5 Top Things to Do in Waynesville NC: A Guide to Small-Town Charm, Outdoor Adventures, and Local Finds

If you’re looking for natural beauty or outdoor adventure, or culinary pleasures or cultural enrichment, Waynesville offers unforgettable experiences. Discover the best things to do in Waynesville NC! From exploring historic downtown and scenic farm tours to unique shopping spots and outdoor activities, find top attractions for a memorable visit.

Stroll along Main Street and pop into the old-fashioned general shops, art galleries, and exciting boutiques. Find pottery, jewelry wood, wooden products, and original wall art created by local artisans.

On four Fridays during the summer months, don your cloggin’ shoes and square dancing shoes for an unforgettable Mountain street dancing.

Explore Historic Downtown Waynesville: Charming Shops and Local Eats

Waynesville, the Gateway to the Smokies, Waynesville is home to an array of independent shops and eateries. You can explore downtown to find everything from traditional general stores to bookshops and art galleries. Enjoy the laid-back taco and pizza joint Sauced which is where live music plays in between the pizza and pasta, as well as beer. You can also choose the more sophisticated ambience and Southern food at The Kitchen Table and The Sweet Onion. If you’re looking for a night out, you can catch the award-winning HART Theater or soak up the country and bluegrass music at the famous street dances that are held at least four times throughout summer.

From the folkmoot in July to the festive events of December, guests of all ages can enjoy local festivals and regional performances during the entire year. The town of Waynesville also holds “Art After Dark” on the first Friday of May and December, where local art galleries remain open late for art demonstrations and live music. After shopping for the day is finished, visit Frog Level. Frog Level area for a craft beer and outdoor gathering. The area is adorned with the frog’s mural as well as an amazing panorama from Richland Creek.

Take a Farm Tour in Waynesville’s Beautiful Countryside

The town is known by the name of “Gateway to the Smokies,” Waynesville is a small town with charm. Take a stroll along Main Street and pop into traditional general stores as well as art galleries, bookstores and clothing boutiques. Twigs & Leaves Gallery (98 N Main Street) is “Where Art Dances with Nature,” with art, pottery and wood-based products made by local artisans as well as Southern Appalachian artists.

To have a great, family-friendly outing, go to Winchester Creek Farm for animal farm tours, which include alpacas, sheep mini horses, goats and Pigs. The farm is operated by a family owned and operated by the same family. also has furniture for your home, gifts and stationary. If you’re looking for a more picturesque and educational excursion, take a stroll along trails like the Haywood County Quilt Trails that have barns that are decorated with bright quilt designs.

It doesn’t matter if you like a relaxed pizza and craft beers at Sauced, or an elegant ambiance and food in The Chef’s Table this area’s cuisine will be an eye-opener for a mountain town. The region has numerous golf courses on Lake Junaluska, and you can enjoy biking and hiking trails. Outdoor enthusiasts can also see an elk in Cataloochee Valley and enjoy the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Shop Local in Waynesville, NC: Artisan Crafts and Handmade Goods

You may be seeking a unique souvenir or gift that will bring back memories of your visit The shops and boutiques located in Historic Downtown Waynesville are sure satisfy. From glassware made by hand to a quirky jewelry collection and an assortment of diverse items in Affairs of the Heart to an excellent pair of boots from Southern Loft, there are numerous locally-owned stores to visit.

Its Shelton House Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts is a must visit for those who want to learn about traditional handicrafts. Additionally The Haywood Arts Regional Theater (HART) has a full program of shows throughout the year.

If you’re a foodie going to one of the restaurants in Waynesville is an absolute must. You can enjoy a classic diner food with a massive hamburger at Sauced or enjoy exquisite gourmet food on the Chef’s Table. Wine enthusiasts can take advantage of classes or a tasting with a wine expert at The Classic Wineseller. If you’re looking for something to satisfy the thirst of yours, Boojum Brewing Company is local and offers an array of delicious craft beers.

Go Antiquing: Unearth Treasures in Waynesville’s Antique Shops

While Asheville is getting a lot more interest, Waynesville’s charming mountain town has plenty to give visitors in terms of art galleries as well as natural beauty and an ever-growing food scene. Explore the historic downtown area with a stop at eclectic bookstores and antique shops on the way.

The location is at North Main Street, the Cornerstone Mercantile is a favored destination for those who like to shop and purchase antique things. The store has a wide selection of goods which are guaranteed to ignite your imagination, from hand-made quilts, jewelry, antique kitchenware, and much many more. If you continue west on Main and Balsam, you will find the Balsam Antique Mall offers a similar layout with booths that make you feel as if you’re in the attic of someone’s. The store is a treasure trove of antiques with the ability to locate unusual Bakelite objects and other antique treasures.

When it comes to dining Waynesville’s variety of restaurants will satisfy all tastes. You can enjoy local mom and pop eateries as well as award-winning eateries that focus on farm-to-table. Craft breweries in the area are worth a visit. In summer months, you can enjoy live performances at local events and festivals or take a trip to one of the many waterfalls found in the mountains.

Enjoy the Outdoors: Hiking, Fishing, and Scenic Views Near Waynesville

Surrounded by stunning mountain views and clear river, Waynesville is a nature lover’s dream. Take advantage of popular hiking trails and beautiful views, renowned golf courses and vibrant town events.

The renowned Blue Ridge Parkway is a major road that runs through the middle of Haywood County, beckoning road tourists with stunning long-range vistas with close-up views mountain ridges. The parkway also connects to the renowned Great Smoky Mountains National Park with its water and hiking activities are a year-round treat.

If you’re a hiker or golfer, or just a fan of the local cuisine and drinks, you’ll be able to explore the region’s unique tradition and culture in the shops and galleries of downtown Waynesville. Enjoy a guided tour through the Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts or catch local talent in the professional-looking HART Theatre. Enjoy comedy, be amazed by dramas and sing along with musicals in this top-of-the-line community theatre.

In summer months, during the warmer months, Frog Level neighborhood’s frog-themed mural and brewpub can’t be overlook. The popular Frog Level neighborhood’s Friday night street dances, you can watch the bluegrass and cloggers of Western NC musicians close Main Street with their toe-tapping dance moves.