📍 Day 1: Cherokee County – Basecamp & Adventure
Start your trip by soaking in the beauty of Murphy, Andrews, and surrounding Cherokee County!
Morning:
Grab a cup of Joe and a specialty handmade baked treat from Crafted Dough in Downtown Murphy.
Stop by the Murphy Visitor Center Downtown Murphy to grab a visitor guide to plan your adventures and prepare for your day trip travels!
Pick up your riverwalk map, and take a relaxing walk along the Murphy River Walk, a scenic trail winding through wetlands, forests, and along the Valley and Hiwassee Rivers.
Afternoon:
Enjoy lunch at Chophouse in Murphy.
Stroll through historic downtown Murphy and browse the various retail shops. Don’t forget to get in tune with your creative side by browsing our local art galleries in town: The MAC and Cherokee County Arts Council.
Explore Fields of the Wood, a unique Bible park with massive stone monuments and panoramic views.
Raining on your parade? No problem! Visit the Cherokee County Historical Museum to learn about the area’s Native American history, early settlers, and regional heritage.
Evening:
Catch live bluegrass or folk music at The Crown in Brasstown or catch some trivia at Buck Bald Brewery in Downtown Murphy.
Wrap up with dinner at Legends Steakhouse, a local favorite.
Catch some live music, karaoke, singo, amazing apps, and more at Chevelles 66 or The Mason Bar.
📍 Day 2: Bryson City – Smoky Mountain Adventure
Drive northeast through the scenic Nantahala Gorge to Bryson City, the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains.
Photo Courtesy of : The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
Morning:
Stop by Rare Bird Emporium on your venture out to grab your favorite caffeinated beverage, grab a tasty morning scone for the road, and shop for local souvenirs.
Ride the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad for breathtaking views of the Nantahala Gorge. (Select rides are 50% now off!)
Afternoon:
Lunch at The Bistro at the Everett Hotel.
Visit the Swain County Heritage Museum or explore shops and galleries.
Take a scenic drive through the Deep Creek area for waterfalls and short hikes.
Evening:
Grab dinner at The Fryemont Inn or River’s End Restaurant on the way out of town.
Stop in Andrews to check out Snowbird Brewery and grab a well-deserved barley soda!
📍 Day 3: Hayesville & Young Harris – Lakes, Vineyards & Mountain Views
Head southeast toward Hayesville, NC, and Young Harris, GA, for a day of relaxation and mountain charm.
Courtesy of Adam Noll: Fires Creek Recreation Area
Morning:
Enjoy breakfast at Julie’s Place along your route to explore. (Recently featured by America’s Best Restaurants!)
Sip coffee and take the drive up to Bell Mountain for panoramic views.
Afternoon:
Hike around Fires Creek Recreation Area for waterfall views and fresh air.
Lunch at Nocturnal Brewing Company located in Downtown Hayesville.
Evening:
Head back to Murphy, and stop at Cherokee Cellars to grab a wine flight or cold brew by the firepit!
Dinner is waiting at Yogi’s in Downtown Murphy. Don’t forget to ask about their delectable daily specials!
📍 Day 4: Andrews, NC – Outdoor Escape in the Nantahala
Time to explore in Andrews, NC, a hidden gem in the Nantahala region.
Courtesy: Andrews Valley Rail Bike Tour
Morning:
Breakfast at Morning Fog Coffee & Eats. Don’t skip the cinnamon roll this time!!
Hop on the Andrews Valley Rail Tour for a unique adventure through the lush landscapes! Grab your family photo in front of the historic 1894 tunnel!!
Afternoon:
Lunch to refuel at Hoppy Trout Brewing Company, known for great food and craft beer.
Head into Dean’s Music, Consignment and Art store to pick the perfect record for the collection!
Stroll and Shop the street’s retail stores. If your lucky, you can find a class at Valley River Yarn, or a unique piece for the house at Nancy’s Treasures or The Bin Store.
Enjoy a wine tasting at FernCrest Winery, a boutique vineyard with excellent local wines and a relaxing atmosphere to end your day of exploration.
Evening:
Enjoy dinner at The Tattered Tartan Pub- their cozy atmosphere and pub fare will be the perfect spot to wind down from your adventures.
Evening Sunset in Cherokee County
📍 Day 5: Blue Ridge, GA/ Copperhill, TN – River Thrills & Historic Charm
Spend the day in Blue Ridge, GA, Copperhill, TN, and its twin town, McCaysville, GA, where adventure meets small-town charm.
Morning:
Grab breakfast at the Grizzly Bear Restaurant to fuel your day .
Go whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River or take a scenic walk along the Toccoa River.
Not quite warm enough for a water adventure? Ride the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, a picturesque train journey that takes you through the North Georgia mountains and along the Toccoa River.
Afternoon:
Have lunch on the rushing river at the Waterfront Bar and Restaurant.
Explore the charming streets, historic shops, and riverfront views of Copperhill.
Evening:
Enjoy dinner and a local brew at Valley River Brewery in Downtown Murphy-a local hotspot.
Head to Fairycross Bottle Shop right up the street for a tasting of select wines, and grab a bottle to-go to end the trip on a relaxing note, and watch the sunset.
✨ Bonus Tips
🚗 Enjoy the scenic mountain drives between these towns!
🎶 Check out live music spots like The Crown Brasstown or check out the weekly events at The John C. Campbell Folkschool.
🚂 Book Andrews Valley Rail Tour tickets in advance, especially in peak seasons! (Season opens May 1st.)
🌲 Pack for outdoor activities—hiking, rafting, and exploring!
This 5-day itinerary blends adventure, history, and relaxation, making Cherokee County the perfect basecamp for an unforgettable mountain escape!
Check out our upcoming events and plan your trip today!! Spring 2025 Happenings in Cherokee County
