2026 NC Smoky Mountains Fall Foliage Forecast: Peak Color Dates & Best Places to See Fall Leaves
Fall color season is approaching in the North Carolina Smoky Mountains, bringing brilliant reds, oranges and golds to the mountains and valleys of Western North Carolina. From the highest peaks of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway to mountain towns including Cherokee, Bryson City, Waynesville, Maggie Valley, Franklin, Highlands, Cashiers, Sylva, […]
Fourth of July in the North Carolina Smokies: Where to Celebrate Across the Region
If you’re spending the Fourth of July in the North Carolina Smokies, you’ll find no shortage of ways to celebrate. Across the region, mountain towns are marking Independence Day with patriotic parades, fireworks, live music, family activities, and hometown festivals that make summer in Western North Carolina feel especially memorable. From Franklin’s America 250 celebration […]
🧘♀️ 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, […]
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 […]
Celebrate Smoky Mountain Holiday Traditions
Not much beats the Smoky Mountain holiday season! Enjoy a cozy and festive holiday escape with gorgeous winter mountain views and the small-town charm of the holidays. Wander among dazzling light displays, ride the Polar Express, enjoy a parade down Main Street, and support local small businesses while checking gifts off your list. Get a […]
What’s On Tap for 2025 in the Smokies
2025 Brings New Experiences, Milestone Celebrations, and Familiar Favorites in the Smokies The Great Smoky Mountains have long been a place of wonder, but 2025 brings fresh reasons to fall in love with these majestic peaks all over again. Beyond the breathtaking landscapes, this year unveils exciting new attractions, celebrations, and experiences that showcase the […]
Christmas Tree Farms in the Smoky Mountains
A perfect way to enjoy the Great Smoky Mountains AND support this area after the ill-effects of Hurricane Helene this past fall is to combine a visit for some wintertime adventure with the hunt for the ideal Christmas tree to take back home with you! The North Carolina Fraser Fir Christmas Tree is the most […]