- Tiger’s/Chinquapin’s on the Square for ice cream
Chinquapin’s origins are as a pharmacy on the square in the 1940s that had its very own soda fountain! This soda fountain is still in operation today, along with an ice cream bar with yummy coffee. Tiger’s department store, attached to Chinquapin’s, has one-of-a-kind local gifts and fine clothing with a general store feel.
- Bell Mountain for breath-taking views
If you want incredible views without an exhausting hike, check out Bell Mountain! You can drive all the way to the top of the mountain, and appropriate graffiti is even welcomed.
- Cherokee Homestead Exhibit for a dose of local history
Explore the life of the Cherokee at this exhibit in downtown Hayesville. While you’re in the area, visit the Quanassee Path: A Cherokee History Trail celebrating five Cherokee-related sites in downtown Hayesville.
- Jackrabbit Mountain Trails for an active day of biking or hiking
Grab your mountain bike, or even your hiking shoes! This near-15 mile trail system is located off of Jackrabbit Road in Hayesville. Spend a day winding the trails around Lake Chatuge in beautiful Appalachia.
- Fires Creek Falls for waterfall fun
Actually, you should go chasing waterfalls. Fires Creek has a great picnic area right at the entrance, and also a few miles worth of hiking trails. See a beautiful rocky waterfall while you’re there, and bring an inner tube for some extra fun on the creek’s natural waterslide.
- Eagle Fork Vineyard and Crane Creek Vineyards for local wine tastings
These local wineries offer tastings and beautiful views. Check their web sites and social media for days/hours and special events, such as live music.
- Mountain Harbour Golf Club for a hidden course in the Blue Ridge Mountains
Need to get your golf fix while you’re in town? Check out The Ridges. Their website boasts, “The 18-Hole Willard Byrd Golf Course is the focal point of our spectacular club. In addition to the golf course, is our practice facility with a driving range and putting green.”
- John C. Campbell Folk School for a new experience with skilled craftsmen
Spend some time at the Folk School learning a new craft or skill, and experience a 90-year history of song, art, nature, gardening, cooking, storytelling and writing. Visit on a Tuesday evening for a fun night of Contra dancing!
- Take a Farm Tour for some local flavors
Check out this list of farms and other agritourism hot spots in the area. Taste artisan goat cheese, hang out with some alpacas, and eat a burger made from all-natural grass-fed beef.
- Chunky Gal Stables for Western North Carolina’s best horseback riding experience
Open 7 days a week from 8am-5pm, Chunky Gal Stables offers trail riding, lessons, training, and boarding in a beautiful mountain setting.