If you want a festive mountain town that feels warm, nostalgic, and easy to explore, Christmas in Dillsboro is exactly that. The whole town leans into holiday charm with twinkling lights, decorated storefronts, and small businesses that feel even more special this time of year.
For a bigger look at how Dillsboro fits into the area, see my full guide to Weekend in Bryson City & Dillsboro, NC: Best Things to Do & Where to Eat.
Nancy Tut’s Christmas Shop has been a Dillsboro tradition since 1969, and it’s one of the easiest ways to slide right into the holiday mood. The second you step inside, you’re hit with that cozy Christmas-shop scent — a mix of cinnamon, pine, and nostalgia — and suddenly you’re convinced you need at least five new ornaments.
The shop has eight themed rooms filled with classic décor, whimsical ornaments, collectibles, and festive displays. Because the layout is a little maze-like (in the best way), they’ve added peppermint circles on the floor that guide you through every room so you don’t miss anything.
Expect everything from traditional nutcrackers and Santas to funny ornaments and beautifully detailed pieces you don’t see in big-box stores. It’s colorful, warm, and the kind of place you browse slowly because every shelf hides something new. Whether you’re adding to your personal collection or grabbing a few holiday gifts, Nancy Tut’s is the heart of Christmas in Dillsboro.
Carolina Southern Peddler feels like stepping into a vintage holiday attic in the best possible way. The antique pieces, retro décor, and old-school finds take on a whole new charm at Christmas. You’ll spot ornaments with character, nostalgic décor that looks straight out of a 1970s holiday magazine, and unique gifts you won’t see anywhere else. If you like holiday shopping with personality, this is a fun stop.
If you love the full Dillsboro shopping lineup, you can learn more in my post about Shopping in Dillsboro, NC: Best Boutiques, Crafts & Local Stores.
The holidays and chocolate just go together, and Dillsboro Chocolate Factory smells like pure Christmas comfort the second you open the door. They make everything in-house, so you’ll see festive treats like chocolate-dipped s’mores, peppermint-leaning chocolate mixes, and seasonal gift boxes ready to wrap. Their playful creations — like the “happy chocolates,” peanut butter volcanos, and tropical turtles — make great stocking stuffers or gifts for people who love something quirky.
Handmade gifts always feel more meaningful during the holidays, and Dogwood Crafters delivers that perfectly. This Appalachian craft co-op features quilts, candles, pottery, ornaments, woodworking, and seasonal décor — all made by local artisans. If you want gifts with heart, or décor that actually fits the mountain setting, this is one of the best stops during Christmas in Dillsboro.
Fox’s Burrow is a great place to shop for outdoorsy, nature-inspired gifts that don’t feel generic. Run by former National Park Service rangers, the store carries American-made goods, eco-friendly items, and Smokies-themed pieces that make easy holiday gifts for hikers, campers, or anyone who loves national parks. Think wildlife ornaments, children’s books, trail-inspired décor, and fair-trade treasures that feel thoughtful and unique.
If you want an even deeper breakdown of the shops, learn more in my post about Shopping in Dillsboro, NC: Best Boutiques, Crafts & Local Stores.
Lazy Bear General Store gives off full cozy-cabin energy during the holidays — rustic décor, funny signs, lanterns, regional snacks, and stocking-stuffer-friendly little gifts. It’s the kind of store where you walk in “just to look” and walk out with three things you didn’t know you needed. If you love simple, laid-back shops filled with personality, this one feels especially festive at Christmas.
If you love picking up a wearable souvenir from each trip, Magnolias Jewelry is a great holiday stop. They offer classic and handcrafted pieces that make easy gifts — rings, earrings, necklaces, and pretty designs that lean Southern boutique with some artisan flair. It’s perfect for gifting something meaningful without being overly themed.
The Artsy Olive is a secret weapon for holiday gifting because you can sample everything before you buy. Their flavored olive oils and balsamic vinegars are bottled on the spot, and the seasonal flavors work perfectly in holiday cooking. If you’re shopping for a foodie, home cook, or someone who already “has everything,” a bottle from here always feels personal and useful.
The Corn Crib is basically Santa’s pantry — old-fashioned candies, jams, pickles, salsas, nostalgic treats, and Appalachian snacks. Everything feels homey and classic, and it’s one of the easiest places to grab small gifts, stocking stuffers, or a little taste of the region for people back home. If you love old-school general-store energy, this one shines during Christmas in Dillsboro.
The Front Porch looks like a holiday home-décor dream — lanterns, rustic signs, seasonal florals, kitchen accents, and farmhouse-style pieces that make it far too easy to redecorate. If you love browsing home goods stores during the holidays, this one has that warm, cozy vibe that fits perfectly with Christmas in Dillsboro.
Tunnel Mountain Crafts is full of handmade, Appalachian-inspired pieces that feel authentic and giftable during the season. Expect pottery, woodworking, textiles, jewelry, ornaments, and mountain-themed crafts — all created by local or regional artists. If you want something meaningful and made here, not mass-produced, this is the stop.
Christmas in Dillsboro has that classic small-town charm that feels warm and genuine, with shops full of handmade gifts, nostalgic décor, creative sweets, and holiday spirit. Whether you’re here on a festive weekend getaway or making a quick stop on a Smoky Mountains trip, it’s an easy holiday destination worth adding to your December plans.
If you want to explore even more mountain towns with festive charm, check out my guide to Day Trip to Sylva, NC: Best Shops, Restaurants & Things to Do.
Tucson is a dream for travelers who chase saguaros, sunsets, murals, and those “this is definitely going on the grid” moments. 🌵✨ From the historic glow of Mission San Xavier to the bold downtown murals, golden views from Tumamoc Hill, and the wild beauty of the desert parks every corner of this city feels like its own art piece.
If you’re planning a trip or crafting the perfect photo itinerary, you need these spots on your list. 📸
Tap the link in my bio to read “Most Instagrammable Places in Tucson: 10 Stunning Spots You Can’t Miss” and start building your dream shot list for the desert. 🤍✨
The Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain is desert luxury at its finest. 🌵✨ Nestled in the Tortolita Mountains and surrounded by towering saguaros and miles of protected landscape, this resort feels like a secluded Sonoran paradise. Every detail the seamless architecture, calming scents, soft lighting, and signature Ritz service creates an atmosphere designed for pure relaxation.
Whether you’re lounging by the pool, exploring on-site hiking trails, indulging at the spa, or planning a romantic escape, Dove Mountain makes every moment feel intentional and elevated. 🤍
Planning a stay or building your Tucson itinerary? Read more on the blog and discover why this resort is a must for luxury travelers. 🔗Link in bio!
#travelling #travelvlog #Arizona #tucson
Places to stay in Tucson | Visit Tucson | Tucson Arizona Hotel
If you’re a foodie visiting Tucson, the @secretfoodtours Tucson experience is truly worth it. 🌮✨ We had Ellie as our guide and she made the city’s flavors come alive, blending Native, Mexican, Sonoran, and Old Pueblo influences into stories that made every bite even better.
If your budget allows, I recommend booking a personal tour for the most immersive experience (unless you love the group vibe!). But even on your own, you can follow the flavor trail:
🌭 @rolliestucson for a classic Sonoran Hot Dog
🫖 @scentedleaf for tea
🍕 @empirepizzatucson for the Elote Pizza
🌽 @themonicatucson for a tamale
🍧 @raspaderiaelsahuaro_ for a refreshing raspado
Just skip Sundays too many spots close, and you’ll miss some must-try stops!
Want the full list and more tips for planning your Tucson eats? Tap the link in my bio to read the blog! 🤍✨
#travelling #travelvlog #visittucson #foodtourtucson
Tucson travel guide | Things to do in Tucson | Visit Tucson
Time to rev up your next adventure! ✨ If you love vintage motorcycles, roaring engines, and high-energy weekends, the Barber Vintage Festival in Birmingham, Alabama needs to be on your travel list.
This world-famous event brings together riders, fans, and curious spectators every October for one of the largest motorcycle festivals on the planet. Whether you ride or just love the thrill of motorsports, this unforgettable weekend is packed with excitement.
🏍️ Ready to plan your trip? Dive into my full travel guide to Birmingham, Alabama for insider tips, must-see events, and everything you need to know before you go.
🔗 Read the blog now!
#travelling #travelvlog #barbervintagefestival #barbervintage #birminghamalabama #thingstodoinbirmingham
Tucked in Mountain Brook’s Lane Parke, @grandbohemianmountainbrook is just minutes from downtown and the drive in is pure Southern charm. ✨ Arriving feels like stepping into a luxury art gallery: bold design, vibrant colors, and the warmest welcome.
It’s elegant but approachable, sophisticated but full of personality... the kind of place that feels like a treat from the moment you walk in.
Planning a trip to Birmingham? Don’t book anything until you check out this hotel — then hop over to my blog for all the top stays in the city. ✈️🔗
#birminghamalabama #birminghamal #placestostay #hotelreview #birminghamhotel #traveling #travelvlog #visitbirmingham
Follow @travelwithwendyplummer for Beautiful Beach Destinations, City Guides, Foodie Spots, and Luxury Hotel Recommendations.
