It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Bryson City, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“I'm so happy to have such a professional and reliable agency that I can refer”
“Always Best Care Seniors Services provide the personal touch in-home care! From our initial”
“Highly professional and very caring. A great company”
“I love this company. They are always very responsive. They truly care about the ones”
“Wonderful service, very helpful, great communication.”
“All their caregivers are nice, show up, rarely late, and very helpful and kind. They”
“I am a current client of this provider They give me the peace of mind. They are”
“My husband has dementia. They have helped me continue to work and feel comfortable in”
“Very great place to work! The staff is very supportive!”
“This place is absolutely amazing to work for!! The office team is so welcoming and”
“They do what I ask them to do which makes my life easier. They are”
“The most caring compassionate place i have ever been to”
“Outstanding care and compassion for both clients and employees”
“They really appreciate to have their employees there . And that makes me feel happy”
“I went for my interview there a week ago and the staff were so nice”
“I am a current client of this provider It could just be his cooperation or lack”
“I am a current client of this provider They do what I ask them to do”
“I am Kathryn Merrell and for the past several months I have been under the”
“I am a current client of this provider She does whatever is needed without being asked. I”
“I am a current client of this provider Just being here and making meals is great.”
“As a caregiver I am so pleased with the care for the clients. I've never”
“I would recommend them because they provide good services. I've been down on my”
“They're very prompt about coming when they're supposed to and they do what we need”
“I am a current client of this provider They've helped the most just by being here,”
“I have honestly never met a group of people who care as much as the”
“I'm so happy to have such a professional and reliable agency that I can refer my caregivers to and know that they will receive the service they need to assist with the care of their loved ones with dementia,”
“Always Best Care Seniors Services provide the personal touch in-home care! From our initial call inquiring about services, to meeting the owner Jim Smeaton to discuss our unique family needs, to the caring compassionate and understanding caregivers we are thoroughly impressed. Its such a relief knowing our loved ones are receiving the care they deserve.”
“Highly professional and very caring. A great company”
“I love this company. They are always very responsive. They truly care about the ones that they care for.”
“Wonderful service, very helpful, great communication.”
“All their caregivers are nice, show up, rarely late, and very helpful and kind. They are reliable, and the caregivers are sweet and attentive.”
“I am a current client of this provider They give me the peace of mind. They are always able to be reached and are willing to work with you.”
“My husband has dementia. They have helped me continue to work and feel comfortable in knowing my husband is safe with excellent care. The office listens, really hears and is helpful to support and meet needs. Our caregiver, Chip, has become family. He was very personable, attentive to needs, brings extra in music, stories, making sure to pay attention to the patient and give accordingly. He is always kind and gracious. We are blessed to have them.”
“Very great place to work! The staff is very supportive!”
“This place is absolutely amazing to work for!! The office team is so welcoming and helpful anytime I call or come in, and my clients are wonderful! It’s more like helping a friend all day instead of working like clockwork!”
“They do what I ask them to do which makes my life easier. They are always on time and they always finish the job during the day.”
“The most caring compassionate place i have ever been to”
“Outstanding care and compassion for both clients and employees”
“They really appreciate to have their employees there . And that makes me feel happy just being in there in their organization .. my google is under Stephanie young but my last name is now Duarte . Young was my married name , I’m divorced now”
“I went for my interview there a week ago and the staff were so nice and welcoming. I’m excited to join the team and see the great things they have in store.”
“I am a current client of this provider It could just be his cooperation or lack thereof. It is regarding his cooperation regarding the service. He tends to not wake the caregiver for assistance during the night time. I would give specific names of individuals in this organization that I would request over others.”
“I am a current client of this provider They do what I ask them to do which makes my life easier. They are always on time and they always finish the job during the day.”
“I am Kathryn Merrell and for the past several months I have been under the care of ABC Senior Services. I have had the privilege of enjoying the care of Lois C. She is the best advertisement for your agency. When I am asked, which happens frequently, about my experience with ABC, I refer to Lois as being your prime example of the type of care they can expect from you. She goes beyond just basic care and does all she can to help remedy any problem we have. I love that I can trust her and feel safe having her share my home with me. She is very professional yet very "down home", a rare combination. You should be very thankful she is on your "team"! Because of her, I have no problem recommending your company to all who ask.”
“I am a current client of this provider She does whatever is needed without being asked. I have had a couple of very good people, one of which I have now. When I was getting going with them, I had a couple of people I would never like to have again, but that has all been ironed out.”
“I am a current client of this provider Just being here and making meals is great. But they could be more proactive. They need to be better at communicating.”
“As a caregiver I am so pleased with the care for the clients. I've never worked for a company that was so dedicated to clients and caregivers. Everyone is always happy, clients and staff. I am blessed to work here.”
“I would recommend them because they provide good services. I've been down on my health, so it's been a blessing to have them taking care of him for me. I appreciate that the caregivers are friendly.”
“They're very prompt about coming when they're supposed to and they do what we need them to do. They've helped the most just by being here.”
“I am a current client of this provider They've helped the most just by being here, and doing what they're supposed to. They're very prompt about coming when they're supposed to and they do what we need them to do.”
“I have honestly never met a group of people who care as much as the Always Best Care team. I have watched the staff there change lives for the better, not only for clients but each other as well. It is a pleasure to be a part of this team, nothing compares to it!!”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Bryson City, NC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Bryson City, NC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Bryson City, NC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
With summer almost upon us, residents of the Western North Carolina region and visitors alike are searching for vacation options in the area.Founded in 1994 by cartographer John Moen and his wife, Chris Woolwine-Moen, WorldAtlas publishes educational materials and articles on geography, sociology, demography, environment, economics, politics, and travel.The publication has included WNC many times on lists of eccentric towns, best main...
With summer almost upon us, residents of the Western North Carolina region and visitors alike are searching for vacation options in the area.
Founded in 1994 by cartographer John Moen and his wife, Chris Woolwine-Moen, WorldAtlas publishes educational materials and articles on geography, sociology, demography, environment, economics, politics, and travel.
The publication has included WNC many times on lists of eccentric towns, best main streets, unique traditions, and more. A recent list named eight of the "coolest" towns in NC for 2025 summer vacations - and WNC locations made up more than half of the writers' choices.
Here's what writers said about their WNC picks, plus the whole list of NC vacation towns.
"The town's isolation, accessible primarily by winding two-lane roads, has contributed to a highly curated mix of cultural and natural assets with few concessions to mass tourism."
WorldAtlas writers also praised the town's summer temperatures, which "rarely rise above the high 70s" due to its high elevation of around 4,118 feet. Writers suggested:
Writers appreciated Bryson City's proximity to a shared border with a national park, national forest, and a designated Wild and Scenic River.
"Its location at the southern edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park has made it a base for both tourism and conservation since the park’s founding," writers stated.
During a visit, the article suggested:
Boone was another town praised by WorldAtlas for its cool summer climate. Writers also praised its interesting historical connections.
"The town’s name honors Daniel Boone, who reportedly camped here in the 1760s, and local trails still intersect with portions of the route he traveled."
During a visit, writers suggested:
"Blowing Rock is named for a geological formation where wind currents from the Johns River Gorge blow vertically, often forcing light objects thrown from the rock to return upward. At 3,500 feet, the town sits on the Eastern Continental Divide and claims one of the most stable summer climates in the state."
Writers suggested the following during a summer visit to Blowing Rock:
WorldAtlas writers highlighted some of Brevard's unique features, beginning with the area's famous white squirrels, which are rumored to have descended from escaped circus animals.
"Their presence sets the tone for a town defined by unusual details and deliberate preservation. Located at the edge of Pisgah National Forest and surrounded by the Blue Ridge escarpment, Brevard is a practical summer base for travelers drawn to elevation, waterfalls, and Appalachian culture."
Writers suggested the following during a summer trip to Brevard:
The complete list of eight towns from WorldAtlas included:
Iris Seaton is the trending reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at [email protected].
Planning a tubing day trip? Bryson City, NC is home to Deep Creek tubing, a popular river tubing destination. With several places to rent tubes, plus local campgrounds, Deep Creek tubing is a great choice for a tubing adventure.KAG’s Kristina Hernandez spent a day tubing with her kids. Here’s how her day went tubing at Deep Creek, plus some tips for planning your own tubing adventure. Tubing has been on my summer bucket list for awhile. I had to wait until I felt comfortable taking my nearly five-year-old o...
Planning a tubing day trip? Bryson City, NC is home to Deep Creek tubing, a popular river tubing destination. With several places to rent tubes, plus local campgrounds, Deep Creek tubing is a great choice for a tubing adventure.
KAG’s Kristina Hernandez spent a day tubing with her kids. Here’s how her day went tubing at Deep Creek, plus some tips for planning your own tubing adventure.
Tubing has been on my summer bucket list for awhile. I had to wait until I felt comfortable taking my nearly five-year-old out on the river. This was the summer we made it happen and it all went down at Deep Creek in the Great Smoky Mountains in Bryson City, North Carolina. And we did it for super cheap, only $8/person for all day tubing.
Deep Creek is a stretch of pretty shallow water stretching along the Smoky Mountains on the North Carolina side of the park in Bryson City. There are several campgrounds and places to rent tubes from in a stretch of less than two miles.
We rented tubes from Deep Creek Tubing & Campground where tubes cost just $8/each. They come with a life jacket for a refundable 100% $10 cash deposit (and a 50% refundable $10 credit card deposit). I brought ours from home so we didn’t need them. I saw other places, like Tube World just down the road. There were several others outside the park entrance.
Since you are parking inside of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you need a parking sticker. You can get them at kiosks around the park. It costs $5/day, $15/week or $40/year.
I was a little worried I wouldn’t be able to get a tube since I went on July 4th but there were plenty of tubes and I understood why Deep Creek Tubing doesn’t take reservations.
This is a question that parents need to ask themselves. Since it was just me taking my two kids, ages eight and almost five, I needed to be confident enough to know I could safely handle my kids and their tubes floating down the river since we would be tethered together.
Many tubing places have age restrictions, which we list in our giant list of places to go tubing in NC, SC, and GA. Deep Creek Tubing didn’t have any restrictions. I’ve gone tubing several times, just not with my kids, so I knew what to generally expect and could figure it out from there on what would be safe.
Both of my kids can swim but I wasn’t taking chances and they both wore life jackets. It can be a wild, bouncy ride. Great Smoky Mountains National Park now requires children 13 years of age and younger to wear a life jacket while tubing. You may bring your own, or rent one at Deep Creek with a $10 deposit, which is 100% refundable if you pay with cash and 50% refundable if you pay with credit card.
I saw several parents hang onto their kids’ tubes or use twine or ropes to tether tubes together. I felt more comfortable doing that, especially since my youngest was kind of scared the first run down the river.
This was the first tubing experience I ever had where I had to walk my tube to the drop-in point and do it over and over again until I was too tired. Other places take you and your tube to the drop-in point and you float down the river until you hit the outfitters where your car is parked. Not at Deep Creek because vendors are not legally allowed in the park.
How it works is that you rent the tubes from the rental place, get some help tying them to the roof of your car, drive into the Great Smoky Mountain National Park maybe a mile down the road, park your car either in the big picnic area or up a little ways into another parking lot, get the tubes down from your car and then carry them about a half mile to the first drop-in point, the lower part of the river where the rapids are more calm. You can walk further for a little more adventure but we didn’t do that.
Either way, you’ll pass Tom Branch Falls, a beautiful waterfall right on the river. We saw it multiple times because it’s on the trail you walk to get to the drop-in point. Its beauty never got old!
I had to carry the tube of my youngest kid twice and then both kids another two times – so three tubes total for a mile. It was a workout for sure but still fun and enjoyable. Water shoes are a must since rocks are slippery and the trail is very rocky. I saw people wearing sneakers so whatever works for you, as long as you have shoes on.
Don’t bring much with you because it’s very easy to lose valuables in the river. I bought an awesome little waterproof phone carrier where I put my phone and keys and had it around my neck. We applied sunscreen before we started tubing and again midway through the day. We all had hats, which one of my kid’s lost, of course.
Some people had sticks or rods to help push them out of the rocks when they got stuck – my version was to either use my feet to push off or get out of the tube in the rapids, slip on the rocks, listen to my youngest get all upset while I was flailing around, and then somehow hop back into the tube and reassure my child I was fine. Everyone has their methods.
Since you get out of the river usually where your car is parked, you can take a break during the day and eat lunch. Be sure to drink a ton of water since it’s hot and you don’t want to get dehydrated, which can totally happen even though you’re in water all day. There are no vendors anywhere in the park but since I had to bribe my youngest kid to get in the water, I did find out there is a good snack bar with ice cream right outside the entrance to the park. They also have nachos, hamburgers, hot dogs, etc.
Bryson City is only about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Greenville so it’s certainly doable as a day trip. If you want to make it a weekend trip, I’d recommend staying at Sky Ridge Yurts, about 20 minutes away from Deep Creek. Yurts are awesome and Sky Ridge Yurts will blow you away. There is also great hiking, including the Deep Creek Trail (which you can take to Indian Creek for a waterfall view). You can go hiking, biking, and picnicking at several gorgeous places near Bryson City, including the Nantahala Outdoor Center.
You don’t have to rent a tube at Deep Creek to have a fun day on the water. If you already own a river tube, you can park inside the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and hike the half-mile to the drop-in point and tube down the river.
If I had a river tube, I’d totally do this! I saw a bunch of people tube with their own tubes or other flotation devices. Look for sales at the end of the season to score a big tube for a great price – or just go to Walmart. There’s nothing like tubing on a hot summer day.
The Deep Creek area has a few places to rent tubes right near the entrance to the Smokies and Deep Creek. These companies generally operate from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, but some could may continue after Labor Day. You’ll find these on West Deep Creek Road in Bryson City.
Have you been tubing in Deep Creek?
Whatever you do, don't write off the great state of North Carolina. While United States hotspots such as California and Florida tend to attract a...
Whatever you do, don't write off the great state of North Carolina. While United States hotspots such as California and Florida tend to attract a lot of attention, North Carolina simply doesn't do boring. Even its main streets, those classic stretches of Americana, come with bold character, a little attitude, and a whole lot of scenery. One minute you're walking past indie bookshops and barber poles that haven't changed since the '60s, the next you're sipping cider next to a mountain view or coastal breeze. These towns are charming without trying too hard. But more than that, they are absurdly beautiful, Instagramable, and postcard worthy.
Hickory is on the larger side when it comes to towns in North Carolina. But unlike cities like Charlotte, which is just over an hour away, Hickory is also known for its main street, AKA Main Avenue NW. On numerous occasions, it has been regarded as one of the best main streets in the entire country. And this is due, in part, to the town's effort to preserve the past. The stretch of downtown blends red-brick charm with modern energy, flanked by indie shops, shaded patios, and murals that pop. Just steps away is Union Square, the hub for open-air concerts, bustling farmers markets, and a sip-and-stroll open container zone that keeps things lively. Art lovers duck into the Hickory Museum of Art (a 2-minute walk from Main Ave), while locals grab espresso or vegan eats at Taste Full Beans, a downtown fixture for over 20 years. Follow the City Walk, a pedestrian-friendly path that cuts right through Main Avenue to reach Lenoir-Rhyne University.
Blowing Rock sits high in the awe-inspiring Blue Ridge Mountains, but its Main Street steals the show. It's a walkable stretch that's bursting with character and lined with converted cottages-turned-boutiques, such as Funky Tulip. Seasonal blooms and shaded benches make the whole street, as well as the rest of downtown, feel like a mountain garden. Every step forward or backward brings you to a new little shop or restaurant, such as Town Tavern, which is just steps away from both Memorial Park and the start of the Glen Burney Falls Trail. And if this energetic and colorful street wasn't enough for you, the town's namesake (The Blowing Rock) is just five minutes away by car and offers jaw-dropping views.
Hendersonville's Main Street, tucked in the Blue Ridge foothills just south of Asheville, is a serpentine stretch of storefronts, historic facades, and wide sidewalks bursting with flower planters and public art. More than that, it's pure Americana with its retro signs and shops with old-school awnings that belong on a postcard. Chances are, you'll hear the soft ding of a vintage pinball machine through the doors of the Appalachian Pinball Museum, a blink-and-you'll-miss-it arcade packed with playable classics from every era. A few steps away, the Mineral & Lapidary Museum shows off glowing geodes and ancient fossils beneath Main's unassuming brick facades. Then there's McFarlan Bakery, a fixture on Main Street since the 1930s, where you can grab buttery and delicious treats. While this street is part of the town's business hub, it's also a registered national historic district, and a quick stroll down the sidewalks proves why.
Wedged between rushing rivers and the towering Great Smoky Mountains, the main street in Bryson City, also known as Everett Street, is pure small-town energy. Hand-painted signs swing above shopfronts, and everything feels like it was built to remind you to slow down a little... and maybe wander into Gallery Zella and check out some regional art and sculptures. Just around the corner is the century-old Swain County Courthouse, now the Swain Heritage Museum, which gives tourists a bit of history of the town. Steps away, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Depot sends scenic trains chugging past the forest and along the Tuckasegee River. All of this history and nature is seconds away from the main drag, but staying directly on it will give you an array of boutique shops and restaurants to enjoy if your desire is just to venture a few blocks.
Long before the waterfront boardwalks and boutiques, Manteo was the site of one of America's oldest mysteries: the disappearance of more than 100 English settlers in the late 1500s, now known as the Lost Colony of Roanoke. This dark bit of history on Roanoke Island is one of the many reasons tourists are drawn to Manteo. Fortunately, they are met with a decidedly less eerie atmosphere, particularly in the downtown core. Manteo's downtown isn't defined by just one main drag; it's a waterfront weave of short, brick-lined streets, such as Queen Elizabeth Avenue. The Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse anchors the view just steps away from the Downtown Waterfront Playground and the shops and restaurants that lead to it. Among them is Poor Richard's Sandwich Shop, a favourite among locals and tourists. It sits amongst brick-lined Victorian and Craftsman-style homes and shops, and steps away from Roanoke Island Festival Park.
Main Street in Washington, North Carolina, doesn't just lead somewhere; it is the destination in a town named after George Washington, even before the nation's capital. Just a block off the Pamlico River in the state's Inner Banks, it's where the 19th-century brick storefronts meet riverfront breezes, and where restored buildings glow golden at sunset. From the historic Turnage Theatre with its vintage marquee, to the lively tables at Down on Mainstreet and Mulberry House, the street buzzes with a warm, small-town pride. Steps away, the Washington Waterfront Docks and Park unfurl along the riverbanks, where white sailboats drift past, making Main Street one of the most visually stunning in North Carolina.
Main Street in Davidson, North Carolina, feels more like a neighborhood than a commercial strip, which makes sense, considering it runs right past the campus of Davidson College. The sidewalks are wide, the buildings low and brick, and most places seem designed to make you want to linger and maybe grab a coffee. The street borders both the Davidson College Arboretum and the Village Green, both quiet spots to sit and watch the world go by. Kindred and Summit Coffee Basecamp anchor the local food scene, while the seasonal farmers market pops up just behind Main Street every Saturday. And if you wander onto campus, there are small-scale galleries and other tourist attractions that show off that this town isn't so much a flashy tourist destination but a well-preserved time capsule of a simpler time.
New Bern is a town that has a collection of streets downtown that could be considered 'Main Street. ' But that honor truly belongs to Middle Street, a short stretch to the Sheraton Marina and the birthplace of Pepsi. Not only can you learn about the history at the Birthplace of Pepsi Cola on the corner of Middle and Pollock Street, but you can grab some apparel and, yes, a can of Pepsi. The street itself is lined with brick buildings, ironwork balconies, and lamp posts adorned with the red and yellow bear insignia flags, the emblem of the town. Sticking with the bear theme, Middle Street is also home to Bear City Fudge and The Bruin Craft Beer and Wine. And just off the main drag, keep an eye out for some of the 80 fiberglass bear statues hidden around town, a reminder that this small riverfront town doesn't take itself too seriously.
In a state this varied, it's no surprise that the most memorable streets just do their thing, reflecting real personality and authenticity. This is what grabs people and pulls them to North Carolina. Whether it's a college-town stretch, a riverside block, or a tiny spot in the Outer Banks, these main streets feel lived-in and filled with history. On top of everything, they're absurdly beautiful and ready and waiting for you to come check them out.
Another two Western North Carolina locations made it into a roundup of USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice picks for summer adventures.10Best Readers' Choice lists are chosen by voters in the community, who chose favorites among locations nominated by an expert panel. In the new roundup revealed on June 4, the best adventure tours in the nation were voted on by readers, including tours by helicopter, kayak, white water raft and more.So ...
Another two Western North Carolina locations made it into a roundup of USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice picks for summer adventures.
10Best Readers' Choice lists are chosen by voters in the community, who chose favorites among locations nominated by an expert panel. In the new roundup revealed on June 4, the best adventure tours in the nation were voted on by readers, including tours by helicopter, kayak, white water raft and more.
So far this year, the region has been awarded by readers for best glamping locations, scenic drives, hiking trails and more. Here's what to know about the WNC locations readers chose to include among the best adventure tours you can take in 2025.
"The Gorge Zipline bills itself as steep, fast, and beautiful."
For the seventh year in a row, The Gorge in Saluda made the 10Best list of best aerial adventure parks in the country, coming in this year at No. 7. With 11 zip lines spanning over a mile, and a total descent of more than 1,100 feet - plus a sky bridge and three rappels - it may come as no surprise that The Gorge was chosen once again.
Zip-lining adventures at The Gorge include the "quick flight" tour with 3 zips and a hike at $69 per person, and the "zipline canopy tour" with 11 zips, three rappels and a skybridge at $129 per person.
Visit thegorgezipline.com for more information, or to book a ziplining adventure.
The full list of 10 best aerial adventure parks in the U.S.:
"Appalachia is rife with incredible white water rafting opportunities, and for those wishing to discover all that the region has to offer, Nantahala Outdoor Center has you covered."
Though the Nantahala Outdoor Center now has a range of locations, it was originally founded - and still operates - in WNC. NOC made it onto two 10Best lists this year, receiving recognition both for white water rafting options at No. 4 on the list, and as one of the overall best outdoor adventure tour operators at No. 8.
Activities available at NOC include flat water and white water kayaking, hiking, mountain biking, tubing, rafting, zip-lining, paddleboarding and more, for a broad range of prices beginning at $35. White water rafting ranges from $39-$155, with rentals, fully guided trips, classes, adventure packages and more available.
This marks NOC's second year on the top 10 list for best white water rafting. NOC has maintained a spot in the top 10 outdoor adventure tours since 2021.
Visit noc.com/nantahala-river-nc for more information, or to book an adventure.
The full list of 10 best white water rafting tours in the U.S.:
The full list of 10 best adventure tour operators in the U.S.:
Iris Seaton is the trending news reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at [email protected].
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