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8301 W Old Murphy Rd Franklin NC 28734
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🍷 Vineyards & Wineries Near Franklin, NC
Sip, swirl, and savor, without straying too far from the mountains.

  1. Slanted Window Wines (One of our Favorites!)
    📍 8933 Georgia Road, Franklin, NC 28734
    🌐 slantedwindow.com
    📞 (828) 276-9463
    SenAmore Vineyard & Farms, operating as Slanted Window Wines, is the only vineyard producing estate-grown wines in Macon County. They offer private tastings and tours by appointment, think “quiet charm with a cork.”

  2. 12 Spies Vineyards & Farm
    📍 550 Black Branch Road, Rabun Gap, GA 30568 (~17 miles)
    🌐 12spiesvineyards.com
    📞 (706) 490-0890
    A picturesque vineyard with mountain views and a variety of handcrafted wines. Loved by visitors for its relaxing atmosphere and welcoming staff. Bonus: it’s close enough to sip and be home in time for supper.

  3. The Vineyard at High Holly
    📍 37 High Holly Road, Scaly Mountain, NC 28775 (~16 miles)
    🌐 thevineyardathighholly.com
    📞 (828) 482-5573
    This scenic vineyard serves more as an event venue with tastings available during select occasions. Best to check Facebook for upcoming happenings—you may just stumble into a wedding or a wine-filled soirée.

  4. Hightower Creek Vineyards
    📍 7150 Canaan Drive, Hiawassee, GA 30546 (~35 miles)
    🌐 hightowercreekvineyards.com
    📞 (706) 896-8963
    A family-run vineyard nestled in the North Georgia mountains. Offers a range of wines and frequently hosts live music and events—think “laid-back with a Merlot in hand.”

  5. Deep Creek Winery
    📍 4052 Everett Road, Bryson City, NC 28713 (~30 miles)
    🌐 deepcreekwinery.com
    📞 (828) 506-0133
    A boutique-style winery in a quiet mountain setting, known for handcrafted wines and a cozy, personal tasting room experience. Perfect for a low-key afternoon with a high-end pour.

🍺 Craft Breweries Near Franklin, NC
Explore local flavors, small-batch pours, and a few good excuses to stay out past sunset.

  1. Lazy Hiker Brewing Company
    📍 188 W Main St, Franklin, NC 28734
    🌐 lazyhikerbrewing.com
    📞 (828) 349-2337
    Located in the old town hall and firehouse, Lazy Hiker features a spacious taproom, outdoor patio, and regular events. Opened in 2015 and still pouring strong.

  2. Currahee Brewing Company
    📍 100 Lakeside Dr, Franklin, NC 28734
    🌐 curraheebrew.com
    📞 (828) 634-0078
    Born in the Appalachian foothills, Currahee offers bold beers, lakeside views, and a full calendar of music, food trucks, and good times.

  3. Innovation Brewing
    📍 414 W Main St, Sylva, NC 28779 (~25 miles)
    🌐 innovation-brewing.com
    📞 (828) 586-9678
    Creative brews and a relaxed vibe in downtown Sylva. Known for rotating taps and inventive flavors that live up to their name.

  4. Balsam Falls Brewing Co.
    📍 506 W Main St, Sylva, NC 28779 (~25 miles)
    🌐 balsamfallsbrewing.com
    📞 (828) 631-1987
    Family-owned and proudly small-batch. This brewery offers handcrafted beers in a cozy, welcoming space just off Main Street.

  5. Satulah Mountain Brewing Company
    📍 454 Carolina Way, Highlands, NC 28741 (~20 miles)
    🌐 satulahmountainbrewing.com
    📞 (828) 482-9794
    Highlands’ first brewery, featuring classic and seasonal brews in a laid-back, local setting. A perfect stop after exploring the mountains.

  6. Whiteside Brewing Company
    📍 128 NC-107, Cashiers, NC 28717 (~27 miles)
    🌐 whitesidebrewing.com
    📞 (828) 743-6000
    Brewery and full-service restaurant nestled in scenic Cashiers. Known for approachable beers, hearty fare, and plenty of outdoor seating.

💦 Waterfalls Near Franklin, NC
Because nothing says “vacation” like gravity showing off.

  1. Dry Falls
    📍 US Highway 64/28 W, Highlands, NC 28741 (~16.5 miles from Franklin)
    🗒️ Don’t let the name fool you, you will get misted. Walk behind this 75-foot waterfall without needing scuba gear. Paved path and viewing platform make it easy to access.​Romantic Asheville+16www.visitnc.com+16Yelp+16

  1. Bridal Veil Falls
    📍 US Highway 64/28 W, Highlands, NC 28741 (~17 miles from Franklin)
    🗒️ A unique roadside cascade you can drive behind, yes, drive. Great for a photo op or pretending your car is in a shampoo commercial.​

  2. Cullasaja Falls
    📍 US Highway 64, Cullasaja River Gorge, Highlands, NC 28741 (~11 miles east of Franklin)
    🗒️ A dramatic, multi-tiered waterfall visible from the roadside. No official parking, but it’s worth slowing down to catch a glimpse, just don’t test your luck with the guardrail.​Yelp+8MapQuest+8Tripadvisor+8

  3. Glen Falls
    📍 Highway 106 S, Highlands, NC 28741 (~17 miles from Franklin)
    🗒️ A moderate 2-mile roundtrip hike takes you to a three-tiered beauty with plenty of photo spots and a little cardio thrown in for good measure.​ncwaterfalls.com+3www.visitnc.com+3MapQuest+3

  4. Turtleback Falls
    📍 Access via Grassy Ridge Road, Sapphire, NC 28774 (~40 miles from Franklin)
    🗒️ A popular swimming and sliding spot (caution advised), reached via the Rainbow Falls Trail. Nature’s version of a water park, minus the overpriced snacks.​Recreation.gov+17Yelp+17North Carolina State Parks+17

  5. Rainbow Falls
    📍 Access via Grassy Ridge Road, Sapphire, NC 28774 (~40 miles from Franklin)
    🗒️ Towering 150-foot waterfall known for the misty rainbows that form on sunny days. Bring a camera, and maybe a poncho.​

  6. Upper Whitewater Falls
    📍 NC Highway 281, Sapphire, NC 28774 (~40 miles from Franklin)
    🗒️ One of the tallest waterfalls east of the Rockies at 411 feet. Paved path to overlook, and stairs for the more ambitious. It’s big, it’s loud, it’s Mother Nature showing off.​Tripadvisor

Note: Distances are approximate. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s advisable to contact local visitor centers or visit official websites.

🥾 Hiking Trails Near Franklin, NC
From easy strolls to sweat-worthy climbs—Western North Carolina’s beauty is best seen on foot (preferably with sturdy boots).

  1. Winding Stair Gap to Siler Bald (Appalachian Trail)
    📍 Trailhead: Winding Stair Gap, US Highway 64
    📏 Distance: ~4.5 miles round trip
    🥾 Difficulty: Moderate
    🌐 AllTrails – Winding Stair Gap
    Panoramic 360-degree views await at the Siler Bald summit. A rewarding Appalachian Trail section that’s well worth the uphill.

  2. Wayah Bald Lookout Tower
    📍 Trailhead: Wayah Bald Road (Forest Service Road 69)
    📏 Distance: 0.3 miles round trip
    🥾 Difficulty: Easy
    🌐 franklin-chamber.com
    Short, paved walk to a historic stone fire tower with stunning long-range views. On a clear day, you’ll swear you can see forever.

  3. Rufus Morgan Trail
    📍 Trailhead: Off Wayah Road (State Road 1310), via FS Road 388
    📏 Distance: 1-mile loop
    🥾 Difficulty: Moderate
    🌐 US Forest Service – Rufus Morgan
    A peaceful loop with lush forest, wildflowers, and a 60-foot waterfall. Perfect for those who like their hikes with a splash.

  4. Pickens Nose Trail
    📍 Trailhead: Accessible via Forest Service roads (navigation recommended)
    📏 Distance: 1.4 miles round trip
    🥾 Difficulty: Moderate
    🌐 experiencefranklinnc.com
    Features dramatic cliffs and incredible mountain views. Don’t be fooled by the name—it’s a breathtaking hike, not a nasal inspection.

  5. Little Tennessee River Greenway
    📍 Trailhead: Multiple access points in Franklin
    📏 Distance: Up to 5 miles
    🥾 Difficulty: Easy
    🌐 franklin-chamber.com
    Gentle riverside paths, ideal for walking, biking, or dog-walking. Scenic bridges, wildlife viewing, and zero elevation drama.

  6. Bartram Trail: Section 4
    📍 Trailhead: Near Franklin (directions recommended)
    📏 Distance: 4 miles round trip
    🥾 Difficulty: Moderate
    🌐 experiencefranklinnc.com
    A hidden gem featuring waterfalls and a vibrant mix of plant life. Less traveled, but more tranquil.

  7. Mooney Falls Trail
    📍 Trailhead: Off Forest Service Road 67
    📏 Distance: 0.2 miles round trip
    🥾 Difficulty: Easy
    🌐 experiencefranklinnc.com
    A quick jaunt to a beautiful cascading waterfall. Great for families or folks who prefer more scenic reward than cardio effort.

  8. Shot Pouch Trail
    📍 Trailhead: Wayah Bald Road (Forest Service Road 69)
    📏 Distance: 1.5 miles round trip
    🥾 Difficulty: Moderate
    🌐 franklin-chamber.com
    Known for wildlife clearings, mountain views, and a small waterfall. Not overly rugged, but enough trail to call it a hike, not a stroll.

🎣 Fishing Guides Near Franklin, NC
Local pros ready to help you land the big one—or at least tell a believable story about the one that got away.

  1. Fly Fishing the Smokies
    📍 157 Everett Street, Bryson City, NC 28713 (~25 miles from Franklin)
    📞 (828) 421-6378
    🌐 flyfishingthesmokies.net/franklin
    🗒️ Wade and float trips for trout and bass in the Smokies. Great for anglers who like their fish scenic and their guide witty.​Bryson City Explore+4Visit Smokies+4Yelp+4

  2. Turning Stone’s Fly Fishing
    📍 Otto, NC 28763 (~8 miles from Franklin)
    📞 (724) 986-2652
    🌐 flyfishingwnc.com
    🗒️ Full-service fly fishing for trout in rivers and streams. The trout don’t stand a chance.​MapQuestYelp+1MapQuest+1

  3. Fontana Guides
    📍 3336 Balltown Road, Bryson City, NC 28713 (~30 miles from Franklin)
    📞 (828) 736-2318
    🌐 fontanaguides.com
    🗒️ Year-round guided trips—fly and conventional fishing on rivers and lakes. If it swims, they’ll help you catch it.​MapQuest+6Discover Jackson NC+6Yelp+6Discover Jackson NC+5Yelp+5Bryson City Explore+5

  4. Big Ol’ Fish Guiding Service
    📍 100 Lake Shore Drive, Murphy, NC 28906 (~40 miles from Franklin)
    📞 (828) 361-2021
    🌐 bigolfish.com
    🗒️ Guided fishing charters in lakes near Franklin. Name says it all—big, ol’, and ready to bite.​Yelp+1YP.com | The Real Yellow Pages+1Tripadvisor+4Big Ol’ Fish+4MapQuest+4

  5. Endless River Adventures
    📍 14157 Highway 19 West, Bryson City, NC 28713 (~30 miles from Franklin)
    📞 (828) 488-6199
    🌐 endlessriveradventures.com
    🗒️ Fly fishing instruction and guided trips on the Nantahala and beyond. Great if you like your adventures endless and your waders wet.​Yelp+1Bryson City Explore+1

🎰 Casinos Near Franklin, NC
Try your luck—or at least enjoy the buffet and people-watching.

  1. Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort
    📍 777 Casino Drive, Cherokee, NC 28719 (~30 miles from Franklin) 🌐 caesars.com/harrahs-cherokee 📞 (828) 497-7777 This flagship resort features a 150,000 sq. ft. gaming floor with slots and table games, a luxury hotel with over 1,800 rooms, multiple dining options, the Mandara Spa, live entertainment venues, and access to the Sequoyah National Golf Club.

  2. Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel
    📍 777 Casino Parkway, Murphy, NC 28906 (~45 miles from Franklin) 🌐 caesars.com/harrahs-cherokee-valley-river 📞 (828) 422-7777 Smaller than its Cherokee counterpart but still packed with fun—offering over 1,000 gaming machines, 50+ table games, a 300-room hotel, multiple eateries, and a game zone with bowling lanes and arcade action.

🍽️ Fine Dining & Notable Restaurants in Franklin, NC
From filet mignon to pad Thai, Franklin’s food scene offers something for every appetite—and maybe even a reason to wear real pants.

  1. J.R. Chophouse
    📍 44 Iotla St, Franklin, NC 28734
    🌐 jrchophouse.com
    📞 (828) 369-3663
    Opened in spring 2023 by Chef James Reaux, J.R. Chophouse offers casually elegant dining with a focus on premium meats and seafood. The menu features hand-cut steaks, roast prime rib, and locally farmed trout. Indoor and Main Street patio seating available.

  2. Gracious Plates on Main
    📍 46 E Main St, Franklin, NC 28734
    🌐 graciousplatesonmain.com
    📞 (828) 369-2690
    A farm-to-table restaurant emphasizing locally sourced ingredients. They serve breakfast, lunch, Sunday brunch, and dinner, with daily specials and craft cocktails rounding out the experience.

  3. Caffé REL
    📍 457 E Main St, Franklin, NC 28734
    🌐 cafferel.com
    📞 (828) 369-9446
    Unpretentious location, exceptional cuisine. Known for fine French dining with dishes like Pork Osso Bucco and Opal Basil Shrimp, crafted by classically trained Chef Richard E. Long.

  4. Fat Buddies Ribs & BBQ
    📍 193 Wayah St, Franklin, NC 28734
    📞 (828) 349-8713
    No frills, just finger-lickin’ barbecue. Ribs, pulled pork, brisket, and all the fixins. Great for when you want your dinner smoked low and slow—and preferably with sauce on your shirt.

  5. Root + Barrel Kitchen
    📍 77 E Main St, Franklin, NC 28734
    📞 (828) 369-3663
    Modern American cuisine with inventive twists and an extensive drink selection. A contemporary spot in the heart of downtown Franklin.

  6. The Sunset Restaurant
    📍 498 Harrison Ave, Franklin, NC 28734
    📞 (828) 524-4842
    A beloved local staple for decades. Enjoy classic American fare, with the option of good ol’ fashioned curbside service for that retro diner feel.

  7. Motor Company Grill
    📍 86 W Main St, Franklin, NC 28734
    📞 (828) 524-0099
    This 1950s-themed diner delivers fresh, hand-pressed burgers, fries, and nostalgic soda fountain treats like banana splits and malts.

  8. Lucio’s Restaurant
    📍 313 Highlands Rd, Franklin, NC 28734
    📞 (828) 369-6670
    Authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy, welcoming setting. From pasta to seafood, it’s a favorite for comfort and flavor.

  9. Thai Paradise
    📍 537 W Main St, Franklin, NC 28734
    📞 (828) 524-8382
    Traditional Thai dishes with bold, fresh flavors. A go-to for Asian cuisine lovers looking to spice things up.

💎 Gem Mines Near Franklin, NC
Experience the thrill of unearthing mountain treasures—no pickaxe required.

  1. Sheffield Gem Mine
    📍 385 Sheffield Farms Rd, Franklin, NC 28734
    🌐 sheffieldmine.com
    📞 (828) 369-8383
    Historic native ruby and sapphire mine offering both “dig-your-own” mining and pre-filled buckets of 100% unsalted gem ore. One of the area’s most trusted spots to strike it shiny.

  2. Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine
    📍 41 Cherokee Mine Road, Franklin, NC 28734
    🌐 cherokeerubymine.com
    📞 (828) 349-2941
    Macon County’s only 100% unsalted, native mine. No “enhanced” buckets here—what you find is what Mother Nature left behind. Great for purists.

  3. Rose Creek Mine
    📍 240 Terrace Ridge Dr, Franklin, NC 28734
    🌐 rosecreekmine.com
    📞 (828) 349-3774
    Operating since 1952, this mine offers both natural dirt and enhanced gem buckets. Equipment, guidance, and a friendly staff make it ideal for families and first-timers.

  4. Mason Mountain Mine & Cowee Gift Shop
    📍 5315 Bryson City Road, Franklin, NC 28734
    🌐 masonmtnmine.com
    📞 (828) 421-1457
    Celebrating over 60 years of local mining. Offers 100% native dirt, enhanced gem buckets, and on-site jewelry making. A one-stop shop for rocks and sparkle.

  5. Gold City Gem Mine
    📍 9410 Sylva Highway, Franklin, NC 28734
    🌐 goldcityamusement.com
    📞 (828) 369-3905
    Tourist-friendly spot offering gem mining, gold panning, and a wide variety of precious and semi-precious stones. Great gift shop if you’d rather just buy something shiny.

  6. Old Cardinal Gem Mine
    📍 71 Rockhaven Dr, Franklin, NC 28734
    📞 (828) 369-6673
    Family-owned and laid-back. Known for its friendly vibe and great variety of gems including garnets, rubies, and sapphires. No glitz, just grit—and good finds.

🐎 Horseback Riding Near Franklin, NC
Explore the scenic trails of Western North Carolina with these local equestrian services.

  1. Horsing Around The Barn
    📍 399 Haughton Williams Road, Franklin, NC 28734
    🌐 horsingaroundthebarn.com
    📞 (828) 347-5288
    Offers equine services, riding lessons, and Western riding experiences. Great for all skill levels, whether you’re new to the saddle or just a bit rusty.

  2. Smokin Saddles Riding Co.
    📍 Franklin, NC
    🌐 smokinsaddlesridingco.com
    Mountain trail adventures on smooth, gaited horses like Tennessee Walkers and Missouri Fox Trotters. Yes, they offer cantering through the woods—yee-haw optional.

  3. Chunky Gal Stables
    📍 Hayesville, NC (~25 miles from Franklin)
    🌐 chunkygalstables.com
    📞 (828) 389-4175
    Offers trail rides, lessons, boarding, and horse training. Open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. Don’t let the name fool you—these folks know their horses.

🌊 Whitewater Rafting Near Franklin, NC
Guided adventure on the Nantahala River—mild, wild, and everything in between.

  1. Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC)
    📍 13077 Highway 19 W, Bryson City, NC 28713 (~30 miles from Franklin)
    🌐 noc.com
    📞 (828) 785-5082
    Established in 1972, NOC offers a wide range of guided rafting trips on the Nantahala River for all experience levels, plus outdoor gear, ziplines, and riverside dining.

  2. Wildwater Rafting & Zipline Canopy Tours
    📍 10345 Highway 19 South/74 West, Bryson City, NC 28713 (~30 miles from Franklin)
    🌐 wildwaterrafting.com
    📞 (866) 319-8870
    Guided rafting adventures with a focus on safety, family fun, and pairing river trips with zipline canopy tours for a full day of excitement.

  3. Rolling Thunder River Company
    📍 10160 Highway 19 W, Bryson City, NC 28713 (~30 miles from Franklin)
    🌐 rollingthunderriverco.com
    📞 (800) 408-7238
    Offers full-length rafting trips along the eight-mile stretch of the Nantahala River, known for scenic mountain beauty and professional guides.

  4. Carolina Outfitters Rafting
    📍 715 U.S. Hwy 19, Topton, NC 28781 (~40 miles from Franklin)
    🌐 carolinaoutfitters.com
    📞 (828) 488-6345
    Family-friendly whitewater rafting on both the Nantahala and Ocoee Rivers. Known for laid-back hospitality, experienced guides, and a strong safety record.

🏰 Historic & Interesting Places Within 75 Miles of Franklin, NC
Estate-style splendor, mountain history, and a few spots that’ll make you feel fancier than a goat in a top hat.

  1. Biltmore Estate
    📍 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803
    🌐 biltmore.com
    📞 (800) 411-3812
    America’s largest home, built by George Vanderbilt. Explore the 8,000-acre estate featuring a 250-room mansion, gardens, winery, and more. It’s like Downton Abbey, Southern edition.

  2. Wayah Bald Lookout Tower
    📍 Nantahala National Forest, Franklin, NC 28734
    🌐 fs.usda.gov
    A historic fire tower offering panoramic views of the Appalachian Mountains. Great spot for a picnic or pretending you’re on top of the world.

  3. Highlands Historical Society & Prince House Museum
    📍 524 N. 4th Street, Highlands, NC 28741
    🌐 highlandshistory.com
    📞 (828) 787-1050
    Preserving the rich heritage of Highlands, this museum offers insights into the town’s history. The Prince House is the oldest home in Highlands—talk about vintage charm.

  4. Cowee School Arts & Heritage Center
    📍 51 Cowee School Drive, Franklin, NC 28734
    🌐 coweeschool.org
    📞 (828) 369-4080
    A former school turned community center, hosting art exhibits, classes, and cultural events. Proof that old dogs can learn new tricks.

  5. Museum of the Cherokee People
    📍 589 Tsali Blvd, Cherokee, NC 28719
    🌐 motcp.org
    📞 (828) 497-3481
    Dive into the history and culture of the Cherokee people through exhibits and artifacts. It’s like a time machine, but without the risk of altering history.

  6. Oconaluftee Indian Village & “Unto These Hills” Outdoor Drama
    📍 218 Drama Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719
    🌐 cherokeehistorical.org
    📞 (866) 554-4557
    Step back in time to a 1760s Cherokee village and experience live reenactments. The outdoor drama brings history to life—spoiler alert: no CGI.

  7. Scottish Tartans Museum
    📍 86 E. Main St, Franklin, NC 28734
    🌐 scottishtartansmuseum.org
    📞 (828) 524-7472
    The only museum of its kind in the U.S., dedicated to Scottish heritage and tartans. Kilts are optional, but highly encouraged.

  8. The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts
    📍 323 Franklin Rd, Highlands, NC 28741
    🌐 thebascom.org
    📞 (828) 526-4949
    A six-acre campus offering art exhibitions, workshops, and events. Where your inner artist can run wild—just don’t touch the paintings.

  9. Dillard House & Historic Dillard
    📍 768 Franklin St, Dillard, GA 30537
    🌐 dillardhouse.com
    📞 (706) 746-5348
    Known for Southern hospitality and family-style dining, the Dillard House offers lodging and a taste of history. Come hungry; leave in a food coma.

  10. Tuckasegee Valley Historical Museum
    📍 310 Church St, Sylva, NC 28779
    🌐 jacksoncountyhistory.org
    📞 (828) 586-3965
    Showcasing the history of Jackson County, this museum offers a glimpse into the area’s past. It’s like a history book, but with better visuals.

  11. Deep Creek Historic Area & Trails
    📍 Deep Creek Rd, Bryson City, NC 28713
    🌐 nps.gov
    📞 (828) 488-6881
    Known for waterfalls, hiking, and tubing, Deep Creek offers outdoor fun with a side of history. Just remember, what goes down the river must come back up.

Deer Springs RV Park

Adult Only RV Park in Franklin NC 

8301 W. Old Murphy Rd

Franklin, NC  28734

(828) 349-5440

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