Mast General Store

Mast General Store in Waynesville is a beloved institution that has been serving the community since 1913. Located on Main Street, this sprawling store is a treasure trove of outdoor apparel, camping equipment, kitchen gadgets, toys, and an old-fashioned candy counter with over 100 varieties. The store's wooden floors, tin ceilings, and vintage displays evoke a bygone era, while the knowledgeable staff provide friendly, personal service. Unlike modern retail chains, Mast General Store feels like a museum you can shop in, with each aisle offering something unexpected, from cast-iron cookware to hiking boots to retro sodas. It's the top-rated shopping destination in Waynesville, drawing visitors who come for the nostalgia and leave with bags full of practical and whimsical finds. The store also has a coffee corner and a selection of local jams, honey, and crafts, making it a perfect stop for souvenirs.

Don't miss

• Browse the massive candy counter with old-fashioned sweets like saltwater taffy, licorice, and chocolate drops.
• Shop for outdoor gear including hiking boots, backpacks, and camping stoves from brands like Patagonia and The North Face.
• Explore the housewares section for cast-iron skillets, mason jars, and kitchen gadgets.
• Check out the toy section for classic games, puzzles, and nostalgic playthings.
• Pick up local food products like North Carolina honey, jams, and hot sauce.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Mast General Store

Cheapest way inGolden stones Beaujolais Wine Tour with Tastings from Lyon4.7★ · 172 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$115 per personSee dates →Best full dayBarossa Valley Shared Tour with Wine Tasting and Lunch5★ · 29 travelers~7 hoursFree cancellationFrom$168 per personSee dates →Private & flexiblePrivate half-day tour to Golden Stones Beaujolais with tastings4.8★ · 26 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$698 per personSee dates →

Good for

How travelers rate it

Know before you go

• Park in the free public lot behind the store; it fills up quickly on weekends.
• Kids love the candy counter, bring small bills for bulk candy sold by weight.
• Check the sale section near the back for discounted outdoor gear and clothing.
• Photography is allowed, but be mindful of other shoppers in tight aisles.

A bit of history

Founded in 1913 as a dry goods store, Mast General Store has operated continuously for over a century. It survived the Great Depression and changing retail trends by adapting its inventory. The store is part of a small chain of Mast General Stores in the Southeast, but the Waynesville location remains the flagship.