Built in the late 1800s, this well preserved mill at Great Smoky Mountains National Park allows visitors to study a slice of life lived centuries ago. The mill worked on a water turbine that powered its machinery. The old mill and the breathtaking greens that surround it make it a must see.
Travel back in time to an historic Native American village during your trip to Oconaluftee Indian Village. The life-size village dotted with rustic houses, traditional artisans and ritual sites should be explored to learn in-detail about the traditions and lifestyle of indegeneous tribe that centuries ago called Cherokee their home. The tour is led by an experienced and knowledgeable guide who will have a answer ready for all your questions pertaining the tour.
Deemed the most photographed courthouse in North Carolina, the Jackson County Courthouse is an impressive structure built in the year 1913. Boasting Classic Revival Architecture, the courthouse is a prominent landmark in the vibrant streets of downtown Sylva. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979, the courthouse is home to a public library. Visitors are welcome to take a self-guided tour of the site.
The Smoky Mountain Trains Museum is an exceptionally educative museum about trains, cars, engines, and their origins. The museum consists of everything from locomotives to diesel trains and trains that date back to the early 1900s. Besides the museum, this place also houses a kids' activity center where children can amuse themselves while adults take in the sights and more. There is a gift and toy shop too if anyone would like to take back a souvenir or two. This place is surely worth a visit. For further details on timings and other information do check their website.
This picturesque small town in North Carolina rose to importance in the 20th Century when it became home to the Jackson County Courthouse on Main Street. Today, the historic courthouse building houses the Jackson County Public Library. The Downtown is dotted with many little wonders that find a mention on the National Register of Historic Places, such as the courthouse and Dr. D.D. Hooper House. Sylva also has a number of breweries like the Innovation Brewing Company, Balsam Falls Brewing Co., and Lazy Hiker Brewing.
Judaculla Rock in Cullowhee is famous for its ancient carvings. The petroglyphs on this soapstone boulder date back to 200 CE. The Jadaculla Rock is revered by the Cherokee and is considered to be one of their most important ancestral places. According to archaeologists and historians, the land surrounding the Jadaculla Rock was inhabited by the Cherokee until the Europeans arrived.
The Church of the Good Shepherd is a quaint little chapel belonging to the 19th century. Built in 1895, the church shows the Carpenter Gothic style of architecture. The church is still in function and conducts regular services to keep the neighboring communities bonded. It was put up on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986, owing to its historic and architectural importance.
The Rose Creek Mine is one place to visit if you are looking for a new and unusual experience. A gem mine, this place offers much to know about mining, along with hands-on experience. You can literally dig into the dirt in the mining tunnel and be rewarded with gem stones and other precious rocks such as rubies, sapphires, amethyst or topaz. Groups can choose this location for a field trip or educational outing as children and adults can equally take part. Besides a picnic area and a playground, the mine also has a gift store to take home a precious stone from.
Deemed the most photographed courthouse in North Carolina, the Jackson County Courthouse is an impressive structure built in the year 1913. Boasting Classic Revival Architecture, the courthouse is a prominent landmark in the vibrant streets of downtown Sylva. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979, the courthouse is home to a public library. Visitors are welcome to take a self-guided tour of the site.
Built in the late 1800s, this well preserved mill at Great Smoky Mountains National Park allows visitors to study a slice of life lived centuries ago. The mill worked on a water turbine that powered its machinery. The old mill and the breathtaking greens that surround it make it a must see.
Oconaluftee Visitor Center offers a deep insight into the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This center also gives information about the Cherokee area of the mountain and is a welcome respite to weary trekkers with its small refreshment coffee machine. During your visit, you will come across several exhibits with the Mountain Farm Museum being the most prominent one. This museum features Appalachian farming practices and tools. Special cultural programs and local events are also frequently organized here. You can shop for gifts, souvenirs, books and postcards at the gift shop located inside. Make sure to grab a map and guide before heading out.
Travel back in time to an historic Native American village during your trip to Oconaluftee Indian Village. The life-size village dotted with rustic houses, traditional artisans and ritual sites should be explored to learn in-detail about the traditions and lifestyle of indegeneous tribe that centuries ago called Cherokee their home. The tour is led by an experienced and knowledgeable guide who will have a answer ready for all your questions pertaining the tour.