Hidden Joys of Murphy, NC: 20 Adventures You Never Tried
Murphy, North Carolina, is a picturesque Appalachian town known as the “City of Flowers,” with downtown streets that burst into bloom each summer amidst historic structures and beautiful riverscapes. Set at the confluence of the Hiwassee and Valley Rivers, Murphy sits at the western edge of the state, housing just 1,608 residents as of the 2020 census.
Originally inhabited and named Tlanusi‑yi (“Leech Place”) by the Cherokee, Murphy became a critical site during the Trail of Tears, because of Fort Butler, constructed in 1836 to marshal Cherokee removal. The town’s name honors politician Archibald Murphey, though a clerical error dropped the “e,” and the misspelled version stuck. Charming historic landmarks like Harshaw Chapel (circa 1869), the Queen Anne–style Robert Lafayette Cooper House (1889), and the blue-marble Cherokee County Courthouse (1927) reflect its rich architectural heritage.
Murphy blends southern nostalgia with modern quirks: it's home to a regional library system (the oldest in the state), active crypto mining operations, and the world’s largest display of the Ten Commandments nearby at Fields of the Wood
Here are the top 20 things to do in Murphy that you can't miss out on, covering everything from national parks and wineries to unique historical sites.
1. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park
📍Location: Main Entrance at 107 Park Headquarters Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Fun Fact:
This park is the most visited national park in the U.S.—outdrawing the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone combined.
Let’s be real: this one’s a bit of a drive. But if you’re already this far west in North Carolina, you're practically at the front door of one of the most spectacular national parks in the country.
The Smokies are no joke—over 500,000 acres of protected wilderness, home to black bears, fireflies that flash in sync (seriously), and trails that wind through ancient forests and misty peaks. Cades Cove is a must if you want a scenic drive with pioneer cabins and open meadows that feel like they’ve been untouched for centuries. And if you time it right, Newfound Gap offers sunset views that’ll stop you mid-scroll.
🗣️ Personal take: Don’t try to “do the Smokies” in one day. Pick a trail, pack a snack, and give yourself the gift of slow wonder. (And yes, the wildflowers in spring really are worth the hype.)
Important Information:
- About 90 miles (2 hrs) northeast of Murphy.
- Open 24/7; no general admission fee.
- Parking tags required as of 2023 ($5/day).
- Accessible restrooms and visitor centers.
- Popular hiking trails: Alum Cave, Chimney Tops, Clingmans Dome.
2. WagonMaster Adventure Ranch & Gem Mine
📍Location: 490 Peaceful Valley Rd, Murphy, NC 28906
Fun Fact:
Built with family bonding in mind, this ranch lets you drive ATVs, pan for gems, and shoot paintballs all in one spot.
Think of this as part summer camp, part roadside attraction, and all heart. WagonMaster Ranch is a fun, family-friendly escape where you can pan for gems, play mini-golf, try your hand at skeet shooting, and even bounce your way through a castle-shaped inflatable. It’s goofy and nostalgic in the best way—like the kind of place that still believes in snow cones and good ol’ horseshoe tosses.
There are rustic cabins and RV sites on the property, and the staff go out of their way to make you feel welcome. One guest mentioned they even helped guide them through spotty cell reception to find the place. That’s mountain hospitality at its finest.
🗣️ Personal take: Perfect if you’ve got kids in tow—or if you miss being one. Grab a to-go gem bag as a souvenir. It’s kitschy, sure, but that’s part of the fun.
Important Information:
- 9 miles (approx. 15 mins) from Murphy center.
- Open seasonally (spring–fall); 10 AM–5 PM.
- Packages range $15–$50 depending on activity.
- Free parking and picnic areas onsite.
- Great for kids ages 3 and up.
3. Nottely River Valley Vineyards
📍Location: 1150 Old Culberson Rd, Murphy, NC 28906
Fun Fact:
This family-owned vineyard sits on land originally homesteaded in 1820—and still uses dry-farming methods without irrigation.
vineyard? In Murphy? Yep. And it's not just charming—it's legit. Nottely River Valley Vineyards sits on land that's been in the family for over 200 years, and they’ve been making wine here since 2008 with Old-World techniques and zero pretense.
The tasting room is small and seasonal (Friday–Saturday, noon to 6 PM), but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in soul. You’ll sip Cab Francs and Rieslings surrounded by grapevines and Appalachian views—not a tour bus or wine snob in sight.
🗣️ Personal take: This is the kind of place you stumble on by accident and end up telling everyone about for years. Perfect for a laid-back afternoon date or low-key girls' trip stop.
Important Information:
- 8 miles (approx. 12 mins) from downtown Murphy.
- Open Fri–Sat from 12 PM–6 PM.
- Wine tastings: $10–$15.
- Pet-friendly outdoor seating.
- Occasional live music and food trucks.
4. Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino
📍Location: 777 Casino Pkwy, Murphy, NC 28906
Fun Fact:
One of the newest Harrah’s properties in the U.S., it was built in under a year and opened in 2015.
Even if you’re not a big gambler, Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino is worth a stop. It's sleek, surprisingly stylish, and more laid-back than the glitzy Vegas scene. You’ll find all the classic games—slots, blackjack, poker—plus a sportsbook and bowling alley if you're looking for low-stakes fun.
Opened in 2015 and owned by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, this resort-style casino has grown into a full entertainment hub with 300 rooms, multiple dining options, and a food court when you just need fries now. The staff is helpful, and the vibe strikes a nice balance between relaxed and electric.
🗣️ Personal take: Ideal for a rainy afternoon or a nightcap after exploring downtown. I’m not much of a high roller, but I never say no to good people-watching and a round of penny slots with a side of nachos.
Important Information:
- 5 miles (approx. 10 mins) from downtown Murphy.
- Open 24/7.
- Free parking garage onsite.
- Onsite dining: Earl of Sandwich, Panda Express, and more.
- Must be 21+ to enter gaming floor.
5. Fields of the Wood Bible Park Tours and Activities
📍Location: 10000 NC-294, Murphy, NC 28906
Fun Fact:
Features the world’s largest Ten Commandments display—each letter over 5 feet tall, laid out across an entire hillside.
This one’s... unexpected. Fields of the Wood is a sprawling 200-acre religious park tucked into the mountains—and trust me, it’s unlike anything you’ve seen before. The Ten Commandments are spelled out in five-foot-tall letters across a mountainside (yep, you can climb it), and there are dozens of other installations: a replica tomb, a world prayer chapel, scripture-marked hiking trails, and more.
Built by the Church of God of Prophecy in the 1940s, this park is part pilgrimage site, part roadside curiosity, and part nature walk. There’s a gift shop and a café on-site, and admission is totally free.
🗣️ Personal take: Whether you're religious or just curious, this is a powerful place. Give yourself time to wander and reflect—it’s peaceful, a little surreal, and definitely a conversation starter.
Important Information:
- 18 miles (approx. 30 mins) from Murphy.
- Open daily from dawn to dusk.
- Free admission and parking.
- Visitors welcome to climb the Prayer Mountain steps (300+).
- Gift shop and small café onsite.
6. Apalachia Lake Tours
📍Location: Tours depart near SR 1310, Murphy, NC 28906 (exact location shared upon booking)
Fun Fact:
Apalachia Lake is one of the least developed lakes in the Southeast—no marinas, no gas stations, just pristine wilderness.
Want to see western North Carolina the right way? From the water. Apalachia Lake is remote, pristine, and barely touched by development—which is rare and kind of magical these days.
WagonMaster Adventure Ranch runs guided boat tours on the Apalachia Queen, a two-deck pontoon that comfortably fits 10+ people. You can customize your trip: chase waterfalls, go tubing, grill out, swim in shockingly clear waters—it’s up to you. Bring snacks, drinks (yep, alcohol’s allowed), and your dog too.
🗣️ Personal take: Honestly, this is one of my favorite ways to experience the region. It feels private, peaceful, and almost like a secret lake getaway. The three-hour ride is worth every minute.
Important Information:
- 25 miles (approx. 40 mins) from Murphy center.
- Tour season: May through October.
- Kayak and pontoon rentals available.
- Reservations required; prices start around $30 per person.
- Limited cell service in the area—download directions offline.
7. Hiwassee Lake Tours
📍Location: Meet at Hiwassee Lake Access, Hiwassee Dam Access Rd, Murphy, NC 28906
Fun Fact:
The lake’s calm, winding shoreline stretches 180 miles—longer than the California coastline around San Francisco Bay.
Stretching over 20 miles with 180+ miles of shoreline, Hiwassee Lake is one of Murphy’s crown jewels. Created by the TVA back in 1940, it’s deep, clean, and perfect for boating, kayaking, or just floating on a noodle with a cold drink.
Rentals are available from marinas like Shook’s Marina or Mountain View Marina, and you’ll find hidden coves, quiet picnic spots, and wildlife galore—think herons, deer, and maybe even a bald eagle if you’re lucky.
🗣️ Personal take: If you're after serenity, skip the crowds at more commercial lakes and spend a day here. And yes, you can still find quiet corners even in peak season.
Important Information:
- 22 miles (approx. 30 mins) from Murphy.
- Guided boat tours and sunset cruises available.
- Seasonal (May–Sept); book ahead online.
- No public marinas; tours meet at private docks.
- Great birdwatching: bald eagles and ospreys common.
8. Marketplace Antiques
📍Location: 41 Peachtree St, Murphy, NC 28906
Fun Fact:
Housed in a former five-and-dime store, this sprawling antique shop feels like a museum you’re allowed to rummage through.
If you love the thrill of the hunt, Marketplace Antiques is your goldmine. This place is a cozy maze of booths filled with everything from mid-century furniture to Civil War relics, and plenty of weird little treasures in between.
What makes it special isn’t just the stuff—it’s the stories. The vendors are often on-site, and they’re happy to chat about where a piece came from or how to restore it. On my last visit, I walked out with a 1930s compass and a vintage vinyl I didn’t know I needed.
🗣️ Personal take: Come with time to spare. It’s the kind of spot where you blink and suddenly an hour's passed. Great for a rainy day or a relaxed afternoon in town.
Important Information:
- Located in the heart of downtown Murphy.
- Open Mon–Sat, 10 AM–5 PM; closed Sundays.
- Public parking nearby on Peachtree St.
- Cash and cards accepted.
- Stock changes weekly; vendors rotate often.
9. Henn Theater
📍Location: 38 Tennessee Street in Murphy
Fun Fact:
Remarkably, it remains one of only two theaters of the original 23 operated by the Henn family that survived the Great Depression—and it continues to serve the community today
Opened in 1935, the Henn Theater is a small-town gem that still shows first-run movies in a single-screen, Art Deco space. Yes, the popcorn is fresh. Yes, the neon sign still glows at night. And yes, it feels like stepping into a time machine.
After surviving a fire in 2009, the Henn was lovingly restored, keeping much of its original charm. It’s now a favorite for locals who want a low-key night out without driving to a megaplex.
🗣️ Personal take: This is Murphy in a nutshell—small, nostalgic, and full of heart. It’s where date nights feel cozy, not commercial.
Important Information:
- Screening Details: Single-screen theater showing first-run movies in an Art Deco–inspired venue
- Seating Capacity: Approximately 250 seats
- Ticket Prices: $5.50 for general admission any time; matinee (before 6 pm) is $4 for all ages. Group showtime discounts available for parties of 50 or more
- Fire & Restoration History: Damaged by fire on March 16, 2009—smoke affected the auditorium, while the stage and backstage areas suffered significant damage. The theater successfully reopened in May 2009.
10. Hanging Dog Recreation Area Tours and Activities
📍Location: Boiling Springs Rd, Murphy, NC 28906
Fun Fact:
The name comes from a Cherokee legend about a dog that got caught in vines while chasing a deer—but lived to tell the tale.
Don’t let the name throw you—Hanging Dog is actually a serene slice of the great outdoors. Just 10 minutes from downtown Murphy, this Forest Service area hugs the edge of Hiwassee Lake and offers trails, boat ramps, picnic spots, and peaceful shoreline views.
You can hike, mountain bike, paddleboard, or just sprawl on a blanket and watch the clouds. It’s easy to access but never feels crowded, which makes it a local favorite.
🗣️ Personal take: This is my go-to spot when I want nature without a long drive. It’s quiet, clean, and great for sunrise coffee or sunset picnics. Bring bug spray and maybe a hammock.
Important Information:
- 5 miles (10 mins) from Murphy.
- Day-use only; open year-round.
- Free access to hiking, kayaking, and picnic shelters.
- No lifeguard at swim area.
- Limited cell signal—bring printed maps.
11. Murphy’s Chophouse
📍Location: 130 Valley River Ave, Murphy, NC 28906
Fun Fact:
Founded by Chef James Reaux, who once trained under a White House chef and brought big-city culinary flair to Murphy.
If you’re craving a “treat yourself” kind of dinner, Murphy’s Chophouse is the town’s go-to for upscale Southern eats. Think juicy ribeye, buttery crab cakes, and rich pasta dishes served in a cozy, wood-paneled dining room that feels more wine bar than mountain lodge.
The menu’s refined but not fussy—expect quality ingredients (many local), big flavors, and generous portions. The wine list is impressive for a small town, and service is top-notch whether you’re in date-night mode or grabbing a nice dinner after hiking.
🗣️ Personal take: Get the filet. Add the garlic mashed potatoes. You won’t regret it. Pro tip: they host seasonal wine dinners that are worth planning around.
Important Information:
- Centrally located downtown.
- Open Tues–Sat; dinner 4 PM–9 PM.
- Reservations recommended on weekends.
- Outdoor patio in warmer months.
- Signature dish: bourbon-glazed pork chops.
12. Charter of Freedom Monument
📍Location: Konehete Park, 699 Connahetta St, Murphy, NC 28906
Fun Fact:
Murphy was chosen as one of only a few U.S. towns to host these full-size replicas of the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights—engraved in granite.
Tucked into a quiet corner of Konehete Park, this trio of granite and glass monuments honors the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, and the Bill of Rights—each inscribed just like the originals.
Originally installed in 2014 and rededicated in 2024, the site also includes a time capsule that’s set to be opened in 2087. It's a short stop, but a powerful one, especially for travelers interested in American history or civic heritage.
🗣️ Personal take: It’s humble, not flashy—and that’s what makes it resonate. Worth a stroll if you’re already enjoying the River Walk or nearby downtown shops.
Important Information:
- Within walking distance of downtown.
- Open 24/7; no admission.
- Free parking in Konehete Park.
- Fully accessible via paved path.
- Excellent educational stop for families.
13. Hiwassee Dam
📍Location: Hiwassee Dam Access Rd, Murphy, NC 28906
Fun Fact:
This TVA-built dam creates one of the deepest reservoirs in the Southeast and was a strategic power source during WWII.
You don’t have to be an engineer to appreciate the sheer size of Hiwassee Dam. Towering 307 feet high and stretching nearly a quarter-mile across, it’s still one of the tallest overflow dams in the U.S. and offers a fantastic vantage point over the reservoir.
Built in 1940 as part of the TVA’s New Deal projects, the dam not only powers the region—it also shaped Murphy’s recreational scene. The road across the top is drivable and offers panoramic mountain and lake views. Bring your camera.
🗣️ Personal take: It’s part history, part photo op, part “whoa, that’s a lot of water.” A short but worthwhile detour if you’re already heading toward Hanging Dog or Shook’s Marina.
Important Information:
- 25 miles (approx. 35 mins) from Murphy.
- No tours, but you can walk the overlook and picnic.
- Free to access.
- Great spot for sunrise photography.
- No restrooms or visitor center onsite.
14. Two Crows Farm
📍Location: 1495 Boiling Springs Rd, Murphy, NC 28906
Fun Fact:
The farm raises over 50 alpacas and turns their fleece into luxurious handmade products—yes, you can pet the alpacas too!
f you’ve never been kissed by an alpaca, this is your chance. Two Crows Farm is a working alpaca operation run by two warm-hearted locals, Mike and Woody, who will teach you more than you ever knew about fiber farming.
The farm is home to over 70 alpacas, a few guardian llamas, and a shop full of handcrafted items made from their fleece—scarves, socks, even dryer balls. Tours are by appointment and free, though donations are welcome and help keep things running.
🗣️ Personal take: It’s wholesome, adorable, and unexpectedly fascinating. Great for families or anyone who wants a deeper look at sustainable living in Appalachia.
Important Information:
- 6 miles (approx. 10 mins) from Murphy.
- Open for tours by appointment only.
- Shop sells alpaca scarves, socks, yarns.
- Family-owned and run.
- Great for kids and small group outings.
15. Chevelle's 66
📍Location: 66 Hiwassee Street, Murphy, NC 28906
Fun Fact:
Hidden in plain sight, Bistro 29 fuses Appalachian comfort food with upscale bistro flair. Their sweet potato gnocchi is locally legendary.
Imagine a NASCAR-themed sports bar meets Southern kitchen, and you’ve got Chevelles 66. It’s loud, proud, and unashamedly over-the-top—in the best possible way. The walls are decked out in vintage car memorabilia, and the menu is pure comfort: burgers, ribs, wings, and a rotating list of daily specials.
Themed nights keep things lively: karaoke Wednesdays, live bands on weekends, prime rib Thursdays... you get the idea. The patio fills up fast on warm nights, and the portions are built for hungry hikers.
🗣️ Personal take: Not subtle, not fancy—just fun. This is where locals let loose and visitors get a taste of Murphy’s down-home party side. Bring your appetite and your earplugs on band night.
Important Information:
- • Open daily from 11:00 a.m. until midnight and later
- Monday: Half‑off pasta entrees + Movie Night
- Tuesday: “Tasty Tuesday” – $7.99 Burger Day
- Wednesday: $0.65 wings + Karaoke Night
- Thursday: Prime rib night with half‑off appetizers + Open Jam Sessions
- Friday & Saturday: Live bands in the evening
- Sunday: Brunch and dinner service
- • Available on Uber Eats in the Murphy area (typically from around 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.)
16. Nantahala US Forest Service Campground
📍Location: Campground Rd, Topton, NC 28781
Fun Fact:
This peaceful site along the Nantahala River is a favorite among Appalachian Trail thru-hikers for its trout fishing and remote feel.
Ready to go full nature-mode? Murphy’s nestled on the edge of Nantahala National Forest, offering easy access to one of the largest protected forests in the East. If you love camping—real, unplugged, pine-scented camping—this is your zone.
Campgrounds range from family-friendly sites with grills and tent pads to rugged, no-frills pull-offs along forest service roads. Nearby trails run for miles, connecting you to waterfalls, rivers, and secluded ridgelines.
🗣️ Personal take: There’s nothing like waking up to birdsong and coffee by the fire. Even one night under the stars out here feels like a total reset. Bring layers—mountain nights can surprise you.
Important Information:
- 30 miles (45 mins) northeast of Murphy.
- Seasonal: April–Oct.
- Tent and RV sites; $15–$25 per night.
- Vault toilets and potable water available.
- No electricity or showers.
17. Cherokee County Historical Museum
📍Location: 87 Peachtree St, Murphy, NC 28906
Fun Fact:
Exhibits include original Cherokee pottery, Civil War artifacts, and a moonshine still that once ran right in the area.
Step into a time capsule of Appalachian life and Cherokee heritage. Housed in a former Carnegie Library, this museum may be small, but it’s full of rich detail—2,000+ Cherokee artifacts, antique tools, pioneer crafts, and even a Trail of Tears cabin replica.
It’s also an official interpretive site for the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail, adding weight and context to Murphy’s history during that heartbreaking chapter.
🗣️ Personal take: Definitely worth an hour or two. It’s moving, insightful, and way more engaging than you’d expect from the outside. Great way to teach kids (or yourself) about the region’s complex past.
Important Information:
- Located downtown.
- Open Wed–Sat, 10 AM–4 PM.
- Entry: $5 adults; free for kids under 12.
- Parking available on street or nearby lot.
- Guided tours available for school groups.
18. SkySpace: Stargazing Under Murphy’s Pristine Night Skiest
📍Location: Varies (Murphy River Walk and Hanging Dog are common spots)
Fun Fact:
Murphy has some of the darkest skies in the eastern U.S.—with views of the Milky Way visible with the naked eye.
With its low light pollution and big open skies, Murphy is a stargazer’s dream—and SkySpace taps into that magic. Run by the local Chamber of Commerce, these events pop up throughout the year and feature telescopes, astronomy guides, and even solar viewing sessions during the day.
It’s equal parts science class and mountain serenity. Whether you’re spotting Saturn’s rings or just lying back and watching the stars blink on, it’s a peaceful and awe-inspiring way to connect with the night sky.
🗣️ Personal take: Even if you’re not into astronomy, this is a soul-filler. Bring a blanket, some cocoa, and someone to share the silence with.
Important Information:
- Best times: New moon nights, April–October.
- Free to stargaze; no permit needed.
- Bring flashlight with red filter.
- Telescopes optional—binoculars work great.
- Ideal for photographers and couples.
19. Murphy River Walk
📍Location: 1 Rose St, Murphy, NC 28906
Fun Fact:
Built along two converging rivers, the Valley and the Hiwassee, this peaceful walking path includes a historic swinging footbridge.
One of Murphy’s most underrated gems, this 4-mile greenway loop winds along the Valley and Hiwassee Rivers, offering boardwalks, gravel paths, wildlife sightings, and gorgeous seasonal color.
It’s flat and easy—perfect for walking, biking, or stroller-pushing. You'll pass native plants, interpretive signs, benches for riverside daydreaming, and even stories from Cherokee folklore etched into trail markers.
🗣️ Personal take: It’s like a hug from the town. Whether you’ve got 15 minutes or a whole afternoon, the River Walk makes you feel grounded and connected.
Important Information:
- Direct access from downtown.
- Open daily, dawn to dusk.
- Wheelchair- and stroller-friendly.
- Free public parking nearby.
- Great for birdwatching and picnics.
20. Fires Creek Recreation Area
📍Location: Fires Creek Wildlife Mgmt Area, Hayesville, NC 28904
Fun Fact:
This area includes a “Joyce Kilmer” memorial trail—a nod to the poet who wrote “Trees,” and who died in WWI.
A bit off the beaten path, but so, so worth it. Fires Creek is a forested escape filled with waterfalls, swimming holes, and hiking trails that offer the kind of quiet you can’t buy with a spa day.
Leatherwood Falls is the main draw—a stunning cascade that’s great for photos, picnics, or dipping your toes on a hot summer day. For more of a challenge, tackle the Rim Trail for sweeping views and solitude.
🗣️ Personal take: This is one of those places that feels like a secret—even in peak season. It’s wild, gorgeous, and still feels untouched. Bonus: the drive out there is part of the adventure.
There are plenty of hiking trails here, from easy paths along the creek to more challenging routes that lead to secluded spots and mountain views. I hiked the Rim Trail on my last visit, which offers panoramic views of the valley and forest below. Fires Creek is also a great place for a picnic, with tables and grills available in a shaded area.
For those looking to cool off in the summer, the swimming hole at the base of the falls is refreshing and serene. Fires Creek Recreation Area offers a slice of untouched nature and is ideal for anyone looking to explore the outdoors near Murphy.
Important Information:
- 25 miles (approx. 40 mins) from Murphy.
- Free access to trails, creeks, and picnic areas.
- Primitive camping allowed (no permits needed).
- Restrooms and grills onsite.
- Excellent trout fishing in spring and fall.
Interactive Map
Where To Eat In Murphy, NC
| # | Restaurant | Rating | Address | Distance from Center | Signature Dish / Most-Ordered Item |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Yogi’s Neighborhood Grill | — | 269 Valley River Ave, Murphy, NC 28906 | ~0.2 mi | Steak burgers, pasta bowls, gumbo, shrimp & grits |
| 2 | Legends Steakhouse | — | 42 Tennessee St, Murphy, NC 28906 | ~0.2 mi | Ribeye, Filet Mignon, seafood stuffed mushrooms |
| 3 | Rib Country BBQ | — | Downtown Murphy, NC | ~0.2 mi | Slow-smoked ribs, pulled pork, smoked chicken |
| 4 | Murphy’s Chophouse | — | 130 Valley River Ave, Murphy, NC 28906 | ~0.1 mi | Prime rib, gourmet steak & seafood dishes |
| 5 | ShoeBooties Cafe | — | 25 Peachtree St, Murphy, NC 28906 | ~0.1 mi | Chicken tenders, fish & chips, specialty sandwiches |
| 6 | Chevelle’s 66 | — | 66 Hiwassee St, Murphy, NC 28906 | ~0.1 mi | Burgers, steaks, pasta, themed cocktails |
| 7 | Downtown Pizza Co. | — | 52 Hiwassee St, Murphy, NC 28906 | ~0.1 mi | All-you-can-eat Neapolitan-style pizza buffet |
| 8 | Kobe Grill | — | 114 Main St, Murphy, NC 28906 | ~0.1 mi | Sushi, tempura, teriyaki, hibachi |
How To Get To Murphy
Driving Directions
Murphy lies at the western tip of North Carolina and is easily reached by car. U.S. Route 64 runs directly through town—it stretches across the state from Murphy all the way to Manteo on the coast.
Major nearby cities include:
- Atlanta, GA (95 miles)
- Nashville, TN (172 miles)
- Charlotte, NC (181 miles)
Driving from elsewhere in North Carolina typically takes 4–6 hours, depending on your starting point
Airports Nearby
While Murphy doesn’t have commercial air service, Western Carolina Regional Airport (formerly Andrews–Murphy Airport) lies just a few miles between Andrews and Murphy. It’s a general aviation airport, not for passenger airlines.
The nearest airports offering commercial flights are:
- Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport, about 83 miles away
- Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport, about 126 miles away.
Shuttle & Public Transit
Cherokee County Transit operates shared-ride vans connecting Murphy with neighboring communities like Andrews, Marble, Peachtree, and occasionally trips to cities such as Asheville, Atlanta, Chattanooga, and Gainesville. Out-of-county travel requires advance scheduling—typically by the day before or earlier—and fares must be paid in cash or check.
Local shuttle services, including Tri‑State Shuttle Service, also offer private transportation options for groups or individuals within the region.
Conclusion
Murphy is a charming mountain town packed with diverse attractions and natural beauty, making it a wonderful destination for travelers seeking a mix of outdoor adventure, history, and local culture. From the scenic hikes in The Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the vibrant Fires Creek Recreation Area and the serene Murphy River Walk, each spot highlights Murphy’s unique charm.
This list of activities showcases the best things to do in Murphy, offering something for everyone—from antique lovers and history buffs to adventure seekers and food enthusiasts. Each experience in Murphy brings its flavor, and spending time here feels like discovering a true hidden gem in Western North Carolina.
Planning to visit? Karta has some amazing deals on Murphy vacation rentals for you.
FAQ
1. What is Murphy, NC known for?
Murphy is known for its scenic mountain views, outdoor recreational activities, and historical charm. It’s also a popular destination for gem mining, hiking, and visiting unique landmarks like the Fields of the Wood Bible Park and Charter of Freedom Monument.
2. What are some family-friendly activities in Murphy, NC?
Murphy offers plenty of family-friendly activities, such as WagonMaster Adventure Ranch for gem mining, the Murphy River Walk for easy hikes, and York Skating Rink for some retro roller-skating fun. Families can also enjoy lake tours on Hiwassee Lake or Apalachia Lake.
3. Is Murphy, NC near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Yes, Murphy is located near The Great Smoky Mountains National Park and makes a great base for day trips to the park, where visitors can hike, enjoy wildlife, and take in panoramic mountain views.
4. Are there any wineries or breweries in Murphy, NC?
Yes! Nottely River Valley Vineyards is a charming, family-owned vineyard near Murphy, offering tastings of their handcrafted wines and beautiful views of the valley.
5. Where can I go gem mining in Murphy?
WagonMaster Adventure Ranch and Gem Mine is a popular spot for gem mining, where visitors can pan for gemstones like sapphires and emeralds, making it a fun activity for all ages.
6. What are the best outdoor activities in Murphy, NC?
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking at Hanging Dog Recreation Area, camping at Nantahala National Forest, fishing at Hiwassee Lake, or exploring scenic spots like Fires Creek Recreation Area and the Murphy River Walk.
7. Are there any historical attractions in Murphy, NC?
Absolutely! The Cherokee County Historical Museum offers a deep dive into the area’s Indigenous and pioneer history, and the Charter of Freedom Monument honors America’s founding documents.
8. What’s the best time of year to visit Murphy, NC?
Spring and fall are the most popular times to visit Murphy, offering mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and vibrant fall foliage, perfect for exploring the town’s outdoor activities and scenic beauty.
