The McKinley Edwards Inn is the perfect place for you and your family to stay while visiting the Great Smoky Mountains. No matter the age, our goal is to make all of our guests feel welcome and like family. Whether it is feeding the fish in the koi pond or enjoying an afternoon or arts and crafts in our sunroom, we want everyone to feel at home.

Outdoor Games

Just off the back deck, you will find a colorful totem pole leading the way to our fun outdoor area. We have a giant Jenga, a Bean Bag Toss (known as Cornhole here in the mountains) and a Ring-on-a-String Toss. There are Bistro style table and chairs as well as two picnic tables with umbrellas. This is the perfect place to spend some fun family time.

Image may be subject to copyright

Arts & Crafts

Kids love Arts and Crafts and we love kids! Join us in our sunny Sun Room each afternoon and create something special to take home. We use many recyclable items to create little pieces of art, from Windsocks to painted rocks, you only need your imagination.

S'mores by the Fire

There is no better way to say "vacation' than s'mores by the fire. Who does not love the ooey-gooey deliciousness of melted chocolate and marshmallow tucked in a graham cracker? This is a great time to swap stories and get recommendations from other families for all the fun things to do in the area.

Family Cooking Classes

This is a great way to spend an afternoon and learn fun and easy "Kid Friendly" recipes to share with your family. This "hands on" class will show you how to make fun things like Lasagna Rolls, French Bread Pizza, Spaghetti Pancakes, Fruit tarts and more.
Reservations for classes should be made in advance.
Maximum of 6 people per class. $25.00 per person.

Appalachian Rivers Aquarium

Appalachian Rivers Aquarium is a small, native species aquarium on the banks of the Tuckaseegee River in downtown Bryson City. Though the outside may look unassuming, within its small frame there are over 4000 gallons of water, housing over 15 different species of freshwater fish and well over 30 individuals. Above and beyond our fish tanks, we have 5 tanks or terrariums that house a mix of crustacean, amphibian, and reptile- including the state endangered Eastern Hellbender Salamander.
Click here for more information.

Art Explorations of WNC

Open Thursday - Saturday from 10-5 , no appointment necessary. They have several easy Make and Take projects for all ages, price ranging from $5-15.
Click here for more information.

Nantahala River
Gem Mining

The Nantahala River Gem Mine is near Bryson City, NC in the Nantahala River Gorge. Well known for its gems Western North Carolina is famous for its natural deposits of rubies and sapphires. Prospectors and treasure hunters have hunted for these elusive treasures ever since this area was settled. Now locals and visitors alike come to try their hand at gem mining.
Click here for more information.

Image may be subject to copyright

Swain County
Recreation Park

The Swain County Recreation Park is a fun place for the whole family. There is a children's playground with swings, slides and a covered picnic area. A dip in the swimming pool is always welcome on hot summer days. There are basketball courts, tennis courts, a skateboard park to enjoy as well.
Click here for more information.

Tuckasegee Farm Animal Rescue and Petting Zoo

We are a small town family that wants to share our love of animals with you.
Click here for more information.