Railroad Events
Special Train Excursion Events
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, one of Bryson City’s signature attractions, regularly hosts unique themed excursions and seasonal events, the largest of which includes Uncorked, a scenic train ride through the Smokies that is paired with a fantastic wine tasting, and the Polar Express, a joyous holiday celebration inspired by the hit movie. View the Railroad’s schedule and book your ticket on a journey you won’t soon forget!
Explore the two excursion options below. Or scroll down for the train's special events.
Where Would You Like to Go?
Tuckasegee River Train Excursion
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad – Tuckasegee River Excursion Step aboard the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad for a relaxing journey through the quiet countryside of Western North Carolina. Departing from Bryson City, this four-hour…
Nantahala Gorge Train Excursion
Take a train ride along side the beautiful Nantahala River on the Nantahala Gorge Excursion! Departing from Bryson City, this 4½ hour roundtrip excursion carries you 44 miles to the Nantahala River Gorge and back again arriving at our…
Railroad Special Events
Carolina Shine Moonshine Experience
“Shine and Dine” on the railway! We cordially invite you to hop on board The Carolina…
Nantahala Gorge Train Excursion
Nantahala Gorge Excursions depart west from Bryson City, first following Alarka Creek…
Spirits on the Rail
Hop aboard our new Bourbon Train Spirits on the Rail. This is a journey like no other…
Tuckasegee River Train Excursion
Join us for a relaxing ride through the quiet countryside on your way to small-town…
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride 2026
All Aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS™ with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Experience the…
More Bryson City Events
Family Fest
Riverfront Family Fest | Free Summer Family Event in Bryson City NC
Fall Events
Cool mountain air, colorful leaves, gatherings around the fire pit - find fall events…
Christmas & Holiday
The Christmas holiday season is extra special in Bryson City. A drive-thru light…
Annual Events & Festivals
From celebrations for all holidays and the Polar Express to craft fairs, markets…
Concerts & Live Music
Catch some authentic Appalachian live music at our Farmers Market, or pull up to the…
Festivals
Enjoy the festivals in Bryson City for family fun, live music, food, and…
Spring & Easter
Visit Bryson City and the Great Smoky Mountains for events and things to do.
Labor Day
Labor Day Weekend is perfect for late summer getaway packed with adventure.
Learning Experiences
Immerse Yourself in the Arts, Crafts, and Culinary Traditions of Bryson City
Submit Your Event
If you're hosting an event within Bryson City and Swain County, submit your event…
4th of July
Celebrate the Fourth of July in Bryson City with family-friendly festivals…
Valentines Day
Spend a romantic weekend in Bryson City. From cozy cabins to train excursions, to a…