Dillsboro: History, Crafts, and the Tuckasegee River

Dillsboro brings together local history, crafts, and experiences on the Tuckasegee River. The activities also vary in how far in advance they can be planned. For workshops, events, and a railroad excursion, be sure to check the relevant dates.

Railroads, Tourism, and Local History

Dillsboro’s development began in 1883 with the arrival of the railroad and the growth of tourism in the region. The Jarrett House was built as a direct result of the economic growth and prosperity that the railroad brought to western North Carolina. According to the historical account, its continued existence reflects the growing importance of tourism in the region. In this way, the house connects railroad history with a later chapter in regional development.

The Appalachian Women's Museum is also connected to a historic building: it is housed in a more than 100-year-old farmhouse in Monteith Farmstead Park. According to Ted Alexander, Regional Director of the Southwest Office of Preservation North Carolina, Monteith Farmstead is one of the best-preserved examples of a mountain farm in western North Carolina. Its listing in the National Register is dated 2008.

The museum’s annual Airing of the Quilts is also part of the area’s cultural history. The event showcases quilts from past generations and modern works of art. If you would like to time your visit to coincide with the festival, check the date of the next event.

Crafts and a Look at How They’re Made

Tunnel Mountain Crafts offers work by more than 60 craftspeople. The owner also demonstrates her pottery-making methods to visitors. Dogwood Crafters features crafts by more than 100 local artisans and offers workshops in Appalachian crafts, including basket weaving.

These two places offer different ways to explore your interest in crafts: alongside the work for sale, Tunnel Mountain Crafts offers a look at the owner’s pottery-making methods; Dogwood Crafters includes workshops among its activities. If a workshop is important to your plans, confirm its availability before your trip.

River Activities and Time Outdoors

Dillsboro River Company offers family-friendly whitewater rafting on the Tuckasegee River. Season dates and reservations vary, so check both if you want to plan your rafting trip in advance. If you’re more interested in birds, river access parks in Dillsboro offer birdwatching opportunities, particularly for species found near rivers. Rafting and birdwatching thus appeal to different interests along the same river.

Monteith Farmstead Park has wheelchair-accessible restrooms, a fishing pier, a picnic shelter, and a flat, paved loop trail. You can take these specific park amenities into account when planning your stay, while keeping them distinct from the separate river activities.

Plan a Stay Alongside a Railroad Excursion

One Great Smoky Mountains Railroad excursion includes a one-hour-and-30-minute stop in Dillsboro. During that time, travelers can visit restaurants, a brewery, and unique craft and gift shops in the walkable town. If you want to include this stop in your day’s itinerary, check the current excursion format and train schedule in advance.

Explore more destinations: Cullowhee, Cashiers, Whittier, Sylva, Tuckasegee.

For the main travel overview: Jackson.