This past weekend, we packed up our entire Thigpen family and headed east to the North Carolina mountains. Our weekend in Bryson City was planned around Great Smoky Mountains Railroad’s Polar Express, but to my surprise I completely fell in love with everything else about this sweet little mountain town. From little shops and eateries, to the hiking and fishing, and of course the magic of The Polar Express – it’s a must do for your family’s next little weekend getaway.
We stayed at a beautiful 100 year old home that sits on the banks of the Tuckaseegee River, just outside of Downtown Bryson City. The interior was absolutely charming and fit our large family perfectly. Outside, we enjoyed late night fire pit hangs, morning coffee on the wrap-around porches and some fly fishing in the river. We even got to see The Polar Express go by every night on the other side of the Tuckaseegee! Highly, highly recommend this Airbnb.
We spent our two days exploring, shopping, eating, fishing and hiking. Here are some of the places that we visited downtown!
- Bryson City Outdoors Taproom – We grabbed a beer here, and bites from the food truck across the street.
- Bryson Bakery – Get the iced pistachio pumpkin spice latte. Just trust me.
- MRKT on the Square – The cutest little toy store!!
- Calby’s Antiques – It’s small, but has some cool treasures.
- The Artsy Olive – For spices, olive oils, and balsamic.
- Everett Street Diner – We ate here for breakfast on the way out of town.
- McClanahan’s – A really nice general store.
- Humanite – A sweet women’s boutique with great gifts too.
- Tuckaseegee Fly Shop – Taylor said these guys were really helpful for his fly fishing needs.
- DERAILED of Bryson City (Anthony’s) – we ate here before the train ride. Good variety of food!
- Southbound Marketplace – Another great antique and vintage spot.
- We also did the Smoky Mountain Christmas Lights Spectacular
There are still so many places that we didn’t get to see, and are on our list for next time. Like grabbing a cocktail at The Everett Hotel, or browsing One Twenty Main‘s art gallery. Not to mention getting out and exploring the many hikes and things to do outside of the city. We will be back!
