Sylva, NC is a vibrant mountain town with a fun mix of culture, food, and outdoor adventures. Sylva is situated in the Appalachian Mountains of Western North Carolina. The artsy town of Dillsboro is just next door. It’s definitely worth a visit while you are in the area.
Back in Sylva, visit the stunning historic library or quirky cat museum. Then grab a bite at one of many great restaurants or breweries. Fuel up for endless outdoor activities in and around town.
Here’s your guide to the best things to do in Sylva, NC!
Step Back in Time: Jackson County Public Library
Start your Sylva adventure at the Jackson County Public Library, housed in the breathtaking historic Jackson County Courthouse. The building is worth a visit just for its architectural charm. Climb the staircase for beautiful views of downtown Sylva and the surrounding mountains. It’s a perfect spot for book lovers, history buffs, or anyone who loves a great photo op!
Savor the Flavors: Sylva’s Restaurants and Breweries
Sylva’s dining is packed with cozy vibes, craft breweries, and delicious food. Here are some of our top picks for restaurants and breweries:
- City Lights Café: Our favorite coffee shop in Sylva! Grab a quick coffee and pastry to go or find a spot on their quaint patio for breakfast or lunch. Crepes, paninis, and bakery treats are all popular menu options. Also check out their daily specials. Plan a visit for a fantastic Sunday brunch.
- Mad Batter Kitchen: Located in downtown Sylva, this family-friendly spot has great pizza and wings. There are also delicious vegetarian and vegan options to choose from. Some of our favorites are the tomato soup, Baja quesadillas, and “High on the Hog” pizza.
- Lulu’s on Main: The menu offers a wide variety of options of eclectic American fare, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes. The food is fresh, locally sourced, and delicious. Choose a seat outside on the terrace for great views and watch Sylva’s Main Street ongoings.
- Innovation Brewing: Sip a crisp craft beer or cider while listening to live music. Their sister location- Innovation Station, is in nearby Dillsboro. There, you can watch the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad roll into town.
- Cosmic Carry-Out: While visiting Innovation, be sure to check out this great little food cart. The burgers and fries are awesome! Try the sweet potato quesadilla for something a little different. It’s the best vegetarian quesadilla I’ve ever had!
- Balsam Falls Brewing Co and Lazy Hiker Taproom: Be sure to visit Balsam Falls and Lazy Hiker in Sylva. Along with Innovation, these great breweries are part of the Jackson County Brewery Tour.
Shop and Discover: Unique Finds in Sylva
Sylva is brimming with unique shops and quirky attractions. Wander through boutiques and antique shops for one-of-a-kind finds:
- The American Museum of the House Cat: A fun and quirky stop for cat lovers. This museum showcases feline-inspired art, collectibles, and history.
- Rockhound Ridge Gem Mine and Rock Shop: Rockhound Ridge is a great family-friendly activity. Dig for treasures like fossils and gems and then head over to the rock shop. They can even turn your gemstone find into custom jewelry!
- Main Street Shopping: Stroll Main Street for gift shops, a general store, and antique shops like End of Main. You’ll find unique souvenirs, from handmade crafts to vintage treasures.
Play Outside: Sylva’s Parks
Sylva’s parks are perfect for family fun, exercise for a furry friend, or a relaxing break:
- Poteet Park: Our kids’ favorite park with a fantastic playground! Poteet Park also hosts family-friendly events, like outdoor movie nights in the summer.
- Bridge Park: Cross the walking bridge from Poteet Park to this popular park located right in downtown Sylva. Concert events are held throughout the summer. Enjoy a picnic or relax at one of the many benches along the creek.
Adventure Awaits: Hiking and Outdoor Activities
Sylva is a gateway to outdoor adventures in Western North Carolina:
- Pinnacle Park: Just outside town, this park is popular for hiking and amazing views. Choose the easy loop trail with a waterfall cascade or tackle the challenging 7-mile hike to the Pinnacle for panoramic mountain views.
- NC Mountain Waters Scenic Byway: Drive this stunning route through the Nantahala National Forest from Franklin to Highlands. Stop and enjoy the many waterfalls along the way. You can even walk behind one!
- Blue Ridge Parkway: Cruise this iconic scenic road, just 20 minutes from Sylva via the Balsam entrance. Stop at the many overlooks for beautiful mountain vistas. There is a Visitor Center at Waterrock Knob, where you will also find hiking, restrooms, and picnic tables with panoramic views.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: This national park, located in Cherokee, is less than 30 minutes from Sylva. The park offers hiking, scenic drives, and wildlife spotting. Visit the Oconaluftee Visitor Center and Mountain Farm Museum before heading into the park.
- Fishing: Sylva offers famed fly fishing on the Tuckasegee River. Scotts Creek is another popular spot to fish for trout.
Family Fun in Sylva: Activities, Events, and Festivals
Sylva hosts numerous family-friendly activities and events throughout the year. Here are our top picks for activities and festivals:
- Barber Orchards: This family owned fruit stand is located just outside of town in Waynesville. The orchard has a wonderful apple stand and bakery. They have THE BEST apple cider doughnuts! We always stop by Barber Orchards when we visit to pick up fresh apples and baked goodies.
- Mountain Heritage Day: Hosted nearby at Western Carolina University in September, this festival celebrates Appalachian culture, music, and art. There is also a concert held at Bridge Park in Sylva. We enjoyed great food while watching the clogging and live music. There were plenty of activities for the kids as well.
- Christmas Tree Lighting: Kick off the holiday season in Sylva with a tree-lighting ceremony, holiday concert, and parade. You can also enjoy the annual Dillsboro Lights and Luminaries Festival held in early December.
- Jackson County Farmers Market: Head to Bridge Park on Saturdays (year-round) for locally grown produce and handmade crafts.
Sylva Wrap Up
Sylva is a great vacation destination in Western NC. Enjoy its historic charm, great restaurants, unique shops, and endless outdoor adventures. Want more Western NC fun? Check out our guide to Dillsboro’s top attractions.
Happy travels!
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