The New Asheville in the Smokies: Waynesville, NC
Written by Rosa Linda Fallon
Located between the Blue Ridge and the Great Smoky Mountains, Waynesville, North Carolina is a true haven for outdoor enthusiasts, tourists, and history buffs alike. Although Waynesville may be known as the largest town in Western North Carolina, it still maintains a quaint, small-town atmosphere. Known as “the new Asheville,” the town is brimming with an eclectic art scene, natural splendors, and a rich history. Downtown Waynesville offers plenty of shops, restaurants, and activities, all within easy walking distance. Waynesville is also a short drive to other surrounding towns including Maggie Valley, Clyde and Canton, and only 26 miles west of Asheville. It is also centrally located near the Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest.
Waynesville’s Unique History
Waynesville harbors a rich history dating back to the American Revolutionary War. Originally founded in 1810 by American Revolutionary War Soldier Colonel Robert Love, the town is named after the Colonel’s former commander, General “Mad” Anthony Wayne. Love fought alongside George Washington and became the first senator of North Carolina. He also helped to establish the final state boundary line between North Carolina and Tennessee in 1821. Waynesville was officially incorporated in 1871 and comprises six distinct neighborhoods today: Frog Level, Downtown, Hazelwood, Laurel Ridge, Russ Avenue, and West Waynesville.
Photo Credits: Visit NC Smokies
Outdoor Adventures in WAYNESVILLE, NC
Waynesville is surrounded by some of the tallest mountains east of Mississippi. In fact, Haywood County boasts the highest average elevation of any county east of the Rockies! In Waynesville, there is an outdoor activity for everyone to enjoy, whether you like to swim, hike, bike or paddleboard.
Lake Junaluska
A popular place for conferences, group retreats, and vacations, Lake Junaluska is an expansive property that includes two hotels, multiple vacation rentals, and the Lake Junaluska Campground. There are plenty of amenities for guests to enjoy, including kayaking, paddleboarding, a lakeside walking trail, tennis and pickleball courts, mini golf, and more.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Including over one-half million acres, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to a wealth of trails, waterfalls, culture, and dramatic scenery. For those who might be interested in a taste of history, visitors can drive the gravel road to the historic Cataloochee Valley.
Photo Credits: Visit NC Smokies
Food & Beer IN WAYNESVILLE, NC
Frog Level Brewing
After a long hike, stop at Frog Level Brewing for a refreshing beer on tap and a bite to eat. Frog Level Brewing is a micro-brewery in downtown Waynesville offering 21 taps, plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, as well as pub fare to satisfy anyone’s appetite. Frog Level also hosts regular live music for customers to enjoy and maintains a casual, dog-friendly atmosphere, so bring your pups along for the fun, too.
The Sweet Onion Restaurant
Located in the heart of downtown Waynesville, The Sweet Onion Restaurant provides upscale Southern comfort cooking served in a cozy, brick-walled atmosphere. From traditional favorites such as southern fried chicken, to fresh mountain trout, signature pastas, and house-made desserts, there is surely something on the menu for everyone to enjoy. Make sure to call the restaurant between 11:30 and 8:00 to make a reservation, or you can also make one in person.
Historic Sites & Tours IN WAYNESVILLE, nc
The Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts
At the Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts, take a one-hour tour of the unique art, handicrafts, and furniture created by North Carolina artists. Located at the historic Shelton House, each room is full of 19th and 20th-century creations by talented artists and designers from around the state. The museum is open during the year from April through October.
The Historic Herron House
If you are looking for a place to stay, consider the historical 1897 Herren House located in the heart of downtown Waynesville. This home provides a peaceful setting for your stay with seven rooms, each with a private en-suite bathroom. The house also offers a large dining table, a garden courtyard, and wrap-around front porch. It is a great location with proximity to restaurants and shops while experiencing a unique, historical getaway.
Photo Credits: Visit NC Smokies
SHOPS & ARTS IN WAYNESVILLE, nc
Mast General Store
Open since 1883, the Mast General Store is a nostalgia lover’s paradise. The store features a combination of old-fashioned candies, throwback items, modern outdoor hiking gear, and all kinds of artisan-made gifts. It is an ideal place to find a souvenir for everyone on your list. This is definitely a store you won’t want to miss!
Affairs of the Heart Gift Shop
If you are looking for a fun personality-filled gift, check out this sweet eclectic gift shop on Main Street. When shoppers enter the store, they are greeted with heartfelt cards, beautiful jewelry, and fun and meaningful items at affordable prices.
Haywood County Arts Council Gallery & Gifts
Founded in 1977, the Haywood County Arts Council (HCAC) is a nonprofit organization committed to promoting community art involvement. HCAC supports artists and other art organizations through advocacy, art education, partnerships, and the promotion of innovation in the artistic community. The HCAC Gallery & Gifts showcases rotating art exhibits and hosts a year-round retail space for visitors and locals to shop local art.
The Haywood Arts Regional Theater
Founded in 1985 and inspired by the traditional Summer Stock playhouses of the 1920s, the Haywood Arts Regional Theater (HART) is a semi-professional theater group showcasing renditions of different classic plays and musicals. In addition to putting on its own productions, HART has played host to several events by Folkmoot USA, Voices in the Laurel, the Smoky Mountain Brass Band, and Haywood County Arts Council events. HART’s activities in the community have assisted in spurring economic development in the region and have helped introduce the younger generation to the magic of theater.
Whether you are seeking a weekend getaway, a week’s vacation in the mountains, or are simply curious about Western North Carolina, the town of Waynesville will surely serve as a wonderful backdrop for your mountain escape.