YOUR WAYNESVILLE NC TRAVEL GUIDE
The historic gateway to the Smokies
Small town, surprising soul
In downtown Waynesville, NC, wander art-filled streets and pause to browse hand-thrown mugs fresh from the kiln. In this little mountain town, you’ll discover a community warmth that welcomes strangers like old friends.
Find joy in the little things
Eat & Drink
Restaurants you’ll rave about
Park yourself at a cozy restaurant in Waynesville, NC and enjoy a farm-to-table feast, from pizza to hand-patted burgers. It’s guaranteed that the chef knows the farmer’s name, and the freshness echoes that.
Explore more mountain towns
Once you’ve explored Waynesville, Haywood’s largest town, venture beyond and discover four more Appalachian gems, each with its own rhythm, stories, and mountain charm.
Sep 15 → Nov 2Go With the Flow: Art ExhibitHaywood Handmade Gallery's "Go with the Flow" exhibit celebrates the beauty, power, and importance of Haywood County’s waterways. In partnership with Haywood Waterways, this exhibition invites artists to create works inspired by rivers, streams, and other bodies of water—both literally and metaphorically. From flowing currents to reflections on life’s journeys, the show highlights how waterways inspire creativity while raising awareness of the need to protect and conserve our local watershed. Pictured work is by Peter Brown.
Sep 16Fall Candle Making WorkshopDive into the season with this Fall candle making class by Fire on the Mountain Candle Company! Create your own seasonal scented candle in this 2 hour workshop. You will make a 10oz wood wick candle and take it home with you at the end of the event. This is an in-person event at Fire on the Mountain Candle Company. Purchase your ticket at the linked page.
Sep 17 → Nov 11Fee Free Day – Great Smoky Mountains National ParkNo parking pass is needed to park in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on these days. Hike your favorite trails, watch the wild elk in Cataloochee Valley, have a picnic with family and friends, and take in the Smoky Mountain views!
Sep 18Friday Jazz & Tea Flight NightSearching for a date night suggestion? Or an evening out with a few friends? Join Crown & Thistle Tea Room for their Friday Jazz & Tea Flight Night, where you can sip, taste, and listen! Soak in the smooth sounds of live jazz, featuring Michael Collings on guitar and Tyler Kittle on saxophone. Choose any 3 teas to sample, find your favorite, and stay awhile. Try out the evening’s special menu, which includes an Earl Grey Pork Tenderloin and a Lasagna Soup option for dinner.
Sep 19 → Sep 20Arts Weekend HaywoodCelebrate the Arts All Weekend Long! Arts Weekend brings together the Haywood County Studio Tour, local galleries, artist demonstrations, exhibitions, live theatre, music, and more. Explore the creative spirit of Haywood County and discover something new around every corner! Pick up a color brochure with artist list and map at the Haywood Handmade Gallery or the Visit Haywood Welcome Center.
WAYNESVILLE NC EVENTS
Never far from the action
Experience festivals, live music, craft traditions, and seasonal celebrations that showcase real Appalachian mountain culture.
