Eat, Drink, and Go on an adventure!
Natural Hot Springs
Hot Springs Resort & Spa
www.nchotsprings.com 828-622-7676
Your visit to Hot Springs would not be complete without a visit to the Hot Springs Resort & Spa. Enjoy a relaxing soak in natural hot mineral water, receive a massage or simply meander about the grounds to discover its fascinating history. Heated deep within the earth, the crystal-clear waters are world famous for their mineral content and healing powers. Natural mineral water is piped into modern outdoor hot tubs that are drained and sanitized after each use. Your group will have privacy in your own hot tub, with a view of either Spring Creek or the French Broad River. Reservations are recommended.
HORSEBACK RIDING
Sandy Bottom Trail Rides
Enjoy riding through scenic mountain meadows and forests on this secluded ranch. They offer guided rides ranging from one to four hours, leaving daily from their stables between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Open year round. Please call for reservations.
The French Broad River may be enjoyed as a calm float trip or as an exciting whitewater excursion. You may rent a tube or inflatable kayak to float downstream of Hot Springs to the Murray Branch Picnic Area. This scenic section has only Class I – II rapids and is best for those who want to slow down and relax. If you are looking for more remote mountain scenery and whitewater adventure, enjoy a half-day or full-day guided trip with one of these recommended rafting companies.
whitewater rafting on the French broad river
Hot Springs Rafting Company
The only rafting company right here in town located on main street in a large white house. Locally owned and staffed with experienced and professional guides. Tubes and inflatable kayaks are available for rent. Call for reservations or drop by for more information.
French Broad Rafting and Ziplines
Located about 15 minutes east of Hot Springs, this rafting company also has 10 ziplines through lush forest with amazing mountain views.
Blue Heron Whitewater
Located about twenty minutes east of Hot Springs, this company is owned by three friends who have worked in the outdoor recreation business for many years. Full and Half day trips available.
Nantahala Outdoor Center French Broad River
www.noc.com/french-broad-river-nc
The outpost is about 15 minutes from Hot Springs. Tried and true.
Whether fishing for trout in the stocked creeks or for bass, catfish and muskie in the French Broad River, there are many places available for fishing enthusiasts. There are areas that are stocked during the season and some wild waters with native fish.
FISHING
C & H Fishing Supplies
828-622-3205 257 Mountain Heights Ave.
Our friendly, local fishing shop is tucked away in a neighborhood and a very short walk from the main street of town.
LLAMA HIKES
LLamas of Hot Springs
Schedule a guided hike with David and his beautiful llamas; Short hikes and longer treks available.
RESTAURANTS
The Iron Horse Station Restaurant & Tavern
Casual dining in an 1890’s setting. A nice variety of Americana style food. Beer and Wine served. Family friendly. Lunch and Dinner.
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The Spring Creek Tavern
www.thespringcreektavern.com 828-622-0187
A classic pub located on the banks of Spring Creek. The Tavern features a fantastic selection of draught and bottled beer, wood-fired pizza, and a full menu. This is a place for everyone, with both indoor and outdoor seating.
Hours: Open for lunch and dinner (Call or look online for current hours)
Location 145 Bridge Street. Downtown, across from Bluff Outfitters
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Big Pillow Brewery and Grey Eagle Taqueria
Local brewery and Taqueria with inside and outside tables, great food, beverages, and atmosphere. Live music, game night, and open-mic nights each week.
Hours: Open most days except Mondays (Check their website for current hours)
Location: Andrews St.; facing the railroad tracks next to public parking.
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Smoky Mountain Diner
Stop by this friendly diner for a delicious breakfast, lunch, or supper. Menu includes burgers, wraps, salads, daily specials, pizza, and classic meals. Family owned and operated.
Hours: Monday-Saturday breakfast, lunch, and dinner (Call or Facebook for current schedule)
Location: 70 Lance Avenue, past the gas station and Dollar General
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Vaste Riviere Provisions
Snacks, sandwiches, fresh salads, and provisions for your stay with a great beverage selection. This is a great place to visit grab supplies for a picnic on Max Patch!
Hours: Open daily 11-7 (hours may expand in season)
Location:158 Bridge Street, downtown Hot Springs
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Vinyl Pie Pizzas
Pizza and Salads!
Hours: Vary, Closed on Wednesdays
Location: 1164 Bridge St, Hot Springs, NC 28743
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Spring Creek, NC- 30 Minute Beautiful Drive
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Dave’s 209
Fun and casual restaurant located in the old Spring Creek school building in the middle of the “flats of Spring Creek”. Milk shakes, hamburgers, specials. A great excuse to take a drive or stop along your travels.
SHOPPING
Enjoy browsing these local shops and find souvenirs, local crafts, and supplies. Note that winter hours may vary for some stores.
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ArtiSUN Gallery & Cafe
828-622-3573 16 S. Andrews Ave.
Enjoy the welcoming staff and creative selections in this sweet shop. Also, don’t miss out on a delicious coffee, local baked good, smoothie, or scoop of ice cream from Ultimate Ice Cream out of Asheville. The talented artists who fill the gallery with their creativity are all local artists who love the mountains and express that love through their art. Hours vary from day to season.
Bluff Mountain Outfitters
828-622-7162 152 Bridge St., Hot Springs, NC
Stop by Bluff for a wide variety of unique goods and services, including hiking and outdoor equipment (tents, backpacks, sleeping bags, stoves, etc.); clothes, accessories, books, toys, gifts, natural foods, hiking foods, and cold drinks. Shuttle service is available to trailheads, airports, and bus stations. An ATM machine is inside. Hours vary from day to season.
Sara Jo’s Station
828-622-7575 39 NW US HWY 25/70, Hot Springs
Not your average gas station. Shop for gas, beverages, delicious locally made cheesecakes and baked goods, gifts, craft beer, local pot pies and frozen pizzas, and more at this friendly local hotspot.
Gentry Hardware Store
828-622-3761 124 Bridge St., Hot Springs, NC
Family owned since 1946, Gentry’s is an old-timey hardware store. Stop by for a nice selection of gifts, housewares, fishing, camping, and garden supplies. Also find general hardware, a large selection of knives, tools, heating, plumbing and electrical supplies. Services include key cutting, chainsaw sharpening, glass cutting and some equipment repair.
Dollar General
828-539-0163 50 Lance Ave., Hot Springs, NC
Variety store that stocks food, toiletries, clothing, and housewares.
Open daily till 9pm or 10pm.
Hillbilly Market
828-622-3532 43 NW US 25/70 Hwy, Hot Springs, NC
Small grocery store with some fresh produce and meats along with jellies, honey, and snacks. This convenience store also makes fresh made-to-order sandwiches, soft serve ice cream, and milkshakes. Good stop for some last-minute groceries.
Open daily, usually till around 6:00
Tobacco Road
20 Bridge Street, Hot Springs, NC
Find a selection of cigars, wine and ice-cold beer along with some motorcycle items.
Hours: Open most days till
Laurel River Store
Located near the trailhead for the Laurel River Trail about 5 miles from Hot Springs. Local crafts and goods and delicious coffee.
