Whittier Travel Guide

Whittier, a small community in North Carolina, is a popular tourist destination for those hoping to explore the great outdoors and get away from the city. It has a population of around 4,6000 people and boasts a small town feel that both shocks and welcomes visitors with open arms. This small town is the perfect place for an off-the-grid vacation.

Things to Do in Whittier

Sitting beside the Tuckaseegee River, Whittier is perfect for water sports. Guests can book a day of fun with Smoky Mountain River Adventures where they can go white water rafting, kayaking and canoeing, and even go on guided tours of the area. On the extreme end of the water sport spectrum, more advance water sports enthusiasts can enjoy extreme white water rafting, tubing, and kayaking on more challenging waters with Tuckaseegee Outfitters.

Guests can also go camping at Timberlake Campground, which features a beautiful lake for fishing and swimming, spacious campsites, and a full service bathroom with showers. Alternatively, visitors can spend the afternoon playing golf at the Sequoyah National Golf Club or taking a short but pleasant tour of The Elvis Museum. Whittier has a number of wonderful second hand and thrift shops for browsing including Recycled Fashions, It Is What It Is Retail Shop, and Nu 2U Consignment Shop.

Best Places to Stay in Whittier

Conveniently located close to major cities, Whittier offers plenty of vacation rentals in and surrounding the community. The community offers small B&Bs, mountain lodges, cabins, and modern two-story homes -- all with the comforts of home including internet, TV, and fully equipped kitchens for whipping up tasty local favorites.

Best Time to Visit Whittier

The best time to visit Whittier is during the spring before the community is flooded with tourists from neighboring cities. During this time accommodation is also cheaper.

Best Events in Whittier

Each year, Whittier’s guests and residents head to Cherokee to participate in the Cherokee Summer Festival, which offers food, games, carnival rides, karaoke, and a variety of great vendors. They also gather in Cherokee for the Blueberry Jam, Cherokee Harvest Half Marathon &5K, Cruise the Smokies Fall Rod Run which features dozens of vintage cars and their proud owners.

Things to Do for Families in Whittier

In nearby Cherokee, visitors can take a guided tour of Oconaluftee Islands Park, stopping for a picnic under the shade of the trees, or to go fishing in the river. They can also head over to Concord, NC, where they can watch a live race at the Charlotte Motor Speedway, go mountain biking on Rocky River Trail, and visit SEA LIFE- Charlotte-Concord Aquarium. The aquarium features a number of viewing areas, large salt and freshwater aquariums, and a touch tank that have been specially designed for children.