Waynesville, North Carolina always feels like a joyous festival to me. It seems that crowds of people are always darting from this store or that — enjoying the local flavors of specialty coffees, artisan pizzas, and baked goods; shopping for antiques and unique vintage finds; or attending one of the annual events with live music and cultural displays. Christmas is magical here all lit up with frosty windowpanes, and the crispy goodness of autumn is a lovely and welcome feeling. But I don’t let the summer season pass by without visiting “The Gateway to the Smokies.” Let’s take a look at some of the fun things to do in Waynesville, North Carolina.

Whenever I pull in, the metered parking spaces along North Main Street are normally full - even first thing in the morning.
waynesville, north carolina
North Main Street, N Main St, Waynesville, NC 28786, USA
Carolyn Harmon/OnlyInYourState
I usually park in the lot of the First United Methodist Church at the top of the hill. It's especially handy if you are with a caravan of people. Plus, you don't have to worry about your meter running out of minutes. Do you notice the colorful awnings adorning the old buildings?
This pretty town was founded in 1810, and by 1880 it had 225 residents.
waynesville, north carolina
Town of Waynesville, North Carolina/Facebook
Over the years since this Great Smoky Mountain National Park banner was flying over downtown Waynesville, the historic area really hasn't changed much from how it's shown on this postcard circa 1930-40.
Today, it's the largest North Carolina town west of Asheville.
waynesville, north carolina
Carolyn Harmon/OnlyInYourState
The current population is right around 10,600 and growing. And I am frequently stopped and asked if homes are for sale in the area.
I like to walk around and window shop at some of the same stores - and new ones along the way.
waynesville, north carolina
Mast General Store Waynesville, 63 N Main St, Waynesville, NC 28786, USA
Carolyn Harmon/OnlyInYourState
One place I never miss is Mast General Store for vintage candies sold by the pound (The Cherry Mash is my favorite) and the collection of Keen footwear - especially when on clearance!
From, bookstores, bakeries, a kitchen shop, a chocolate shop, restaurants, and art galleries - there is no need to go anywhere else.
Carolyn Harmon/OnlyInYourState
When a town welcomes a dog bakery - you know you're in the right place.
One of my favorite new and pre-loved clothing stores is Flawsome.
waynesville, north carolina
Flawsome New & Preloved, 42 N Main St, Waynesville, NC 28786, USA
Carolyn Harmon/OnlyInYourState
My momma and I come here every time I visit her and we always find something. Our last trip resulted in a soft, lavender cashmere sweater to go with her eyes - the color of a lake. From shoes to interesting graphic shirts, accessories, dresses, activewear, and sweaters, the top brands are sold here for cheap. And as the months move on, the prices go down on the inventory.
But shopping isn't the only reason I visit Waynesville: Sightseeing is also a must.
waynesville, north carolina
Carolyn Harmon/OnlyInYourState
In recent decades, the historic district has seen a major revitalization, and the hard work shows in every delightful little detail you'll see as you stroll the streets.

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The Town of Waynesville Municipal Building is a former post office built in 1917.
waynesville, north carolina
Carolyn Harmon/OnlyInYourState
It is on the National Register of Historic Places list. Stop and read the interesting plaque in front of the building to the left.
It tells about the Battle House, a stagecoach house and inn that once stood just to the left of the building.
Carolyn Harmon/OnlyInYourState
It was demolished in 1899 and is one of the stops along the Civil War Trails.
I also stop in for my favorite hot cup at Orchard Coffee - just a walk across the street.
waynesville, north carolina
Orchard Coffee, 39 Depot St, Waynesville, NC 28786, USA
Carolyn Harmon/OnlyInYourState
Every cup takes a little bit because the specialty drinks are made to order and served in turquoise cups and saucers.
Momma likes the Chai Tea - each drink gets a lovely design.
Orchard Coffee/Facebook
The staff also serves breakfast and delicious, homemade baked goods, such as scones.
And one of the most exciting aspects of this charming town is the ongoing duality of new businesses moving into the old buildings.
Waynesville Main Street Diner, 18 N Main St, Waynesville, NC 28786, USA
Carolyn Harmon/OnlyInYourState
This sign was being hung the last time I was there, and the owners asked what I thought. Now you can order breakfast, lunch, or dinner from the menu of elevated American cuisine.
The Town of Waynesville is known as the Gateway to the Smokies for good reason.
Town of Waynesville, North Carolina/Facebook
It is surrounded by them!
For a summer getaway, you can't beat Waynesville.
Google Maps
And come fall, don't miss the Apple Harvest Festival.

Waynesville, North Carolina is located approximately 30 minutes west of Asheville. Learn more by following the Downtown Waynesville Commission Facebook page. Have you been to this lovely town in the mountains? If so, please share your favorite memories in the comments below.

While you’re there, take the lovely lake trail at Lake Junulaska. And reserve a room at the Yellow House on Plott Creek. You won’t believe this bed and breakfast in Waynesville is in the city!

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