Day Trip Ideas While Staying in Sapphire, North Carolina
Sapphire, NC is a picturesque mountain town located in western North Carolina. Known for its stunning natural beauty and abundance of outdoor recreational activities, Sapphire is the perfect destination for a relaxing vacation in the mountains. While there's plenty to see and do in Sapphire itself, there are also a number of great day trips that you can take to explore the surrounding area. Here are some of the best day trips to take while vacationing in Sapphire, NC:
Cashiers, NC: Just a short 10-minute drive from Sapphire, the town of Cashiers is a must-see destination. With a charming downtown area filled with unique shops and restaurants, as well as numerous hiking trails and waterfalls, Cashiers is the perfect place to spend a day exploring. Don't miss a visit to the beautiful Village Green gardens at the town center. They host live music and fare every Friday night during the summer months. There's also an amazing playground for the kids.
Highlands, NC: Another nearby town worth exploring is Highlands. With a thriving arts scene, numerous galleries, and a variety of outdoor activities, Highlands is a great destination for a day trip. Take a hike to Sunset Rock for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, or explore the quaint downtown area with its boutique shops and cafes.
Asheville, NC: If you're willing to venture a bit further from Sapphire, the city of Asheville is a must-visit destination just over an hour away. With a vibrant arts and music scene, as well as numerous breweries and restaurants, Asheville has something for everyone. Don't miss a visit to the famous Biltmore Estate, a stunning mansion built by the Vanderbilt family in the late 1800s.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Located just a few hours from Sapphire, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers. With over 800 miles of hiking trails, numerous waterfalls, and abundant wildlife, the park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Take a scenic drive along the Newfound Gap Road or hike to the top of Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park.
Cherokee, NC: For a glimpse into the history and culture of the Cherokee people, a visit to the town of Cherokee is a must. Located just a short drive from Sapphire, Cherokee is home to the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, as well as numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Don't miss a visit to the nearby Oconaluftee Indian Village, a living history museum that showcases the traditional way of life of the Cherokee people.
No matter what your interests, there's plenty to see and do while vacationing in Sapphire, NC. Whether you're exploring the charming mountain towns nearby or venturing further afield to explore the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you're sure to have an unforgettable vacation in this beautiful part of the country. Read more about nearby mountain towns here.
