From the big blue ocean to our marvelous mountains, North Carolina really does have it all. Nestled between the Great Smoky Mountains and the famous Blue Ridge Parkway, the tiny town of Sylva has a front row seat for some of the best mountain views in the entire state.
Incorporated as a town in 1889 and subsequently named the county seat of Jackson County in 1913, Sylva is a scenic town you’ll want to visit.
Flickr/adamcress
The town’s courthouse anchors Main Street with a majestic voice high atop Courthouse Hill.
TripAdvisor/Virginia K
Climb those stairs when you visit and you’ll be rewarded with an even more impressive view of the surrounding mountain layers.
Facebook/Mainstreet Sylva Association
But then again, it’s difficult NOT to see that view from most places in Sylva. Due to the elevation of just over 2,000 feet above sea level, the entire town is on a little mountain plateau and perfectly perched for some prime mountain views.
Flickr/Keith Allison
While you’re in Sylva, there are many points of interest that are not to be missed. Get your visit off to a nostalgic start by visiting The Old School Antique Mall. (Note it closes each season from January through the end of March.)
Facebook/Old School Antique Mall
It’s one-of-a-kind, and literally located in an old school. Step inside and find antiques and collectibles filling every available space — including the old trophy cases and the old gymnasium.
Facebook/Old School Antique Mall
While in Sylva, you simply can’t miss a trip to the American Museum of the Housecat. The only one if its kind in America, this museum is just quirky enough to put on the bucket list.
TripAdvisor/radiowitch
If you want an even higher view of the surrounding mountains, then head a short distance away to hike the Pinnacle Park trail. Be forewarned, this 7.2 mile looped trail is rated difficult mainly for its steep grade. It’s not for a novice hiker, but it delivers big in the way of views!
alltrail.com/Preseton Perry
All this sightseeing is sure to have you working up a hearty appetite. Sylva is home to many restaurants and cafes. Located right on Main Street, the Guadalupe Cafe is an eclectic farm-to-table eatery that serves tropical fusion food.
TripAdvisor/management
They’re open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Facebook/Guadalupe Cafe
Named in 2016 as One of the Cleanest Towns In America, Sylva is rich in history and cultural charm.
Flickr/Joe Flood
And it’s swimming in views of the surrounding mountains.
Flickr/Keith Allison Have you been to Sylva? We’d love to know. Continue the discussion below.
Looking for a new place to explore near the coast? Head to this tiny town in North Carolina. It’s completely surrounded by natural beauty!
Flickr/adamcress
TripAdvisor/Virginia K
Facebook/Mainstreet Sylva Association
Flickr/Keith Allison
Facebook/Old School Antique Mall
TripAdvisor/radiowitch
alltrail.com/Preseton Perry
TripAdvisor/management
Facebook/Guadalupe Cafe
Flickr/Joe Flood
Have you been to Sylva? We’d love to know. Continue the discussion below.
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