3 Best Nightlife in The North Carolina Mountains, North Carolina

Mountain Layers has a cozy bar on the first floor and a larger space on the second floor, plus a rooftop deck with nice views of the mountains. It serves its own ales, porters, and stouts, and there's often a food truck parked out back.

The large comfortable tasting room at Waynesville's original brewery shows off with exposed brick and natural wood accents. In warm weather, the outdoor seating by the creek draws a crowd. There's a busy schedule of live music and yoga classes.

Name your brewery Innovation and you'd better hold yourself to high standards. This Jackson County staple exceeds expectations with seasonal delights like a beet and basil saison. There are three locations—Innovation Station in Dillsboro, the original brewery in Sylva, and an outpost in Cullowhee. In Dillsboro, the Tuckasegee River runs directly under the porch, so sipping comes with a view. There's usually a food truck in the parking lot.