Asheville, set in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers a variety of outdoor and indoor activities, making it an ideal destination. From scenic hikes to thrilling whitewater rafting, there’s something for everyone. You’ll enjoy everything from serene waterfall views to adventurous zip-lining across this beautiful mountain town. Asheville’s prime location near the Blue Ridge Parkway and the French Broad River gives visitors access to plenty of outdoor adventures. Whether you’re kayaking or hiking with your dog, the area is perfect for those seeking adventure and relaxation.
The Biltmore Estate, set on 8,000 acres, is a must-visit, with its rich history and stunning gardens. You can also explore Asheville’s vibrant art scene, whether it’s gallery hopping downtown or visiting the River Arts District to watch artists create. For beer lovers, Asheville is home to over 50 breweries, making it a great place to taste local brews or take a guided beer tour. If you’re in the mood for live music, you can join a bluegrass jam session, or take a day to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of this mountain town.
For a stay that immerses you in the beauty of Asheville, consider staying at a bed-and-breakfast near the Biltmore Estate. You’ll experience the charm of the mountains while enjoying the comforts of home. With a variety of lodging options available, you’re sure to find a perfect spot to rest after a day of adventure.
Asheville’s prime location near the Blue Ridge Parkway and the French Broad River gives visitors access to plenty of outdoor adventures. For those wanting to explore further, there are 15 lovely small towns near Asheville that are perfect for a scenic getaway.
1. Biltmore: Essential Visitor Information
George Vanderbilt’s grand estate, the Biltmore House, is an iconic landmark with a rich history that dates back to 1889. The estate is known for its immense size, with 250 rooms including 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, and 65 fireplaces. Set on 8,000 acres designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the grounds offer trails, gardens, and even a winery.
Over time, the estate has seen various transformations, including serving as a storage facility for the National Gallery of Art during World War II and later adding a winery in the 1970s. The estate continues to attract visitors who are fascinated by its architectural beauty and rich past.
While at the Biltmore, there are many activities to enjoy. You can tour the house itself, with a self-guided audio tour that allows you to explore its 250 rooms at your own pace. Don’t miss the expansive gardens, which include nearly 22 miles of trails for hiking and walking.
During certain seasons, the estate offers horseback riding and kayaking. You can also enjoy a wine tasting at the Biltmore Estate Winery, which is complimentary for guests 21 and older. Nearby shops and eateries add even more to your experience, making it an ideal place for relaxation and exploration.
If you want to extend your visit, consider staying at one of the estate’s on-site accommodations. The Inn on Biltmore Estate and the Village Hotel offer comfortable lodging, and there are also select cottages for a more private experience. With seasonal events like Spring at Biltmore and Christmas at Biltmore, these accommodations provide a great base for fully experiencing the estate’s charm. Whether you’re here for a day or a longer stay, you’ll find plenty to see and do while surrounded by the beauty of the property.
2. Exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway: A Scenic Adventure
The Blue Ridge Parkway, a 469-mile stretch beginning in Virginia and winding through western North Carolina, offers an unforgettable experience for travelers. With a speed limit of 45 mph, it provides numerous opportunities to stop at overlooks, explore mountain towns, and discover hiking and biking trails. The parkway is marked by mileposts that increase as you head south, guiding you to some of the most scenic spots along the way.
Some sections of the parkway remain closed due to Hurricane Helene’s impact and ongoing recovery efforts, so it’s always a good idea to check the National Park Service website for updates on road conditions before heading out. Visitors traveling along the parkway often mention its stunning overlooks, making it a must-see for anyone in the Asheville area.
If you want to make the most of your journey, consider parking and exploring by foot when the road closes in winter. The main visitor center near Asheville, located at milepost 384, offers insights into the natural and cultural history of the region, and nearby attractions like Craggy Gardens and Mount Mitchell State Park are worth checking out. The Blue Ridge Parkway Association’s free smartphone app is a helpful tool, providing a mile-by-mile guide with maps, trail information, gas stations, and more to make your trip easier to navigate.
While driving the parkway is free, some attractions, especially in winter, may be closed due to inclement weather, and certain sections of the road may be temporarily closed for maintenance. Be sure to check for any closures before starting your journey.
Many travelers recommend picking up picnic supplies before hitting the road to make the most of the many scenic spots along the way. Whether you’re exploring for a few hours or a few days, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers a range of outdoor activities and stunning vistas.
3. Craggy Gardens: A Blue Ridge Parkway Gem
Late summer in the mountains signals berry season, and August is the time to hike up to Craggy Gardens for wild blueberry picking (while supplies last). This is one of the most popular spots along the Blue Ridge Parkway for enjoying nature’s colorful display, especially during the wildflower season. Craggy Gardens, located at milepost 364, is famous for its spectacular views and the beauty of the rhododendron blooms in June. The dense forests transform into tunnels of twisting roots and branches, leading you to one of the most scenic spots in the area.
The Craggy Gardens Trail is a relatively short 0.3-mile path that leads you to a trail shelter, but for even better views, you can take a spur trail up to a bald, a hilltop without trees, offering expansive vistas of the Black Mountain Range. If you’re up for more of a challenge, you can start your hike from the Craggy Gardens picnic area or explore nearby trails like the Douglas Falls and Craggy Pinnacle, both favored by locals and tourists. The Craggy Gardens Visitor Center is open seasonally and features exhibits on the natural history of the region, making it a great stop for anyone interested in the area’s ecology.
Even when the flowers aren’t in bloom, the views at Craggy Gardens are worth the visit. The Craggy Gardens Trail is relatively easy, though it can be slippery in some areas, so be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes.
Craggy Gardens is open year-round with no set hours, and it offers free access to trails, overlooks, and a seasonal picnic area. Whether you’re visiting for a short hike or a longer adventure, Craggy Gardens offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway.
4. Grove Arcade: A Historical Hub of Commerce and Culture
Only one hundred years ago, The Omni Grove Park Inn’s creator, self-made millionaire E.W. Grove concluded another of his endeavors that he named “the most extravagant building in America”. That’s the Grove Arcade, or what may have been America’s first enclosed shopping mall. From being a military base during the Great Patriotic War, to serving as the place for National Weather Records Center, it was restored to its original destination.
Now each consecutive venue on the lower level of the arcade is abuzz with perhaps its highest concentration of galleries, after-works drinks (and food offerings no less) and stores all treated to a VIP edge these days.. The majority of upper space is allocated to offices, some for residential areas.
The visitors who are particularly fond of architecture treasure the Grove Arcade! Many advise taking the self-guided tours to experience this historic building and learn a bit more about it. The site also provides a nifty escape into the cooler during warmer months. The arcade, which especially serves as a cherished place for both tourists and locals – houses the Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar.
Located right in the heart of downtown Asheville, The Grove Arcade is easily within walking distance from wherever you’re staying Parking is available in the Wall Street parking garage, located directly across from the south entrance of The City Market on the west side of Delaware. Monday – Saturday 9:30am – 7pm, Sunday 10am-5 pm (individual business hours vary) Again, to have the most complete experience be sure to verify specific store hours.
5. Winter in Ashevile: Things to do During the Chillier Months
On the flip side, even though Asheville winters are generally mild (the average annual snowfall is just 11 inches) However, just because it is cold, usually somewhere in the 30s to 50s doesn’t mean you can’t go outside! Although you can still hit the hiking trails, for those of us who want to carry on exploring without leaving our car, doing a drive-by visit down local waterfalls will not disappoint this winter. All of these can be seen from the roadway, but the usually waterfalls that everyone stops to take pics at a Looking Glass Falls, Socofalls and Glassmine Falls!
While you’re driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway, in winter months there will be many amazing views which are covered by snow due to which your journey becomes memorable. In the evenings, you can opt for a cozy cabin to sleep in or unwind with all of your favorite treatments at Omni Grove Park Inn’s characterful spa. Whether or not you find yourselves in the path of a white Christmas, still be sure to make time for these activities that perfectly encapsulate Asheville’s winter wonders – offering the perfect mix between adventure and relaxation!
6. Pisgah National Forest: A Bastion of Natural Art and Adventure
Approximately 30 miles (48 km) southwest of downtown Asheville, Pisgah National Forest covers more than half a million acres and serves as an outdoor oasis with boundless activities amid beautiful surroundings. These paths weave through hundreds of miles of the forest, often to hidden waterfalls and cool swimming holes. There’s seemingly no end to how you can find nature here!
As an urban forest, this was one of the first national forests in the United States and created on land previously owned by the Biltmore Estate; today it remains rich with history. It is home to the first forestry school in the nation and the Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute (PARI), which includes Mount Mitchell, just west of Burnsville, at 6,684 feet (2.037 km), it is the highest point east of the Mississippi.
Visitors regularly cite the nature reserve’s excellent hiking paths and scenic waterfalls as perfect venues for a day out with the family. Popular attractions along this highway include Looking Glass Falls and Sliding Rock. For those who don’t want to hike the forest there are opportunities for horseback riding, biking and rock climbing. While fishing, picnicking and camping remain popular in the gentle slopes of tree filled park. This forest also contains some of the most thrilling whitewater rafting tours in North Carolina.
There is no charge for entrance to Pisgah National Forest or the state parks that fall under its care. A car is required to get around the forest, but it’s easy to access with major highways running through it and a 45-minute drive from Asheville to beautiful Pisgah Ranger Station/Visitor Center (Exits located at mile markets 408 or 412).
Pisgah National Forest offers endless opportunities for adventure with its hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning mountain views. If you’re looking to extend your adventure, don’t miss 15 picture-perfect small towns in North Carolina where nature and charm meet.
7. Asheville Breweries: A Center for Craft Beer Counterculture
Asheville is often referred to as the beer capital of the Southeast with over 50 breweries calling this region home! Today, that booming craft beer scene is a huge draw for Asheville residents and tourists alike — people who relish the opportunity to drink their way through this smattering of breweries.
Read more: How to Experience Asheville’s Beer Scene in an Engaging Way Options include a self-guided walk on the Appalachian Ale Trail, pubcycling with Amazing Pubcycle or leaving the driving up to Asheville Brewery Tours.
Asheville’s array of beers and brewery experiences is only matched by the diversity of beer throughout the city. And we mean everything — from the city’s original brewery, Highland Brewing Company, to Wicked Weed’s Funkatorium; a facility that specializes in creating sour beers. (You can’t make this stuff up!) If you’re looking for something different, try Asheville Pizza & Brewing’s films to view with your pint. Conversely, Green Man Brewery’s new Green Mansion offers plenty of room for not only beer geeks but also families and the furry members of your family. The spacious three-story, 20,000-square-foot property accommodates both parents with energetic children and those who are companioned by wagging tails.
Asheville’s reputation as a beer destination has only grown, with major breweries such as Sierra Nevada and New Belgium opening their East Coast bases nearby too. Each of these locations boasts a large taproom—many of which are tourist destinations in their own right—with stunningly designed outdoor spaces, restaurants, food trucks, tours of the facilities and live music.
Keep in mind, with the continued addition of new breweries and tasting rooms, it never hurts to ask a local where they recommend going for their favorite brews!
8. See more at Sliding Rock: Nature’s Very Own Waterslide in Pisgah National Forest
Sliding Rock is an exhilarating natural waterslide in Pisgah National Forest. The popular site serves as a waterslide, where water rushes down the 60-foot long sloped rock face at 11,000 gallons of flow per minute for a final splash within an 8-feet deep catch pool. That is why it remains a top choice for several tourists who wish to have the enjoyment of pleasure and adventure in nature forest. The site is managed by Adventure Pisgah during the summer months. After Labor Day it becomes a use-at-your-own-risk attraction without a lifeguard on duty.
Having experienced Sliding Rock, guests generally report enjoying and remembering their visit well. Many suggest visiting it as part of an essential family vacation itinerary. Otherwise, travelers caution that the crowds here are often unbearable. Even so, they also report that the water remains cool and refreshing even during summer months; you should avoid peak hours (likely between noon and 4 p.m.) to secure parking and escape large groups of tourists. Visiting on a weekday can also be helpful, and it’s wise to bring aqua socks along with either a rash guard or swim shirt for added comfort.
Sliding Rock is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, and admission costs $5 for each person who enters the park. We accept both card and cash payments, but we prefer that all our transactions are made via cards. Located approximately 40 miles to the southwest of Asheville, additional information about Sliding Rock may be obtained on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s website and Adventure Pisgah’s website.
9. Mount Mitchell State Park: High Adventure at a High Elevation (with Great Views)
If you’re wondering where to stop along the Blue Ridge Parkway for unbeatable mountain views, Mount Mitchell State Park is a must-see. Home to the highest peak east of the Mississippi River at 6,684 feet, it’s one of the most popular spots on the parkway. Unlike many other summits, you can reach the top by car via a 4.5-mile paved road. From there, a short walk leads you to the observation area, where you can enjoy 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape. On clear days, visibility extends up to 85 miles.
For those who enjoy hiking, Mount Mitchell offers 40 miles of trails that range from easy to challenging. The Balsam Nature Trail is a moderate option, less than a mile long, and passes the highest spring in the eastern U.S. For a more historical route, try the Old Mitchell Trail, a 4-mile round trip, or the strenuous 2.1-mile Deep Gap Trail, which connects Mount Mitchell to nearby Mount Craig. The park’s mix of easy, moderate, and tough trails ensures something for every hiker.
Visitors to Mount Mitchell rave about the panoramic views and warn that the gift shop only accepts cash. For those with mobility issues, the walkway to the observation deck might be too steep. Also, the mountain’s temperatures are typically 15 to 20 degrees colder than at sea level, so it’s wise to bring extra layers, even in the summer months.
Mount Mitchell State Park is free to visit and open every day except Christmas. The park opens at 7 a.m. year-round, though hours may vary seasonally. On-site facilities include a museum, restrooms, and a shop open from May to October. If you’re looking to extend your visit, seasonal camping is available. Located about 30 miles northeast of Asheville, at mile marker 355.4 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, it’s an easy stop for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in nature.
10. River Arts District: The Heart of Asheville’s Growing Cityscape
Asheville’s River Arts District, or RAD if you prefer, is almost unrecognizably different than what it was in the mid-1980s when the early bird artists were buying up turn-of-the-century industrial buildings situated along the by then largely ignored French Broad River. What had started as a small consortium of studios has snowballed into nearly 300 artists from all areas.
The transformation includes reimagined old industrial and historic structures (like the former tannery or cotton mill) turned artist studios, shops, eateries —whispers of a boutique hotel called The Radical. During the lengthy Open Studios weekends, visitors stroll amongst artists—some of whom are established creator in their discipline with work hung within the Smithsonian and local galleries Others are budding creators simply showing at open studios. It’s a great place to pick up a unique item to remember your trip or take part in one of its frequent workshops at the North Carolina Glass Center.
The art work may be a little more expensive for some, reflected in price complaints by tourists, but they rave about watching the artists at work and on the other side of this rear-industrial area being properly revived. Free parking is also abundant throughout the district along with many of its eye catching public murals
Usually studios and galleries are open from 11am-5pm or, alternatively, if they expand their hours from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., it is often on Saturdays. The free ArtsAVL Connect Trolley provides transportation between Downtown Asheville and the River Arts District from noon until 8 p.m. on “Second Saturdays.” In addition, each fall the district holds its Studio Stroll (usually in November), with all studios open and complementary trolley service throughout the area.
Where is this? Just 2 miles west of downtown Asheville in the River Arts District (directions) For a more curated tour, peruse the River Arts District Studio Guide which includes studio descriptions and hours, contact information and other helpful suggestions.
11. Appalachian Trail in North Carolina: A Hilers Dream
The Appalachian Trail—or AT— is one of the most famous long-distance hiking trails. The entire trail runs from Maine to Georgia and covers 2190 miles that run through 14 states North Carolina Trail of About 323 miles (Including locations about 226.6 miles with Tennessee in boundary)
In fact, the North Carolina section is home to some of the highest points along the AT – several of which rise more than 6,000 feet above sea level. Finally, please note that if embarking on a multi-day trek, permits may be needed especially in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park locations to ambitious hikers.
Something that’s a bit shorter is checking out Hot Springs, North Carolina. It’s about 35 miles northwest of Asheville and the AT goes directly through this neat little town on Bridge Street From the Silvermine trailhead, hikers can enjoy portions like the picturesque Lover’s Leap Ridge or choose instead to hike a 1.6-mile mini loop known as Lover’s Leap Loop. Although it can be a little tricky, the reward is well worth all of the effort. Take I-26 North to Highway 25 North and you’re there!
In addition, the AT walks over Max Patch in Hot Springs’s Harmon Den segment. Two more manageable loop trails (1.4 and 2.4 miles) depart from there to reach the summit at 4629 feet, offering expansive views of southern landscapes beyond both Mount Mitchell to the west and Great Smoky Mountains National Park on North Carolina’s eastern border. The broad, grassy expanses of Max Patch are perfect for a picnic. To get there, take Highway 209 and follow the state roads to Max Patch Road.
12. Adventure Awaits on the French Broad River in Asheville
Asheville offers plenty of excitement beyond the Blue Ridge Parkway. The French Broad River, which runs through the city, is packed with opportunities for adventure. Known as one of the oldest rivers in the world, it is one of the few rivers that flows north instead of south, starting in Rosman, North Carolina, and winding its way up to Tennessee. Whether you’re looking to relax or seek thrills, the French Broad is a prime spot for all kinds of activities.
For those seeking a laid-back adventure, the river offers tubing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing. French Broad Outfitters provides a range of options, from self-guided tours to rentals, including gear for all the activities mentioned. If you’re into stand-up paddleboarding, Wai Muana offers lessons, tours, and rentals. For a more relaxing experience, Zen Tubing provides tube rentals for an easygoing float down the river.
For the more adventurous, French Broad Adventures offers some of the closest whitewater rafting excursions to Asheville, just 30 minutes away from downtown. In addition to rafting, they also offer zip lining, canyoneering, e-biking, and climbing. You can opt for a single activity or enjoy a full day of fun, such as combining a morning zip line canopy tour with a half-day rafting adventure.
If you’re in the mood for a more relaxed experience, you can stroll around downtown Asheville and enjoy the river views. The Wilma Dykeman Greenway, a 2.2-mile paved path along the river, allows you to bike, walk, or skate while taking in the sights of the River Arts District. The path also leads you past local art studios, restaurants, and shops, giving you a taste of Asheville’s creative side.
Rates and hours depend on the season and weather, so check with the rental company or tour operator before planning your trip. Whether you’re kayaking, rafting, or simply walking along the river, the French Broad offers something for everyone. For more details, visit the Asheville tourism board’s website. For those specifically interested in whitewater rafting, be sure to check out our guide to the best rafting tours in North Carolina.
13. Your Guide to The North Carolina Arboretum: Where Nature Smiles
South of downtown Asheville, 10 miles off the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 393, the North Carolina Arboretum meanders over some 434 acres inside Pisgah National Forest. Natural Museum This 65-acre cultivated garden features one of the largest bonsai collections in North America and is home to two classic Victorian seri! houses. More than 10 miles of hiking, bicycling, and walking paths offer visitors a close contact with The Living Collection.
If you’re timing your visit with the holiday season, be sure to check out the arboretum Winter Lights event, which lights up more than a million twinkling lights throughout the gardens in an enchanting walk-through display.
Recent visitors often comment on the beautiful and extensive bonsai exhibit, as well as their experience hiking along the trails. Springs for Families at the arboretum also boast a wide array of youth activities. Through both ecoEXPLORERS citizen science program and the TRACK Trail Guide, kids can learn about nature while being inspired by their inner naturalists.
Although there is no admission fee to the arboretum, per-vehicle parking is $20, according to its website. Before going to the arboretum, head over to their website and check if there are any special events or other exhibits happening so you can make your visit even better.
14. Folk Art Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway
You’ll also enjoy another indoor stop near milepost 382 at the Folk Art Center, which houses headquarters of the Southern Highland Craft Guild. Founded i n the 1930s, it remains one of the few guilds in Southern Appalachia that actively embodies this mission.
The Folk Art Center features work in the traditional and contemporary craft of members of Southern Highland Craft Guild. View three galleries, shop our retail store and explore Allanstand Craft Shop. It also houses a bookstore, the parkway information desk, a library and the Allanstand Craft Shop — named after Asheville industrialist Fred Loring Seely’s wife; it is America’s oldest continuously-operated craft shop.
Through December, the center provides daily craft demonstrations from March to each day for visitors to connect in more meaningful ways. Seasonal craft events are particularly popular. So, if you happen to be in town when the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands comes to Harrah’s Cherokee Center-Asheville each July and October (it draws some 11,000 visitors a year for work by more than 200 artists), make sure it’s on your itinerary.
As recent visitors to the Folk Art Center in Asheville attest, it’s certainly a destination worth checking out. Past travelers highly recommend you spend some time exploring the center, given its outstanding craftsmanship and variety on display. The center is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission and parking are free.
15. Visit the Western North Carolina Nature Center: A Gateway to Appalachian Wildlife
Less than 5 miles southeast of downtown Asheville, the Western North Carolina Nature Center is a must-visit destination for kids of all ages (especially those dragging their weary parents) or anyone itching to get up close and personal with Appalachian wildlife. The center is home to about 60 animal species, none of which are invasive — all of them are native or once-native to the area. The center serves as a home for many of the resident animals, such as black bears, river otters and foxes.
Most arrive at the facility to receive care after being injured or developing imprinting, rendering them incapable of living in the wild on their own! Warning: The red wolves may be the most critically endangered wolf species on Earth.
Visitors often mention their appreciation of this center, including being able to get close-up looks at animals like wolves and red pandas. Shaded pathways and friendly educational staff make for a truly delightful family-friendly place to visit. There are also amenities that cater to children, ranging from Montessori-inspired play spaces, a gem and fossil mining attraction on the second floor and daily animal programs offered for free that excite even the littlest of minds.
The Western North Carolina Nature Center is open 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. every day, with the last entry at 3:30 p.m. General admission costs $13.95 for adults and youths ages 13 and up; $12.95 for seniors; and $9.95 for kids aged three to 12, while children under two are free. For additional information about the exhibits, special events and educational programs at Sarett Nature Center can be found by visiting their website.
16. Lexington Glassworks-artisan Craft in Smiles!
For art enthusiasts, a visit to Lexington Glassworks is a must. This gallery and studio embraces an open-door culture, allowing visitors to witness skilled glass artists as they craft beautiful pieces. The gallery displays both functional and decorative glass items, ranging from drinkware to ornaments, making it an ideal spot to pick up a memorable souvenir. If you’re renovating, the Lighting Design Studio at Lexington Glassworks offers custom pendants and other lighting fixtures that can transform any room.
Many visitors consider Lexington Glassworks an essential stop in Asheville, drawn to the high quality of the glasswork and the welcoming staff. The captivating process of watching the artists at work leaves a lasting impression. It’s worth noting that, unlike many other places in Asheville, Lexington Glassworks stays open on Tuesdays, making it a great midweek destination for those exploring the city.
Located on the outskirts of downtown Asheville in the South Slope district, Lexington Glassworks is accessible by foot for those staying downtown, with the added convenience of street parking and a nearby public parking garage. Whether you’re strolling through the area or driving in, it’s a spot that offers a rare combination of artistry and community spirit.
The studio and gallery operate daily from noon to 5 p.m., allowing plenty of time to explore the craftsmanship and creativity that define this local gem. For more details, visit the Lexington Glassworks website.
17. LaZoom Comedy Bus Tours: A Funny Meeting of Humor and History
LaZoom Comedy Bus Tours in Asheville combine historical tidbits about “Beer City” and ghost legends with a heavy dose of comedy. Popular shows include the city-wide tours, Haunted Comedy Tours, Band & Beer Tour and Kids’ Tourseum tour From there, guests board the company’s whimsically purple-colored buses for a ride through downtown and the surrounding neighborhoods while being entertained by hilarious characters who keep them laughing throughout their journey.
LaZoom offers several tours including the popular 90-minute Asheville City Tour (appropriate for ages 13 and older), a one-hour haunted comedy tour filled with frightful fun for those over the age of 17, in addition to their three hour brewery tour suitable only for adults ages 21 and up as well as a family-friendly one-hour Kids Comedy Tour.
And the tours have been a hit with tourists and folk who call Armidale home – cracking along with laughs and wit. Popular comments include the guides’ sense of humor, whenever one met a character on the ride- it solidifies LaZoom as many peoples’ top choice for touring something exciting and fun to introduce their out-of-town guests an untypical side of Asheville.
All of our tours start at the LaZoom Room in downtown Asheville! What: Onsite parking available at $3 per hour (for those driving), but check here for other options. The closest garage is the Aloft Hotel Parking Garage. Daily tours are offered, and times vary depending on the type of tour you choose. Ticket prices are from $27 each and vary according to the tour. You can visit LaZoom’s official website to review the complete schedule as well other related information.
18. Asheville Pinball Museum: A Retro Gaming Haven
Anyone who wants to embrace, or re-embrace, the pleasures of old-fashioned gaming would be unable to resist a trip to the Asheville Pinball Museum. Featuring a lineup of 35 pinball machines and 35 vintage video games, it really is a kid’s playground — regardless of how old you are. What’s more, the museum sports a rotating array of functioning arcade pieces; some are from the 1960s, while others stretch back all the way to the ’30s. Standout rare games include an original “Star Wars” cockpit, “ Dragon’s Lair ” and a 1979 Atari Football game.
While guests play, they can take advantage of sodas and a few snacks on offer as well as beer. With all that you can get lost in for hours. The maximum number of visitors allowed in the museum at one time is 65 so everyone gets an opportunity to play.
“Whilst the place is great for nostalgia,” they wrote. “It must be remembered that weather cancel[wills] other tours [places] and therefore you may find queuing here for a long time.” If you do not want to wait that long, go there on a weekday or when the weather is nice.
Open seven days a week in the heart of downtown Asheville, the museum is operating on a first-come-first-serve schedule with varying hours through the day. Entry will cost you $15 and gives you all-you-can-play access so it’s a bargain that way. It’s a flexible option for mixed-interest groups as non-players in your group do not have to pay. For more information on hours of operations and other special events, head to the Asheville Pinball Museum site.
19. Asheville Urban Trail: A Walk in the Heritage of the City
The Asheville Urban Trail is a 1.7-mile-long path that highlights the growth of this city seen in its culture and architecture. As people depart the neighborhood, they notice public sculptures of important snapshots from Ashevilles history; 30 artistic pieces dot the tour to designate specific and crucial times within assignment).
As I moved on, the self-guided tour is organized around five historical eras that run from the Gilded Age for later to what are called the 5Er’s: the current period known as “Age of Diversity” The trail will start at Pack Square, the center of downtown at Biltmore Avenue and Patton Avenue. The route then winds around downtown before finishing back in the square with that last bronze sculpture For visitors, the trail will take about two hours to complete at one stretch or cover it in different segments across several visits
Often visitors will comment that this is a fun thing for both kids and adults to do on the trail, making Asheville an activity instead of just a place. If you want a more in-depth walk, the Urban Trail’s website has a map of the trail that also offers audio descriptions of each station.
20. Botanical Gardens at Asheville: Natural Retreat near Downtown Explore
If you want to surround yourself with nature but remain close to the city, then the Botanical Gardens at Asheville are perfect. This 10-acre sanctuary is located just under 2 miles north of downtown, next to the University of North Carolina at Asheville, and offers one of the most extensive representations in Southern Appalachia of plant species indigenous to those mountains: Over 500 native plants are preserved here.
The garden’s primary loop trail is a little less than 1/2 mile uphill, but there are also additional gravel paths veering off for guests who want to explore further throughout the plantings. During the warmer months, visitors are welcome to bring a picnic and enjoy some time rock hopping and splashing in Reed Creek. Intermittent benches make for a nice place to relax and enjoy the peace of things.
The gardens are especially colorful when wildflowers bloom in April and May and from mid-July through early fall. Young explorers can pick up a passport for investigation at the visitor center, which will get children focused on some of the tree-related diversity to be found in the garden and hone their observational skills.
The natural and untamed look of the garden, which many first-time visitors are quick to comment on. Unlike a curated or manicured botanical garden landscape, the SGFS is meant for viewing native ecology as it appears in nature with little human intervention. People often comment on the clarity of our signage and knowledge of staff too!
How to Get There: The gardens are about 2 miles north of downtown Asheville and can be reached by car or bus. Admission and parking are free, but donations to support this nonprofit organization are greatly appreciated. Gardens are open from sunrise to sunset, and the gift shop is open daily 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Check the botanical gardens’ website for more on how to plan your visit.
21. Thomas Wolfe Memorial: The Family’s Homage to a Literary Giant
Downtown Asheville’s Thomas Wolfe Memorial offers a glimpse into the life of one of America’s most significant early 20th century authors. The house, built in 1883 and his mother’s boarding house served as the childhood home of Thomas Wolfe. The town is perhaps best immortalized (and lightly fictionalized) in Wolfe’s seminal novel, Look Homeward, Angel; a work that takes much of its background from the author coming-of-age experiences growing up in Asheville. A visit to this historic home will give you a much better sense into how his upbringing most likely defined many of his famous works. The visitor center next door has a gift shop and an exhibition on Wolfe’s life and work as well.
“Visitors frequently comment that the house reveals much more than an account of Wolfe’s own life, but serves as a reflection of Asheville’s past,” Ford said. “A ‘historic site’ designation doesn’t do justice to its reflective powers.” The tours have even proven interesting to people unfamiliar with Wolfe’s literature.
Located downtown, flanked by the Asheville Community Theatre and the Renaissance Asheville Downtown Hotel, the Thomas Wolfe House is open for tours from Tuesday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tours run hourly at half-past each hour with last tour departing at 4:30 p.m..
For those looking to check off some major highlights, 20 best things to do in North Carolina will definitely help you make the most of your trip, whether you’re an adventure-seeker or someone who enjoys a more laid-back experience.
