waynesville is in the fall, from September to November, when the leaves change colors and the weather is cool and pleasant. Spring is also a good time to visit, with wildflowers blooming and mild temperatures. Summer can be crowded and hot, while winter can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Waynesville

When visiting Waynesville, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Do try the local food, beer, and moonshine.
  • Do respect the local culture and customs.
  • Do visit the outdoor attractions and scenic views.
  • Do take part in outdoor adventures and tours.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural attractions and trails.
  • Don’t disrespect the locals or their traditions.
  • Don’t trespass on private property or restricted areas.
  • Don’t ignore safety precautions while hiking or biking.

Safety and Health

Waynesville is a safe and healthy destination, but visitors should be aware of certain safety and health precautions.

Safety in Waynesville

  • Be aware of your surroundings while hiking or biking, and follow safety guidelines.
  • Be cautious when driving on mountain roads, and watch out for wildlife.
  • Keep valuables and belongings secure, and don’t leave them unattended.
  • Know the weather conditions before heading out for outdoor activities, and be prepared for changes in weather.

Health in Waynesville

  • Wear sunscreen and bug repellent when spending time outdoors.
  • Stay hydrated and bring plenty of water on hikes and outdoor adventures.
  • Keep a first aid kit handy in case of emergencies.
  • Be aware of the signs and symptoms of altitude sickness if you plan to hike or climb at higher elevations.

Getting to Waynesville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Waynesville is located in western North Carolina, and can be reached by several transportation options.

Airports Near Waynesville

  • Asheville Regional Airport - This is the closest airport to Waynesville, located about 35 miles away.
  • Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport - This airport is located about 90 miles away from Waynesville.

Bus Stations Near Waynesville

  • Greyhound Bus Lines - This bus station is located in Asheville, about 30 miles away from Waynesville.
  • Trailways Transportation System - This bus station is also located in Asheville, about 30 miles away from Waynesville.

Other Options

  • Car rental - Renting a car is a popular option for getting to Waynesville, as it allows for more flexibility in exploring the surrounding areas.
  • Private shuttle service - Private shuttle services like Asheville Transportation Network offer transportation from the airport to Waynesville.

How to Get Around in Waynesville

Waynesville is a small town, and it can be easily explored on foot or by bike. However, if you want to explore the surrounding areas, renting a car is recommended. Taxis and Uber/Lyft are also available in Waynesville.

Where to Go Next from Waynesville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Waynesville is a great starting point for exploring the surrounding area. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Asheville - This nearby city is known for its vibrant arts scene, craft breweries, and scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
  • Cherokee - This town is located at the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and offers a glimpse into the Native American heritage of the region.
  • Biltmore Estate - This historic mansion and estate is located in Asheville and offers tours of the luxurious mansion, gardens, and winery.

Conclusion

Waynesville is a hidden gem in the North Carolina Mountains, with a rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors, learn about local culture, or simply relax and unwind, Waynesville has something for everyone. Plan your next trip to Waynesville and experience its unique charm and beauty.

Main Street Main Street Haywood County Courthouse, c. 1932 Haywood County Courthouse, c. 1932 Former U.S. Post Office Building (now the Municipal Building) c. 1917 Former U.S. Post Office Building (now the Municipal Building) c. 1917