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Free Things To Do

Have Fun Without Spending Money

There are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Bryson City. Natural attractions are plentiful, especially since most of Swain County is either Great Smoky Mountains National Park or Nantahala National Forest (both with free admission)

To have fun and cut costs, try hiking, have a picnic next to a rushing creek, or visiting a museum. See our list below for more ideas!

Black Balsam Hiking

Keep Your Vacation Wallet-Friendly in Bryson City

Want to take a vacation, but need to stick to a budget? We can help with that! In Bryson City, you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a relaxing, scenic escape to our rolling Smoky Mountainsides. Our natural wonderland is overflowing with free, accessible fun, while our museums provide…

Indian Creek Falls Bryson City

Waterfalls

Discover what it means to be ‘fall’-struck, we are…

Famous Elk

Elk Viewing

Observe the elk in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on grasses…

2 people Lookout over mountains

Hiking & Trails

With the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Nantahala National…

Cherohala Skyway Scenic Drive

Scenic Drives

You don’t have to travel far from Bryson City to become immersed…

Museum

Museums

Explore the deep history and culture of Bryson City, Western North…

Fishing

Fishing

Bryson City and the Great Smoky Mountain National Forests are some of…

Fontana Lake

Lakes & Rivers

Rushing rivers, quaint creeks and a calm, pristine lake can be found…

Fontana Lake and Dam

Fontana Dam

Fontana Dam impounds Fontana Lake, and also provides access to the…