From cultural discoveries to animal encounters to just plain old good times, the Western North Carolina Smoky Mountains are filled with one-of-a-kind adventures that the whole family will enjoy. Read on to discover some of the most unusual and exciting things to do near Maggie Valley this summer!
Elk Viewing in Cataloochee Valley
One of the most awe-inspiring things to do near Maggie Valley is watching the Cataloochee Valley’s exquisite elk herd as it roams and grazes in the wild. Several centuries ago, elk were commonplace in our peaceful mountain valley, but they were eliminated due to over-hunting and loss of habitat. In 2001, 52 elk were reintroduced to the Cataloochee Valley, and now the herd has grown to approximately 200. Don’t miss an opportunity to see those amazing creatures, but remember that it is illegal to knowingly come within 50 yards of an elk. So, keep your distance and enjoy these stunning animals responsibly from a respectful distance with binoculars.
“Unto These Hills” Outdoor Drama
Located next to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Western North Carolina sits the ancestral homelands of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians Nation. You’ll find many important sites that celebrate who the Cherokee people really are, where they came from, and why they are still here. Among them is the second longest running outdoor drama in the entire country, running for over 50 years!
Set in the Mountainside Theater, an outdoor theater that seats 2,800 people, you’ll experience the story of the Cherokee in a thought-provoking and awe-inspiring display. Ancient Cherokee legends are told through mesmerizing stories, heart stirring music, and hypnotic dance traditions that showcase the rich heritage and culture. On your way into the theater, take note of the Eternal Flame that was carried to Oklahoma on the Trail of Tears and brought back to Cherokee in 1951. The Cherokee people believe that as long as the fire burns, they will survive.
Oconaluftee Indian Village
Continue your understanding of the Cherokee people when you immerse yourself in a history that you can see and feel with a captivating living museum. At the Oconaluftee Indian Village, you’ll travel back to the past thanks to the dedication of present-day Cherokee historians. This interactive experience takes you straight to the 1750s, where you can follow cultural experts through time. The scent of wood smoke wafts through the air as you explore how the Cherokee people lived, worked, and worshiped. Watch as villagers hull canoes, make pottery, weave baskets, and perform traditional dances. Learn the importance they placed on being good stewards of their ancestral land and its natural resources. And you may even get a front row seat as the warriors prepare to go to battle. It’s a feast for the senses and a wonderful way to share in the celebration of this amazing community.
Synchronous Fireflies in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Every summer – for a couple of extraordinary weeks – the secret world of fireflies opens up under cover of darkness, and we mere humans have a rare opportunity to observe one of nature’s wildest nighttime displays. The only synchronous species of firefly (out of at least 19) that live in the Elkmont region of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park begin to flash in unison, and you can watch it happen up close and personal, like an immersive art show.
It typically happens during a two-week window in late May to mid-June each year. Tickets are sold in advance, and event dates are announced on the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park website in late spring of each year. It’s a delightful way to infuse a little magic into your visit to the Smoky Mountains.
Wheels Through Time Museum
Get transported back in time when you visit the Wheels Through Time (No follow link) museum in Maggie Valley. From two wheels to four, discover how we humans get around the Smoky Mountains. With over 300 classic and rare motorcycles spanning America’s transportation past, this museum celebrates all the ways we get around and will definitely get your engine revving.
Perfect for any kind of bike or car enthusiast, you’ll be wowed by the shine of the chrome and the polish of the paint job on rides from big names like Harley Davidson, Indian, Excelsior, Henderson, Crocker, and so many more! Don’t miss this incredible gem and one of the favorite things to do near Maggie Valley!
Stomping Ground Dance Hall
There’s no better way to get a true taste of Appalachia than through its music and dance. The Stomping Ground Dance Hall hosts live performances, featuring mountain and bluegrass music along with clogging and square dancing. Only open on Saturday nights, you can sit and watch the performances or even join in on the massive dance floor. Make your way to the large barn-like building on Soco Road for a toe-tapping good time!
Blue Ridge Craft Trail
No trip to Maggie Valley would be complete without exploring the amazing handmade arts and crafts created by local artists – and you may even decide to bring a piece of the Smokies home with you.
The Blue Ridge National Heritage Area has developed an incredible way for visitors and locals alike to connect with these representations of Appalachian history and culture. Through a network of craft trails that you can filter by interest and region, you can explore over 200 craft sites, including galleries, shops, studios, and art events. Curated itineraries will also give you options for local food, wineries, breweries, music venues, outdoor activities, and stunning scenic mountain views.
Road to Nowhere – Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Take the scenic mountain route down the six-mile Lakeview Drive that leads to nowhere! Originally conceived in the early 1940s, the road was supposed to be a second entrance into Cades Cove from the North Carolina side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Due to concerns about its high cost and negative environmental impact, the road was abandoned. But today visitors can explore the road and enjoy scenic mountain views, wildlife, and take a stroll through an old abandoned 1,200-foot tunnel!
Great Smoky Mountain Railroad
Take in sweeping views of the stunning Smoky Mountain landscapes with a captivating train ride that takes you on a scenic tour through vibrant forests and across bridges that tower high above the rushing rivers below. The exciting and historic Great Smoky Mountain Railroad (GSMR) is an adventure that USA Today ranks as one of the “Top 10 American Train Rides,” and our guests definitely rank it one of the best things to do near Maggie Valley.
About a 40-minute drive down the road from our motel, and you’ll be in Bryson City, where you can board the GSMR. You can choose from a wide array of options for your train ride through the North Carolina mountains, including both steam and diesel engines. And different routes offer different insights into Appalachian culture. But no matter what option you choose, you’ll get access to breathtaking views that you will only find right here in the WNC Smoky Mountains.
The Meadowlark Motel makes the perfect home base to explore more of the North Carolina mountains after your train ride. Book one of our creekside cabins or an Appalachian-chic motel room to fully immerse yourself in the culture you’ve learned about on all your exciting adventures.
