Celebrating Scottish Heritage This June in the Southern Smokies
June settles into the Southern Smokies with a familiar rhythm to anyone with Celtic roots in these Highlands. Early Scots and Scots-Irish settlers found a climate and terrain that mirrored their ancestral home. And generations later, that cultural imprint still shapes Western North Carolina. From language and music to food and farming traditions, Scottish heritage […]
Following the Appalachian Trail Through the Smoky Mountains
Where Hikers Explore, Refuel, and Experience the NC Smokies Every spring, something special begins happening across the mountains of Western North Carolina. Thousands of hikers start their northbound journey on the legendary Appalachian Trail, a 2,200-mile footpath stretching from Georgia to Maine. As they pass through the North Carolina Smokies, hikers bring a unique energy to […]
🧘♀️ Smoky Mountain Wellness Escapes: Relax, Rejuvenate & Reconnect
Discover serene spas, peaceful retreats, and wellness-centric stays across Western North Carolina As the brisk chill of winter begins to ease and the promise of early spring peeks over the mountain ridges, there’s no better time to plan a wellness getaway in the Smokies. There is so much to experience. Restorative spa experiences, beautiful nature activities, […]
Stories of the Southern Smokies — Chapter One
Keepers of the Mountains In the Southern Smokies, the mountains are not just scenery—they are shared responsibility. They are shaped, protected, and carried forward by people and places that understand stewardship as a way of life. These are the keepers of the mountains. And in Hayesville, North Carolina, that spirit is reflected not only in […]
Haywood County Ice Fest Weekend
Who says all the fun in the Great Smoky Mountains hibernates after the winter holidays? Not Haywood County, that’s who! Enjoy the coolest event of the year at the Visit Haywood Ice Fest Weekend 2026! Spread across 4 days and 5 mountain towns, Ice Fest packs a punch of can’t-miss winter fun. Make your stay and play reservations now […]
Have a Merry (and Beautiful) Christmas in the Smokies
From all of us at Visit Smokies, and all of us in Western North Carolina, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays. We know that when you visit this beautiful part of the country during this time of year, you get to trade crowded malls and packed schedules for twinkling lights, crisp mountain air, and cozy moments […]
🎄 A Festive Christmas Getaway at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort
Tucked into the snow-kissed peaks of Western North Carolina, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort transforms into a yuletide destination where dazzling entertainment, warm hospitality, and holiday spirit come together in a joyful celebration. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a full-blown Christmas vacation, this vibrant resort offers something merry for every kind of traveler. ✨ Step Into […]
Unique Smoky Mountain Christmas Gifts: Shop Local, Shop Cultural, Shop Meaningful
If you’re searching for Christmas gifts with meaning, heritage, and a true sense of place, skip the big-box stores and explore the incredible museum shops scattered across Western North Carolina. From handcrafted Appalachian art to historic heritage keepsakes, each museum offers one-of-a-kind items you won’t find anywhere else. Here’s your guide to some top museum […]
Winter Adventures at Highlands Outpost
Highlands Outpost offers all-day, winter fun for the whole family in Scaly Mountain, NC! Snow tubing, ice skating, and the Scaly Mountain Screamer are open all season and ready to take you on a snowy escapade you won’t soon forget – and all in one place. Scaly Mountain Screamer Aptly named, the Scaly Mountain Screamer […]
All Aboard for the POLAR EXPRESS™
Experience the magic this holiday season! Join us for a truly magical recreation of the classic holiday story, THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride. Climb aboard one of our powerful locomotives and historic train cars as it departs our Bryson City Depot for the North Pole to pick up Santa Claus himself. Upon arriving at our […]
Announcement: October Officially Recognized as Rediscovering the Mountains of Western North Carolina Month
Western North Carolina — During the Western Carolina University home football game, where the Catamounts defeated Furman 52–7, the first public presentation of the Proclamation recognizing “Rediscovering the Mountains of North Carolina Month” was shared—marking an inspiring moment for the people and communities that define the mountain region of North Carolina. The proclamation celebrates the […]
Federal Government Shutdown Update North Carolina Smokies
As of 12:01 a.m. October 1st, 2025 the federal government has partially shut down. For those planning visits to the Smoky Mountains, it’s important to know that national parks, forests, and refuges now are operating with limited or no staffing, and many federal facilities are now closed. This affects the National Park Service (NPS), U.S. Forest Service, and U.S. […]
🍂 NC Smoky Mountains Fall Foliage Forecast 2025
Fall is on its way, and the Smoky Mountains of Western North Carolina are ready for a spectacular show of color. Thanks to healthy summer rainfall, cool nights, and crisp autumn air, this year’s foliage is expected to be especially vibrant. As always, the magic begins at the highest peaks and gradually flows down into […]
Top 20 Kid Adventures in the Smokies
Discover the top 20 Kid Adventures in the Smokies! From roller skating and gem mining to scenic railroads and water parks, find family-friendly fun across Western North Carolina’s Great Smoky Mountains region.
Iconic Smoky Mountain Summer Adventures
Experience Smoky Mountain magic – Cherokee culture, scenic railways, thrilling outdoor adventures, and four stunning national parks nestled in America’s most beloved mountains.
Explorer’s Guide to Highlands and Cashiers, NC
Discover Highlands and Cashiers, NC – mountain havens offering luxury stays, stunning waterfalls, quaint village charm, and outdoor adventures in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.
Celebrating the 2024 Visit Smokies People’s Choice Winners
The Visit Smokies People’s Choice Awards shine a spotlight on the people, places, and experiences that make the Smokies truly unforgettable. This year’s winners reflect the heart, heritage and hospitality in the Smokies.
A Photographer’s Journey Through Hurricane Helene Aftermath
When Hurricane Helene ravaged North Carolina, it left devastation across 27 counties. However, in an unexpected turn of events, the seven westernmost counties of the Smokies region—highlighted in this book’s fold-out map—emerged relatively unscathed, with damages that could be repaired. Meanwhile, our neighbors to the east faced a far more dire situation. Many locals from […]
Heads Up: New Parking Fee at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
A new “Park It Forward” program has been implemented for visitors wishing to park within the Great Smoky Mountain National Park (GSMNP). As of March 1, 2023, parking tags are being sold for $5 per day, $15 per week, or $40 per year per car. Passes are for sale online at Recreation.gov or Smokiesinformation.org for […]
Farm to Fork in the Smokies
The Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina are known for their outdoor adventures; vibrant arts and crafts; and exceptional food scene. What makes for this outstanding food and drink landscape is readily available and locally grown and sourced food products. The Fork-to-Table movement, also known as Farm-to-Table, means that the food is obtained directly from […]