After a day filled with hiking, rafting, biking, tubing, kayaking, fishing, and chasing waterfalls in the Great Smoky Mountains of Western North Carolina, the adventure doesn’t end. As the sun sets, these quaint mountain towns come alive with a vibrant nightlife. Enjoy live music, cozy up in local bars, and savor delicious food at charming restaurants. Here’s are some great places to check out!
In Cherokee, the night never ends and sleep is for the weak! We kid, but it’s true that Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort is open 24 hours. Here you’ll find live entertainment alongside your favorite table games and slot machines. The same is true at Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel in Murphy, NC.
Robbinsville, NC is known for its beautiful waters and excellent fishing. After the day is done and all had big fun, there is no better way to wind it down than in the beautiful and casual setting at the Tapoco Tavern in the Historic Tapoco Lodge. Enjoy sitting on the bank of the world-famous Cheoah River, listening to its gentle music while dining on well-crafted seasonal dishes. They also have private dining rooms, both indoors and out, for large groups.
If Bryson City is your stop for ending the day in these Great Smokies, then you’ll be in luck on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights at the Unplugged Pub. It’s THE local music venue with some of the best talent around. You may discover your new favorite artist or band? There are also rotating food trucks because people gotta eat, and local craft brews, wine and cocktails. Dinner and a show.
The Scotsman Public House in Waynesville, NC, in Haywood County, may be just the thing to scratch that Celtic itch you may have picked up while roaming around these ancient mountains. The ambiance of this historic freemason-built building alone is worth the time and attention, then add the friendly atmosphere and classic pub fare, and even live music and trivia nights – well, you can’t go wrong.
Clay County may house the best named spot for some after dark shenanigans with Nocturnal Brewing Company! Located in historic downtown Hayesville, you can reward yourself after a day of adventuring with an evening of relaxation inside the rustic brewery or outside with the stunning views of these North Carolina mountains. Tasty and beautiful dinner choices, pizza (because pizza should always be pointed out), their ever-evolving beer menu and cocktails await!
Of course, some people are more into nighttime coffee versus cocktails, so let’s not exclude any of you! Head to Franklin after your day of mountain thrill-seeking to the artsy and upbeat Rathskeller Coffee Bar & Pub. These folks can satisfy everyone in the group with live music, karaoke, trivia and comedy nights, housemade baked goods, espresso drinks and craft beer (it’s hard to escape beer entirely – we’re kinda known for it).
Sylva, NC, in Jackson County, is where you can check out The Cut Cocktail Lounge for an easy transition from the daytime hustle bustle to the nighttime slow-it-on-down. Sit indoors or out and have some fun with the traditional bar games while feeling pampered at this local watering hole who welcomes all.
If you want to go somewhere with a personality truly all its own, maybe after a solid day of mountain biking to add that bit of extra, make your way to Chevelles Restaurant and Bar in Murphy, NC. Their eclectic style and large menu is only topped by their full events calendar that includes open jams, karaoke, and live musical talent most nights of the week. Yum Yum for the Tum Tum and the Eardrums, y’all!