TOP PICKS CHOSEN BY DANIEL:

THE TRAIN!

No matter what time of year you visit Bryson City, a ride on the Great Smoky Mt. Railroad is a must for kids (and adults)! Make sure to check out their website for adventure packages and to book special excursions like the Polar Express or Bunny Hopper Express!

For information on packages and to book your ride, click HERE!

THE GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAIN TRAIN MUSEUM!

Why's this a favorite for kids? A couple reasons... 

#1 There are 7,000 Lionel™ engines, cars and accessories. 

#2 There are LOTS of buttons to push that make the display come to life. 

#3 There is a scavenger hunt (complete it and you get a prize!) 

#4 the museum has a gift/toy shop.

For more information on the train museum, click HERE! 

THE HERITAGE MUSEUM!

This is a popular spot for kids who love a challenge. The Swain County Heritage Museum offers little ones a scavenger hunt for those visiting the museum and a prize at the end. Bonus for parents....the museum is free and kids will learn a thing or two in the process! 

For information and hours, click HERE! 

THE AQUARIUM!

Daniel loves to visit Gary the Catfish and Miss Kitty, the aquarium cat! Bonus things here are it's FREE (donations appreciated), there are kid activities and coloring pages and a secret hiding spot for little visitors.

For information click HERE!

DARNELL FARMS!

If your little one has lots of energy, do yourself a favor and go to Darnell Farms! Why is it a top pick for Daniel? Lots of room to run, fishing, giant swings, lots to climb and Dream Whips (Think Ice Cream, but better). Seasonally, Darnell Farms has strawberry or pumpkin picking, hayrides, corn mazes, festivals, holiday lights and more.

For more information, click HERE! 

THE PETTING ZOO!

Tuckasegee Farm Animal Rescue & Petting Zoo just had its grand opening in 2024 and is already a "Daniel-approved" attraction! Conveniently located just 5 minutes from the train station, this is a must-visit for kids and adults who love spending quality, cuddly time with sweet animals.   

For information and hours, click HERE!

THE NOC!

(That's the Nantahala Outdoor Center). This is one of Daniel's top picks because it's a great place to play in the river (warning! The water is cold!) and there is a fully-netted aerial playground with tunnels, slides and more. For older kids (weighing 60lbs+), there is also a zipline adventure park that is amazing!

For more information and to book your adventure, click HERE! 

COOPER CREEK TROUT FARM!

This is a fantastic place to spend an afternoon! Kids and adults can partake in easy fishing (poles and bait provided) where you're guaranteed to catch enough for dinner (They will clean and filet the fish on site). An added bonus is the trout farm abuts the Great Smoky Mt. National Park. From their parking area you can hike 1.4 miles to Little Creek Falls or connect to the GSMNP 850 mile trail system.

For more information on Cooper Creek Trout Farm, click HERE! 

The Casino!

This sounds odd, but Harrah's casino is actually perfect for little guests in addition to gambling lovers. The casino offers over 10 fun restaurants and buffets in addition to a family fun center with bowling and arcade, plus shows! 

For more information, click HERE! 

SANTA'S LAND!

Located in the neighboring town of Cherokee, NC, kids (and adults) get the chance to see Santa and his elves, go on carnival rides, eat at one of the many restaurants, browse through gift shops and exhibits, and visit the domestic and exotic animals in the zoo. 

This mix of a classic carnival and roadside attraction is open during the summer and fall season. 

For more information and dates, click HERE!

THE FACTORY!

This is Daniel's rainy day "go-to." Located in Franklin, NC (about 18 miles from Native Winds), The Factory is the area's biggest family entertainment center.  The 56,000 sq. ft. facility features a trampoline park, 100+ arcade games, indoor mini golf, a go cart track, bumper cars, laser tag a large indoor playground and a pizza restaurant. 

For more information and hours, click HERE!