We love to go to Lake Junaluska for a play break and coffee or ice cream! It’s very close to Downtown Waynesville and Maggie Valley. This is an old Methodist campground turned beautiful neighborhood community (still holy ground for sure!). They host many conferences, so sometimes parts of it are closed to the public. I’ll write another post in August when we stay longer for one of those conferences. They have three separate playgrounds for all the age groups accessible through an easy (for most parents) to open gate. There are also tennis courts, putt-putt, shuffle board, and a swimming pool (seasonally).
We also love to look at the historic stone chapel, take a walk along the lake trail, and run the prayer labyrinth. The flowers, wildlife, and atmosphere are wonderful, so very peaceful.
One of my favorite places to go for coffee, anywhere, is the Grounds and Gifts shop. They have coffees, teas, smoothies and a few flavors of ice cream as well as all kinds of unique gifts and books. It is open year round. They also have a library, which is a great place to study. I worked on master’s papers here several times. But really, it’s worth the trip just for the coffee!
There is also a bistro with great food and a good view of the mountains and lake, a museum of the Methodist church, and multiple venues to rent for big and small events as well as hotels, VRBO’s, and activities.
If you are looking for a wonderful coffee, a playground, a vacation, or a conference location, or just a peaceful place to take a minute to breathe, this is the place.
For more information, check out the Lake Junaluska website. https://www.lakejunaluska.com/
Rebekah Faith and Family 