Find Local Craft: Small Towns
Experience Our Memorable Places, Culture and People.
HandMade's Small Towns are known for their natural beauty. Explore the beauty, charm, and cultural heritage of our small towns. Discover their rivers, creek walks, craft shops, special events, restaurants, parks, and meet their talented craft artists! Click on each town name to view their brochure.
Andrews
Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Andrews is located in a wide scenic valley, virtually untouched by large city influences and remains a place to enjoy a more leisurely pace of life. When staying in Andrews, stroll down main street or take a hike in the Smokies, raft the Nantahala, and visit the Andrews Valley Cultural Art Center.
- Town of Andrews
- Andrews Valley Initiative
- Andrews Chamber of Commerce
- Cherokee County
- Valleytown Cultural Arts & Historical Society
Search our Registry for Craft Artists in Cherokee County
Bakersville
Bakersville is known for its picturesque beauty and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities, including hikes at nearby Roan Mountain and strolls along the Creekwalk. Visit Bakersville and browse unique art galleries, tour nearby artists' studios, visit renowned galleries, or attend one of its local craft festivals.
- Town of Bakersville
- Mitchell County Chamber of Commerce
- Mitchell County Historic Courthouse
- Mitchell County
- Toe River Arts Council
Search our Registry for Craft Artists in Mitchell County
Bryson City
Located next to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and the Nantahala River, Bryson City offers action-packed adventure. Take advantage of its quieter side by staying in one of Bryson City’s quaint bed and breakfasts, stroll down main street and take a ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.
- Town of Bryson City
- Swain County Chamber of Commerce
- Swain County
- Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual (Cherokee)
Search our Registry for Craft Artists in Swain County
Chimney Rock
The Village of Chimney Rock sits atop the Hickory Nut Gap Gorge and on the banks of the Rocky Broad River. The friendly town, neighbored by Chimney Rock Park and the Rocky Broad River Walk, offers visitors a wealth of outdoor activities, local shopping and restaurants.
- Village of Chimney Rock
- Chimney Rock Park
- Rutherford County Tourism Development Office
- Rutherford County
- Rutherford County Arts Council
Search our Registry for Craft Artists in Rutherford County
Crossnore
Located in the High Country of Western North Carolina, Crossnore is at arms reach to some of the most famous destinations in the southeast, like Grandfather Mountain the ski resorts at Beech and Sugar Mountains. In Crossnore, take a tour of the Crossnore School, The Church of the Frescos and visit the Crossnore Gallery and Weaving Room.
Hayesville
Visitors to Hayesville return because there are always new activities to explore, like camping, hiking, fishing at Lake Chatuge, or mountain biking at the Jack Rabbit Mountain Biking Trail. Hayesville's arts community is also diverse and growing, so be sure to browse for local craft and have lunch around the historic Courthouse Square.
Hot Springs
Hot Springs is located at the junction of the Appalachian Trail and the French Broad River, and is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Pisgah National Forest, offering hikes for various skill levels. It is the only town with hot mineral spring water in the Southeastern United States and North Carolina's only town that sits astride the Appalachian Trail.
Mars Hill
Mars Hill's scenic beauty and rural character make it a great place to live, work, go to school and enjoy a slower pace of life. Located just 10 minutes from Asheville, Mars Hill makes a great day trip where you can enjoy a lunch in Mars Hill Park, take a stroll through Mars Hill College and see a show at the Southern Appalachian Repertory Theatre.
Marshall
The town of Marshall, nestled along the banks of the French Broad River, is rich in history, scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and mountain culture. Marshall is fast becoming a center for the arts. Visit artists’ studios in the Marshall High Studios, listen to musicians play at the local coffee house, or browse galleries on Main Street.
Old Fort
In Old Fort, you won't find tourist glitz, but you will find welcoming people and natural beauty. The town is committed to preserving its heritage and offers visitors opportunities to experience its history and culture. Visit the preserved Old Depot in downtown Old Fort, stop in for lunch at the Catawba Vale Cafe, and visit Davidson's Fort Historic Park.
Robbinsville
Visit Robbinsville for endless outdoor activities. The town is adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, The Nantahala National Forest, Lake Fontana, and Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest to name a few. Connect with local arts and culture at the Stecoah Valley Center and visit Robbinsville’s galleries, studios and shops.
Todd
Todd offers tranquility amidst the bustling atmosphere of the High Country. Come to Todd to visit its historic district, discover locally made craft at Todd Mercantile & Bakery, or to see a puppet show at the Elkland Art Center. Want to get outside? Hike on one of the many surrounding trails or canoe the New River.
Ashe County Arts Council
- Todd Community Preservation Organization
- Elkland Art Center - Todd
- Ashe County Chamber of Commerce
- Ashe County
- Elkland Art Center
Search our Registry for Craft Artists in Ashe County
West Jefferson
West Jefferson is located in northwestern North Carolina. Located in Ashe County, it is known for close access to the New River, spectacular views, and beautiful Christmas trees. Visit West Jefferson for its lively farmers market, the Christmas in July festival, gallery crawls, beautiful murals, and summer concert series in Backstreet Park.