The Sylva’s Historic District is home to 41 buildings showcasing a variety of architectural styles.
As the county seat of Jackson County, the city features many attractions, while serving as a convenient base for exploring all that nature has to offer in the region. Cozily situated amid the picturesque mountains, Sylva is easily reached via U.S. Highways 74 and 23.
Here are 10 of the many compelling reasons to make Sylva part of your travel plans this fall.
1. Fly Fishing Trail in Sylva
The Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail features 15 excellent places to catch three of the region’s varieties of trout. Sylva makes the ideal point from which to begin your exploration of the trail; most of the trail’s fishing spots lie within a 10-mile radius of the town.
2. Photogenic Edifice
Constructed in 1914, the original Jackson County Courthouse is a historical landmark built in the Classical Revival style. The building is said to be the most-photographed courthouse in the state; it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. Today, it’s home to the Jackson County Library. Courthouse business happens in a modern building nearby.
3. Sylva Mural
The inaugural project from the Sylva Public Art Committee, this colorful 1,100-square-foot mural is inspired by 1940s-era souvenir postcards. Western North Carolina-born artist Eron Hare completed the work in 2018. The mural depicts beloved local and regional attractions.
4. Trout Capital
Jackson County is home to more than 4,500 miles of trout streams, stocked with nearly 93,000 fish every year. In 2016, an initiative led in part by the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce and local elected officials put forth a resolution recommending that the state legislature recognize Jackson County as North Carolina’s official Trout Capital.
5. Quirky Museum
One of the region’s most unique attractions is the American Museum of the House Cat. Curated by cat lover Dr. Harold Sims, the museum was the subject of a 2017 documentary film. The museum features feline-focused arcana, art and antiquities. Museum proceeds benefit Catman2, a no-kill shelter that cares for cats and facilitates adoptions.
6. Tasty Brews in Sylva
Beer culture finds full expression in Sylva. Among the popular choices for locally brewed beers are Innovation Brewing (with more than two dozen brews on tap at each of its two Sylva locations) and the adventurous range of beers from Balsam Falls Brewing Co. Lazy Hiker Brewing Company’s taproom offers its signature brews by the glass and in to-go cans.
7. Wolf Creek Lake
Locals call it Wolf Lake, but by any name this 183-acre lake at approximately 3,000 feet above sea level is a crystal-clear delight. A boat ramp and kayak put-in location on the lake’s western shore makes for easy access, and the lake’s secluded location makes it a peaceful place to relax.
8. Antiques Galore
Sylva’s downtown district – centered around Mill Street and West Main Street – is home to more than half a dozen antique shops, each with its own character. End of Main features antiques and home décor, with new items arriving all the time. Arsenal Artifacts specializes in Civil War era collectibles. With two levels of shopping, Dixie Mae Vintage features clothing, records and more.
9. Pinnacle Park
Situated 5,000 feet above sea level and just a few miles north of downtown Sylva, 1,529-acre Pinnacle Park is a hiker’s paradise. Featuring panoramic views, streams and waterfalls, the park is home to a 7-mile trail that rewards visitors with a breathtaking vista of the region’s mountainous terrain.
10. Delicious Dining
Sylva offers a wide variety of meal options, from fast food to fine dining. Lulu’s on Main is a popular downtown Sylva dining destination renowned for its welcoming spirit and local character. Warm waffle cones are a specialty at Jack the Dipper Ice Cream. Baxley’s Chocolates features unique and sophisticated, hand-crafted delights in milk or dark chocolate.
