15 Best Things to Do in Murphy, North Carolina

Murphy is a historic city that dates back to the 1830s. Downtown, you’ll find well-preserved old buildings and mature trees.

Native American and early settler culture in Cherokee County is celebrated through the museum’s exhibits. While Hiawassee Lake is a famous spot for boating and fishing in the area. Indeed, Murphy is a place for everyone. 

It is the perfect place to go if you want to immerse yourself in nature and other outdoor recreation spots. So grab a pen and paper and list down all the best things to do in Murphy NC that we will outline in this post. Make sure to stick until the end.

Our Top Favorites

• Most significant landmark in Murphy – Cherokee County Historical Museum
• Best park in Murphy – Fields of the Wood Nature Park
• Best free activity in Murphy – Go hiking at the Murphy River Walk
• Best for kids in Murphy – Outdoor adventures at Fires Creek Recreation Area
• Best for adults in Murphy – Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino
• Best food in Murphy – Dine at Murphy’s Chophouse
• Best for families in Murphy – Taking the Lake Apalachia Tour

Best Things to Do in Murphy

1. Most significant landmark in Murphy – Visit the Hiwassee Dam

The hydroelectric Hiwassee Dam is on the Hiwassee River close to Murphy in Cherokee County, North Carolina. It is one of three dams built on the river in the late 1930s to prevent flooding and provide electricity to the area. The creation of the dam resulted in the formation of the 6000-acre Hiwassee Lake.

This dam is a  must-see on your trip. Sign up for a tour with a helpful and expert guide and look at all the things it has to offer from learning about its history, how it was built, and what it was used for.

When you get to the top of the dam, which is about 300 meters above the ground, you can take lots of pictures of the beautiful scenery.

A part of Apalachia Lake is formed by its tailwaters. The Hiwassee River provided the inspiration for the naming of the Hiwassee Dam. It is about 76 miles upstream from where the Hiawassee River empties into the ocean. The Hiwassee Dam and the Hiwassee Lake are surrounded on all sides by the Nantahala National Forest.

Don’t worry about where to stay for the night, the  Holiday Inn Express & Suites Murphy, an IHG Hotel is just located nearby and is a convenient location for tourists who wants to see the dam. 

2. Best park in Murphy – Fields of the Wood Nature Park

If you’re looking for the best park with a touch of religious sightings, Wood Nature Park is for you. As one of the best attractions in Murphy NC, it was owned by the Church of God of Prophecy which is in Cherokee County in the state of North Carolina. This encompasses a total area of 200 acres.

The 300-foot-long and 300-foot-wide carving of the Ten Commandments in granite has made this park famous. You can take a picture of the sight before heading to the next. It was thought up by A. J. Tomlinson, who also started many other Pentecostal Holiness denominations.

There are a few memorials and monuments in the park. Some of them are important to Christians, while others are important to people who follow the Church of God of Prophecy. There is also a baptismal pool,  The Garden Tomb, models of the three crosses that were on Golgotha, and a Prayer Mountain, which has 29 monuments with Bible verses.

There are restrooms, picnic tables, a gift shop, and a small café at the bottom of three different hiking routes that head down the mountain.  The park does not have a campground but don’t worry, there is a Charming Murphy Cabin located in the area for you to stay. 

Related: Best South Dakota National Parks and Recreational Areas

3. Best free activity in Murphy- Go hiking at the Murphy River Walk

The Murphy River Walk serves as the heart of the community. This renowned route goes around the old town center of Murphy and it is approximately 3.4 miles long. Enjoy jogging or hiking along this picture-perfect path with the sight of tall forests, flowing rivers, and the historic center.

 Aside from that, the Murphy River Walk is sure to keep your attention with its beautiful scenery. Prepare before you go, for a large number of people because this path is well-known on a regional as well as a national scale. 

The short and simple walk follows the Valley River and begins in Konehete Park. It continues on until the waters of the Valley River join those of the Hiwassee.

In addition to this, the Murphy River Walk is appropriate for people of all skill levels, which makes it more convenient for families with children.  As long as they have a leash, dogs are allowed to go along the trail.

You also have a lot of parking spots, which is another advantage of the park. The portion of the trail that is paved may be found to the north of the river, notably in Konehete Park. This portion is accessible for individuals using wheelchairs and strollers. 

The Best Western of Murphy is a good accommodation located nearby. 

4. Best for Kids in Murphy – Salty Dog Gem Mine

You can receive bags to go if you call, but the gem mine is for cabin guests or parties that have been arranged in advance. Nevertheless, it is one of the fun things to do in Murphy NC.

Once you get to the park, you can try your hand at gold panning or gem mining using ore from an active gold mine. There are many different kinds of gem mining bags, and each one can be changed to meet the needs of kids, adults, beginners, or more expert rock hunters.

The gems come from all around the world, and they offer a unique treasure, a fossil, and a selection of gem bags suitable for customers of all ages. You can also place an order for gem bags through Salty Dog Gem Mine’s official website, which can be accessed at SaltyDogGemMine.com.

From the year 2010, they have provided traditional forms of entertainment besides cabin rentals, RV sites, and a group event center. You are able to mine at their covered flume and gold pan sites regardless of the weather. 

Besides, they sell lots that are suitable for RVs or compact houses near Lake Apalachia State Park. Having said that, it is imperative that you are aware that bookings are necessary. Almost Heaven is the top-reviewed hotel accommodation located near the area. 

5. Best for adults in Murphy – Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino

The latest and greatest Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino is in the North Carolina town of Cherokee. It has more than a thousand slot machines and a wide range of table games that are best for adults who want to have a fun night out at a fancy casino. 

Stop by this casino in Murphy if you’re looking for something fun to do with your friends or a date. Either way, you’re sure to have a good time.

You can choose from tens of thousands of slot machines, dozens of different table games, and a variety of alcoholic beverages from the menu. It has so much to offer. Try your luck at blackjack, three-card poker, craps, and roulette while you drink a glass of wine or a pint of beer. Players can choose from a wide range of games, both old and new, on slot machines.

One can place bets on sporting events at The Book, which is a new addition to the casino. Aside from that, there are many selections of dining alternatives available to customers. It also has a Starbucks to more refined family restaurants than one might expect to find in a hotel. Aside from that, going to the property is simple and offers a beautiful view.

After a night of fun, stay at the nearby Stonebrook Lodge Murphy which is a 3-star accommodation with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a shared lounge, and a casino. 

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6. Best food in Murphy – Chevelles 66

You can find the Chevelles 66 in Murphy North Carolina. It is a restaurant and bar with a sports-themed design and a menu that focuses on the best steaks, fresh fish, juicy chicken, pasta, salads, and desserts. The restaurant also features a comfortable ambiance and a homey feel.

This family-run restaurant serves only homemade sauces, soups, salads, dressings, and desserts, that are made with fresh, sourced ingredients. Chevelles 66 is also known for more than its great lineup of rock and country bands, full bar, and outdoor fire pit. People in the area like to hang out there, especially when there are open jams, quiz nights, or live bands playing in the evenings.

After the jamming sessions in the evening, you can have a comfortable stay at the vintage Sunset Motel. This has air-conditioned rooms all filled with a last-screen TV and a private bathroom that comes with a bath and shower. 

7. Best for Families in Murphy – Taking the Lake Apalachia Tour

Apalachia Lake also referred to as Apalachia Reservoir, is a body of water that can be found in Cherokee County, to the west of Murphy.

It is without a doubt one of the most significant and well-known lakes in the country. It has a shoreline that is an amazing 31 miles long and runs for around 9.8 miles in length.

The location is excellent for spending the day in the great outdoors. It is suitable for a wide variety of family activities, such as going on a picnic, camping, fishing, and other similar pursuits.

There is also the option of private boat cruises, which come complete with an experienced captain. This is the perfect location to go to if you want to unwind and engage in a wide variety of activities that take place in natural settings. It is important to look at the schedule for the site and choose from a variety of activities, such as trekking to waterfalls, swimming, tubing, and other unusual pursuits that are detailed in their seasonal guide.

Ith an exceptional rating on Bookings.com, you can enjoy a comfortable stay at the Expansive Home on 16 Acres with Smoky Mountain Views. This also comes with a patio and a free wifi connection. 

8. Best For Outdoor Activities – WagonMaster Ranch Resort

Are you looking for fun things to do in Murphy, either with your family or with your friends for the best possible vacation?

If that’s the case then just head on over to the WagonMaster Ranch Resort. The WagonMaster Ranch Resort combines the elements of a theme park with those of a hotel and a company that offers boat tours.

The WagonMaster Ranch Resort combines the elements of a theme park with those of a hotel and a company that offers boat tours.

It is a paradise for people who enjoy being outside and offers a wide variety of activities that are entertaining for people of all ages. It has one of the best Murphy NC things to do. It provides you with a multitude of possibilities, including a target paintball and pistol range. Aside from that it has a miniature golf course, kid-sized dune buggies for your children, and a kid-size dune buggy track for older children. there is also an activity of panning for gold or gemstones, and mining for fossils. Just make sure to have adult supervision of children.

There are a number of cabins available for rent, in addition to a campground that is suitable for RVs, so that you can extend your visit beyond a single day. If you don’t want to stay onsite, you can also opt to stay at Hiwassee Hideaway Cabin with Mountain Views!

9. Best Museum in Murphy- Cherokee County Historical Museum

The Cherokee County History Museum in Murphy, North Carolina displays the rich local history of Native Americans and early settlers in the western corner of the state. This honors the culture, history, and pioneering spirit of the Cherokee people. The museum is housed in a historic structure in which you can find once Carnegie Library in the heart of Murphy.

If you are looking for things to do in Murphy NC this weekend, this museum has a collection of more than 2,000 Cherokee artifacts over fifty years by local artists and a local man named Arthur Palmer. There are 40 panels with drawings and photos that tell about the local Cherokee history and culture. A local woman named Louise Kilgore gave the museum more than 700 collectible dolls and old farm tools.

Aside from being important, the museum is also a place where people can learn about the nearby Trail of Tears National Historic Trail.

Looking for a place to stay after a historical tour? Days Inn by Wyndham Murphy is a highly recommended accommodation after an exhausting day tour.

10. Best for Couples – Sip wines at Nottely River Valley Vineyards, LLC

Nottely River Valley Vineyards, LLC is a winery and vineyard that was formed in 2008 close to the town of Murphy in the state of North Carolina. It is owned and maintained by a family since 1820. Since 1820. In addition to Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Primitivo, Pinot Gris, Riesling, and French Hybrids Chambourcin, Chardonel, and Seyval Blanc, the vineyard is heavily planted with these varieties.

In addition to dense planting, the vineyard engages in various cultivating procedures, like cluster thinning, leaf pruning, and limited fruit output, in order to ensure that the fruit and wine produced are of high quality. 

The winery is built under the ground and utilizes gravity movement, while the cellar is cooled by geothermally generated heat. The first harvest took place in the autumn of 2011.

If you and your significant other want to create new memories while having a romantic time together at this vineyard, you may do it by going wine tasting. You can also take a guided tour of the area and learn how they make their world-famous wines, the process by which they ferment their grapes, and how they cultivate their vineyards.

After the romantic wine tasting,  Hawks Hideaway is a perfect romantic place to end the night. 

11. Best Campgrounds – Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for an unforgettable adventure in the great outdoors rather than staying cooped up inside all day. This park extends across a large portion of both North Carolina and Tennessee.

It encompasses a total area of about 522 000 acres of land and ranks consistently as one of the most visited places in the region, with over ten million people coming through its doors every year. Campgrounds, hiking routes with a variety of purposes, picturesque roads that stretch on for miles, historical sites, and a great deal more may all be found within the park’s extensive forest cover.

In addition, there is a visitor center where you may obtain information regarding the local ecosystem and register for ranger-led tours. As you get ready to enjoy an immersive experience in nature, you should make sure to wear shoes that are comfortable and bring all of the essentials such as bug spray, food, and beverages.

Participate in a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking on paths, biking, camping, picnicking, and hiking to magnificent waterfalls. Additionally, you can go out on the water with your pals by going boating or fishing.

Aside from the campgrounds located in the park, Stonebrook Lodge is another good option to take especially if you prefer being in a more secluded area.

12. Best Farm Experience – Play with Goats at Ye Olde Goat Farm

Visit this charming goat farm in the area if you’re seeking for low-cost activities to do in the area that is fun for the whole family and is located quite close to you.

Ye Olde Goat Farm is home to a large number of goats and has helpful staff who are more than happy to show you around and provide you with any information you need regarding the animals.

Additionally, it is a farm that welcomes families and provides opportunities for visitors to get up close and personal with a large number of friendly goats. The farm first opened its doors in 1999. It is the ideal roadside attraction to stop at in order to pass a good time with your traveling buddies in the fresh air.

You will also have the option to interact with the animals by petting them, bottle-feeding the young goats, or feeding the older animals carrots. You will have this opportunity. After a fun experience with the goats, Hampton Inn Murphy is a good place to get that much-deserved place to take a rest.

13. Best For Nature Lovers – Interact with Alpacas at Two Crows Farm 

At Two Crows Farm, you’ll be greeted by friendly farmers, livestock guardian dogs, alpacas, and llamas, as well as other friendly animals. There are at least 43 adorable alpacas here making it one of the best Murphy North Carolina attractions. 

Be their guest to learn things about environmentally responsible fiber growing and then shop at their farm store. Beautiful scenery and a shop selling souvenirs are among its many attractions. This is a good chance to take your loved ones on a relaxing trip to the country.

Items crafted by local artisans and crafted from the fiber produced on the farm can be found stocked in the shop. You may also take advantage of the numerous photo opportunities, which will allow children to create memories that can be shared.

Spend some time in the open air mingling with dozens of cute alpacas and soaking in the stunning scenery of mountains, green fields, and a variety of colorful flowers. 

After taking in all the sights at the farm, you can then stay at the Stonebrook Lodge Murphy which is located near the farm and in all other attractions as well.

14. Best Gift Shop – Marketplace Antiques

Is there any other activity that could possibly top a visit to the local gift store to wrap up your vacation? The fact that this location is so well-organized means that you won’t need to spend any additional time hunting for the things that you need.

The Marketplace Antiques is a huge indoor complex that features multiple stores selling a wide variety of antiques, artwork, and collectibles. 

It gives you and your traveling companions the opportunity to look through a wide variety of unique and one-of-a-kind items, which results in a terrific shopping experience. Helpful shop owners and employees will also provide you with the information you need to maintain the condition of your antiques.

If you want to take a break from sightseeing and instead choose to go on a spectacular shopping spree at this bustling marketplace, this is the place to go. This is also the best place in all of Murphy to purchase one-of-a-kind goods such as antique furniture, glassware, artwork, collectibles, dollhouses, toys, and a great deal more.

It would be a convenient option to stay at Sunset Motel to be close to the shop and get all the gifts you need from, your vacation.

15. Best Mountain Biking – Nantahala National Forest

The mountain ranges and valleys of the southwestern corner of North Carolina are home to the Nantahala National Forest. It spans 531,148 acres and has elevations that range from 5,800 feet at Lone Bald in Jackson County to 1,200 feet at the Hiwassee River in Cherokee County.

The Nantahala  gets its name from the Cherokee term “Nantahala,” which means “land of the noonday sun.” This is because the sun does not reach the valley floor until midday. The legislation for this came from the Weeks Act of 1911, which was formed in 1920. This granted the authority to buy land for national forests for the purpose of regulating the flow of navigable streams, protecting watersheds, and providing timber. 

Whitewater rafting and camping are only two of the many recreational opportunities available to guests of this location. Because there are approximately 600 miles of trails, there are options for people who like to go hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and driving off-road vehicles. This makes it one of the best attractions in Murphy North Carolina. 

With an exceptional rating, Large Luxe Cabin with Hot Tub 16Mi to Blue Ridge is the best place to stay when in the area.

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