Dillsboro & Sylva sit beside each other near the center of the NC Smoky Mountains.
Dillsboro primarily serves the needs (and wants) of visitors to the area. Sylva is a small town first, and a town that welcomes visitors with open arms second.
Together they give you unique taste of the mountains.
Dillsboro
Small and compact, Dillsboro boast over 20 unique shops and 10 places to eat. "No junk allowed." That's what I tell people when they ask about Dillsboro. If it's not quality, it doesn't make it in Dillsboro.
Scenic Railway
The Great Smoky Mountain Railway has one of its two depots in Dillsboro. (The other is in Bryson City.) This scenic train ride has become one of the most popular attractions in the NC Smoky Mountains. They offer a variety of train rides.
Family whitewater rafting
The Tuckasegee River runs through Dillsboro. This is a great family rafting river. Kids as young as age 4 can raft. It's also great for beginners and those who may be a little apprehensive. Those who are a little more adventurous can try an inflatable kayak.
Sylva
Sylva is a vibrant small town that welcomes visitors with open arms. Unique restaurants and shops dot the downtown area alongside traditional small town stores and services.
Places to Stay in Dillsboro and Bryson City
Dillsboro is home to several B & B's. Many are not appropriate for families, but try the Dillsboro Inn. Just outside Dillsboro are a small number of hotels and motels. And, in the surrounding mountains, there are cabins and vacation rental homes.
Things to Do in and around Dillsboro and Sylva.
Shopping, the train ride, and rafting are primary activities right in the area. But the central location of Dillsboro and Sylva make many of the other activities in the mountains easily accessible.
Cherokee, Franklin, Waynesville, and Bryson City are all an easy drive. The Blue Ridge Parkway and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are also nearby.