Murphy in North Carolina’s Cherokee County has the cultural history and natural wonders for a perfect weekend getaway. From golfing and antique shopping to river tubing and waterfall hiking, Murphy has no shortage of recreational activities. The diverse topography features low, undulating hills, high-altitude mountain forests, waterfalls, and river hikes. Thanks mainly to its position in Blue Ridge Mountain, Murphy has been able to preserve its rural character and keep its small-town charm.
Have we convinced you to plan your next vacation in Murphy? No? Don’t worry. Keep reading to find nine reasons you should visit this beautiful mountain town.
1. Gorgeous Views Year- Round
If you’re hoping to see a winter wonderland for your next holiday, January and February are the best times to visit Murphy. Summer is a great time to visit if you want to bask in the pleasant weather and bright sunshine.
During the spring, temperatures are perfect for exciting outdoor adventures. So, spring is your season if you’re hoping to avoid extreme heat or cold. Fall brings in cooler temperatures, but nothing compares to the vibrant fall foliage before you — another best time to visit Murphy. With its picturesque landscape, you’ll surely enjoy a calm and relaxing ambiance in Murphy no matter when you see it.
2. Cozy Vacation Rental Cabins
Murphy NC cabins with fantastic amenities and mountain views are a great way to relax and unwind. You can enjoy the sunrise while sipping coffee on the deck. Come back later to relax in front of an equally stunning sunset. After sundown, kick back on the couch for a family movie night or play pool with a friend in the game room. You and your squad are sure to have a great time, whether you choose to spend the evening in the hot tub or on the cabin’s front porch.
3. Pleasant Strolls Along the Murphy River
The Murphy River runs directly through the middle of town. You can canoe along the Murphy River or hike the 4-mile Greenway walk. Either way, the stunning beauty of the pathways you’ll discover here will astound you. Fishing, birdwatching, and paddlesports are a few other activities you can enjoy at Murphy River Park. North of the river, in Konehete Park, you’ll find a paved stretch of the trail that’s accessible to people using strollers and wheelchairs. Also, the track is dog-friendly so long as your pup stays leashed.
4. The Cherokee County Historical Museum
This fascinating museum in downtown Murphy showcases the extensive history of pioneer settlers and Native Americans who lived in western North Carolina. Explore the museum and discover the over 2,000 artifacts that local citizen Arthur Palmer collected over 50 years to create the most extensive collection of Cherokee history in the world!
In addition, the museum has nearly 700 collectible dolls, 40 exhibit panels with drawings and photographs of local Cherokee history and culture, and vintage home objects from early pioneer immigrants. This museum is one of Murphy’s most incredible attractions for history buffs.
5. The Fields of the Wood Park
An outdoor park with a biblical theme, the Fields of the Wood Park boasts the largest collection of the Ten Commandments anywhere in the world. You’ll find the Prayer Mountain to your left when you drive in. In the right-hand corner of the Park, there is a plaque with verses from the Bible that illustrate the development of God’s prophecy regarding the church. There’s also a structure referred to as the Rotunda or the Psalms of praise which displays various psalm verses.
There is a river for baptism and a replica of the tomb where Jesus was laid to rest.
6. The Fire Creek Falls
Fire Creek Falls is a popular destination in the Nantahala National Forest, with numerous hiking routes winding through the forest and over the clear streams leading to the falls. During the warmer months, visitors float the base waters in large inner tubes, much like the river in Helen, Georgia.
There’s no denying the area’s beauty; any tourist should visit it. The running river and slick rocks make this a dangerous place; otherwise, it’s an excellent spot for a picnic or some quiet time away.
7. Antique Shopping Options
Murphy has many flea markets, and the things sold there are looking for new homes. The Marketplace Antiques features a wide variety of booths, each stocked to the brim with one-of-a-kind items that will take you back in time.
Discover the hidden gem of an unfinished piece of furniture, round out your collection of antique plates, and introduce your children to the joys of yesteryear with a visit to a secondhand store. All these quaint, historic stores give the area a lot of character.
8. Appalachia Lake Tour
The Appalachia Lake extends for around 9.8 miles while its coastline stretches as far as 31 kilometers. This is a family-friendly destination and appeals to all kinds of travelers. Here, you may go camping, have a picnic, take a tour on a private boat, go fishing, or simply admire nature at its best. You can also select between swimming, tubing, waterfall hiking, and other enjoyable things on the Park’s itinerary.
9. The Murphy’s Chophouse
While in the area, you should take advantage of your time in Murphy by eating at some of the city’s best dining options. Murphy’s Chophouse, located at 130 Valley River Avenue, is a restaurant not to be missed.
Noted for its fine cuisine and exciting atmosphere, the restaurant is owned and run by James Reaux, a world-renowned chef. The restaurant has outdoor seating available if you want to dine outside and enjoy the natural splendor. Another plus point is ample parking spaces if you bring your car. Wrap up your sightseeing tour with their filet mignon, crab cakes, and Murphy’s Mule, a specialty drink made with bourbon and ginger.
If you are looking for a great family vacation destination, look no further than Murphy, NC. If you love nature and want an endless offering of kid-friendly activities, entertainment, and dining options, consider these reasons, book your tickets to Murphy, and get ready to be amazed!