In search of the best and fun things to do in Waynesville, NC?
Nestled in the County seat of Haywood County, North Carolina, United States, Waynesville is a city every tourist would love to visit.
Waynesville is recognized as the largest town in Haywood County and the largest in Western North Carolina west of Asheville with a population of over ten thousand people.
If you’re searching for outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, kayaking, boating, sightseeing, and others, Waynesville is the best place for you.
Some of the popular attractions in the city include Waynesville Greenway, HCAC Gallery & Gifts, Smoky Mountain Sk8way, Southern Charm Vintage Market, Barber Orchard Fruitstand, Haywood’s Historic Farmers Market, Waynesville Recreation Center, Sutton and Son’s Antiques, and others.
While you plan your trip to Waynesville, also check out this list of fun things to do in Waynesville, NC.
Things to Do in Waynesville, NC
1. Main Street
Museum
During a cool evening, you can take a stroll down the Main Street of Waynesville, where you get to feel the authentic vibes of the city.
Main Street in downtown Waynesville shows how the residents go about their respective businesses as the street is always bustling and lovely.
There are numerous stores to shop from here, offering a wide variety of merchandise for very affordable prices.
When you stroll through the Main Street you’ll find shops like Blue Ridge Books, Affairs Of The Heart, Balsam Ridge Gallery, and many more.
There are two fantastic stores to stop by for wines and craft beer connoisseurs, Bosu’s Wine Shop and Classic Wineseller.
2. LoneBackpacker Gallery of World Photography
How does having a view of the seven continents in one place sound? Add a LoneBackpacker Gallery of World Photography to your list of fun things to do in Waynesville, NC.
LoneBackpacker Gallery of World Photography offers a dramatic view of spirited photos of the seven continents.
You get a chance to meet the traveler who crossed a hundred countries to capture the beautiful photographs in the gallery.
LoneBackpacker Gallery of World Photography showcases photos that consist of a detailed description of where the photographer has visited.
You also get to see the Smoky Mountains and the rest of the world from one location. Don’t forget to scan the QR code of the photos to get a peek at the videos relating to the pictures.
Address: 94 Depot St, Waynesville, NC 28786-5716 United States
3. Waynesville Yoga Center
More often, try to take a break to rejuvenate, to do this add a visit to Waynesville Yoga Center to your list of things to do in Waynesville, NC.
Waynesville Yoga Center organizes different kinds of classes for yoga enthusiasts, including wellness lessons and rejuvenating massages in the studio.
Some of the classes organized include Qi Gong, Yoga, Buti, Barre, Restorative Yoga, Ta Chi, and many more.
Waynesville Yoga Center enlightens the visitors about the power of yoga and how it affects your body, soul, and mind.
Their utmost goal is to provide a safe and friendly environment where students can learn, grow, heal and have fun.
Address: 274 S Main St, Waynesville, NC 28786, United States
4. Balsam Spa
Spa services are highly beneficial but usually underacted; Balsam Spa is a combination of a Spa and inn in Waynesville, located behind the Country Club courses, a place usually with a serene and comfortable atmosphere.
Their staff is nice and highly knowledgeable, always patient when dealing with visitors and offering any services.
Balsam Spa offers a wide array of services such as skincare, couples services, body treatments, spa parties, a facial, massage therapy, nail services, and bridal services.
They ensure you’re highly comfortable by offering you all you need, like warm herbal neck wraps, drinks, slippers, and plush robes.
Balsam Spa offers you a fantastic view of the Balsam Mountains and an educational experience on the farms where you can get fresh local products and go hiking.
Address: 176 Country Club Dr, Waynesville, NC 28786, United States
5. Smoky Mountain Sk8way
Smoky Mountain Sk8way, is an interesting attraction with a lot to offer its visitors. visiting this fun center is one of the best things to do in Waynesville, NC.
This is a family fun center that has been a popular destination for many families in Waynesville and the state.
Smoky Mountain Sk8way features the best roller skating rink in the city, which is open to adults and children.
There are obstacle courses that are somewhat challenging but highly fun with bounce houses, slides, arcade games, and other fun activities.
Smoky Mountain Sk8way is an ideal venue for fundraising events, birthday parties, holiday parties, company events, and more.
The center also offers skating lessons, arts & crafts, culinary fun, team building games & activities, etc.
Smoky Mountain Sk8way is open Friday from 6pm-10pm, Saturday from 1pm-10pm, and Sunday from 1pm-6pm.
Address: 19025 Great Smoky Mountains Expy, Waynesville, NC 28786 United States
6. Haywood Arts Regional Theatre
Are you ready to have fun? Then, add a visit to Haywood Arts Regional Theatre to your list of things to do in United States.
Haywood Arts Regional Theatre is a perfect place to spend the evening while enjoying some amazing local entertainment.
The theatre presents different kinds of plays such as A Christmas Carol and Madagascar, Sense and Sensibility, Mamm Mia, A Musical Adventure Jr., and more.
Haywood Arts Regional Theatre offers guests a dinner buffet before the show begins or Sunday Brunch and feasting on goodies from the omelet station and more.
There is a youth program where youth can attend acting classes and host different events throughout the year.
Haywood Arts Regional Theatre is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 1pm-5pm (closed on Sunday and Monday).
Address: 250 Pigeon St, Waynesville, NC 28786 United States
7. HCAC Gallery & Gifts
Are you looking for a unique store where you can shop for special items? Then, add a visit to HCAC Gallery & Gifts to your list of places to visit in Waynesville, NC.
HCAC Gallery & Gifts is a beautiful gallery with an impressive display of contemporary works of art that you won’t find anywhere else.
The gallery features ten rotating gallery shows held annually; some of the collections displayed include Haywood County Studio Your Reunion, Solitude & Mystery, In The Company Of Animals, and more.
Visit HCAC Gallery & Gifts, so you can shop for amazing artworks for your loved ones or a gift for yourself. Check out their Calendar before visiting to ascertain what to expect and know exactly when to visit.
Address: 86 N Main St, Waynesville, NC 28786 United States
8. Summerhouse Pottery
Whenever you visit a new city, it is always advisable to learn something new before leaving, and Summerhouse Pottery is the right place for you in Waynesville.
Summerhouse Pottery is a haven for art lovers as it gives them the opportunity to let loose their creative spirit and bring their imagination to life.
This pottery house isn’t for only adults but children as well; they provide visitors with clay molded and shaped into gorgeous pottery pieces.
Summerhouse Pottery educates the guests on all the facts they need to know about making pottery and even more.
Summerhouse Pottery displays craft works of many local potters made using unique surface decorations, colorful glazes, and wheel-thrown and hand-built techniques.
Address: 225 d4z St., Waynesville, North Carolina United States
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9. Waynesville Greenway
Waynesville Greenway is a popular attraction in Waynesville that offers the public a chance to explore the outdoor coast.
There is a 4.8 miles trail that is perfect for visitors to go hiking or biking; you can start or end at the Waynesville Recreational park and start/end at Lake Junaluska.
Waynesville Greenway is a stunning park along Richland Creek and near Lake Junaluska with a fantastic green space perfect for spending time.
This is a perfect recreational area for an outdoor classroom and various educational programs for local schools.
Address: Waynesville, NC 28786, United States
10. Lake Junaluska Golf Course
Your vacation in Waynesville wouldn’t be complete without spending a day at Lake Junaluska Golf Course.
Lake Junaluska Golf Course is a gorgeous green golf course, and it is highly advisable you visit during fall when the foliage changes color.
This is a fun and challenging 68 par course that offers fascinating views of Lake Junaluska and the surrounding mountains.
Lake Junaluska Golf Course is open all year round to everyone who wants to book a tee time or become a member of the golf course.
The holes are not too long, making the golf course an ideal course for both beginners and experts; so far, they can play strategically.
Lake Junaluska Golf Course hosts a PGA Jr. League and other tournaments; there is an on-site pro shop packed with golf equipment, apparel, and more.
Address: 756 Golf Course Rd, Waynesville, NC 28786, United States
11. Haywood’s Historic Farmers Market
Amongst the top things to do in Waynesville, NC if you want fresh food is a visit to Haywood’s Historic Farmers Market.
Haywood’s Historic Farmers Market was established in 2008 as a producer-only market featuring a large number of Vendors.
They offer everything you need starting from dairy, local honey, flowers, seafood, crafts, flowers, eggs, baked goods, fish, and more.
Haywood’s Historic Farmers Market is open only on Sundays from 9am-12pm, and the traders try to encourage the public to eat healthily.
Not only do you have the chance to shop for fresh food items while in this market, but you also get to meet other locals and ask questions about their traditional meals and the process of preparation.
Address: 250 Pigeon St, Waynesville, NC 28786, United States
12. The Chef’s Table
lamb shank
Are you hungry? Head to Chef’s Table in Waynesville for an amazing dining experience with your friends and family.
The Chef’s Table offers a unique experience, although it features a small dining room from which guests can see the open kitchen where the chef prepares the meal.
They offer a nice food menu based on gourmet dining; all the meals are freshly made the minute you place an order.
The Chef’s Table serves meals like Deconstructed Lasagna, filet mignon, lamb shank, caesar salad, Brie Salad, Goat Cheese Stuffed Risotto Balls, Pan Seared Duck Breast, shrimp & grits, Saltimbocca Chicken, Shrimp and Mussels, and more.
They also offer a wide range of beers, scotch, and over 250 selections of wines, including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon 1, Cabernet Sauvignon 2, Merlot & Malbec, Shiraz & Syrah, Blends & Chianti and more.
Address: 30 Church St, Waynesville, NC 28786 United States
13. Cedar Hill Studio & Gallery
Are you an art aficionado? Then, add a visit to Cedar Hill Studio & Gallery to your list of fun things to do in Waynesville, NC for a wonderful experience.
Cedar Hill Studio & Gallery is the largest fine arts gallery in Waynesville that houses a massive collection of art in multiple mediums.
Here, you get to browse through beautiful art pieces and appreciate the amazing talent of the local artists, every single artwork is captivating and passes a message to the onlookers.
Cedar Hill Studio & Gallery is relatively spacious and packed with a stunning array of Antiques and cards perfect as a gift to someone special.
The staff is receptive and cheerful when attending to every customer while also assisting them to find the right art piece they need.
Address: 196 N Main St, Waynesville, NC 28786, United States
14. First United Methodist Church
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First United Methodist Church
First United Methodist Church is a family-friendly church dedicated to helping people build and share their faith.
The church is open to people of various ages, family make-up, socioeconomic status, race, physical ability, sexual orientation, and faith history.
First United Methodist Church hosts different kinds of fun events, including pumpkin picking, which is one of the most popular and most anticipated.
People are highly encouraged to become part of a small group within the church, such as Bible study, ministry group, Sunday School Class, and Wednesday night study.
Address: 566 S Haywood St, Waynesville, NC 28786 United States
15. Barber Orchard Fruitstand
If you love Apples, visiting Barber Orchard Fruitstand should be among your top things to do in Waynesville, NC.
Barber Orchard Fruitstand is a place made up of friendly people where you can find freshly picked Apples, vegetables, and fruits.
This fruit stand has been in existence for many decades and has continually served the public with locally grown farm produce such as black walnut and sweet potatoes.
Barber Orchard Fruitstand offers delicious apple pies with aromatic cakes and muffins that will make you feel out of the world.
They offer you the opportunity to get close and intimate with the trees with a variety of pickles, Apple cider donuts, and more.
Address: 2855 Old Balsam Rd, Waynesville, NC 28786, United States
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16. The Sweet Onion Restaurant
The Sweet Onion Restaurant
The Sweet Onion Restaurant is a lovely restaurant that can never go wrong when it has to do with serving regional cuisines with contemporary flair.
The restaurant is located in a cozy brick-walled space with a more laid-back and a little mix of traditional features.
The Sweet Onion Restaurant offers an outstanding food menu featuring meals like sweet onion soup, panko encrusted shrimp, lemongrass grilled chicken salad, Thai peanut chicken & rice noodles, sautéed vegetables, and more.
They also offer a large selection of beers and wines, including Budweiser, Blue Moon, Heineken, Miller light, Steele Shooting Star Chardonnay, California, Dynamite Cabernet Sauvignon, California, Elouan pinot noir, and many others.
Address: 39 Miller St, Waynesville, NC 28786, United States
17. Shelton House Museum of NC Handicrafts
Shelton House Museum of NC Handicrafts
If you are interested in learning about the city’s heritage, add a visit to Shelton House Museum of NC Handicrafts to your list of fun things to do in Waynesville, NC.
Shelton House Museum of NC Handicrafts can be found in a beautiful house built in 1875 as a heritage museum.
This museum displays North Carolina’s intriguing crafts and agricultural exhibits, with an extensive collection of Cherokee treasures, weaving, dolls, folk arts, and more.
Shelton House Museum of NC backHandicrafts offers insights into the looks and feel of the origins of the rural areas in the town dating to the late 19th century.
The Museum features a barn, grounds, and house, often used as a venue for small, private weddings or receptions.
Shelton House Museum of NC Handicrafts is open for tours, where visitors get a peek into the city’s history, handicrafts, and heritage.
Address: 49 Shelton St, Waynesville, NC 28786 United States
18. The Strand at 38 Main
The Strand at 38 Main should be at the top of your list of things to do whenever you want to watch that latest blockbuster movie.
This theater is located in an industrial-style space and shows an array of classic films and enjoyable live music entertainment.
The Strand at 38 Main features large screen TVs, a great sound system, and pretty comfortable seats in a clean and well-organized environment.
There is a full espresso bar that offers different kinds of beverages, whether hot or chilled, anyhow you want as well as craft-chunted ice-cream, snacks, wines, and draft beer.
Address: 38 N Main St, Waynesville, NC 28786, United States
19. Frog Level Brewing
A place where you can hang out and chat with your friends and family in Waynesville is Frog Level Brewing.
Frog Level Brewing is a family-owned and operated brewery that began due to their passion for beer.
They are dedicated to searching for a better product; the beers are always served chilled just like you will love them.
Frog Level Brewing features an outdoor patio for better comfort as you sip from your delightful beer bottle.
They produce a wide variety of seasonal, flagship, and specialty beers for visitors to choose from, each having a distinct taste.
Frog Level Brewing offers drinks like Nutty Brunette, an espresso stout, a brown ale, Bug-Eyed Stout, Ultra Violet Blueberry Sour Ale, Croak-A-Nut Porter, Salamander Slam IPA, and more.
They are open from Monday to Thursday from 12pm-9pm, Friday and Saturday from 12pm-10pm, and Sunday from 2pm-7pm.
Address: 56 Commerce St, Waynesville, NC 28786 United States
20. Waynesville Recreation Center
Visiting Waynesville Recreation Center is one of the best things to do in Waynesville, NC, especially with your travel companions.
Waynesville Recreation Center officially opened on December 18, 2000, open to summer guests but with limited membership.
The center is a 64, 000 Square feet facility consisting of a giant swimming pool and a 1/10 mile rubber walking track.
Waynesville Recreation Center features children’s playgrounds, a soccer field, a dog park, and a skateboard facility.
There are two basketball courts, two racquetball courts, a cardio area, a spin cycle room, a stretch room, a weight room, and an aerobics room.
Waynesville Recreation Center also features a multi-use room used as a venue for family reunions, parties, meetings, and more.
Address: 550 Vance St, Waynesville, NC 28786, United States
21. Sutton and Son’s Antiques
Want to shop for authentic art pieces? Sutton and Son’s Antiques is the right place to visit in Waynesville.
Sutton and Son’s Antiques is a mini-mall that offers a large variety of classic items and authentic art pieces.
There is a large collection of tools, clothes, and much more for affordable prices, and you will spend a longer time browsing through the items than you intended to.
Sutton and Son’s Antiques showcases an impressive selection of memorabilia, antique furniture, toys, and clocks.
Every item is organized in separate booths according to its category, and you’ll also find apple crates, wooden boxes, books, fans, and many more.
Address: 3156 Dellwood Rd, Waynesville, NC 28786, United States
22. Winchester Creek Farm
For an unforgettable experience, add a visit to Winchester Creek Farm to your list of things to do in Waynesville, NC.
Winchester Creek Farm is a twenty-acre family-owned farm and a favorite location for many animal lovers.
The owners offer a forty-five minute tour of the farm, which offers visitors a unique learning experience about animals.
Winchester Creek Farm raises animals like mini cows, alpacas, sheep, Juliana pigs, mini-horses, donkeys, and more.
The wildflowers planted on the farm are one of the main highlights of the place, and children will love this place.
Winchester Creek Farm features an on-site shop that offers jewelry, gifts, alpaca fiber items, home decor, kid’s items, pet items, and many more.
Address: 386 Walker Rd, Waynesville, NC 28786, United States
23. Southern Charm Vintage Market
Southern Charm Vintage Market is located right on Waynesville’s main street, widely surrounded by numerous inviting galleries and shops.
This lively and vibrant indoor market is worth your time and money, offering an assortment of the highest quality items.
Southern Charm Vintage Market is loaded with beautiful decor, farmhouse flair, time-worn pieces, Dixie Belle paint products, and more.
This market offers great deals on painted furniture, books, boutique clothing, boho, antiques, candles, and other contemporary items.
Southern Charm Vintage Market staff is relatively friendly and attentive, always willing to offer assistance and ensuring every customer gets what they want.
Address: 145 S Main St, Waynesville, NC 28786 United States
24. Mast General Store
Mast General Store is an incredible store located downtown Waynesville offering a wide variety of merchandise and services.
This store was established in the 1930s with multiple floors packed with different supplies for the entire family.
Mast General Store offers good deals on baby items, jewelry, clothes, hiking & camping gear, candies, garden decor, and more.
Every corner of the store is stocked with an extensive collection of items, including delicious food and drinks to boost your energy.
Mast General Store showcases cast iron cookware, casual footwear, backpacks, hiking boots, jackets, and traditional clothing.
Address: 63 N Main St, Waynesville, NC 28786, United States
25. Blue Ridge Beer Hub
Blue Ridge Beer Hub is your number one destination when you want to taste a bottle of delightful craft beer.
This is a local meeting place with a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere that offers a large collection of craft beers and wines.
Blue Ridge Beer Hub allows you to taste samples of the drinks before you get to buy them to assure you that you will like them.
They offer local and hard-to-find beers on tap; although they do not serve meals, carry-in food is allowed.
Blue Ridge Beer Hub is open from Monday to Thursday from 11am-10pm, Saturday from 11am-10pm, and Sunday from 12-7pm.
Address: 21 East St, Waynesville, NC 28786, United States
26. Cataloochee Valley Tours
Why don’t you join Catalooche Valley Tours to Cataloochee Valley Tours in Waynesville?
You can see the elk on their guided Evening Elk Eco Tour or Sunrise Elk Eco Tour, which takes place all year round.
The Sunrise Cataloochee Valley Elk Eco-Tour is available every season as long as the weather is good.
This early morning tour starts with an enlightening audio presentation about elk reintroduction and includes pastries and hot Starbucks coffee.
The tour lasts nearly 4 hours. This tour explores the natural and cultural heritage of the Great Smokey Mountains and Catalooche Valley, emphasizing the Catalooche Valley elk reintroduction.
Address: 142 Country Club Dr, Waynesville, NC 28786, United States
27. Purchase Knobs
If you enjoy hiking, one of the things to do during your stay in Waynesville is to visit Purchase Knobs.
Purchase Knob is a mountain along the Cataloochee Divide that acts as the border between Catalooche Valley in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and the Maggie Valley and Waynesville area of North Carolina.
The hike to this tourist attraction is along the Catalooche Divide Trail. Purchase Knobs has high-elevation views, access to several fabulous trails and views, and historic buildings.
Address: Waynesville, NC, United States
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Plan a Trip to Waynesville
Waynesville is a beautiful city with a lot of fun things to do with your friends or family.
The city is perfect for a family vacation, as there is something for everyone here regardless of their age. There are also numerous natural resources and amazing attractions that is worth exploring.
Start planning a visit to this beautiful city; pin this article as a guide to easily fall back to while making your list of things to do in Waynesville, NC.