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Dog Friendly Places to Visit

Looking for the perfect pet-friendly mountain getaway? The picturesque towns of Bryson City, Sylva, and surrounding areas are packed with welcoming pet-friendly businesses, making it easier than ever to travel with your dog. Whether you are strolling through downtown, grabbing a bite at a dog-friendly restaurant, or exploring the scenic beauty of Western North Carolina, your pup is welcome here. Check out our favorite local spots below, and book a relaxing stay at our pet-friendly vacation rental The ReUp Retreat—the ideal cozy vacation home for you and your furry friend after a day in the Smoky Mountains.

We are always on the lookout for new local businesses to spotlight on this page, so if you had a great experience with a pet-friendly spot that is not on this list, let us know!  

And because the safety and security of your dogs are our top priority, we also want to highlight where and how to contact the local veterinarians in case of an emergency. 

By reaching out to these reputable emergency clinics, you can have peace of mind knowing that your pet’s urgent care needs will be met promptly and comprehensively. Their experienced teams are equipped to handle a wide range of emergency cases, providing immediate attention and necessary interventions when every second is critical.

Restaurants

  • Bryson City Brewing (Bryson City).  This local gem offers a fantastic atmosphere for the whole family, including your pets, thanks to its large, grassy, fenced-in yard. It's the perfect alternative to a traditional sports bar, boasting 25 TVs so you won't miss any of your favorite sporting events.
    They brew currently 14 craft beers on tap ciders, domestic beers, wine and a full cocktail bar featuring several seasonal cocktails.
    When hunger strikes, you're in for a treat with a diverse menu. Prohibition Flame, their in-house restaurant and Grill, offers a broad selection of locally sourced options, including delicious burgers, specialty sandwiches, chicken wings, Flat Breads. For a more sophisticated pallete, try the ribeye, filet mignon, salmon and fried chicken dinner Plus, their salads are made with fresh garden mixed greens, not just iceberg!
  • Nantahala Brewing Company (Bryson City) 
  • Bryson City Outdoors Craft Beer Department (Bryson City). An outdoor store and community hub located on the square in downtown Bryson City. Their taproom is full of an awesome and ever changing selection of craft brews from across the region, and they always put in the hard work to make sure everything they serve has been taste tested and approved! Grab a craft beer, award winning wine, or local cider and head out to the covered patio to share laughs, lies, and legends or plan tomorrow’s adventure. Food Trucks out front almost daily with some great local grub!
  • CJ's Grille (Bryson City) CJ's Grille, nestled in the heart of Bryson City, NC, delivers a warm and inviting dining experience that captures the essence of a true local gem. Located conveniently at 47 Depot Street, this spot offers not only delicious food but also a scenic view of the historic train depot, making each visit memorable. The menu at CJ's Grille boasts a variety of satisfying options that appeal to all kinds of appetites—from tender Philly cheesesteaks and perfectly cooked burgers to crispy chicken fingers and garlic Sriracha wings. Each dish carries a personal touch, served hot and fresh, as many guests have noted. The fries, cheese curds, and onion rings consistently shine as standout sides, adding delightful textures and robust flavors to every meal. What truly sets CJ's Grille apart is its laid-back atmosphere and community spirit. Whether you’re dining inside or enjoying the outdoor patio, the welcoming staff and accommodating service make you feel like a longtime friend. Their friendly approach extends to four-legged visitors, adding to the homey vibe that encourages relaxation and connection. For those who appreciate a good drink selection, CJ’s Bar offers an impressive range of mixed drinks and beers, perfect for unwinding after exploring the nearby Smoky Mountains. The space buzzes with good energy, though some guests have mentioned the lively acoustics during busy times, which only adds to the pub’s vibrant social scene.Overall, CJ’s Grille impresses with its blend of comfort food excellence and genuine hospitality. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a leisurely meal, this Bryson City standout delivers consistently satisfying flavors in a cozy, community-centered setting.
  • Anthony's Derailed Bar & Lounge (Bryson City) An upscale relaxed full bar with dining and lounge experience with a pet friendly patio.  Pizza and pasta. 
  • Nantahala Outdoor Center-Big Wesser (Bryson City) Along the riverbank of the Nantahala sits Big Wesser Riverside Pub, complete with open-air seating, a mouthwatering menu, and a beverage menu that is tough to beat. The perfect spot for the hungry adventurer, the menu draws from NOC’s southern roots and brings delicious features like burgers and fresh salads to the Nantahala Gorge. It’s the perfect spot to dine, enjoy a cold drink, hear weekly live music, and unwind from the day’s adventures!
  • Mountain Perks (Bryson City)
  • High Test Deli & Sweet Shop (Bryson City) They want your dining experience to be as fun as what our beautiful mountain town has to offer, with fresh made to order sandwiches, salads, soups and desserts. They know they can satisfy any appetite, and they stand by their saying "Let R Deli Fill Yer Belly". They also believe life should be filled with some sweet surprise's, so they kicked it up a notch by offering our one of a kind customized 4x4 frozen Ice cream sandwich's, and of course lets not forget our thick and creamy milk shakes. 
  • Boxcar Cafe & Cones (Bryson City)
  • Soda Pops (Bryson City)
  • La Dolce Vita (Bryson City)
  • Nate & Nick's (Bryson City)
  • Unplugged Pub (Bryson City)
  • White Moon Coffee Shop (Sylva)
  • Coffee Cup Cafe (Clyde)
  • Panacea Coffee Company (Waynesville)
  • Mountain Vibes Kava Lounge (Waynesville)
  • Organic Beans Coffee Company (Maggie Valley)

Shops

  • Underground Sylva (Sylva)
  • Mast General Store (Waynesville)

Trails & Parks

  • ONLY the Oconaluftee River Trail is pet friendly trail at Great Smoky Mountains National Park 
  • Island Park
  • Swain County Recreation Park
  • Nantahala National Forest
  • Flint Ridge Trail at the Nantahala Outdoor Center
  • Blue Ridge Parkway Trails

Attractions

  • Darnell Farms (Bryson City)
  • Fontana Lake
  • Rolling Thunder River Company (Dogs over 35 lbs)

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