Things to do in Bryson City

Activities, attractions and tours

A forested mountain landscape with a prominent tree in the foreground.
Lake Junaluska Drone Sunset Aerial Panorama
A mural of a red train with the text "Welcome to the Great Smoky Mountains, N.R."
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Autumn Oconaluftee River Park Scene With Bridge, People Fishing, and Sparkling Water in a Scenic Forest Cherokee, North Carolina. Shimmering stream, colorful leaves, a distant bridge, and visitors enj

Things to do

Museum of the Cherokee People Admission Ticket

Museum of the Cherokee People Admission Ticket

P923
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Museum of the Cherokee People Admission Ticket
Great Smoky Mountains National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour

P984
per traveler
Great Smoky Mountains National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour
Fontana Lake: Kayak or SUP Rental

Fontana Lake: Kayak or SUP Rental

P2,584
per adult
Fontana Lake: Kayak or SUP Rental
Blue Ridge Parkway Bundle

Blue Ridge Parkway Self-Guided Audio Tour Bundle

P1,476
per traveler
Blue Ridge Parkway Self-Guided Audio Tour Bundle
Great Smoky & Cades Cove Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour Bundle

Great Smoky & Cades Cove Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour Bundle

P1,538
per traveler
90% of travellers recommend
Great Smoky & Cades Cove Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour Bundle
Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Great Smoky Mountains

Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Great Smoky Mountains

P1,230
per traveler
100% of travellers recommend
Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Great Smoky Mountains
Over the Top Tour in Oconaluftee

Over the Top Tour in Oconaluftee

P9,230
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Over the Top Tour in Oconaluftee
See all activities in Bryson City
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

What to do in Bryson City

Stay near popular Bryson City attractions

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

9.4/10 (652 reviews)
Wind through Western North Carolina's breathtaking landscapes aboard vintage locomotives on this historic railway. Upgrade to first-class dining cars for a gourmet meal while passing over trestles and rivers.
See properties

Where to stay in Bryson City

Find the best Bryson City areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.
A residential area with houses, a paved path, and a backdrop of mountains and trees.
Photo by Katrina Fitzpatrick
Open Photo by Katrina Fitzpatrick

Downtown Bryson City

While visiting Downtown Bryson City, you might make a stop by sights like Great Smoky Mountains Railroad and Smokey Mountain Trains Museum.

A courthouse with a clock tower, surrounded by snow-covered trees and decorated with wreaths.

Sylva

A stone church with a steeple, surrounded by trees and a road.

Cherokee

A mountainous landscape with dense forests and a sunset.

Topton

Frequently asked questions

Is Bryson City worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Bryson City is explore Unto These Hills Outdoor Drama. Check this leading sight off your list, then discover more of this area's nature and watersports.
How do I spend a day in Bryson City?
Kick-start your day with a visit to Great Smoky Mountains Railroad and Oconaluftee Indian Village. Then, explore different parts of Bryson City for local dining and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Bryson City?
The top tourist attraction in Bryson City is Unto These Hills Outdoor Drama, so be sure to include it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Bryson City?
Three days in Bryson City is more than enough to enjoy the city's key attractions. Many travelers spend two days on average. Nantahala Brewing Company, Indian Creek Falls and Juney Whank Falls are highly rated sights. Like to see more? Hang around a bit longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Pigeon Forge.
What are some activities to do in Bryson City with kids?
Whether you're traveling with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, a schedule filled with fun activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Bryson City with kids.

What to do in Bryson City for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Bryson City, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to Nantahala Brewing Company or Eastern Cherokee Agency.
Are there free things to do in Bryson City?
In Bryson City, Indian Creek Falls is an unmissable spot for anyone looking to enjoy the city without opening their wallet. Also, check out the local parks and neighborhoods, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's an easy way to discover the best free things to do in Bryson City.