Fall Favorites & Farm-Fresh Finds: Explore Bryson City with Insider Sarah Conley

Hi, I’m Sarah, and I was born and raised in Hickory, but my roots run deep in Bryson City. I spent every summer here with my grandparents, learning about our family history and the stories of these mountains, including the communities once located where Fontana Lake now sits. That connection never left me, and now that I’m back, I love sharing my favorite ways to enjoy this special place — especially in the fall.

Fall in Bryson City: the classics 

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Luckily, in addition to the heritage, this area also holds a great amount of adventure and activities. With five entrances in Bryson City, Great Smoky Mountains National Park always provides you with something to do like hiking, elk spotting or just watching the sunset with a picnic. You can never go wrong with an activity here!
• Great Smoky Mountains Railroad: Obviously Bryson City is also known for the world-famous Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, which provides scenic train tours year-round. My favorite part is you can ride that train a thousand times and still see or experience something new, whether it’s a specialty event, a different class of seating or just something along the scenic route. It's one of the top things I recommend for families and couples — it makes for a great half day and still allows plenty of time to be in town for the evening.

Fall in Bryson City: the farm-fresh spots 

• Darnell Farms: Not only does this second-generation working farm have some of the best produce in town year-round, but they are always putting on special seasonal events. Whether it’s a festival or live music — and in fall, you’ll find pumpkin patches, a corn maze and a fantastic Harvest Festival — it makes for a wonderful afternoon spent outside.
• Walnut Creek Farm: Recently we’ve had a farm location open up to the public that has mini Highland cows you can pet! It’s truly the cutest and most heartwarming experience, and they even have plushies to take home as souvenirs.

Sarah's year-round favorites 

• High Test Deli: I’m always a sucker for a good sandwich, and this place hits the spot in the afternoon. They have one of the best Cubans, and if you're into chicken salad, trust me, their chicken salad is spot on. Also don't skip out on their “frozen sandwiches" — they’re giant homemade ice cream sandwiches!
• Mountain Layers Brewery: If I'm in the mood for a craft brew and some food, my go-to is Mountain Layers Brewery and the Rice Wagon food truck that sits right outside. Mountains Layers has a second-level, open-air porch that sports fantastic views of the town, and you can just hop around back and pick up some Hawaiian comfort food when you’re there. My favorite dish is the Chicken Katsu that features crispy chicken with a sweet Hawaiian sauce, rice and tasty macaroni salad.
• Cardinal Coffee: This place always hits the spot for a caffeinated pick-me-up or a fresh smoothie. But if I’m looking for a sweet morning treat, I head to Bryson City Bakery for their cinnamon rolls.
• Longview Resort: This is a stunning resort with spa options if you’re looking for a luxurious and cozy mountain getaway.

Interested in more fall inspo? See what insider Keith Suttles gets up to in the Morganton area.