Journey Through Time: The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
Experience the scenic beauty and rich history of the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, where breathtaking landscapes meet unforgettable journeys.
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad offers a breathtaking experience that combines scenic beauty and rich history, inviting tourists to explore the stunning landscapes of North Carolina's Smoky Mountains. Whether you choose a leisurely ride through lush forests or a themed excursion, this iconic railroad promises a memorable adventure for all ages.
A brief summary to Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
- 45 Mitchell St, Bryson City, North Carolina, 28713, US
- +1800-872-4681
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure the best seats.
- Arrive early to explore the charming Bryson City area and grab a snack before your ride.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views along the journey; the scenery is breathtaking.
- Check the schedule for themed rides, such as the Polar Express during the holiday season for a magical experience.
- Dress in layers, as the temperature can change along the route, especially in elevated areas.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car from any location within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, start by heading to US-441 South (Newfound Gap Road). Drive south and exit the park through the Gatlinburg entrance. Continue on US-441 until you reach the intersection with US-74 in Cherokee, NC. Take US-74 West towards Bryson City. Follow US-74 for approximately 20 miles, then take the exit for Bryson City. Follow the signs to downtown Bryson City, and turn onto Mitchell Street. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is located at 45 Mitchell St, Bryson City, NC 28713. Please note that parking may be available nearby, but be prepared for potential parking fees depending on the lot you choose.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, you can take a shuttle from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to a nearby town. Check with local shuttle services for schedules and fares. Once you arrive in Bryson City, you can either walk or take a local taxi to reach the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad at 45 Mitchell St. Be sure to confirm the shuttle's drop-off location and availability in advance, as services may vary based on the season.
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Taxi or Rideshare
For a more direct route, consider using a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. You can request a ride from your current location within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad at 45 Mitchell St, Bryson City, NC 28713. Make sure to check for any potential surge pricing, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Discover more about Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tsali Trailhead, US Forest Service, Cheoah Ranger District
12.6 km
Discover Tsali Trailhead in North Carolina—a must-visit destination for hiking and nature lovers, offering stunning views and serene trails.
Ballhoot Scar Overlook
17.8 km
Discover the stunning panoramic views at Ballhoot Scar Overlook, a breathtaking spot along North Carolina's Blue Ridge Parkway, perfect for nature lovers.
Great Smoky Mountains
18.1 km
Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a nature preserve boasting stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural history in North Carolina.
Cowee Mound
18.4 km
Explore Cowee Mound, a historical landmark in Franklin, NC, and immerse yourself in the rich Cherokee heritage and stunning natural beauty of the region.
Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine
19.5 km
Unearth your own treasures at the Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine in Franklin, NC—an unforgettable gem-mining adventure for all ages.
Newfound Gap
20.3 km
Discover the stunning views and rich history of Newfound Gap in the Great Smoky Mountains - a must-visit destination for all nature lovers.
Wesser Bald Fire Tower
20.6 km
Discover the breathtaking views from Wesser Bald Fire Tower, a scenic hiking destination in the heart of North Carolina's Appalachian Mountains.
Thomas Divide Overlook
20.8 km
Discover the breathtaking views of Thomas Divide Overlook, a must-visit scenic spot along the Blue Ridge Parkway in Cherokee, North Carolina.
Ben Morton Overlook
21.0 km
Discover stunning panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains at Ben Morton Overlook, a must-visit scenic spot in Gatlinburg, TN.
Rose Creek Mine
21.6 km
Experience the thrill of gem mining in the breathtaking landscapes of Franklin, North Carolina at Rose Creek Mine, a family-friendly adventure awaits.
Chimney Tops
22.4 km
Discover the breathtaking views and challenging trails of Chimney Tops in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
22.5 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and outdoor paradise.
Inspiration Point
23.0 km
Discover the breathtaking views at Inspiration Point, a scenic overlook on the Alum Cave Trail, in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Arch Rock
23.3 km
Explore Arch Rock, a stunning natural wonder on the Alum Cave Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, known for breathtaking views and unique geology.
Chimneys Picnic Area
23.3 km
Experience the serene beauty of the Chimneys Picnic Area in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a perfect spot for picnicking and outdoor adventure.
Unmissable attractions to see
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Depot
0.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of the Smoky Mountains aboard the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, a scenic journey like no other.
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Retail Store & Train Museum
0.3 km
Explore the history of rail travel and the beauty of the Smokies at the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Retail Store & Train Museum in Bryson City.
Bryson City Island Park
0.7 km
Explore Bryson City Island Park: A serene escape in North Carolina with lush landscapes, recreational activities, and family-friendly attractions.
Deep Creek Trail Trailhead
4.2 km
Discover the natural beauty of Deep Creek Trailhead, where stunning waterfalls and scenic hiking trails await in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Juney Whank Falls
4.3 km
Experience the natural beauty of Juney Whank Falls in North Carolina, where stunning waterfalls and scenic trails await outdoor adventurers.
Tom Branch Falls
4.5 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Tom Branch Falls in the Great Smoky Mountains, where nature's serenity awaits every traveler.
Indian Creek Falls
5.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Indian Creek Falls in North Carolina, a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers in the Smoky Mountains.
Fontana Lake Overlook
6.0 km
Experience the unparalleled beauty of Fontana Lake Overlook, where serene waters meet majestic mountain views in North Carolina.
Sawmill Creek Pottery
8.2 km
Explore the artistry of handcrafted pottery at Sawmill Creek Pottery in Bryson City, North Carolina, a must-visit for art enthusiasts and collectors.
Lakeshore Trail Trailhead
8.8 km
Discover the beauty of nature at the Lakeshore Trail Trailhead in Bryson City, North Carolina, a serene hiking area perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Nantahala Village Riding Stables
12.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of North Carolina's Nantahala National Forest on horseback at Nantahala Village Riding Stables.
Nantahala Village Resort
12.6 km
Experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains at Nantahala Village Resort, your perfect retreat for adventure, dining, and relaxation.
Cherokee North Carolina
12.9 km
Explore Cherokee, NC: A captivating blend of Smoky Mountain beauty, rich Cherokee culture, and thrilling outdoor adventures await every visitor.
Tsali Campground, US Forest Service, Cheoah Ranger District
12.9 km
Experience the tranquility of Tsali Campground in North Carolina, where adventure and nature unite for an unforgettable getaway.
Oconaluftee Island Park
13.0 km
Explore Oconaluftee Island Park: A serene escape into nature with scenic trails, tranquil waters, and vibrant wildlife in Cherokee, North Carolina.
Essential places to dine
High Test Deli
0.2 km
Discover mouthwatering sandwiches at High Test Deli in Bryson City—your go-to spot for tasty bites during your mountain adventures.
SNAK SHAK
0.2 km
Savor authentic American cuisine at Snak Shak in Bryson City – where comfort food meets warm hospitality.
The Rice Wagon
0.3 km
Experience authentic Hawaiian cuisine at The Rice Wagon in Bryson City – a delightful food truck serving island favorites amidst stunning mountain views.
CJ's Grille
0.3 km
Experience delightful grilled cuisine at CJ's Grille in Bryson City—where local flavors meet a cozy atmosphere.
The Bistro at the Everett Hotel
0.3 km
Discover exquisite American cuisine with local flair at The Bistro at the Everett Hotel in Bryson City – where every meal is a celebration.
Bar-B-Que Wagon
0.5 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Bar-B-Que Wagon in Bryson City - where every bite tells a story.
Tommy's Paradise
12.5 km
Experience culinary delights amidst breathtaking scenery at Tommy's Paradise in Bryson City - a must-visit restaurant for every traveler.
Kallisto Restaurant and Lounge at Nantahala Village
12.6 km
Experience exquisite dining at Kallisto Restaurant and Lounge in Nantahala Village, where culinary artistry meets stunning natural beauty.
All Fried Up
12.7 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at All Fried Up in Cherokee, NC - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Ruth's Chris Steak House
14.2 km
Experience the ultimate fine dining at Ruth's Chris Steak House in Cherokee with sizzling steaks and exquisite seafood amidst elegant surroundings.
Granny's Kitchen
14.9 km
Discover delicious comfort food at Granny's Kitchen in Cherokee – a must-visit buffet restaurant offering hearty American dishes for all appetites.
Big Wesser
16.9 km
Discover delightful American cuisine at Big Wesser, a riverside restaurant in Bryson City offering scenic views and live music.
River's End Restaurant
17.0 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine amidst breathtaking views at River's End Restaurant in Bryson City, NC.
The Rivers and Rails Tavern
19.3 km
Discover Southern hospitality at The Rivers and Rails Tavern in Dillsboro – where local flavors meet stunning mountain views.
Fire Ant Grill
26.0 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Fire Ant Grill in Topton, NC – where every meal is crafted with love and local ingredients.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
La Dolce Vita Bakery
0.1 km
Experience the charm of La Dolce Vita Bakery, where artisanal coffee meets delectable pastries in the heart of Bryson City.
Appalachian Mercantile
0.2 km
Explore Appalachian Mercantile in Bryson City, NC - your ultimate destination for unique gifts and local artisan treasures in the heart of the Smokies.
Loose Moose
0.2 km
Explore the whimsical world of Loose Moose Gift Shop in Bryson City, NC, where unique souvenirs and local artistry come together.
Humanité Boutique
0.2 km
Explore the charm of Bryson City at Humanité Boutique, offering unique gifts, stylish apparel, and local crafts in a welcoming atmosphere.
Charleston Station
0.3 km
Explore Charleston Station in Bryson City for unique gifts and local crafts that embody Southern charm and hospitality.
Bryson City Outdoors
0.3 km
Explore the best outdoor gear and rentals at Bryson City Outdoors, your adventure hub in the heart of North Carolina.
Buttermilk Farms Antiques & Auction
0.5 km
Discover unique antiques and collectibles at Buttermilk Farms Antiques & Auction, an essential stop for vintage enthusiasts in Bryson City, NC.
Handmade Pottery
8.2 km
Explore the unique artistry of Handmade Pottery in Bryson City, where every piece tells a story and celebrates local craftsmanship.
The What's Hot Shop
12.9 km
Discover the essence of Cherokee at The What's Hot Shop, where unique gifts and local crafts await every traveler seeking a piece of the Smoky Mountains.
Traditional Hands Native American Jewelry
12.9 km
Discover the beauty and authenticity of Native American craftsmanship at Traditional Hands Jewelry in Cherokee, NC.
SPIRIT BEAR Gift shop & souvenirs
13.0 km
Explore SPIRIT BEAR Gift Shop & Souvenirs in Cherokee, NC for unique crafts and authentic gifts that celebrate Cherokee culture.
Twisted Sister
13.7 km
Explore Twisted Sister, the enchanting gift shop in Cherokee, NC, where local crafts and unique souvenirs await every visitor.
Great Smokies Gifts
15.0 km
Explore the charm of Great Smokies Gifts, offering unique local crafts and souvenirs in Cherokee, NC - a must-visit for every traveler.
Saunooke's Mill & Shop
15.1 km
Explore Saunooke's Mill & Shop in Cherokee, NC – a treasure trove of local crafts and gifts celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Smoky Mountains.
Nantahala Food Mart
16.4 km
Discover the local charm of Nantahala Food Mart in Bryson City, NC - your essential stop for groceries and regional specialties!
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Unplugged Pub
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Unplugged Pub in Bryson City, where craft beers and live music create unforgettable experiences.
The Fireside Bar at the Fryemont Inn
0.6 km
Experience the charm of The Fireside Bar at Fryemont Inn, a cozy retreat in Bryson City, perfect for unwinding after your adventures.
Native Brews Tap & Grill
15.1 km
Experience the best of Cherokee dining at Native Brews Tap & Grill, where local flavors and a relaxed atmosphere come together.
Balsam Falls Brewing Co.
21.4 km
Discover Balsam Falls Brewing Co. in Sylva, NC, where craft beer and community spirit combine to create an unforgettable experience.
The Cut Cocktail Lounge
21.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktails at The Cut Cocktail Lounge in Sylva, NC - a must-visit bar for travelers.
Creekside Oyster House and Grill
21.9 km
Discover the flavors of the Smokies at Creekside Oyster House and Grill, where fresh seafood meets a cozy atmosphere in Sylva, North Carolina.
Slanted Window Tasting Station
27.4 km
Discover the exquisite flavors and unique ambiance of Slanted Window Tasting Station in Franklin, NC – a culinary gem for wine and food lovers.
Mixers
28.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Franklin, NC, at Mixers Bar and Nightclub, where delicious food and great drinks meet an electric atmosphere.
Rathskeller
28.2 km
Experience the charm of Rathskeller in Franklin, NC, where exceptional coffee meets a vibrant pub atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and socializing.
The Gatherings of Macon County
28.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Gatherings of Macon County, where live music and community spirit create unforgettable memories.
Nantahala Hideaway Campground & Cabins. Formerly Nelsons Nantahala Hideaway
30.8 km
Discover tranquility and adventure at Nantahala Hideaway Campground & Cabins, where mountain beauty meets outdoor fun in North Carolina.
Salty Bear
31.8 km
Discover a taste of Gatlinburg at Salty Bear, where delicious grilled dishes meet a cozy atmosphere in the heart of the Smokies.
Dude's Daiquiris
31.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing flavors at Dude's Daiquiris, Gatlinburg's ultimate bar destination for tourists.
Shamrock Pub
32.0 km
Enjoy a vibrant dining experience at Shamrock Pub in Gatlinburg, where great food, drinks, and friendly vibes await.
Boudicca's Celtic Pub
32.0 km
Discover the heart of Celtic culture at Boudicca's Celtic Pub, where traditional dishes and live music create an unforgettable experience in Gatlinburg.
