Discover Waynesville, NC: Top Local Businesses & Community Favorites
As the largest town west of Asheville, Waynesville, North Carolina, is the cultural and economic heart of Haywood County. With its walkable downtown, arts and crafts traditions, and proximity to the Smoky Mountains, Waynesville blends mountain charm with modern vitality.
At MyLocalStart, we highlight the businesses and community stories that keep Waynesville thriving — from family-owned shops to professional services, from Tai Chi classes to trusted attorneys.
Waynesville at a glance
Population
~10,500 (Haywood County: ~62,000)
Location
Gateway to the Smokies & Blue Ridge Parkway
Culture
Arts, music, and Appalachian crafts
Outdoor access
Cataloochee Valley (elk herds), Blue Ridge Parkway overlooks
Fun fact
Frog Level, once a railroad hub, is now home to breweries and arts spaces.
Top 10 local businesses & professionals in Waynesville
(our community picks)
- Sutton & Sons Antiques – A treasure trove of Appalachian antiques and vintage finds, beloved by collectors and locals alike.
- Waynesville Mulch & Stone – Supplying landscaping materials and hardscaping solutions to homeowners and businesses across Haywood County.
- Stone Reuning Tai Chi & Martial Arts – Local instruction in Tai Chi forms, QiGong, and martial applications, rooted in traditional practice and community teaching.
- The Sweet Onion – Upscale casual dining with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and regional flavors.
- Frog Level Brewing – Popular craft brewery in the historic Frog Level district with live music and a riverside beer garden.
- Boojum Brewing Company – Downtown taproom and restaurant named after a legendary Appalachian creature.
- Hazelwood Soap Company – Handmade soaps, lotions, and skincare products crafted with mountain inspiration.
- The Van Winkle Law Firm (Waynesville office) – One of WNC’s oldest firms, offering services in business law, family law, and litigation.
- Griffin, Roughton & Associates, Attorneys at Law – Local legal team assisting with injury cases, real estate, and estate planning for Haywood County residents.
- Waynesville Farmers Market – Weekly market connecting local growers, artisans, and neighbors through fresh food and crafts.
Community stories & local flavor
Sutton & Sons: Preserving Appalachian History One Antique at a Time
Finding Balance: Stone Reuning’s Tai Chi Journey in Waynesville
Local business resources
- Haywood County Chamber of Commerce:
www.haywoodchamber.com - Town of Waynesville Business Resources:
www.waynesvillenc.gov - NC Secretary of State – Start a Business:
www.sosnc.gov/divisions/business_registration
Pro tip:
MyLocalStart offers Forever Free Google Business Profile optimization for Waynesville businesses.
Visitor’s corner: Quick guide to Waynesville
Must-see attractions
Downtown Waynesville, Cataloochee Valley elk, Blue Ridge Parkway overlooks
Where to eat
The Sweet Onion, Haywood Smokehouse, Boojum Brewing
Where to shop
Sutton & Sons Antiques, Hazelwood Soap Company, local galleries
Events
Folkmoot Festival, Apple Harvest Festival, Downtown Art After Dark
Waynesville FAQ
What is Waynesville best known for?
Waynesville is known for its charming downtown, strong arts community, and outdoor access to the Smoky Mountains.
What are the best local businesses in Waynesville?
Highlights include Sutton & Sons Antiques, Waynesville Mulch & Stone, and Boojum Brewing.
How do I support local businesses in Waynesville?
Shop downtown, attend the farmers market, and leave reviews for your favorite shops and services.
Waynesville represents the best of mountain living — tradition, creativity, and community.
Support your local businesses, discover new favorites, and keep Haywood County thriving.
Explore Waynesville’s top businesses, share your favorites, and join us in building stronger communities across North Carolina.