Tourist attraction in Swain County, North Carolina
Ok so this wasn’t on MY bucket list .. but was on my husband’s so it was on our anniversary trip to-do list! And it really didn’t disappoint ether! 318 turns in 11 miles with steep drops and no guard rails! This road is not for inexperienced drivers… But if you drive slow and take the turns carefully it is a pretty amazing experience. There are some cool shops just before you drive into TN that mark the beginning of your drive, and they have memorabilia and stuff. Look for the dragon statue to your left– he is all made of metal! Just beware.. it isn’t for people who don’t like heights or who can’t navigate turns well.
318 turns in 11 miles, one of if not the best drive I’ve ever been on! If you love curvy, challenging mountain roads and amazing views, this is the route for you! I drove through completely by accident on my way to the Foothills Parkway but I’ve always wanted to drive the tail of the dragon and I got to its something you must do if in the area!
The Dragon is popular and internationally famous destination for motorcycle and sports car enthusiasts since 1981. Known as America’s number 1 motorcycle and sports car road, famous for its 318 curves in 11 miles (18 km). The road earned its name from its curves being said to resemble a dragons tail. The stretch bears the street name Tapoco Road in North Carolina and Calderwood Highway in Tennessee and is signed entirely by US 129 (hidden SR 115).
Deals Gap, also known as Tail of the Dragon, is a portion of U.S. Route 129 in Blount County, Tennessee, situated in a gap in Swain County, North Carolina, United States. It was publicized as one of the most scenic drives in USA. This road is appealing to those who are looking for adrenaline rush and excitement. With hundreds of blind curves, long blind crests, and high degrees of camber, this road presents plenty of opportunities to leave the pavement both laterally, and longitudinally, and will provide a challenge even for the most seasoned drivers/bikers.
The Great Smoky Mountains and Cherokee National Forest border the Dragon, there is no development along the 11-mile stretch, this adds to safety as well as natural beauty. The Dragon stretch of US 129 is double-lined as no passing (there are pull offs you can use to allow tailgaters to get ahead of you.) There are also pull-off points along the route for scenic overlooks. The road is certainly breathtaking, but has a fearsome reputation, speed limit was posted at 30 mph in 2002 and still in effect today. Trucks are also prohibited to enter the road due to previous accidents and incidents involving trucks and semi-tractor.
The best time to drive this road is between March and November. Winter months can be hard to predict. The weather on this zone is harsh and highly unpredictable and it does not take much time for the bright sun shine to change over to moderate to heavy snow fall. This road had a reputation for being extremely dangerous because of unpredictable snowstorms and blizzards, and driving under these conditions, can be challenging. This road is not for the faint hearted, but if you are looking for a little excitement and adrenaline pumping journey, dont miss this one.
Since 1954, McDonald’s has been dedicated to serving quality food and quick service at an affordable price for our customers. Visit your nearby McDonald’s and choose from a full menu of favorites, including McCafé® coffee, All Day Breakfast, juicy burgers like our Quarter Pounder®* with Cheese and more!
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Welcome To Nate & Nick’s
We want our customers to know that for over 15 years we proudly use only the finest whole milk mozzarella cheese, quality meats, and the freshest vegetables we can find. Our pizza sauce contains no citric acid or preservatives, and our dough is aged for optimum flavor. We feel you can definitely taste the difference! One bite and you’ll know why it’s Nate and Nick’s!
WHY HAND-CRAFTED BEERS?
A lot of people have asked why we choose to only offer handcrafted beers instead of the typical beers that everyone is used to. We decided to stick to the small breweries that only make a few thousand barrels a year instead of millions. They still pay attention to detail and use the finest ingredients they can find. We get them within days of being brewed instead of months, so the freshness is at its best. We feel the quality of the beers compliment the freshness of the food we offer. From light to dark, we have something to suit your taste. If you have any questions, feel free to ask.
A favorite of tourists and locals alike, the Fryemont Inn’s dining room is open to the public for both dinner and breakfast from mid-April through Thanksgiving. If you’re a lodging guest at the Fryemont during the spring, summer or fall, both daily meals are included in the price of your stay. The dining room is closed during the winter months.
Dinner is served 6 PM to 8 PM Sunday – Thursday
6 PM to 9 PM Friday & Saturday
All dinners include soup of the day, mixed green salad, entree of your choice, family style side dishes and dessert. You’ll have a choice of five different fresh, local mountain trout entrees; as well as lamb shanks, prime rib, NY strip, sirloin, chicken dishes, Virginia ham and country ham. There’s even a children’s menu.
Gleaming hardwood floors reflect the glow from the huge stone fireplace on cool mornings and evenings. Overhead, brass and wood paddle fans hang from the raftered, vaulted ceiling. It’s the perfect setting for a romantic dinner or a group event.
We are a family owned & operated restaurant. Freshly hand patty hamburgers to fresh vegetable & home cooked dinners.
The essence of the perfect North Carolina family mountain vacation, this smoky mountain cabin sets the standard for family lodging. Situated in the heart of the Snowbird Mountains on Snowbird Creek the outdoor enthusiast will be as close to paradise as they can get on this earth. You can catch your limit of Rainbow or Brown trout without starting your car. Hike to waterfalls or a stretch of the Appalachian Trail. Tranquility and seclusion on a private road affords long quiet walks and a safe place for the kids to act like kids. Our lakes and creeks will give you memories your family will cherish for a lifetime.
Long-running restaurant serving steak, American fare, beer & wine in a casual, old-fashioned space.
Papa’s Pizza To Go offers carry-out, delivery and dine-in
Papa’s Pizza To Go found its niche in small town U.S.A. The company currently operates franchised locations in four states. Papa’s Pizza To Go provides a diverse menu featuring pizza, breadsticks, hot and cold subs, chicken, salads, pastas and desserts. With over two decades of success, Papa’s Pizza To Go remains committed to serving customers an expanded menu with quality products to satisfy all appetites at a reasonable price. Order online at papaspizzatogo.com for carryout or no contact delivery
Pizza, subs, salads, bread sticks, wings, desserts
Centrally located in the middle of the Fontana Village Resort, the Wildwood Grill offers a warm and charming ambience, wonderful food, and friendly service. Whether you dine on the lively patio or settle into a cozy table inside, the Wildwood Grill delivers an unequaled mountain view with music, food, and great friends!
Join us for lunch or dinner. Stay close and relax after a casual meal near the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. The Grill is the front door to everything happening in Fontana Village Resort. The Wildwood Grill is open seasonally from Spring through Fall.
Gather your group for the daily recap and tell tales of disc golf wins, fish pulled from Fontana Lake, and the amazing sights of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.
Bring the amazing food of the Grill to your camping hotspot by calling for take-out.
Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.
In the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. The good times are guaranteed when you explore the area around the Quality Inn® in Andrews. Our hotel sits minutes from Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino. You’ll have all the comforts you’re after at our hotel but you won’t have to spend too much to get them. After all, we know you want to save your money for the fun that’s ahead.
Adults on their own or with the kids along for the trip will want to get up early to get out the door to the nearby attractions. But our free hot breakfast provides a perfect reason to stay in the hotel for at least a short time longer. Then put the energy from our famous waffles to work to spur you on throughout your day. Try white water rafting or zip lining. Or for the truly adventurous, drive the nearby Tail of the Dragon, one of America’s craziest roads thanks to its 318 turns over 11 miles. Not up for it? We understand.
There are plenty of other options in our corner of North Carolina. For those with an adventurous palate, plenty of wineries are waiting. Find your new favorite wine at Calaboose Cellars or Ferncrest Winery. Beer lovers will want to head straight to Hoppy Trout Brewery (and your kids will love the brick oven pizza).
Perched on the banks of a peaceful, mountain creek, Creekside Paradise is the perfect basecamp to all your adventures. Whether you’re a hiker, biker, or casual explorer, we look forward to welcoming you to our corner of the mountains here in Western North Carolina. Come relax in the hot tub, nap by the creek, hike the many scenic trails, or simply cozy up with a cup of complimentary coffee by the campfire. However you define adventure, we welcome it!
Robbinsville, North Carolina has come a long way in the past few years and really appreciates the many motorcycle riders who have made this area a destination in their travel plans. Not only do we have the best roads, good old southern hospitality, and a great riding season, but now we offer special accommodations for riders who visit us.
Each inn room has its own motorcycle garage to keep your bike out of the weather.
Conveniently located three miles south of Robbinsville on US129. Just 20 miles to the famous 318 curves in 11 miles of the TAIL OF THE DRAGON at DEALS GAP, 15 miles to the mile high CHEROHALA SKYWAY, 10 miles to the NANTAHALA GORGE and the twisties of WAYAH ROAD, 11 miles to MOONSHINER 28 and 35 miles to CHEROKEE and the BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY.
El Pacifico Restaurant is a family-owned and operated business that started October of 2003 located in Robbinsville, North Carolina. Our goal is to offer delicious, made-from-scratch Mexican food at a reasonable price with family-style dinning.
We are warmly embraced by locals and tourists who are seeking for a unique dinning experience, authentic taste of Mexico along with art and culture.
We take pride with our made-from-scratch dishes, each made from the heart and crafted with pride and cooked according to honored family recipes. We use the freshest, finest ingredients from our scratch made salsas, sauces, guacamoles, tortillas, beans, sides and we use traditional Mexican items to ensure the best quality.
We also take pride with our excellent and fast customer service. We are passionate to ensure you enjoy your dinning experience with us.
We invite you to visit us! Celebrate traditions, enjoy the company of family and friends, share laughter, create memories and enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine that will tickle your taste buds and bring your senses to the bright and colorful kitchens of Mexico.
Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains of Bryson City, NC, Nantahala Village Resort is the ideal North Carolina vacation and Cabin Rental destination – perfect for romantic getaways, family vacations, weddings, and group events. Choose from a variety of lodging options including well-appointed Lodge rooms, mountain suites, and cozy rental cabins. We offer complimentary bagged breakfast including a granola bar, muffin, apple, bottle of water and a juice carton. Call Nantahala Village Resort for details. Should you wish to explore this beautiful Smoky Mountain area, there are whitewater rafting outfitters, zip-lines, miles of hiking and biking trails, premier trout streams, The Smoky Mountain Railroad, Bryson City shopping and Bryson City dining just minutes away. Or test your engines on the Tail of the Dragon, Cherohala Skyway or many other nearby scenic mountain roads. Visit the towns of Bryson City and Cherokee for authentic handcrafts, dining and historic experiences.
Nantahala Village Resort was established in 1948, when the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was new and a visit to the western North Carolina Mountains was a true retreat from the world. Now over 60 years later, Nantahala Village Resort continues to provide an opportunity for family and group getaways. With our variety of lodging choices, full service restaurant, indoor and outdoor meeting spaces, swimming pools, game room, fitness center and horseback riding the Village caters to individuals and groups.
Manor is a family operated business. We take pride to provide the same quality of care, friendliness and courtesy as guests would receive in our personal residence. A new experience in vacation living, we want our home to be your mountain home away from home!
Choose from our 1- and 2-bedroom spacious and tastefully decorated suites that sit just beneath the hill of Olde Towne Robbinsville. All suites are furnished with comfortable beds, ensuite baths, fully equipped kitchens, satellite television, high speed Internet, central heat/air along with free local telephone calls, free parking for large trailers, buses or other recreational vehicles. Laundry facilities and gas grills on site.
An ideal location and within walking distance to gift and discount shops, restaurants and a wide variety of entertainment as well as many natural area attractions. A haven for those seeking the cool, casual, unhurried pace of a mountain retreat!
In 2004, the addition of the Dragon’s Den Grill was added to the resort allowing 65 guests to sit, relax, and have a great meal. Four years later, the addition of the beer on tap was installed, so one can enjoy a cold beer with their meal if desired. Three TVs set on weather, news, & SPEED Networks are positioned around the Grill to keep you updated on current conditions & race day shouting at the tv. The grill is air conditioned for our hot summer days & heated for our cooler early spring and late fall travelers. We offer 6 speciality burgers (don’t worry regulars, you can still have our original Dragon burger too!), a daily deli, homemade desserts, & much more. We also offer window bar seating overlooking the parking lot and Wheelie hill, which are the best seats in the grill!! Come check it out!!
We serve breakfast starting at 8AM every morning, considered by many to be the best there is in the area. Lunch starts by 11AM, serving our famous dragon burger, chicken, BBQ, sandwiches, and many more items available on the menu, along with daily specials.
Hello, My named is Chef Shea Blalock Anderson. I was raised in Western North Carolina and attended collage at Johnson and Wales University in Charleston, South Carolina where I earned a Bachelor’s in Hotel and Restaurant Management, Associate of Science in Culinary Arts. That’s were I developed my true passion for southern comfort foods.
My distinctive brand of cooking is a brilliant juxtaposition of rustic flavors with refined, classically inspired preparations. Willow Tree Catering and Baking reflex’s childhood food memories and traditions growing up in the North Carolina Mountains.
My Refreshing approach to Southern Cuisine, with its blend of gourmet flare to create dishes like White Cheddar Grit Puppies, Pan-Seared Local Rainbow Mountain Trout with Tomato Jalapeno Jam and my mama’s Cornbread Salad.
At its heart, Willow Tree Catering and Baking combined with the celebration of local ingredients and vibrant food culture and Southern upbringing. Brimming with flavorful dishes and memorable stories to showcase the very best that Robbinsville, North Carolina has to offer.
Looking for a vacation that’s a little different, a little more, a little better than your last one? That’s why we’re here. At Sky Ridge, we strive to give our guests a place where they can relax and reconnect with themselves and with nature without giving up the comforts of home.
Perched high atop a mountainous ridge line with a view that will take your breath away, you’ll find seven well-appointed yurts ready and waiting for you and your friends and family to experience the Great Smoky Mountains in a completely new and changing way. You just might not want to leave.