top 10 places to visit in asheville nc

Asheville, NC   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Stephen Pruitt Photography | Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

20 Essential Things to Do in Asheville, North Carolina

The mountains are calling and you must go. With so many fun things to do in Asheville, you can cherry pick (or wild berry pick) a one-of-a-kind itinerary. You will discover many of Asheville's most memorable experiences in the great outdoors,

• All Things To Do

Biltmore Biltmore

U.S. News Insider Tip: Though the Biltmore house has 43 bathrooms, you can’t use any of them, so be sure to use one of the public restrooms by the Stable Café before your house tour. – Lindsey Grossman

George Vanderbilt’s enormous French Renaissance-style estate has a storied past dating back to 1889. Considered America's largest private home, it took six years to build, with 250 rooms including 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms and a whopping 65 fireplaces. The estate grounds designed by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted (who also designed Central Park) cover 8,000 acres and feature nearly 22 miles of trails, gardens, a winery and so much more.

Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Stretches of the Blue Ridge Parkway close to vehicles in the winter, which affords you the unique opportunity to experience it by foot. If it’s not too far, park and walk to your hiking destination. – Lindsey Grossman

The 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway begins in Virginia and meanders through about 250 miles of western North Carolina. With a maximum speed of 45 mph, the scenic byway offers drivers numerous opportunities to stop at overlooks, quaint mountain towns , and hiking and biking trails. The parkway is divided by milepost markers that increase as you drive farther south.

Craggy Gardens Craggy Gardens free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Late summer means berry season in the mountains. In August, you can hike up to the top of Craggy Gardens and pick your own wild blueberries! (While “supplies” last.) – Lindsey Grossman

One of the best trails for seeing wildflowers along the Blue Ridge Parkway , Craggy Gardens is located at milepost 364. In June, rhododendrons overtake the evergreen foliage, weaving through tunnels of twisty roots and branches, making the trail as stunning as the views from the top.

Popular Tours

Waterfall Hike and Jeep Excursion - Waterfall Hiking Tour

(223 reviews)

from $ 109.00

Asheville Historic Downtown Guided Electric Bike Tour with Scenic Views

(1147 reviews)

from $ 75.00

2. 5-Hour Blue Ridge Parkway Guided Jeep Tour

(191 reviews)

Pisgah National Forest Pisgah National Forest free

Offering more than 500,000 acres of land about 30 miles southwest of downtown Asheville, Pisgah National Forest is jam-packed with activities and breathtaking vistas. With hundreds of miles of trails and numerous waterfalls and swimming holes, the forest provides ample opportunities to appreciate the great outdoors.

One of the first national forests in the country, created partially with land that once belonged to the Biltmore Estate , the park is home to the first forestry school in the United States as well as the Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute (PARI) and Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River.

Asheville Breweries Asheville Breweries

U.S. News Insider Tip: The hops don’t stop with local breweries. The Whale AVL in West Asheville boasts one of the best beer selections in the world, ranking as one of the country’s top 10 beer bars. – Lindsey Grossman

With more than 50 breweries in the area, Asheville has emerged as the beer capital of the Southeast. Sampling pints from many of the local breweries has become a favorite activity for Asheville residents and visitors alike.

Sliding Rock Sliding Rock free

Waterslide lovers can take their skills to the next level while getting back to nature at Sliding Rock in Pisgah National Forest . Easily one of the forest's most unique attractions, adventurous visitors can whoosh down 60 feet of sloped, predominantly flat rock that’s powered by 11,000 gallons of water per minute. The slide empties seamlessly into an 8-foot-deep pool below. Many make the trek to Pisgah National Forest to line up and take turns sliding down this fun natural wonder. Adventure Pisgah manages the site during the summer; during the offseason (after Labor Day), it’s an “enjoy at your own risk” attraction and there are no lifeguards. There are two observation platforms where those who don’t want to swim can take in the action. 

Recent visitors who took the plunge at Sliding Rock said they had a blast, and called it a must for every family’s bucket list. While travelers were unanimous in recommending a detour to Sliding Rock, they did warn that the water is cold (even in warmer weather) and you should expect crowds. For fewer lines and easier parking, avoid the peak hours between noon and 4 p.m., visit on a weekday, and bring aqua socks and a rash guard or swim shirt. 

Mount Mitchell State Park Mount Mitchell State Park free

Unsure of where to stop along the Blue Ridge Parkway ? For unbeatable views of the mountains, pay a visit to Mount Mitchell State Park. Home to the highest mountain east of the Mississippi River (6,684 feet), it’s one of the parkway’s most popular attractions. Unlike many trails, this summit can be reached by car. A 4.5-mile paved road off the Blue Ridge Parkway takes you to the top, with a short walk to the observation area where you'll be treated to 360-degree views of the surrounding scenery. What's more, visibility from the top goes as far as 85 miles.

Those hiking to the top have 40 miles of trails available that vary in difficulty and intensity. The Balsam Nature Trail is considered moderate, but is less than a mile long. Along this pathway, you'll find a small stream that is actually the highest spring in the eastern United States. To reach the top of Mount Mitchell like they did in the late 1800s and early 1900s, venture down the Old Mitchell Trail, which is 4 miles roundtrip. Or, you could walk the strenuous 2.1-mile Deep Gap Trail, which follows the ridgeline between Mount Mitchell to nearby Mount Craig.

River Arts District River Arts District free

Asheville’s River Arts District (known locally as RAD) started with a few studios in the mid-1980s and has grown to house nearly 300 artists and their creative endeavors. Former industrial and historical buildings – including a tannery and a cotton mill – have been repurposed and renovated as artist studios, shops, restaurants and a newly opened boutique hotel called The Radical. Visitors can stroll around the district to meet artists and enjoy works in various media, including paintings, textiles, ceramics, glass, jewelry and more. It's also a great place to pick up a unique souvenir from your time in the city, or sign up for a class at the North Carolina Glass Center to make your own special keepsake.

Though some visitors found the artwork expensive, they still loved walking around and watching the artists work. Visitors also noted the excellent reuse of a former industrial area, easy-to-find free parking, and Instagram-worthy public mural art.

Waterfalls and Blue Ridge Parkway Hiking Tour with Expert Naturalist

(552 reviews)

from $ 79.20

Asheville Night-Time Walking Ghost Tour

(1882 reviews)

from $ 26.95

French Broad Gorge Whitewater Rafting Trip

(266 reviews)

from $ 71.00

Appalachian Trail Appalachian Trail free

Winding its way from Maine to Georgia, the Appalachian Trail (also known as the AT) spans 2,190 miles through 14 states. About 323 of those miles are found in North Carolina, including 226.6 miles along the Tennessee border.

The North Carolina section offers many of the Appalachian Trail's highest peaks, several above 6,000 feet. Hiking enthusiasts can set out on a multiday or weeklong journey (keep in mind that you'll need permits to camp and hike in some areas, especially inside the Great Smoky Mountains).

French Broad River French Broad River free

You don't need to explore the Blue Ridge Parkway to find adventures in Asheville. In fact, the French Broad River, which runs right through town, is filled to the brim with fun and exciting activities. One of the oldest rivers in the world, the French Broad is also one of the only rivers in the world that flows north instead of south (its headwaters begin in Rosman, North Carolina and runs north to Tennessee). 

Popular river activities include tubing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing and more. French Broad Outfitters is a highly rated tour operator that offers self-guided tours and rentals, plus gear for kayaking, tubing, stand-up paddleboarding and canoe. You can also find tube rentals at Zen Tubing , and if you happen to be more interested in stand-up paddleboarding with instruction, Wai Muana offers rentals, tours and lessons. 

The North Carolina Arboretum The North Carolina Arboretum free

Those with green thumbs will want to put the North Carolina Arboretum on their must-see list. Located 10 miles south of downtown Asheville off of Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 393, the arboretum is a 434-acre natural museum within Pisgah National Forest . Visitors can wander through 65 acres of lush gardens, including a world-renowned bonsai collection and more than 10 miles of trails for hiking, biking and walking. If you’re in Asheville over the holidays, don’t miss the arboretum’s spectacular Winter Lights walk-through experience that illuminates the gardens and grounds with more than a million lights.

Recent visitors raved about the bonsai exhibition as well as the walking trails. Kids can take part in a variety of interactive youth activities, such as the ecoEXPLORER citizen science program and TRACK Trail Guide.

Folk Art Center Folk Art Center free

At milepost 382 off the Blue Ridge Parkway , you'll find the Folk Art Center, home to the Southern Highland Craft Guild. The guild dates back to the 1930s and still represents the artists and craftsmen of Southern Appalachia.

One of the most popular spots off the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Folk Art Center displays traditional and contemporary crafts in three galleries, and is home to a bookstore, a parkway information desk, a library and the Allanstand Craft Shop – the oldest craft shop in America. From March to December, the center also features daily craft demonstrations. If you happen to be in Asheville in either July or October, be sure to visit the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands at Harrah's Cherokee Center-Asheville. This event draws in more than 11,000 visitors each year and features more than 200 artists selling their craft and teaching the public about their artistic skills.

Western North Carolina Nature Center Western North Carolina Nature Center

If you're itching to learn more about the natural world of Appalachia, or simply have kids in tow, make sure that the Western North Carolina Nature Center is on your itinerary. The Nature Center, located just 5 miles southeast of downtown Asheville, is filled with 60 species of animals that are either native to the region or have at one point lived there. Resident animals – most of which cannot live in the wild on their own due to injury or imprinting (meaning they have no fear of humans and no skills to live in the wild) – include black bears, river otters and foxes. And don’t miss the red wolves, the world’s most endangered wolf species.

Both visitors and locals love coming to the Western North Carolina Nature Center. Travelers really enjoyed getting to see the various animals, especially the wolves and red pandas. Others appreciated the shaded paths and friendly staff. Another thing visitors agree on? This place is perfect for kids. In addition to plenty of exciting animals, the nature center also has Montessori-like interactive play areas for kiddos, gem and fossil mining, as well as free daily animal programs.

Scenic Driving Tour of the Blue Ridge Mountains

(56 reviews)

from $ 150.00

Scenic E-Bike Tour in the Mountains

from $ 69.00

Asheville Tubing Adventure

(23 reviews)

from $ 35.00

Lexington Glassworks Lexington Glassworks free

Art lovers should get fired up for a stop at Lexington Glassworks. The gallery and studio prides itself on an open door culture, inviting you to watch these talented glass artists hone their craft. The gallery shows off an impressive display of both functional and decorative pieces that make great souvenirs, from drinkware to ornaments. Remodeling? Consult with Lexington Glassworks’ Lighting Design Studio for stunning custom pendants and other fixtures that will literally light up a room.

Several visitors described Lexington Glassworks as one of their Asheville musts, particularly noting the quality of the glass, friendly staff and the mesmerizing experience of watching the makers at work. One visitor points out that while many places in Asheville are closed on Tuesdays, Lexington Glassworks remains open if you’re planning your trip for midweek. 

LaZoom Comedy Bus Tours LaZoom Comedy Bus Tours

The perfect blend of historical and hysterical, LaZoom Comedy Bus Tours welcome visitors aboard the company’s signature purple buses to drive around downtown and surrounding neighborhoods for a look at the city’s history, beer culture, ghosts and more. Along the way, you’ll meet zany characters and enjoy lots of laughter. LaZoom offers four tour options: the popular 90-minute Asheville City Tour (appropriate for ages 13 and older), a one-hour haunted comedy tour (ages 17 and older), a three-hour brewery tour (ages 21 and older) and a one-hour Kids Comedy Tour that’s suitable for all ages.

Both visitors and locals love these one-of-a-kind tours. Reviewers rave about the funny, witty guides and characters you interact with along the way. Locals call LaZoom a great way to introduce out-of-town guests to Asheville.

Asheville Pinball Museum Asheville Pinball Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip : Long line at the Pinball Museum? Check out the Amazing Poster Vault with 40 video games right below the museum for only $5, and the attached Lunchbox Hall of Fame with more than 200 classic lunch boxes for just $1. – Lindsey Grossman

The Asheville Pinball Museum offers the perfect activity for all ages, with 35 pinball machines and 35 classic video games to bring out the kid in everyone. A rotating collection of fully operational vintage games date as far back as the 1960s, with machines on display from as far back as the 1930s. Rare games include "Dragon's Lair," an original "Star Wars" cockpit and a 1979 Atari Football game. With sodas, snacks and beer for sale, you can easily kick back for a couple of hours. Up to 65 people are allowed in at a time, so there’s always a game available to play.

Grove Arcade Grove Arcade free

Self-made millionaire E.W. Grove (developer of The Omni Grove Park Inn ) conceived what he called “the most elegant building in America” when he built the Grove Arcade almost 100 years ago, creating the country’s first indoor shopping mall. Throughout its storied history, the architectural marvel served as a military center during World War II, and was home to the National Weather Records Center before a full renovation returned the Grove Arcade to its original vision. Today, the first floor of the Grove Arcade is filled with galleries, restaurants and shopping, with offices and residences on the higher floors. 

Visitors describe the Grove Arcade as a must-see for architecture lovers (who should check out the self-guided architecture tour ), and appreciated the air-conditioned reprieve from the summer heat. Housed inside the Grove Arcade, the Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar is a favorite of both tourists and locals.

Asheville Urban Trail Asheville Urban Trail free

Weaving through downtown, the 1.7-mile-long Asheville Urban Trail walks visitors through the cultural and architectural history of the city. Public sculptures that speak to the city’s history mark each of the trail's 30 stops.

The self-guided tour takes you through five time periods, from the Gilded Age to the present Age of Diversity. The trail starts at Pack Square at the intersection of Biltmore Avenue and Patton Avenue and circles around the downtown area, arriving back at the square for the final bronze statue. Set aside two hours to complete the entire trail at once, or discover it in bits and pieces with each visit.

Explore The Blue Ridge Mountains: Private Day Trip from Asheville

from $ 430.00

Blue Ridge Parkway Waterfalls Hiking Tour from Asheville

(524 reviews)

from $ 105.00

Beautiful Self Guided Kayaking by the Biltmore

(52 reviews)

from $ 59.00

Botanical Gardens at Asheville Botanical Gardens at Asheville free

If you want to connect to nature without driving too far out of town, take a stroll through the Botanical Gardens at Asheville. Located less than 2 miles north of downtown and neighboring the University of North Carolina at Asheville campus, the gardens sprawl across 10 acres, showing off Southern Appalachia’s incredible biodiversity with more than 500 species of native plants. The main loop trail is about half a mile, with gravelside trails splitting off for those wanting to explore further. Bring a picnic or choose one of several points to access Reed Creek for some rock hopping and splashing around in warmer months. You’ll also find several benches along the trails to rest and take it all in. There’s always something blooming, but the best time to visit is when the wildflowers peak in April and May and again mid-summer through early fall. Kids can learn about the different plant species with one of five investigation passports, which encourage little ones to interact with the garden and hone their observation skills (passports are available at the visitor center).

Garden visitors emphasize the natural, unmanicured feel (this is not a fancy botanical garden with high-maintenance exhibits), so temper your expectations. Reviewers also appreciated the clear signage and knowledgeable staff.

Thomas Wolfe Memorial Thomas Wolfe Memorial

One of the greatest American literary minds of the early 20th century, Thomas Wolfe was inspired by his time in Asheville, and at this historic downtown Asheville home in particular. Built in 1883, the house has changed ownership several times, and was at one time owned by Wolfe’s mother, who ran it as a boarding house. Wolfe pays tribute to his time in this house and in Asheville in his first and most famous novel, “Look Homeward, Angel.” Tour the house to gain a better understanding of how the renowned author’s childhood home influenced his work. The attached visitor center features a gift shop and an exhibit on the life and work of Thomas Wolfe. 

Visitors say the home not only offers unique insights into Thomas Wolfe’s life, but the city of Asheville as well (it’s a North Carolina State Historic Site). Visitors who weren’t as aware of Wolfe before the tour still enjoyed it and got a lot out of the experience.

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The 35 Best Things to Do in Asheville NC

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial & privacy policies .

[ Updated January 2, 2024 ] 

For a medium-sized North Carolina mountain town with a population of under 100,000, there is a surprising wealth of unique things to do in Asheville NC.

Thanks to an infusion of wealth brought in by the Biltmore Estate in the early 20th century, there’s historic art deco-influenced architecture.

There are also countless critically-acclaimed restaurants , with lots of craft breweries and farm-to-table fare. There’s also a vibrant cultural community, particularly in the River Arts District.

Thanks to sound city planning, many of the best Asheville hotels are within walking distance of its major attractions. 

But our favorite aspect of Asheville is the fact that it’s surrounded by wilderness, including ecotourism attractions such as Great Smoky Mountains National Park , Linville Falls , and Pisgah National Forest .

So here’s a look at some of the best things to do in Asheville NC, from touring the Biltmore Estate, driving the Blue Ridge Parkway, and hiking in Mount Mitchell State Park to rafting the French Broad River and seeing endangered Red Wolves.

READ MORE: The Top 10 Treehouse Rentals Near Asheville NC

Are you planning a trip to Asheville NC ? If you need recommendations for fun things to do in Asheville NC, check out our tips for some of the top hotels, guided tours, and more! Top Places to Stay in Asheville NC Cambria Hotel (downtown hotel with fridge and on-site restaurant, highly recommended) Kimpton – Hotel Arras, IHG (downtown 4-star hotel w/very good breakfast & bikes) The Inn On Biltmore Estate (Biltmore hotel with on-site spa w/ casual & fine-dining restaurants) Hampton Inn & Suites Biltmore Village (pet-friendly, budget-friendly hotel w/ breakfast) GLō Best Western Asheville Tunnel Road (affordable chic hotel in West Asheville w/ breakfast) Black  Walnut B&B Inn (romantic B&B in the Montford Historic District) Cumberland Falls Bed & Breakfast Inn (Montford B&B w/spa massages & foot bath services) Popular tours and activities in Asheville NC: Asheville: 3-Hour City Electric Bike Tour with Views (top selling tour) Asheville: Scenic Helicopter Experience (Mountain & French Broad River views) Asheville Ghost Walking Tour with Mystery Museum Admission (2-hr history/ghost tour) Asheville: Terrors, Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl   (2-hr bar-to-bar walking tour) Downtown Asheville Guided Brewery Walking Tour (3+hr craft breweries tour w/ samples) French Broad Gorge Whitewater Rafting Trip (4-hr Class II and III rapids rafting tour) Blue Ridge Parkway Waterfalls Hiking Tour from Asheville (guided day trip to 3 waterfalls) 2.5-Hour Blue Ridge Parkway Guided Jeep Tour (Small-group tour on the best of the parkway) Guided Horseback Ride through Flame Azalea and Fern Forest (1.25-hr family-friendly ride) Mountain Mural Tour-River Arts and Downtown Asheville (1.5-hr street art, graffiti, murals) Need a car rental for your Asheville NC trip?   Find the best rental car options here !

BEST THINGS TO DO IN ASHEVILLE NC GUIDE

• Tour The Biltmore Estate
• Find Foraged Foods
• See North Carolina’ Red Wolves
• Explore Downtown Asheville’s Restaurant Scene
• Rafting The French Broad River
• Visit the River Arts District
• Rappel In Green River Gorge
• Slip Down Sliding Rock
• Take A Free Highland Brewing Tour
• Watch For Cataloochee Elk
• Ziplining In Asheville
• People Watching In Pack Square Park
• Fishing Linville Gorge
• Mountain Biking Pisgah
• Rock Climbing At Chimney Rock
• Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway
• Hike in Mount Mitchell State Park
• See Looking Glass Rock & Skinny Dip Falls
• Find Flora at the NC Arboretum
• Take a Day Trip to Hendersonville NC
• Get Cultured at the Southern Highland Craft Guild Folk Art Center
• Explore the Asheville Botanical Garden 
• See the Thomas Wolfe House/Memorial
• Visit the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center
• Watch the Sunset from Craggy Gardens
• Play at the Asheville Pinball Museum
• Explore the Montford Area Historic District
• Take a Day Trip to Weaverville NC
• Visit the Moog Museum
• Wine Tasting at Addison Farms Vineyard
• Family Fun at Grandad’s Apples
• Tour the Basilica of Saint Lawrence
• Go Horseback Riding
• Take a Waynesville Day Trip
• Celebrate Christmas in Asheville

READ MORE: 15 Festive Ways to Celebrate an Asheville NC Christma s

1. TOUR THE BILTMORE ESTATE

Named after former North Carolina governor Samuel Ashe, Asheville was born in 1797. But it wasn’t until George Washington Vanderbilt II finished building his  Biltmore Estate in 1895 that the city began to attract national attention. 

The family’s 125,000-acre estate became a popular retreat among early 20th century icons such as automaker Henry Ford, inventor Thomas Edison, and Presidents William McKinley, Teddy Roosevelt, and Woodrow Wilson.

With 250 rooms encompassing over 135,000 square feet, the historic landmark’s Châteauesque-style architecture, lushly landscaped gardens, and forestry initiatives have made it the most popular Asheville attraction. 

There are numerous Biltmore tour options, included self-guided and audio tours of the house , gardens , winery, and rooftop, as well as tours just for kids.

There are also endless outdoor activities on the 8,000-acre estate, ranging from biking, hiking, and kayaking to falconry, fly-fishing, horseback riding, and sporting clays.

READ MORE: The History of Downtown Asheville, NC: From Biltmore to Boom

2. FIND FORAGED FOODS

Did you know that the nature-lover’s paradise around Asheville boasts over 300 wild edibles?

Founded in 1995, eco-tour operator No Taste Like Home offers “Wild Food Adventures” that teach travelers how to safely harvest edible wild plants for themselves.

Exploring local fields and forests with an expert, you’ll find a broad variety of edible berries, greens, wildflowers , nuts, seeds and North Carolina mushrooms. 

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Asheville with kids, check out their 90-minute Wild Food Stroll at the Omni Grove Park Inn .

Afterwards, you can take your foraged foods home or visit one of six local restaurants whose chefs will whip up an appetizer with the ingredients you’ve foraged.

It’s a great way to give kids a taste of what founder Alan Muskat calls, “ find dining .”

READ MORE:  The Top 10 Treehouse Rentals near Asheville, NC

3. SEE NORTH CAROLINA RED WOLVES

The Red Wolf is one of the most critically endangered canid species in the world. But thanks to captive breeding programs, they’ve slowly begun to recover. There are now around 130 in the wild, and 250 others in captivity.

One of our favorite things to do in Asheville is visit the 42-acre Western North Carolina Nature Center , which connects people with the native plants and animals of the Blue Ridge Mountains. 

Their animal exhibits include Black Bears, Cougars, Coyotes, Red and Gray Foxes, Raccoons, River Otters, and birds . But the WNC Nature Center’s most unique offering is the chance to see Red Wolves in North Carolina.  

The Nature Center’s breeding program is helping to save this beautiful species, which is endemic to North Carolina . Their beloved wolves have been known to howl in unison when the mood strikes. 

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Asheville NC for kids, check out their “Junior Wild Walk” an educational behind the scenes tour.

READ MORE: The Best Places to Celebrate Christmas in North Carolina

4. EXPLORE DOWNTOWN ASHEVILLE’S RESTAURANT SCENE

Downtown Asheville has an astounding array of critically acclaimed restaurants for a 45-square-mile mountain town with a population of less than 100,000 people.

Those seeking vegetarian, vegan, or just plain healthy food will have a wealth of options to choose from, from the Green Sage and Laughing Tree Cafes to Plant and Rosetta’s Kitchen & The Buchi Bar.

Looking for more exotic fare? Check out the award-winning Indian food at Chai Pani, the French fare of Bouchon, Korean restaurant Stone Bowl, and new-ish Ramen joint Futo Buta. 

If you’re looking for chef-driven dining, foodies fawn over hotspots such as Katie Button’s Cúrate (tapas), Peter Pollay’s Posana (farm-to-table), Linton Hopkins’ H&F Burger, John Fleer’s Rhubarb, and Elliott Moss’ Buxton Hall.

But for good old-fashioned Appalachian food, check out rising star Ashleigh Shanti’s Benne on Eagle, 12 Bones Smokehouse (the Obamas’ favorite), and the Tupelo Honey Cafe, one of the oldest restaurants in Asheville. 

READ MORE: The Best Downtown Asheville Restaurants

5. RAFTING THE FRENCH BROAD RIVER

The French Broad River winds its way right through the heart of Asheville. The river is lined with lush, verdant parks  that are perfect for picnics and recreation.

Rafting the French Broad River is one of the most fun things to do in Asheville with kids, or a group of friends.

The Nantahala Outdoor Center has been offering guided white water rafting trips here longer than anyone else.

They have half-day tours that are aimed at beginners (ages 8 and up). There are also full-day, 8-mile, intermediate tours that tackle more challenging Class IV rapids.

This is a great river for kayaking in the off-season, when the water is high and tourist traffic on the French Broad River is relatively low.

READ MORE: The 10 Best Places to Go White Water Rafting in North Carolina

6. EXPLORE THE RIVER ARTS DISTRICT

Asheville has emerged over the past 10 to 15 years as a progressive cultural haven in the heart of North Carolina’s Blue Ridge region.

NYC-bred clothing designer Pattiy Torno (former chair of the Asheville Area Riverfront Redevelopment Commission) was one of the area’s artistic pioneers.

She set up  CURVE Studios in the River Arts District in 1984, when Downtown Asheville was teetering on the brink of economic collapse. Now the area is the creative home to more than 200 artists working in a broad variety of mediums.

Visitors looking for a weekend getaway immersed in culture will find excellent shopping opportunities in countless galleries occupying 22 former industrial buildings along a one-mile stretch of the tranquil French Broad River. 

From Curve and the Odyssey Center for Ceramic Arts  to the 110,000-sq foot Riverview Station and the relatively new Pink Dog Creative , each building is a treasure trove of creativity. 

READ MORE: Asheville River Arts District: A Guide to Galleries & Restaurants

7. RAPPEL IN GREEN RIVER GORGE

A tributary of the Broad River, the Green River begins in the Blue Ridge Mountains and flows into the Piedmont region.

Located just southeast of Asheville, the area surrounding the Green River Gorge boasts some of the most biodiverse forest in the eastern United States.

River tubing is always popular here due to the river’s controlled water flow. But for a change of pace, try canyoneering, one of the most adrenaline-pumping things to do in Asheville.

Green River Adventures offers two options for rappelling. At 70 feet tall, the Little Bradley Waterfall is perfect for youngsters (aged 12 and up) and first-timers.

Big Bradley Falls, at 200 feet, is more challenging, and recommended for thrill-seekers ages 15 and up. Both tours include expert instruction and plenty of practice time.

READ MORE: The 15 Best Blue Ridge Parkway Hikes for NC Day Trips

8. SLIP DOWN SLIDING ROCK

It may be a mountain town , but Asheville can still get extremely hot during the dog days of summer.

There’s nothing better at the end of a long day of outdoor adventures than cooling off in one of the area’s countless waterfalls .

If you’re still hungry for more action, head to  Sliding Rock in Pisgah National Forest. This is considered “the king of NC swimming holes ,” offering a 60-foot natural rock water slide that feeds into an 8-foot deep pool.

While this may be one of the most fun things to do  in Asheville for kids, be aware that the waters can be chilly– usually around 55-60º!

But there are observation areas for folks who find those temps too “refreshing.” Just get there early, because this local hotspot is a popular place for families in the summertime!

READ MORE: The 50 Best North Carolina Waterfalls to Visit

9. TAKE A FREE HIGHLAND BREWING TOUR

Arguably the best Beer City in America, the extensive  Asheville breweries list ranges from nationally recognized companies such as Sierra Nevada and New Belgium to locally grown brands like Wicked Weed and Hi-Wire.

But the very first Asheville brewery, Highland Brewing Company, was founded back in 1994 and remains one of the best breweries in Asheville.

Guided walking tours of the facilities– one of the best free things to do in Asheville– are available every day of the week.

The original Asheville beer tour is offered 3 times a day on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Each lasts around 45 minutes, and include a beer tasting to celebrate the occasion.

They also offer private tours. Email [email protected] for more information.

READ MORE: Visiting Highland Brewing, the First Asheville Brewery

10. WATCH FOR CATALOOCHEE ELK

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited of America’s National Parks , boasts a bevy of wildlife species.

It’s home to 200 species of North Carolina birds , 50 species of fish, 39 species of reptiles , 43 species of amphibians, and mammals such as Black Bears, Raccoons, Bobcats, River Otters, Beavers, and two species of Fox.

Visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the best free things to do near Asheville, especially if you’re going to see the ever-expanding Cataloochee Elk herd .

Elk once roamed these North Carolina hills by the thousands, but they were all killed off by hunters in the 1700s.

Thanks to a 2001 reintroduction program, there are now over 150 Cataloochee Elk in the park. The Cataloochee Valley (which is surrounded by picturesque 6000-foot peaks) is easily the best place to see them.

These massive megafauna can often be found grazing along the road into the park. But park volunteers can typically tell you where the herd was spotted last.

READ MORE: The 20 Best Western NC Small Towns to Visit (& Live In)

11. ZIPLINING IN ASHEVILLE

Putting an eco-friendly spin on typical zipline tours , Navitat Canopy Adventures speaks for the trees and encourages their guests to respect the beauty of nature.

The company’s Treetop Tour is perfect for zip lining first-timers, combining 6 ziplines (one 1250 feet), two bridges, two rappels and two hikes. Treetop Tour participants must weigh between 90 and 250 pounds.

The Mountaintop Tour is bigger, higher and faster. It boasts one zip measuring 3,600 feet long and 350 feet high, going at speeds up to 65 mph. Mountaintop Tour participants must weight between 70 and 250 pounds.

Adrenaline junkies will love The Ultimate Adventure Tour, which combines both packages for six hours of invigorating action and incredible Blue Ridge mountain views. 

READ MORE: The Best Things to Do in Elkin NC (BRP Milepost 229)

12. PEOPLE WATCHING IN PACK SQUARE PARK

When it comes to free things to do in Asheville, NC, just sitting and watching the wonderfully eclectic array of people milling about in Pack Square Park was easily our favorite.

Located in the heart of downtown Asheville, the park was created in 1900 and named for lumber tycoon George Willis Pack (who died just six years later). 

Known as Asheville’s greatest philanthropist, he donated the land on which Pack Square was built, which is now surrounded by the historic art deco buildings for which the downtown area is known.

It’s a great place to get a feel for the mountain town’s remarkable diversity, where city slickers, grungy backpackers, young hipsters and aging hippies, tattooed cowboys, and young moms pushing their babies in strollers all commingle. 

If shopping is more your speed, you’ll also find Asheville’s best-known shops here along Biltmore Avenue.

You can see everything from indie book and record stores to trendy clothing boutiques, an old-timey general store, lively brewpubs and more in a span of just a few blocks.

READ MORE: Camping in Asheville NC: The 15 Best Campgrounds to Visit

13. FISHING LINVILLE GORGE

Known as “the Grand Canyon of North Carolina,” the 11,876-acre  Linville Gorge Wilderness Area is one of only two gorges in the Southern United States that was never clear-cut for logging.

The Linville River is situated approximately 1,400 feet below the ridge, so hiking Linville Gorge is most enjoyable for those who like a somewhat strenuous challenge.

In addition to bears, foxes, raccoons, hawks, and other wildlife , the area is also a haven for fly fishing in North Carolina.

Anglers come here from all over the US, hoping to hook their limit of well-stocked brown, brook, and rainbow trout.

Hiking down into Linville Gorge is an intense, all-day affair. But there’s much easier access near the 45-foot drop of Linville Falls (located about 70 minutes outside Asheville), where the Linville River intersects the Blue Ridge Parkway .

READ MORE: The 30 Best Waterfalls Near Asheville NC

14. MOUNTAIN BIKING PISGAH

One of the first national forests in the eastern United States, Pisgah National Forest encompasses more than 510,000 acres of the southern Appalachian Mountains .

This gorgeous haven offers lots of things to do near Asheville NC for hiking, camping and mountain biking enthusiasts.

Pisgah Mountain Bike Adventures offers half-day, full-day, multi-day, and even nighttime tours guided by locals who know the area like the back of their hand.

Best of all, they can customize your Pisgah mountain bike adventure to match your style and ability, whether you prefer climbing, downhill, or single-track riding!

READ MORE: The 15 Best Pisgah National Forest Hiking Trails

15. ROCK CLIMBING AT CHIMNEY ROCK

Made famous by the 1992 Daniel Day Lewis film, The Last of the Mohicans,  Chimney Rock State Park is located 25 miles outside Asheville.

It’s become increasingly popular amongst rock climbers in recent years thanks to its challenging array of cliffs, rock walls, and boulders.

Fox Mountain Guides & Climbing School (the only school in the Southeast certified by the American Mountain Guide Association) offers 1-on-1 rock climbing instruction and guided trips for skill levels ranging from beginners to experts.

Check out Rumbling Bald Mountain, which features 1,100 acres of world class technical rock climbing and around 1,500 boulders to conquer. All are easily accessible by car.  

READ MORE: The 10 Best Places for Snow Skiing in North Carolina

16. Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway

Stretching 469 miles, the Blue Ridge Parkway attracts more than 15 million annual visitors a year.

The world-renowned scenic route passes through Asheville, making it easy to explore the remarkable array of majestic mountains , lush valleys, and fertile forests that surround the city.

You won’t find any billboards, neon signs, restaurants , shopping centers, or other signs of commerce along the way. But there are loads of breathtaking Blue Ridge Parkway overlooks , not to mention many noteworthy landmarks. 

A few of our favorites include Mount Mitchell (the highest point in NC), Pisgah National Forest, the Linville Gorge Wilderness, the Linn Cove Viaduct, and Grandfather Mountain State Park.

There are also plenty of Blue Ridge Parkway hiking trails to explore , many of which lead to wondrous waterfalls. Looking Glass Falls, Crabtree Falls , and Soco Falls are especially worth visiting, as areCraggy Gardens and Little Switzerland .

READ MORE: The Best Blue Ridge Parkway Hikes for NC Day Trips

17. Hike in Mount Mitchell National Park 

Located in Burnsville NC , just 30 miles north of Asheville at BRP milepost 355, massive Mount Mitchell is the highest point east of the Mississippi River at 6,684 feet.

Mount Mitchell State Park is one of North Carolina’s most popular outdoor attractions (especially in summer ), offering 7 different hiking trails encompassing around 15 miles.

The shortest is of them all is also the most rewarding. The trek to the summit from the parking lot is moderately strenuous due to the sharp incline.

But it’s just .4 miles, and rewards you with spectacular 360º scenic views (particularly when fall colors reach their peak).

The park also offers loads of camping options, a restaurant and concession stand, and an exceptional picnic area that includes 40 tables and two shelters with fireplaces.

READ MORE:   Fall in North Carolina (The Best Places to See Fall Color)

18. See Looking Glass Rock & Skinny Dip Falls

Located less than 40 miles from Asheville (near Brevard NC ), Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 417 offers a chance to see two excellent attractions in one stop.

Looking Glass Rock is named for the fact that it often ices over in winter , reflecting sunlight from its stony summit. 

It’s possible to climb the massive monolith, if you’re inclined. The Looking Glass Rock Trail gains 1,700 feet of elevation in 3.2 miles (6.5 miles round-trip), with lots of switchbacks along the way.

So you could reach the summit and be back to your car in 4-5 hours. Or you could just view it from the overlook and take the MUCH easier Skinny Dip Falls hike, leading to one of our favorite Blue Ridge Parkway waterfalls .

It’s a lovely 0.9-mile hike through gentle inclines and gorgeous forest. Sadly, Skinny Dip Falls is still recovering from severe damage caused by Tropical Storm Fred back in 2021. 

READ MORE: The Best Blue Ridge Parkway Waterfalls in North Carolina

19. Find Flora at the NC Arboretum

The largest of the Asheville botanical gardens , the NC Arboretum encompasses 434 acres in the Pisgah National Forest. 

Devoted to education, research, conservation, and garden demonstrations, the Arboretum offers an array of activities, including various educational programs, tours, and events.

There are 7 main garden areas. The Blue Ridge Court is central to the Promenade, and features a garden pool, while the Stream Garden features mostly native North Carolina plants. 

The Heritage Garden features plants used in medicinal herbs and crafts; the Quilt Garden features Appalachian-style floral designs; and the Plants of Promise Garden demonstrates landscaping design with flora and stone. 

Along with the Holly Garden and National Native Azalea Repository (featuring 16 species that bloom in April), these features make the North Carolina Arboretum one of the best botanical gardens in the Eastern United States. 

It’s especially lovely at Christmas , when the entire garden is illuminated by millions of twinkling lights!

READ MORE: The Best Christmas Tree Farms in Boone, Asheville & Beyond

20. Take a Day Trip to Hendersonville NC

Located 25 miles from Asheville, Hendersonville NC used to be one of many sleepy  Blue Ridge mountain towns .

But as Asheville’s growth has exploded, Hendersonville has emerged as an impressive alternative to the bustling metropolis. The town of 14,254 people is beloved for its climate, gorgeous scenery, rich history, and many parks . 

A day trip to Hendersonville can include laid-back activities, such as strolling the charming downtown area’s lovely art galleries, antique shops, and restaurants .

There are cool attractions like the Appalachian Pinball Museum, Mineral Lapidary Museum, and Pisgah Forest Gem Mine .

For active pursuits, there’s Holmes Educational State Forest and DuPont State Forest , which is full of waterfalls and 80+ miles of roads and hiking trails .

Don’t miss Jump Off Rock, which offers those spectacular misty mountain views the Blue Ridge region  is known for.  

READ MORE: The 15 Best Things to Do in Hendersonville NC

21. Get Cultured at the Folk Art Center

Located at Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 382, just 11 miles from Downtown Asheville, the Folk Art Center is arguably the finest collection of Appalachian arts and crafts in the USA. 

The most popular attraction on the BRP, the Center dates back to 1890, when Yale grad Frances Goodrich came to Asheville to do missionary work.

In an effort to help Appalachian women who wove traditional quilts, she founded the Allanstand Craft Shop around 1900. 

The Southern Highland Craft Guild  was founded in 1930, making it the second oldest craft organization in the US. They opened the Folk Art Center in 1980, with three galleries, a library, an auditorium, and the historic Allanstand Craft Shop.

With over 1000 artists and craftspeople representing 9 southeastern states, the Guild’s permanent collection of 3,500+ pieces dating back to the dawn of the 20th century is second to none. 

From stunning quilts, woven baskets, and pottery to turned wood, furniture, and stained glass, it’s an extraordinary testament to the creativity of the Blue Ridge region.

READ MORE: The 15 Best VRBO Cabins in Asheville NC

22. Explore the Asheville Botanical Gardens 

Though it’s not nearly as large or popular as the more famous gardens at the Biltmore and the NC Arboretum, the 10-acre Asheville Botanical Gardens is a lovely place to explore the native plants of Western North Carolina . 

Properly known as the  Botanical Gardens at Asheville , the tranquil nature sanctuary is located on the grounds of the University of North Carolina at Asheville, but operates as an independent non-profit.

It was established in 1961 on abandoned timberland that had been badly eroded. Noted landscape architect Doan Ogden (who also planned the Daniel Boone Native Gardens in Boone NC ) created the design, and 5,000+ plants were brought in from private lands and national forests. 

Today there are more than 650 species of native plants found in the garden, which has a gurgling creek running through it as well as some great spots for a picnic. 

We saw tons of North Carolina wildflowers and flowering trees during our visit, including trillium, flame azaleas, and Eastern redbuds. It was another one of our favorite free things to do in Asheville NC .

READ MORE: The 10 Best Boone NC Hiking Trails to Explore

23. See the Thomas Wolfe House

Located in the Downtown Asheville Historic District, the Thomas Wolfe House (a.k.a. Thomas Wolfe Memorial) is the  boyhood home of the legendary author.

Declared a  National Historic Landmark in 1971, the two-story yellow house was famously used as the setting for Wolfe’s classic novel, Look Homeward, Angel .

Called “Dixieland” in the book, the big boarding house was actually named “Old Kentucky Home.” Built in 1883, it was purchased by Julia Wolfe in 1906.

Tom, who lived there for 10 years before enrolling at UNC, adapted colorful stories of his family, friends, and boarders into the fictionalized novel. The house became a memorial to the author after his mother’s death, and has been open to visitors since 1949. 

The Thomas Wolfe Memorial State Historic Site is open from 9AM to 5PM Tuesday through Saturdays, with guided tours offered daily at half past each hour. 

READ MORE:  The 15 Best Fairs in North Carolina to Visit

24. Visit the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center

Located at Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 384, less than 7 miles from Downtown Asheville, the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center is a great place to learn more about the history of the route.

You can also get personal tips from park rangers on things to see and do on your epic road trip. 

There are themed exhibits on everything from Blue Ridge flora and fauna to Cherokee history , traditional Appalachian culture, and the construction of the Parkway (which lasted from 1935 to 1987). 

The Visitor Center  features a 22-foot, interactive digital map of the Parkway, as well as an award-winning 24-minute film that offers an excellent overview of the history and nature that make the BRP so special.

There’s also a 1.4-mile loop trail that begins at the far end of the visitor center parking lot. It ultimately connects to the Mountains-to-Sea Trail , which stretches 1,175 miles from the North Carolina mountains to its coast. 

READ MORE: The Best Places to See Christmas Lights in North Carolina

25. Watch the Sunset from Craggy Gardens

One of our favorite memories from our latest trip to Asheville was a magnificent picnic we shared while watching the sunset at the Craggy Gardens Visitor Center . 

Located at Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 364.4, it’s a 40-minute drive from Downtown Asheville. But if you’re looking for an epic sunset above those trademark rolling hills, this spot atop Black Mountain is the place to be.

Note that it can get quite windy and cold up there, with an elevation of approximately 5,497 feet. So you’ll definitely want to dress in layers, and bring hats and gloves just in case. 

But picking up a “Tapas For 2” from Cúrate and spending a few hours watching the sky evolve into the glorious vision depicted above was truly a trip highlight we will never forget.  

READ MORE:   The Best Hiking in Asheville NC Bucket List (Top 25 Hiking Trails)

26. Play at the Asheville Pinball Museum

Growing up as a child of the ’80s, I was an avid video game junkie (Atari 2600 was my jam). So this excellent Asheville attraction brought back loads of nostalgic arcade memories. 

Located across from the Grove Arcade in Downtown Asheville, the  Asheville Pinball Museum offers an extensive collection of 70+ vintage pinball machines and classic video games you can play.

Since there’s a set price (Adults $15, Children 10 & under $13), you can stay as long as you want and not need to buy more tokens.

Several of their machines date way back to the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s, but most of them are from the Golden Age of Video Games in the ’80s-’90s.

So you’ll find Star Trek, Evel Knievel, The Black Hole, and Creature From the Black Lagoon pinball machines, as well as classic video games such as Frogger, 1942, Q-Bert, etc. 

They also offer adult beverages such as beer (some from local breweries ), as well as snacks and sodas. 

READ MORE: The 15 Best Things to Do in Cherokee NC & the Qualla Boundary

27. Explore the Montford Area Historic District

28. Take a Day Trip to Weaverville NC

As we search for a  Blue Ridge Mountain town to call home, Weaverville NC would be at the top of our list if real estate prices were not a factor. It truly has everything we’re looking for in a community.

Located 8 miles from downtown Asheville, Weaverville (population 4,000) feels far removed from the hustle and bustle of the burgeoning metropolis. Its ample green space earned a “Tree City USA” designation from the Arbor Day Foundation.

There are lots of fun things to do in Weaverville NC, including an array of downtown parks, great restaurants , historical museums , and cultural attractions. 

And while the fine hotels of the former resort town’s 1930s heyday have long since closed down, charming bed-and-breakfasts and cute cabins are commonplace (including some right along Reems Creek).

The town of Weaverville also boasts a great arts and live music scene, and there’s a weekly tailgate market offered from April through October.

READ MORE : The Best Things to Do in Weaverville NC

29. Visit the Moog Store & Moogseum

From weekly drum circles in Pritchard Park to decades of killer concerts at the Orange Peel, Asheville is known as one of the hippest music towns in the Blue Ridge region . 

But engineering physicist Robert Moog , the electronic music pioneer who invented the first commercial synthesizer (and moved to Western NC in 1978), was an Asheville resident long before the city’s 21st century boom. He even taught at UNC Asheville back in the early ’90s! 

The Moog Store and  Moogseum  both offer great opportunities to learn more about this iconic inventor and his enduring influence on the evolution of popular music. 

The Moog Store is offering small group sessions (by appt only) that include a brief history of Moog Music, demos of historically significant instruments, and more. 

The Moogseum, the hallmark project of the Bob Moog Foundation, is an impressively immersive and interactive museum where Moog’s influential legacy and the science of sound truly come alive. 

READ MORE: The 20 Best North Carolina Music Festivals in 2022

30. Wine Tasting at Addison Farms Vineyard

Located on a picturesque 55-acre plot of land in Leicester NC (about 17 miles from Downtown Asheville), this fourth-generation family farm  started focusing on growing grapes back in 2009.

They have more than 6 acres of grapes planted now, and plan to gradually expand it 10 acres. They make numerous tasty wines , such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Cab Franc, Petit Verdot, Sangiovese, and Montepulciano.

Addison Farms has also formed a partnership with several other local wineries , including Moon Lake Vineyard, Spring Branch Vineyard, and Two Moons Vineyard.

Collectively, these small farms produce more than 800 cases of North Carolina wine each year.

If you want to visit Addison Farms for a tour and/or wine tasting , please make reservations in advance. You can also purchase their small-batch wines online.

READ MORE: The 15 Best NC Wineries to Visit

31. Family Fun at Grandad’s Apples ‘N Such

Although there are no apple orchards in Asheville proper, there are quite a few options in Hendersonville NC, which is just 25 miles south of the city. 

Grandad’s Apples is one of the most popular places to get fresh apples in NC. Founded in 1994, it’s led by a 4th generation farmer and his family, who grow apples, pumpkins , peaches, and more. 

Their U-pick apple season begins in August and runs through late October, with 40+ varieties of apples (including Ginger Gold, Gala, Honeycrisp, Jonagold, Shuzuka, Red Rome, Arkansas Black, Braeburn, Nittany, Evercrisp, and more).

Starting on Labor Day weekend, the farm also features family-friendly activities such as an apple cannon, cow train, and a corn maze you can try to navigate. 

While you’re there, check out Grandad’s Barn and Country Store & Bakery, where you can shop for apple -themed gifts and apple-based goodies, including pies, hot cider, and apple cider slushies!

READ MORE: Apple Picking in North Carolina: The 15 Best NC Apple Orchards

32. Tour the Basilica of Saint Lawrence

Formally known as the Basilica of St. Lawrence, Deacon & Martyr , this minor basilica of the Roman Catholic Church is a major architectural highlight of downtown Asheville.

Included on the National Register of Historic Places, the elaborate church was designed and built by Spanish architect Rafael Guastavino and local legend Richard Sharp Smith (lead architect of the Biltmore Estate). 

This is the only basilica in Western NC, and it’s 52 X 82-foot dome is reportedly the largest free-standing elliptical dome on the North American continent. 

Inside, the basilica features elaborate stained glass windows (made in Munich), statues of saints (made in Italy), a marble altar (from  Tennessee ), and  a wood carving of the Virgin Mary and John the Apostle (made in Spain).

Walk-in visits are permitted during the hours posted on their website, and self-guided tours of the basilica are free (though donations are always appreciated). 

READ MORE: The 10 Best Things to Do in Maggie Valley NC

33. Go Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is a great way to immerse yourself in natural beauty Asheville has to offer, and the Biltmore Equestrian Center  offers private two-hour tours.

Theirs are the only Asheville horseback riding tours within the city limits, exploring the trails of the historic property.

Expert guides lead up to four guests at a time through the world-renowned estate, which is surrounded by the Pisgah National Forest.

Note that all participants will need a Biltmore day pass or annual pass, or an overnight room at the estate.

It’s highly recommended that visitors book their horseback riding tour   reservations several days in advance in order to ensure availability.

READ MORE: The 20 Best Places for Horseback Riding In/Near Asheville NC

34. Waynesville Day Trip

There are a lot of reasons to love the small town of Waynesville NC, and I’d say that even if I weren’t related to the town’s founder, Revolutionary War hero Colonel Robert Love. 

The area is home to two beautiful lakes (Junaluska and Logan), surrounded by some of the tallest mountains in NC, and offers awesome outdoor recreation in the Shining Rock Wilderness.

Downtown Waynesville is very walkable, with the best shops in a 5-block area on Main Street. This is also where you’ll find the best restaurants in Waynesville , including the Chef’s Table, Suwana Asian Cuisine, and Wild Flour Bakery.

If history and culture are your thing, check out the Folkmoot Friendship Center (famous for their cultural festivals ), Haywood Arts Regional Theater, and the Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts. 

Haywood County is also a hotbed of Appalachian culture: The area gave birth to bluegrass music icons like Don Reno and Raymond Fairchild (both banjo virtuosos), as well as “Square Dance King” Sam Love Queen.  

READ MORE: The 15 Best Things to Do in Waynesville NC & Haywood County

35. Celebrate Christmas in Asheville

From the myriad Boone Christmas tree farms and Tweetsie Railroad in Blowing Rock to the Polar Express Train in Bryson City , there are many Western NC Christmas events that have become popular holiday traditions.

But for our money, it’s difficult to beat the diversity of attractions you can find during Christmas in Asheville. 

Christmas at the Biltmore is easily the largest celebration, with a tree-raising event, daytime and candlelit nighttime tours of the festively decorated rooms of the Biltmore House, and holiday happenings in both the Antler Hill and Historic Biltmore Village areas. 

But the largest privately owned home in America is far from the only Asheville Christmas game in town. 

There’s also the National Gingerbread House Competition at the Omni Grove Park Inn, Winter Lights at the North Carolina Arboretum, and numerous other Christmas light displays that make Asheville a great place to spend the holidays! –by Bret Love; lead image via Canva

READ MORE: 30 Fun Facts About Appalachian Scots-Irish History & Culture

We encourage anyone who loves the Blue Ridge region to learn about the  Leave No Trace   principles of responsible environmental stewardship. 

Stay on marked trails, take only pictures, pack out your trash, and be considerate of others who share the trails and parks you explore. 

Remember that waterfalls and rocky summits can be dangerous. Never try to climb waterfalls or get close to a ledge to get a selfie.

When you're exploring the wilderness, it's better to be safe than to be a statistic!

Bret and Mary

The BRMTG was created by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett, the award-winning team behind the world-renowned responsible travel website Green Global Travel. Born and raised in North Georgia, Editor-In-Chief Bret Love grew up hiking and camping in the Blue Ridge Mountains with his family. A professional writer/editor since 1995, he's covered travel and culture for 100+ publications, including American Way, Destination Marriott, Georgia Travel Guide, National Geographic, and Southbound. In 2010 he co-founded the award-winning website, Green Global Travel, which is ranked among the world's top travel blogs. Since launching BRMTG in 2020, he and Mary Gabbett have visited 50+ Blue Ridge Mountain towns together. Though she lived in NYC for 14 years, photographer/Business Manager Mary Gabbett's family has Georgia roots dating back 200+ years. Her great-grandfather was President of the Western Railroad of Alabama. Before moving to Atlanta in 1989, she fell in love with the North GA mountains, where her aunt owned a cabin. In 2010 she co-founded Green Global Travel, and has since traveled to more than 40 countries on six continents. Her photos have appeared in numerous travel publications (including National Geographic and Southbound) and various textbooks.

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17 of the best things to do in and around Asheville, North Carolina

Jul 17, 2024 • 7 min read

Experience the best of Asheville, North Carolina, with our guide to the best things to do. jaredkay / Getty Images

Asheville is a city in a very good mood. It's hard to pinpoint the cause, though – it could be the mountain air, the buskers, the craft breweries, the dynamic food scene or the hordes of relieved hikers just off the Appalachian Trail bringing the magic.

The city exudes a collegial vibe, and the whole shebang is backdropped by the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains. It's a busy place with lots going on, so narrow down your plans with our guide to the top things to do in Asheville.

1. Wander downtown Asheville

When you fall in love with Asheville, it will likely be while wandering downtown on a Friday night. Buskers play banjo on the corner. Patios buzz with diners. The purple LaZoom bus rattles by with its joke-y joie de vivre. And the thumping beat of the drum circle adds a primeval edge to the scene. Daytime wanderings are equally appealing. You can admire off-beat murals, pop into indie shops or discover the history of Asheville while following the Urban Trail .

2. Treat yourself at French Broad Chocolate Lounge

Stop by the French Broad Chocolate Lounge  for an indulgent taste of chocolate bonbons, cakes and ice creams. The menu of delights includes a flourless truffle torte, a mocha stout cake and a chocolate chip cookie wedge. The chic lounge overlooks Pack Square downtown.

3. Visit the Biltmore Estate

Completed in 1895 for shipping magnate George Washington Vanderbilt II, the enormous estate, with its lush gardens and manicured grounds, is Asheville's premier attraction. More than 140,000 sunflowers bloom on the Biltmore Estate in summer. The bright yellow flowers can grow to a height of 8ft and typically bloom for one week in July and again for a week in early September. 

Planning tip:  Check the online bloom report to see what's flowering, and then plan your visit around that. Tickets start at $80 per adult.

4. Get into the rhythm at the Friday Night Drum Circle

What began as a 10-person drum session in 2001 has become a downtown tradition drawing hundreds of spectators and a slew of drummers – not to mention belly dancers, hula-hoopers, music-loving families and folks simply looking for a fun communal experience.

Planning tip:  Held in Pritchard Park, the free event lasts from 6pm to 10pm on Friday nights, typically from April through October. Feel free to bring your own drum and join in!

5. Tour Asheville's craft breweries

With around 50 craft breweries in its greater metropolitan area, Asheville is appropriately nicknamed Beer City USA (in fact, it's second only to Portland, Maine, for the highest number of breweries per capita). Best part? Breweries here exude a cooperative vibe that encourages exploring. If you're staying downtown, walk to the compact South Slope District, a former industrial neighborhood that's home to 10 craft breweries. Further afield, heavy-hitters New Belgium and the Sierra Nevada are also drawing thirsty crowds to their taprooms. For a world of choice – but in an intimate pub – stop by the bar at longtime favorite Thirsty Monk . The Asheville Ale Trail will get you started.

6. Hike, paddle or mountain bike the great outdoors

The Blue Ridge Mountains are beacons for adventure. Trails along the Blue Ridge Parkway lead to waterfalls, wildflowers and grassy balds with sweeping views. Paddlers seeking white water beeline to the French Broad River while mountain bikers hurtle down singletrack in Pisgah National Forest . Ziplines and canopy tours are scattered across the mountain foothills.

Planning tip: Looking for more outdoor experiences?  Great Smoky Mountains National Park , another adventure hot spot, is 55 miles west of Asheville.

7. Go on a foraging tour

If you enjoy berry picking but want to up your game, sign up for a foraging tour with No Taste Like Home . These knowledgeable folks will meet you in a nearby natural area for a morning of foraging for wild local edibles, which may include mushrooms and fruit. Sample your discoveries on the trail with your guide, watch a cooking demo and then take the rest of your plants to a participating restaurant, where the chef will whip up your find into an appetizer.

8. Be immersed in local culture at the Folk Art Center

With three galleries, a well-stocked gift shop and daily craft demonstrations (March to October), the Folk Art Center on the Blue Ridge Parkway is the best place in the region to immerse in Southern Appalachian arts and crafts. The Allanstand Craft Shop sells high-quality jewelry, textiles, pottery and glassworks, all made by artisans from Southern Highland Craft Guild. The galleries showcase contemporary and traditional pieces and works from the permanent collection. 

9. Sample local barbecue at 12 Bones

BBQ fans are well served by a trip to  12 Bones . Perched beside the French Broad River in the River Arts District, it is beloved for its slow-cooked smoky meats and mouthwatering sides.

10. Have a sunset cocktail at the Omni Grove Park Inn

Mother Nature shares some of her best work just beyond the terrace at the Omni Grove Park Inn , particularly at sunset . With clouds aglow, forests and mountains on the horizon and stone craftsmanship framing the view, it's an inspiring place to recap your day – over fancy cocktails, of course. In fact, the entire hotel, an Arts and Crafts-style lodge that opened in 1913, evokes a long-lost era of glamour and adventure.

11. Check out the live music scene 

Old-time music and bluegrass were birthed in the Southern Appalachians, and this high-lonesome heritage is the default musical vibe across the city. But an influx of innovative musicians keeps the traditional sounds fresh, and the music scene is thriving. Most music venues are on the small side, so performances feel up close and personal. The Orange Peel welcomes big-name indie bands, while the Grey Eagle showcases up-and-coming local, regional and national acts playing a mix of genres. Breweries often have live music, too.

12. Play at unique interactive museums

No quarters are needed at the Asheville Pinball Museum , where you can play as many games as you want on the old-school pinball machines with paid admission. There are 40 pinball machines and 40 classic video games available for play. The interactive Moogseum spotlights the work of Dr Bob Moog, a long-time Asheville resident who invented the first commercial synthesizer, which electronically reproduces the sounds of instruments. Both museums are downtown.

13. Savor tapas as Cúrate

In a city dubbed Foodtopia, it seems ill-advised to focus on just one restaurant. But consider Cúrate a gateway culinary experience that will inspire you to discover what the rest of the chefs here have to offer. Opened by Chef Katie Button and her Catalan husband Félix Meana in 2011, Cúrate was at the forefront of Asheville's transformation into a nationally acclaimed dining destination. Folks from far and wide continue to clamor for a spot at this intimate yet festive restaurant that showcases the sensual flavors of authentic Spanish tapas.

14. Learn about area plant life at the North Carolina Arboretum

With 65 acres of gardens, groomed hiking and biking trails and innovative exhibits blending nature and art, the North Carolina Arboretum is a pretty place to escape. The themed gardens reveal the diversity of plant life in the Southern Appalachian Mountains, and their designs often nod to the region's cultural heritage.

15. Explore the River Arts District

Aging warehouses along the French Broad River now house a diverse collection of galleries and working studios. Indie restaurants, hip coffee shops and scrappy Wedge Brewing Co keep the neighborhood buzzing throughout the day. More than 180 artists exhibit and sell their work – jewelry, paintings, ceramics, glassware, metal textiles, and wood – in the still-growing neighborhood, which stretches one mile along the river southwest of downtown.

Planning tip:  A gallery walk with workshops, demos, live music and wine tastings occurs on the second Saturday of the month.

16. Shop local... and regional

There are numerous shopping districts in Asheville, but the best all have one thing in common: an abundance of independent owners and locally produced goods. Downtown is chock-full of local shops, from galleries and bookshops to chocolate boutiques and outdoor stores. Art in all its forms is sold in galleries across 23 buildings in the River Arts District. Craft galleries are a highlight in the town of Black Mountain, just up the road.

17. Take a LaZoom City Comedy Tour

Climb aboard the purple bus for a raucous comedy tour of the city. Learn about Asheville's history and its coolest hidden spots on a drive through the historic downtown, the South Slope District and the River Arts District.

Planning tip:  Kids tours, a ghost tour and a beer tour are also available, and small dogs are allowed on board.

This article was first published Sep 13, 2021 and updated Jul 17, 2024.

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Things to Do in the Asheville Area

In Asheville, you'll find a city both rooted in tradition and pulsing with innovation—a place where historic landmarks stand alongside cutting-edge breweries and avant-garde galleries. Step into a world where rugged outdoor adventures coexist with refined cultural experiences, where you can hike to the summit of a mountain in the morning and savor a farm-to-table feast in the evening. From iconic landmarks  to local favorites, these are our sure bets for a memorable mountain escape.

If you’re looking for things to do in Asheville, then consider this list your primer to the many activities available in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, or perhaps well acquainted with the flair of this … read more

Discover an American fairy tale, complete with a castle. Asheville’s crown jewel, Biltmore, was created by George Vanderbilt in 1895 as a retreat reminiscent of the grand castles and estates of France and Britain. Vanderbilt fell in love with … read more

While Asheville may be well known for its award-winning restaurants, eclectic style and surrounding lush forests, its rich tapestry of Black culture has also shaped this unique community. We invite you to further experience Black Asheville by … read more

Asheville has become a premier destination for weekend tourists, but after they return home, the locals come out to play during the week. It’s the perfect time for the savvy traveler to find the best deals and discover an Asheville that locals … read more

Asheville is an outdoor adventure lover's paradise. The area is home to millions of acres of forests, 40 mountain peaks above 6,000 feet and the world's third oldest river. Here in the Blue Ridge Mountains you will, of course, find favorite … read more

Go Al Fresco in Foodtopia If there's one thing that drives home Asheville's moniker as "the Paris of the South," it has to be the outdoor dining scene. On a warm evening in downtown Asheville, diners are seated at sidewalk tables, … read more

Welcome to Asheville’s River Arts District (RAD), where creativity and community converge! What began as a collection of old warehouses has transformed into a vibrant hub of art, culture, and commerce, thanks to the vision and energy of local … read more

You’ll see plenty of scenic sights and idyllic streetscapes in Black Mountain, named the “Prettiest Small Town in America” by Tripadvisor. But it’s what you can do here that leaves a lasting impression. Just 15 miles east … read more

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Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

25 Best Things To Do In Asheville, NC (And Nearby!) You Must Do

August 3, 2022 //  by  Southern Trippers

If you are looking for some of the best things to do in Asheville, North Carolina, then this list is for you! Asheville is one of the coolest cities in America and is located along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Since it is in the Blue Ridge Mountains , there is an eclectic mix of attractions in Asheville.

Planning your trip to Asheville last minute?

Make sure to book your hotels and tours in Asheville in advance to ensure availability! The longer your wait, the more difficult it gets. ESPECIALLY during Fall Foliage! Here are our top picks for Asheville:

Top Places To Stay In Asheville:

• The Residences At Biltmore (Sells out quickly! Luxury stay)
• GLō Best Western Asheville (Affordable option)
• Cambria Hotel (Amazing downtown location)
• Kimpton – Hotel Arras (Free bikes, downtown location)

Top Experiences And Tours In Asheville:

• Asheville Ghost Walking Tour (Our pick! Free cancellation)
• Waterfall Hiking Tour From Asheville (See 3 waterfalls)
• Electric Bike Brewery Crawl (Great way to see the city)
• Downtown Guided Bike Tour (Likely to sell out!)
• Asheville Guided Segway Tour (Super fun!)

Asheville is one of the cutest small towns in the South for many reasons. The town itself has a vibrant arts scene, especially in the downtown district. It is also where you can find the Biltmore Estate, which is a historic house museum that has acres of property, a massive mansion, and its own shopping district. If neither of those things interests you, Asheville is perfectly situated for exploring the great outdoors.

On this list of what to do in Asheville, we’ve made sure to include a little something for everyone. There are also a few hidden gems you might not find on other lists of Asheville attractions.

No matter what you are interested in, you’ll find plenty to explore on this list of best things to do in Asheville that you won’t want to miss.

25 Best Things To Do In Asheville, NC (And Nearby!) You Must Do

Stroll the north carolina arboretum.

One of the best things to do in Asheville is the North Carolina Arboretum. It is over 430 acres of trails, gardens, and more nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. You can find it in the Bent Creek Experimental Forest which is part of the Pisgah National Forest. If you are driving on the Blue Ridge Parkway , it’s across from Milepost 393.

The Arboretum has 65 acres specifically set aside that are nothing but cultivated gardens. The garden has both native and exotic plant species. Usually, from April to October there is something in bloom at the Arboretum. It is also known for having one of the most extensive bonsai collections in the United States. Throughout the garden, you’ll also find sculptures and the sculptural exhibit changes throughout the year.

Hikers looking for a place with fairly easy hiking and biking trails will love the Arboretum. There are over 10 miles of manicured and well-kept trails for you to explore. The hiking trails range in difficulty from easy to difficult and cross through Pisgah National Forest, Lake Powhatan, and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

If you’re looking for free things to do in Asheville that let you explore the outdoors, the North Carolina Arboretum is worth a stop.

Be Awed by the Biltmore Estate

One of the most popular Asheville attractions is the Biltmore Estate . It’s also one of the best things to do in North Carolina . Built over a span of six years and opened to the family in 1895, the Biltmore Estate has been the shining jewel of Asheville, and maybe even the Blue Ridge Mountains, ever since.

The French chateau-style mansion has over 250 rooms including bedrooms, a conservatory, a bowling alley, an indoor pool, and even a ‘Halloween Room.’ The house has been open to the public for tours since the 1930s and is one of the most suggested best things to do in Asheville by locals and visitors alike.

On the estate, there are also miles of gardens, a greenhouse, woodlands with trails running throughout, a replica European-style village, restaurants, and a winery. The Biltmore can be kind of expensive to tour, but it is well worth it. It is the only house of its kind in the United States and is full of beauty and history. You can easily spend the whole day exploring.

Don’t forget to check out our list of the best boutique hotels in Asheville!

Admire Some Street Art

Asheville is known for many things. One of those is its art scene. That art scene is so vibrant and healthy that it is overflowing onto the streets of Asheville. As you walk through the city you’ll find larger-than-life murals on many of the buildings. Asheville boasts more than 15 murals of all shapes and sizes.

You can find a large portrait of Dolly Parton, Sloth from The Goonies , or a giant sneaking fox. There are also murals with a spiritual or political message. Some are collages of different images or quotes and others are made for photo ops.

Walking around and trying to spot the various murals is one of the fun free things to do in Asheville .

Hike in the Pisgah National Forest

Pisgah National Forest surrounds most of the area of the Blue Ridge Mountains around Asheville. Over 100,000 acres of it were once owned by the Biltmore Estate, but over time more and more have been sold back to the United States government. The National Forest is now over 500,000 acres of dense hardwood forest, waterfalls, rivers, and mountain peaks. Go hiking, biking, pack a picnic, or just drive through the park to see some stunning views.

In Pisgah, you’ll find several different environments, and parts of the forest are even considered temperate rainforests. It is also known to have some of the best hiking trails in Southwestern North Carolina. They range from easy to difficult and you can see breathtaking waterfalls or climb the highest peaks in the East.

You can also enjoy Pisgah by taking a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. During the fall, Pisgah National Forest is one of the best places to experience fall foliage in North Carolina .

Book Here: Pisgah Forest: Forest Bathing & Nature Therapy Walking Tour

Take a Day Trip To Waterfalls

Depending on how long you’d like to drive, you can see some truly gorgeous waterfalls near Asheville . Whether you only have time for a 30-minute drive or can drive over an hour away, you’re sure to find a waterfall you want to explore. There are dozens of beautiful waterfalls near Asheville just waiting for you to explore.

Many of the waterfalls require some sort of hike. So when you’re planning your day, make sure you research how difficult the hike is. You can also take a whole day and stop at several different waterfalls along the Blue Ridge Parkway. If you do that, we suggest packing a picnic lunch, it may not be easy to find a place to eat near some of them.

When you plan your day trip, keep in mind that while most of the falls are free to hike to, some do have a fee to enter the parking area. However, you should be able to see most of these waterfalls without paying an entrance fee. Depending on what time of year you are visiting they can also get pretty crowded – especially during ‘Peak Week’ when the fall colors are most vibrant.

Make sure to check out our list of the Best North Carolina Mountain Towns you must visit!

Drive The Blue Ridge Parkway

If you are visiting Asheville you absolutely need to drive the Blue Ridge Parkway . The Blue Ridge Parkway runs from Virginia to just south of Asheville along the spine of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Blue Ridge Mountains are part of the larger Appalachian Mountain range that runs from Canada and down into Northern Alabama.

There are a ton of great stops along the parkway near Asheville. You can also travel farther north up the parkway and make a day trip out of it. Highlights along the parkway include Grandfather Mountain, the Linn Cove Viaduct, and the small towns of Blowing Rock and Boone .

You can find plenty of places to go near Asheville along your Blue Ridge Parkway drive including hiking trails , parks, and overlooks .

Book Here: Asheville: Yoga on a Mountain Hike

Explore the River Arts District

What was once the industrial district of Asheville is now the River Arts District. The River Arts District, or the RAD, has taken over the abandoned warehouses and mills along the French Broad River. It is also the part of Asheville where you’re more likely to find one of the many murals.

In the River Arts District, you’ll find art studios and art galleries. The art studios include crafts like pottery, painting, and glassblowing. Because it is a vibrant part of the city, there are also plenty of unique places to eat and shop. Some of the best restaurants in Asheville can be found in the River Arts District. You’ll also find music venues, breweries, and boutique shops. It is one of the best things to do in downtown Asheville.

Soak Up Culture at the Asheville Art Museum

After admiring all the art from local artists in the River Arts District, you may want to see some more. If that’s the case, head to the Asheville Art Museum. Inside you’ll find a collection of American artwork from the 20th and 21st centuries. This includes artists from art movements like Cubism, Pop Art, and Post-Modernism.

Most of the collection is works from local artists, in particular artists that went to the local art school. Black Mountain College was open from 1933 to 1957 and was a major art institute in the area. The works in the Asheville Art Museum are often pieces by students and instructors from Black Mountain College.

In the collection, you’ll also find over 250 sculptures and installations that feature Cherokee arts and Outsider arts. The museum is working on adding more Cherokee and Native artists to its collection but currently features over 60 Cherokee artists. The Asheville Art Museum is a wonderful representation of art in the Southern Appalachian region that continues to strive for better representation in the art scene.

This is one of the best activities in Asheville for art lovers!

Visit the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site

The Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site isn’t actually in Asheville. It’s about a 40-minute drive outside of Asheville, so it’s a great option for a day trip when you need a break from the city. The home is located in Sandburg’s final hometown, the small village of Flat Rock. Carl Sandburg was a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and poet.

The home’s formal name is Connemara and the National Historic Site preserves the home as it would have originally looked when Sandburg lived there. Established in 1968, it was the first National Historic Site to honor the life of an American poet.

Sandburg was an important literary voice during the Civil Rights Movement, and he was an early writer on what was happening in Chicago that led to the infamous Chicago Race Riots. It is a charming home dedicated to the life and memory of an important American author who fought for Civil Rights for decades.

Dine at Downtown Asheville Restaurants

Asheville is quickly becoming known as a hot destination for foodies. With its lively art scene and abundance of breweries, it’s no surprise that Asheville has embraced the culinary arts wholeheartedly. Most of the restaurants are now centered in the city’s downtown district.

One of the things that makes downtown Asheville restaurants so unique is that almost all of them are focused on the farm-to-table movement. This means instead of sourcing their food from large distributors, they ethically source their food from local farms. Often farm-to-table foods are hormone-free and organic, but that isn’t always the case.

Whether you are looking for Italian pasta, spicy Thai dishes, or unique fusion restaurants, there is a restaurant in Asheville’s downtown for you to enjoy. You won’t find just places for dinner. There are also great restaurants known for their breakfast menu and bakeries, ice cream shops, and chocolatiers.

Book Here: Asheville: Scenic Helicopter Experience

See Gorgeous Nature at Craggy Gardens

You can find the Craggy Gardens about 15 minutes north of Asheville. The Craggy Gardens are an area where you can walk or hike in the Craggy Mountains, which are a smaller set of mountains within the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you are driving the Blue Ridge Parkway, to get to the gardens, you can find them at Milepost 364.4-367.6.

It is a beautiful spot for a scenic hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains . The gardens are most known for the amazing floral display they put on every year. In June the area comes alive with thousands of pink and purple Catawba rhododendron blooms.

If you plan on visiting the gardens for the blooms, be prepared to deal with some crowds. It is a very popular Asheville activity during peak blooming season. But it is well worth it!

Find Awesome Views at Mount Mitchell State Park

If you want to see the highest peak east of the Mississippi River, head to Mount Mitchell State Park . Mount Mitchell was one of the United States’ first state parks, partially because people wanted to preserve the mountain peak. You don’t have to take an extensive hike to be able to admire some truly stunning views of Mount Mitchell.

There is an observation deck that is easily accessed that has great views of the peak. There are also tons of hiking trails in the park. They range from easy to difficult and even range in length. So if you only have time for a short hike, but you still want to explore the park, there is a perfect trail for you. At the entrance of the park, you’ll find a visitor’s center with a museum.

The museum focuses on the history of Mount Mitchell and its cultural significance in the area. Near the museum and visitor’s center, there is a full-service restaurant and concession area. The restaurant and concession area are open only during the peak season, so from May to October.

Play at the Asheville Pinball Museum

For those looking for one of the more unique things to do in Asheville, consider the Asheville Pinball Museum. It’s a really cool date night idea, or it could even be fun for kids if they are a bit older.

With over 35 vintage and antique pinball machines, you can easily spend a good chunk of time enjoying the museum. Think of it less as a traditional museum and more like an interactive museum.

The museum charges a set rate for all-you-can-play games. They also have vintage video games that are also one set price for all you can play.

If you get hungry while you’re having fun, the museum also has a small pizza shop inside it that offers pizza and beer. You have to pay for that separately, but it’s still a super fun and cheap night. It is one of the best things to do in Asheville for adults.

Explore The First Baptist Church

The First Baptist Church is a historic Baptist Church in Asheville. It was designed and built from 1925 to 1927 by the famous architect Douglas Ellington. Ellington designed several of the buildings in downtown Asheville. It is known for its striking Art Deco design. The main portion of the church is a polygonal brick building that is four stories and domed. In the front entrance of the church is a large and fairly ornate hexastyle portico.

Inside, you’ll find an equally stunning space. It features a large wood stage with tall wood paneling behind it. The paneling hides most of the elaborate inner workings of the massive pipe organ. From the top of the paneling pipes of all shapes and sizes stick out and provide beautiful music for the church sanctuary.

The ceiling of the sanctuary reaches into the domed space you see from the exterior. It is painted elegantly with fluffy clouds. The First Baptist Church is a historic and unique piece of Asheville’s architectural history. If you are looking for unique things to do in Asheville, add the First Baptist Church to your list.

Visit the Folk Art Center

At Milepost 382 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, you’ll find the Folk Art Center. It originally opened in 1930 thanks to the Southern Highland Craft Guild. Now it has over 900 artists in several galleries and shops. The main gallery and shop can be found at the Folk Art Center. However, you can find several smaller shops featuring Appalachian artists at other prominent Blue Ridge Parkway stops.

It is easily the most popular Asheville attraction on the Blue Ridge Parkway. In addition to the massive shop, the Center also houses galleries, all featuring art by local artists. The exhibits rotate, so if you see something you’d like to purchase, don’t leave without taking it home.

Depending on when you visit, you may be able to see one of the resident artists working in the studio that has windows for the public to look in on. This makes it one of the coolest places to visit in Asheville!

Stroll Through The Biltmore Village

The Biltmore Village was originally built as a place for the employees of the Biltmore Estate. Now the former employee homes have been converted into a charming shopping district across the street from the entrance to the Biltmore Estate. It is free to wander through the Village, making it one of the best free things to do in Asheville.

There are 40 shops to explore and 10 restaurants and cafes. It is a picturesque way to enjoy a quiet afternoon. The shops are almost all housed in historic homes and cottages. Stroll along on the charming antique brick sidewalks lined with trees and shops. There are also several original buildings in the Village like the Cathedral of All Souls that add to the charming atmosphere.

The Biltmore Village is clearly one of the top things in Asheville, North Carolina.

Walk the Urban Trail

The best way to see all the best parts of Asheville is through the Urban Trail. The Urban Trail is a walking tour of the city’s unique history. If you walk the trail at a leisurely pace, it takes about two hours. Along the way, you’ll stop to admire or explore some of Asheville’s most notable spots. It is also completely self-guided and one of the best free things to do in Asheville, NC.

While you walk and follow the trail you’ll see stations with information that tells you all about the spot. You’ll learn about famous authors like Thomas Wolfe and F. Scott Fitzgerald. Outside some of his most famous buildings in the Asheville skyline, you’ll learn about Douglas Ellington. No trip exploring Asheville is complete without learning about George Vanderbilt’s effect on the city thanks to the Biltmore Estate.

The Urban Trail is a super fun way to explore Asheville if you have some time and want to stretch your legs. It’s also the best way to see the highlights of the city while you learn about their cultural and local significance as well.

Learn at the Asheville Museum Of Science

One of the best things to do in Asheville with kids is the Asheville Museum of Science. The museum is fairly small, but the kids will have tons of fun. It features a more hands-on technique for learning about science. The goal of the Asheville Museum of Science is for visitors to experience science, not just observe it.

Inside the small museum, you’ll find a few different permanent exhibits. If you are interested in rocks and minerals, there is the Colburn Hall of Minerals. They also have a self-guided STEM lab that is also interactive. It is one of the most popular exhibits in the museum.

There are also dinosaur skeletons, fossils, a ‘Toddler Nest’, and more. The museum also has exhibits that change throughout the year, making it a fun and exciting Asheville activity to come back to throughout the year. The kids will love exploring the museum and interacting with all the fun exhibits.

Step Back in Time at the Thomas Wolfe Memorial State Historic Site

Thomas Wolfe was a famous American author in the 20th century. He was born in 1900 in Asheville and his childhood home still stands in Asheville. Wolfe would later immortalize his childhood home in his writings, although he gave everything different names.

Now visitors can experience the Victorian home as Wolfe would have experienced it. They offer daily tours and there is also a walking tour you can take around the home and the area. It is in downtown Asheville, so it is a stop on the Urban Trail too. For those interested in American literature or historic homes, this is one of the best things to do in Asheville.

Photograph the Basilica Of Saint Lawrence

The Basilica of Saint Lawrence is another famous architectural piece of downtown Asheville’s skyline. It features a unique Spanish Catalan design that is not very common in the area. The church was built in 1905 by the famous Spanish architect, Rafael Guastavino. A little over 90 years later, in 1993, Pope John Paul II elevated it to a minor basilica.

Now the Basilica is the only basilica in Western North Carolina. One of its most unique design features is its elliptical dome. Historians and architects believe it may be the only freestanding elliptical dome in the United States. Inside it is an ornately designed sanctuary. The ceiling features bricks laid in a herringbone pattern, large rectangular and semi-circle stained glass windows, and a large ornate altar. It is one of the more unique Asheville attractions.

Get a Drink at Catawba Brewing Co.

There are many great breweries in Asheville perfect for anyone who likes to try local craft beers when they travel. Asheville is even known as one of the best beer cities in America, so you know they take pride in their work.

One brewery to visit is the Catawba Brewing Co. which has two locations in Asheville. It is family-owned and opened in 1999. They are named after the Catawba River and are proud of their location in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

You will love the vibe of this brewery as well as all the drinks with their fun names. Try the Peanut Butter Jelly Time, White Zombie, or Hopness Haze.

Go Foraging

If you are looking for really unique things to do in Asheville that will get you out in nature, consider doing a foraging tour. Asheville is known as the “Garden of Eden for Wild Edibles” with up to 500 edibles found growing in the surrounding forests and meadows.

No Taste Like Home is a foraging tour company based in Asheville. The expert guides here will lead you through nature and teach you how to find delectable wild edibles. A variety of mushrooms, fruits, nuts, roots, flowers, and greens can be found depending on the time of year.

When the tour is over, you can bring your finds to one of the partnering Asheville restaurants where they will be prepared as an appetizer to your purchased meal. Isn’t that so cool?!

You can also stop by the Asheville Wild Foods Market for more wild edibles or buy them made into pestos, teas, and more.

Enjoy Views from Chimney Rock State Park

Chimney Rock State Park is about an hour from Asheville and is a great escape from the city. Chimney Rock is a 315-foot monolith that provides amazing, panoramic views of the lush forests, the Hickory Nut Gorge, and Lak e Lure .

There are many other trails in the park that offer more great views. You’ll be able to see Hickory Nut Falls, an epic 404-foot waterfall that was featured in the 1992 movie The Last of the Mohicans . The moderate-rated trail to the waterfall is 1.4 miles roundtrip.

Other fun activities in this state park include rock climbing, learning at the Animal Discovery Den, and picking up a souvenir at Cliff Dwellers Gifts. There are also great campgrounds in the area.

This is one of the best things to do near Asheville to add to your NC itinerary!

Book Here: Asheville: Chimney Rock Helicopter Tour

Feel Refreshed at a Spa

Did you know Asheville is a popular spa destination? People from all over come to enjoy world-class spas and wellness experiences. If you want to pamper yourself, make sure to budget since the packages can be expensive, but they are so worth it.

The Spa at the Omni Grove Park Inn is one of the most popular spas not only in Asheville but in the country. Here you will find mineral pools, a cave spa, and a lap pool with 6,500 fiber-optic stars and underwater music! There are also facials, massages, saunas, and eucalyptus-infused steam rooms.

You can also unwind with hot organic tea in the fireside lounge area. You will leave the spa feeling completely restored.

Other spas in Asheville worth checking out include the Asheville Salt Cave & Spa, Shoji Spa & Lodge, Wake Foot Sanctuary & Spa, and Sauna House. A spa visit is one of the best things to do in Asheville for couples or a girls’ trip.

Take a Ride on the Gray Line Trolley

A ride on the Gray Line Trolley is one of the best Asheville activities for the whole family. This hop-on, hop-off trolley takes you through downtown and many historic districts. As you ride past the pretty sights, you will learn all about the city’s history and culture with fun narration.

The trolley makes ten stops where you can get off and explore. The Asheville Visitor Center is one of the best places to start since there is free parking. The route takes about 90 minutes to complete, not including time at stops.

If you want a more unique tour, book the Haunted History & Murder Mystery Tour. You will hear ghost stories and tales of Asheville’s dark history. This is one of the best things to do in Asheville at night.

There is also a Holly Jolly Christmas Trolley Tour for caroling and seeing the holiday decorations throughout town.

Book Here: Asheville: Mountain Spirits Haunted Walking Tour

As you can see, there is an endless amount of fun things to do in Asheville. Whether you want to experience a vibrant art scene, sample tasty restaurants, or learn more about the history and culture of the area, there is an Asheville activity to interest you. It’s easy to see why Asheville is one of the prettiest cities in the South .

One Day in Asheville Itinerary – Top things to do in Asheville, North Carolina

Ah, North Carolina. What a wonderful state! Loads of art, great food and fantastic music you can enjoy all over the place. However, if you’re particularly interested in that latter category, Asheville is a city you absolutely must visit. Music lovers in the U.S. (and beyond) already flock to it because of its great festivals and other fantastic music-oriented events. However, while music certainly is among the top reasons to visit this place, there are plenty of other things to do in Asheville, NC. Just read on and you will discover a very interesting array of sights that simply have to been seen when visiting. Check them out and you’ll have a great day in this city.

Plan your trip

1. What’s the best time to visit Asheville? 2. A few facts about Asheville 3. One Day in Asheville Itinerary 3.1. Explore everything Biltmore has to offer 3.2. Head downtown for lunch 3.3. Visit Basilica of St. Lawrence 3.4. Go to Asheville Pinball Museum 3.5. See Lexington Glassworks 3.6. Walk along the River Arts District 4. Where to stay in Asheville, NC? 5. Day trips from Asheville, NC 6. Extra tips for visiting Asheville

What’s the best time to visit Asheville?

Given the fact that the city’s location is fairly high up, you can expect somewhat cooler temperatures on average here than in the rest of the state. Therefore, the period from May to the end of September should be perfect for an Asheville day trip. Simply, the summers are not that hot (the winters are fairly cold, though), so you will be able to enjoy, although expect some rain in that period.

But the festivals are what you should really consider when discussing what to do in Asheville. LAAFF , for example, is held every first weekend in September, while beer lovers MUST come to Brewgrass , a festival dedicated to microbrewers held in October. In summer, RiverFest is where you want to be and mingle with the locals, while an interesting event during the Christmas season is the National Gingerbread House Competition . You won’t believe the things people create here!

A few facts about Asheville

Asheville is not that big of a city – with about 90,000 people, it doesn’t even rank in the top ten in North Carolina. However, it really does have a lot to offer and there are plenty of interesting facts associated with it. Colonel Samuel Davidson was the first one to settle here, back in 1784, but he was soon killed by the Cherokee. That didn’t stop people from coming, though, and the city of Asheville was officially recognized in 1797.

Asheville is very well known in the movie industry . Films like Forrest Gump, Hannibal, Last of the Mohicans and Patch Adams were all filmed here. The town is also home to the biggest private house in the U.S.: the Biltmore has 35 bedrooms and 43 bathrooms!

One Day in Asheville Itinerary

Follow this guide and make the most of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the top sights and things to do during your one day in Asheville.

Explore everything Biltmore has to offer

If you ask any local what to do in Asheville first, the answer is likely going to be that you go see Biltmore. You may want to come here first thing in the morning, though, to beat the crowds. Built by George Vanderbilt, this estate features a mesmerizingly beautiful mansion , accompanied by an excellent winery and surrounded by incredible greenery in the impressive gardens.

You can also go horseback riding here, just to get into the mood of the opulent luxury that surrounds you, and you can even spend the night at the estate if you so wish (more on that later).

Outside of the estate is the famous Biltmore Village , the place that once served to house everybody who worked on the estate. Today, it’s bustling with life and loads of quaint little cafes and galleries, so this is a great place to enjoy, maybe grab a cup of coffee and pick up a souvenir or two. As you can see, you may need a fair chunk of time to explore everything here, so plan accordingly. By the time you’re done, it may already be time for lunch.

Head downtown for lunch

There are plenty of things to do in downtown Asheville, so go there once you’re done with the estate. You will encounter many performers here, but what is possibly an even greater hallmark of this part of town are the independent bookstores that are scattered all over the place. Do go in and see what they have to offer, and after you’re done you can go souvenir shopping if you haven’t picked up anything already.

When it comes to lunch, there are some very interesting choices at your disposal. Curate is a fantastic Spanish restaurant with some excellent wines and tapas where you can sit down and properly enjoy your meal. On the other hand, if you’re looking to just grab something quickly, Chai Pani , an Indian restaurant, is a great choice. For some great southern food, Tupelo Honey is the place to be.

Visit Basilica of St. Lawrence

Another thing to do in downtown Asheville is to go and visit one of the city’s most beautiful landmarks – Basilica of St. Lawrence. It is a magnificent church from the beginning of the 20th century, and its architect is Rafael Guastavino, the man who also worked on the Biltmore Estate.

Brick walls give the church its characteristic color, but don’t miss on the chance to explore the interior of this edifice, too. Its statues and stained glass windows will amaze you.

Go to Asheville Pinball Museum

Just across the street from the basilica is another place that deserves to be on any list of top things to do in Asheville – the pinball museum. There are loads of old machines here as well as many video games, and you can play everything on display . On top of that, the staff is careful that the place never gets too crowded to make sure every visitor gets a chance to play. So, if you have kids with you, or if your inner child is craving for a blast from the past, this is something you shouldn’t miss.

See Lexington Glassworks

After playing to your heart’s content, head south across Patton Avenue and find Lexington Glassworks. Now, this is another awesome museum, but it is also a place where you can watch glass objects being made . The craftsmen will use techniques that have been used for centuries and will be more than happy to engage the visitors and explain everything to them in the process. You can also buy hand-made glass here, which is a perfect souvenir to take from your one day in Asheville.

Walk along the River Arts District

Once you’re done with glass, head west towards the French Broad River. You will soon reach the River Arts District, a part of the town full of artist studios of all shapes and sizes. Because of the vicinity of the river, this is a great place for a walk, and the vibe you get from all the studios around here is very cool. As a matter of fact, you can stop and talk to some of the artists around here if you’re interested in their work – they love to discuss art with passers-by here.

And since the day will be at its end by now, you can sit down for a drink and soak in the atmosphere of this place to end your Asheville day trip on a high note. You can even grab dinner here because the barbecue they serve in some of the places (12 Bones Smokehouse, for example) is amazing!

Where to stay in Asheville, NC?

The Inn on Biltmore Estate

1 Antler Hill Rd, Asheville

If you want something luxurious and don’t mind staying a bit outside the city centre, you’ll adore everything The Inn on Biltmore Estate has to offer. The scenery around the hotel is absolutely spectacular, and you can enjoy a heated pool and a spa centre on the premises. The beautiful and luxurious rooms will provide you with plenty of rest, and the restaurants here are impeccable. It certainly doesn’t get much better than this.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

AC Hotel by Marriott Asheville Downtown

10 Broadway Street, Asheville

If, on the other hand, you’re wondering where to stay in Asheville city centre, AC Hotel by Marriott Asheville Downtown is the answer. You literally can’t get closer to the city centre than this, and you will be able to enjoy two great on-site restaurants, a fitness centre and very well equipped, modern rooms. Oh, and don’t forget to check out the rooftop bar – the view from up there is just incredible!

Hampton Inn and Suites – Asheville Biltmore Village, NC

117 Hendersonville Road, Asheville

For those who want to know where they can stay in Asheville for a reasonable price, Hampton Inn and Suites is the solution. This cozy hotel has everything you need, and there is even an indoor pool nearby you can use. Everything is still fairly new with some VERY comfortable rooms and an excellent location, so you can really expect an excellent stay. In addition, the place is also pet-friendly!

Bon Paul & Sharky’s Hostel

816 Haywood Road, Asheville

And if you’re REALLY traveling on a budget, Bon Paul & Sharky’s Hostel provides excellent accommodation. Vibrant colors and excellent service are the main hallmarks of this place, everything is neat and clean, while the beds are extremely comfortable. The hostel is in an interesting neighborhood with plenty of cafes and restaurants, so you will be able to do quite a bit of exploring.

Day trips from Asheville, NC

As mentioned at the very beginning of the article, North Carolina is a wonderful state. Therefore, if you want to get to know it and have the time, going on a day trip from Asheville is always a great idea. There are plenty of potential destinations, and you can’t go wrong no matter which one you choose.

Blue Ridge Parkway

When it comes to day trips from Asheville, this is without a doubt the most popular option. Blue Ridge Mountains are breathtakingly beautiful, and driving through them is an experience that will stay with you forever. This is also a great opportunity to go hiking because the mountains are not a very difficult climb. Be sure to check out loads of waterfalls that can be found around here for an incredible day out in the open.

Pisgah National Forest

Another way to get a breath of fresh air around here is to visit Pisgah National Forest. It is a fascinating place full of lush greenery, beautiful waterfalls and all kinds of trails. In fact, some parts of the area are actually classified as rainforests, which should give you an idea what to expect. You can camp pretty much anywhere on the forest’s premises, so coming here with your friends and family will allow you to enjoy your day to the fullest.

Black Mountain

The nearby town of Black Mountain is just a short drive away and represents a great way to explore this part of the state a bit further. Another excuse to visit this lovely little place is the fact that they make some pretty fine craft beer there. So, you can enjoy a day out in a peaceful community with a cold tasty beer in your hand and let the mountains and woods just wash over you. Sounds good, doesn’t it?

Wine tasting tours

But if you prefer wine over beer, this part of North Carolina can accommodate you, too! In fact, you can organize a day trip from Asheville to go and visit the wineries around here. There are more than a dozen of them very close to the city. Biltmore is one of the favorites, obviously, but you can also check out places like Saint Paul Mountains Vineyards, Overmountain Vineyards and many others. Tastings and tours should be available wherever you go.

Extra tips for visiting Asheville

– Asheville is a very pet-friendly place , as is the area around it, so if you don’t want to leave your pooch behind when you go on a trip come here and bring him/her along. They’ll love it!

– What to do in Asheville for transport ? Well, a car is by far the best way to get around this relatively small town. Still, there are some other options, too – in the centre you will find the ART station from which depart buses that cover the wider area, plus there’s a hop-on trolley that takes you to all the sights.

– As for the tipping policies , around 15-20% is expected. If possible, go for the higher number.

Pin for later!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Asheville Itinerary, feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Anca is a travel writer and the founder of One Day Itinerary - the biggest collection of travel itineraries for those who are time-limited or just want to maximize their time while traveling. Although she easily becomes homesick for Croatia, she thinks travel is essential to her happiness. She has traveled to more countries than she is years old and doesn’t plan on changing that fact. In her travel guides she aims to inspire people to travel whenever they have a spare day (or two).

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The best things to do in Asheville, NC

From admiring artwork in a historic mansion to a great hiking trail, here are the best things to do in Asheville, NC

Although you're going to enjoy this Blue Ridge Mountains destination regardless of your interests, art and history fiends are likely to fall head over heels in love with the best things to do in Asheville, North Carolina. 

A vibrant arts scene dominates the local culture: Biltmore, a historic mansion, is home to works by the likes of Renoir; the River Arts District, which used to be dominated by factory buildings, is now where most local artists set up shop; the Downtown Art District, on the other hand, is where most of the galleries and museums are located. 

And if art isn't your thing, opt to explore the endless hiking trail or indulge in the foods prepared at the best restaurants in town. Asheville might not be the biggest city—it's home to just over 91,000 residents—but it's clearly very big in personality, rich in history and delectable in all things food and drink. Ready to explore it?

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best things to do in Asheville, NC

1.  river arts district.

Just two miles west of central Asheville, you are able to encounter the very best the local art scene has to offer, with creative types showing off their wares throughout the various historical buildings in the area.  This is the best place to pick up a souvenir straight from the artistic mind who created it. Mingle with the artists and purchase works in a variety of mediums, styles and price points.

2.  Biltmore Estate

Biltmore Estate is a palatial mansion built by George Washington Vanderbilt II in the late 1800s—it boasts 250 rooms and is set on four acres of beautiful grounds. Every room in the French renaissance-style building is visually stunning and the basement sports a pool, a bowling alley and a huge kitchen. But the house isn’t the only thing worth seeing on this massive estate. There is biking, hiking, seven restaurants, fly-fishing, a winery and even guided raft trips.

3.  Antique Tobacco Barn

Asheville is an antique-lover’s dream. Shops are plentiful and the space for large warehouses near the center of town means that they are accessible—and big.  Whether you are junking, antiquing or collecting, you will be in knick-knack heaven at the Antique Tobacco Barn—conveniently located near other great shops on the Swannanoa River Rd.

4.  Wheels Through Time

More than 300 of the country’s rarest motorcycles are housed at the Maggie Valley museum, documenting nearly a century of the bikes’ history and culture.  You need only a passing interest in motorcycles to be enthralled by this collection, which spans the decades and offers insight into America’s automotive history. So, if you are a bike aficionado, you’ll be in hog heaven.

5.  The Moog Factory

From Kraftwerk to Roxy Music to Donna Summer, the Moog synthesizer has left an indelible mark on music since it first emerged in popular music in the 1960s. The company making the instruments is today based in Asheville and runs daily free tours.  The factory and shop offer a unique look into the making of an instrument whose name still carries quite a bit of weight in the music community. You can see how they are assembled, how the sound is perfected, and even try a few yourself.

6.  No Taste Like Home

Asheville’s No Taste Like Home tours involve three hours of hunting for wild morsels with the help of a foraging expert and they run several times per week.  Not only will you learn valuable skills about what you can and can’t eat in the wild, but you’ll then enjoy the literal fruits of your labor after the tour, when your spoils are taken to one of four city restaurants and incorporated into your chosen dishes.

7.  Lake Lure

Less than an hour from downtown Asheville, Lake Lure might be a man-made lake, but its beauty is so renowned that it has provided the setting for a number of Hollywood smash hit films—the most famous of which is Dirty Dancing .  Yes, you can re-enact the famous lift in the lake’s waters—muscle-bound partner willing—or bust a move down the steps, but you can also lounge on the lake’s sandy beaches or hike around its rocky cliffs.

8.  White Duck

Locals love the White Duck for its ambitious infusions of various global cuisines with Mexican taco dishes.  Mexican food here comes via the cuisines of the Caribbean, Greece and more. White Duck’s jerk chicken, lamb gyro and Thai peanut tacos are all great choices—and then there’s the beef bulgogi taco with a side of house kimchi for a decidedly Korean vibe. 

9.  Black Balsam Knob

The Blue Ridge Parkway , just minutes from downtown Asheville, is packed with wonderful hiking, but the views are particularly spectacular from nearby Black Balsam Knob.  The Black Balsam Knob is one of the area’s mountain balds—peaks completely devoid of trees and therefore leaving the panoramic view of the surrounds unobstructed. And, at 6,000ft up, it’s one hell of a view.  

10.  The Omni Grove Park Inn Spa

This mountain spa has been hailed as one of the best in the country, with an extensive menu of services, contrast pools, scent-infused steam rooms and fireside lounges.  It’s worth a trip just to soak in the pools: there are two with waterfalls spilling in from above, and one has a ceiling embedded with 6,500 fiber-optic stars and underwater music. Not to mention the outdoor whirlpool with mountain views.

11.  Asheville Drum Circle

Every Friday evening around 6pm in downtown Asheville’s Pritchard Park, percussionists from all over the city convene to beat out every sort of rhythm you could conceive of.  Aside from mingling with local musicians, observers can experience a genuine slice of Asheville culture while having a dance or perhaps bringing along something to whack as well. Best of all, it’s free!

12.  12 Bones Smokehouse

Barack Obama’s favorite North Carolina rib joint, the 12 Bones Smokehouse is a lunch-only spot renowned for its mouthwatering BBQ sold by the pound.  Obama famously stopped at the 12 Bones for brisket, ribs and pulled pork while on the campaign trail in 2008, but soon proved that the visit was more than a photo op by stopping by again every time he has been in the area since.

13.  Lexington Glassworks

Lexington Glassworks was born out of the desire to create timeless and innovative hand-blown glass and custom lighting. Each piece is skillfully crafted using century old techniques and locally sourced material with the singular goal of creating top-notch work. They pride themselves on an open door culture and invite the public to view the glassblowing process from start to finish, hoping to grow an appreciation for and relationship with the artist making the glass and the pieces on display in the gallery. 

14.  Top of the Monk

The Asheville version of a New York speakeasy, Top of the Monk boasts a menu of classic and unique craft cocktails and a rooftop patio with views of the mountains.  The seasonal menu of cocktails made with a selection of house bitters are served in a laidback yet sophisticated atmosphere. An added bonus is the wall of lockers, each containing a mystery snack that can only be accessed with keys from the bar.

15.  Western North Carolina Nature Center

The Western North Carolina Nature Center, or WNC, connects people with wildlife of the area by inspiring appreciation, nurturing understanding and advancing conservation of the region’s rich biodiversity. Everyone is welcome and there are activities for school children and adult to enjoy alike, with opportunities to learn about and develop an understanding of everyone's responsibility for this area’s native wildlife and habitats. The WNC Nature Center is home to over 60 species of wild and domestic animals and hundreds of species of plants, all representative of the unique Southern Appalachian region.

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28 Amazing Things To Do in Asheville, NC (+ Map!)

Taylor Martin --> October 26, 2023

Whether you like art, nature, entertainment, or something else, there are a lot of fun things to do in Asheville, NC .

Asheville is a wonderful city to visit with incredible museums, great events, interesting landmarks, and much more. From seeing antique cars at a museum to attending a show at a theater to playing vintage pinball games, there’s a large variety of incredible things you can do in the city.

If you’re wondering what to do in Asheville, then I got you covered! I made this guide with the most fun activities, must-see sights, great museums, events, and much more.

Best Things To Do in Asheville, NC

Check out biltmore.

Biltmore is one of the best landmarks in Asheville. It’s a mansion that was the main residence of George Washington Vanderbilt II. The mansion was built at the end of the 19th century and is the largest house in the United States that is privately owned.

You can visit the mansion and do a tour, such as an audio tour, through which you can discover many of the house’s rooms. Biltmore is also great to visit with kids when you are in Asheville as there are special tours for children.

In addition to seeing the beautiful house and estate, and learning about the history of the house, you can also go to one of the events that takes place at Biltmore. For example, during Christmas, you can see beautiful Christmas lights here.

You can also sometimes see incredible art exhibitions at Biltmore.

Address: 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803

Go to the Asheville Pinball Museum

The Asheville Pinball Museum is a place that makes for a very fun activity in Asheville. You can find it in downtown Asheville. At this museum, you can find 70 playable vintage pinball machines and arcade games that you can play as many times as you like for a single fee of 15 dollars per person.

The games that you can play here include classic ones, such as Pacman and Space Invaders.

Keep in mind that the museum can be very busy and you may need to wait before getting in as there is a player limit of 65, which ensures that there is always a game to play once you are inside.

Address: 1 Battle Square Ste 1b, Asheville, NC 28801

Join a Guided Walk at the North Carolina Arboretum

The North Carolina Arboretum is an arboretum and botanical garden that you can find close to Asheville. There are many different types of gardens at this place that are all dedicated to a certain type of plants or flowers.

During many months of the year, you can go to the North Carolina Arboretum and join a weekly guided trail walk. These walks are free to attend and take place 2 times per week.

During these walks, you can see beautiful nature and learn about a variety of topics. The things that you can see during these walks differ per walk depending on the weather, conditions of the trail, and the expertise of the guide.

Besides that, there are all kinds of other events that take place at the North Carolina Arboretum.

Address: 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville, NC 28806

See Art at the Asheville Art Museum

The Asheville Art Museum is a museum that you can find at 2 South Pack Square in the city of Asheville.

At the museum, you can find a collection of American works of art from the 20th and 21st centuries. Moreover, the museum focuses on art from Western North Carolina. You can see art here made by artists from the region, artists who studied at Black Mountain College, and many other artists.

You can see a variety of types of art here, including historic and contemporary crafts, paintings, works of glass, ceramics, wood carvings, stone carvings, and much more. In total, the collection of the museum of the museum includes 7,500 works in total.

There are also temporary exhibitions at the Asheville Art Museum.

Address: 2 S Pack Square, Asheville, NC 28801

Go to a Performance at the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts

The Wortham Center for the Performing Arts is a performing arts complex that consists of three venues and it is located in downtown Asheville.

The names of the three venues that make up the complex are the Diana Wortham Theatre, the Tina McGuire Theatre, and the Henry LaBrun Studio.

Lots of different types of events take place at the theater. For example, you can go here to see a comedy show, enjoy an incredible dance performance, or listen to good live music.

It is also possible to do classes at the Wortham Center for the Performing Arts. For example, it is possible to do adult ballet classes.

Address: 18 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801

Attend a Demonstration at Lexington Glassworks

Lexington Glassworks is a glassblowing studio and gallery that’s definitely worth checking out if you’re wondering what to do in Asheville. At Lexington Glassworks, you can see beautiful pieces of hand-blown glass that were made with old techniques and using material from the region.

In addition to seeing the beautiful pieces of glass and buying a piece if you like it, you can also go to Lexington Glassworks to attend a demonstration. There are live glassblowing events during which you can see the creation of the studio’s pieces, which is an interesting process.

Address: 81 S Lexington Ave, Asheville, NC 28801

Go to the Grove Arcade and Shop

Grove Arcade is a wonderful indoor shopping mall that was established in the year 1928. It is the first indoor shopping mall in the United States and is rich in history.

Moreover, the building of the Grove Arcade is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has a beautiful architectural style.

At the Grove Arcade, you can find many great stores, including local boutique stores. Whether you want to shop for apparel, jewelry, crafts, books, art, or something else, you can do it at Grove Arcade.

In addition to that, there are many dining options at Grove Arace, and you can find the Makers Market here, which is an outdoor market with many stalls where artisans sell their items.

Address: 1 Page Ave, Asheville, NC 28801

See Local Art at Woolworth Walk

Woolworth Walk is another one of Asheville’s art galleries. At Woolworth Walk, you can see works by 170 local artists in one space.

The art gallery has jewelry, decorative arts, crafts, fine art, and many other objects. The diversity makes the art gallery a very interesting place to visit.

You can also find “The Soda Fountain” at Woolworth Walk and get a delicious milkshake or another treat.

In addition, you can attend the “Opening Reception for the Featured Artist” every first Friday. During this event, you can see art by one specific local artist.

Address: 25 Haywood St, Asheville, NC 28801

See Antique Cars at the Estes-Winn Antique Car Museum

You can find the Estes-Winn Antique Car Museum at Grovewood Village in the city of Asheville. This is a must-visit museum in Asheville for those that love cars as you can find a collection of about 20 vehicles here.

These vehicles used to be owned by Harry D. Blomberg and the collection includes cars that are rare and unique.

For example, you can see an American LaFrance Fire Truck at the museum which is amazing to see.

In addition to that, there are many old cars on display at the museum with the oldest car being from the year 1913.

Address: 111 Grovewood Rd, Asheville, NC 28804

Shop at the WNC Farmers Market

The Western North Carolina Farmers Market, or the WNC Farmers Market, is a wonderful farmers market where you can discover great products from Asheville and its surrounding area.

This is a year-round farmers market with an indoor area. You can get fruits, vegetables, crafts, and many other items from local farmers and producers at the market.

Furthermore, there is a garden center where you can buy flowers, and there are also local food trucks at the market where you can get delicious food.

Address: 570 Brevard Rd, Asheville, NC 28806

See a Show at the Asheville Community Theatre

You can find the Asheville Community Theatre on Walnut Street in downtown Asheville.

The theater dates back to the year 1946. It is the oldest theater in the city that is still operating and it is one of the oldest community theaters in the United States.

Many types of shows take place at the theater and going to one of these is a great thing to do in Asheville. For example, you can go here to see a musical, attend a play, or see another type of performance.

What makes seeing a show a more fun experience is that the shows are performed by local artists.

If you like acting or want to learn how to act, you can also do classes at the theater.

Address: 35 E Walnut St, Asheville, NC 28801

Go to the Asheville Retrocade

The Asheville Retrocade is a video arcade with a huge selection of video games.

There are both classic and modern video games to play here, and in total there are more than 5,000 different games to choose from. This means that you can likely find a fun new game to play or be able to play a game you already know here.

Furthermore, the Asheville Retrocade is a place where you can get great drinks. For example, you can get local craft beers, wine, and other types of beverages here.

There is also retro music, and there are many unique pieces of memorabilia, including beer memorabilia from the 1930s.

Address: 800 Haywood Rd #100, Asheville, NC 28806

Go to the Folk Art Center

The Folk Art Center of the Southern Highland Craft Guild is a place where you can see Southern Appalachian works of craft and learn about Southern Appalachian culture. The art center was established in 1980.

You can find a main gallery here with exhibitions of both traditional and contemporary works.

There is a permanent collection that includes works from a large period in time, with the oldest works being about 3,000 years old. The permanent collection also includes contemporary works.

There is also a focus gallery where you can see changing exhibitions of works of art by five members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild.

Address: 382 Blue Rdg Pkwy, Asheville, NC 28805

Visit the WNC Nature Center

The WNC Nature Center is a zoological park that you can find in the city of Asheville. The park dates back to the year 1973.

At the zoo, you can see 60 species of animals that live or used to live in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Most of the animals that you can find at the center have permanent injuries or are not able to live in the wild anymore for other reasons.

It is very interesting to see the animals at the zoo and to learn about each species’ natural history.

Some of the animals that you can find at the WNC Nature Center include the American black bear, the American red wolf, and the American river otter.

Address: 75 Gashes Creek Rd, Asheville, NC 28805

Visit the Asheville Museum of Science

The Asheville Museum of Science , one of the best museums in Asheville , is a museum that you can find in Downtown Asheville.

This museum is aimed at children between the ages of 3 and 12, but the exhibits are fun for all ages.

You can find lots of different exhibits at the museum, including interesting and fun hands-on exhibits. Through these exhibits, you are able to learn about a wide variety of topics related to science.

For example, there is a hall where you can see gems and minerals.

There is also a teratophoneus dinosaur skeleton and there is an area of the museum where you can learn about astronomy.

Address: 43 Patton Ave, Asheville, NC 28801

Do a LaZoom Comedy Bus Tour

The LaZoom Comedy Bus Tour is a fun tour through which you can explore the city of Asheville.

During this tour, you can learn about the city’s history from entertaining tour guides who give you information about the city using comedy skits, such that you can learn new things and have a lot of fun.

There are different types of tours to choose from and all can be great if you’re looking for fun activities in Asheville. For example, you can do the “City Comedy Tour” during which you will visit the River Arts District, the Montfort neighborhood, and many other places.

You can also do the “Haunted Comedy Tour” to learn about the dark past of the city, learn about mysteries, and hear about “hair-raising tales”.

Go to an Event at the Botanical Gardens at Asheville

The Botanical Gardens at Asheville , or the Asheville Botanical Gardens, is a 10-acre botanical garden with native plants from the Southern Appalachians.

Throughout the year, lots of events take place at this place. These events are very diverse.

For example, you can do a workshop in the garden and learn about nature or gardening.

There are also other types of events, including author reading events that you might find interesting.

Some of the events that take place here are free.

Address: 151 WT Weaver Blvd, Asheville, NC 28804

Discover the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center

The Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center is a place where you can find interesting exhibits related to the nature and culture of the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway.

It is also possible to see the movie “The Blue Ridge Parkway – America’s Favorite Journey” at the visitor center. This is a short film during which you can get information about the region’s history and sights.

You can also get information about the Blue Ridge Parkway here from the people working at the center.

Address: 195 Hemphill Knob Rd, Asheville, NC 28803

Go to a Show at the Fine Arts Theatre

The Fine Arts Theatre is a movie theater that dates back to the year 1996 that you can find at 36 Biltmore Avenue.

The theater is a great place to check out if you love art and independent film, but you can sometimes also watch other types of movies here and there are special events.

Furthermore, the theater has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, and you can get great snacks and drinks here, including incredibly delicious popcorn!

Address: 36 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801

Visit Moogseum

Moogseum is a museum of the Bob Moog Foundation that makes for one of the best things to do in Asheville. You can find it at 56 Broadway Street. It is a non-profit museum that is dedicated to the legacy of Bob Moog.

At the museum, you can see interactive and immersive exhibits with which the museum aims to educate and inspire people through electronic music.

One of the exhibits that you can find here is one where you can play a synthesizer, and there is an exhibit where you can find an interactive theremin.

Furthermore, there is a “Bob Moog Timeline” with lots of archival material and photographs.

You can also find an interactive timeline here about the history of the synthesis.

Address: 56 Broadway Street (Front, Asheville, NC 28801

Explore the River Arts District

The River Arts District is a district of Asheville where you can explore Asheville’s local art scene. You can find a lot of working studies and art galleries here, where you can see lots of amazing works of art. From jewelry to works made of glass to pottery, you can see very diverse items here.

There are always studios and art galleries that are open to the public and where you can see great works of art.

There are also events that take place at the River Arts District. For example, every second Saturday of the month, there are gallery walks during which you can see demonstrations, listen to live music, do workshops, taste great food, and do much more.

During other times of the month, there are also many events such as tours and classes.

See a Show of the Montford Park Players

The Montford Park Players is a Shakespeare theatre company with great productions that take place at the Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre, which is located at 92 Gay Street in Asheville.

The theater company was founded in 1973 and it is the longest-running theater company in the city.

Every year, there are various productions that can be fun to attend. For example, every year, you can see a great show of A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens.

Address: 92 Gay St, Asheville, NC 28801

Do a Guided Tour of the Thomas Wolfe Memorial

The Thomas Wolfe Memorial , or the Thomas Wolfe House, is a historic house that is located in Asheville’s historic district. The famous author Thomas Wolfe lived in the house.

The house dates back to the year 1883 and is a designated National Historic Landmark.

Since the year 1916, only a few things about the house changed, which makes it an interesting site to see.

You can explore the house by doing a guided tour. There are several house tours every day, and these tours take place half past each hour.

Address: 52 N Market St, Asheville, NC 28801

Get Ice Cream at Sunshine Sammies

Sunshine Sammies is an ice cream shop that you can find at 99 South Lexington Avenue. You can find the ice cream shop inside a building that was built in the 1920s.

The ice cream shop opened as a solar-powered pushcart in 2013, but it now also has a retail location.

You can enjoy delicious and creative ice cream at Sunshine Sammies which is a fun and relaxing thing to do in Asheville. At this place, you can get incredible handcrafted ice cream sandwiches made with all-natural ingredients.

You can choose the cookie and the flavor of ice cream to get the ice cream sandwich that you like best.

Address: 99 S Lexington Ave, Asheville, NC 28801

See the Basilica of Saint Lawrence

The Basilica of Saint Lawrence is a minor basilica that is located in downtown Asheville. The church features a Spanish Renaissance architectural style, was built in the year 1909, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The basilica was designed by the architect Raphael Guastavino and is beautiful to see.

You can visit the basilica by doing a tour. You can do self-guided tours using a brochure that you can get at the basilica on several days of the week. You can do these tours for free, but donations are appreciated.

Address: 97 Haywood St, Asheville, NC 28801

See Exhibits at The Biltmore Legacy

The Biltmore Legacy is an exhibition that you can see in Antler Hill Village close to the Biltmore House.

At the exhibition, you can see all sorts of treasures from the Biltmore collection.

For example, you can see objects from George Vanderbilt’s visit to Japan in 1892. It includes art and various decorative objects, including samurai armor.

Furthermore, you can see a silver Tiffany & Company tea set here that was a gift from George Vanderbilt’s mother.

There are also portable travel guides from the 19th and 20th centuries by Baedeker.

You can learn about the Vanderbilt Family at the exhibition, and learn about various individual family members.

Address: 197 Dairy Rd, Asheville, NC 28803

See Art at Grovewood Village

Grovewood Village is a wonderful destination if you’re looking for fun things to do in Asheville. You can find a variety of interesting places there.

For example, there is an art gallery here called the Grovewood Gallery that was established in the year 1992. At this place, you can find a variety of objects, including jewelry, textiles, pottery, works of glass, and more, made by 350 artists from across the country.

The gallery is located in a beautiful building.

The Biltmore Industries Homespun Museum is a great museum that you can also check out when you are here. At this museum, you can learn about the history of Biltmore Industries, which was one of the largest producers of handwoven wool in the world.

In addition to that, there are working studies at Grovewood Village, and you can find the Estes-Winn Antique Car Museum here too.

Go to a Concert at The Orange Peel

The Orange Peel is a live music venue that you can find at 101 Biltmore Avenue in downtown Asheville that was opened in 2002.

The music venue has a capacity of 1,050 people and has a state-of-the-art sound system.

Many well-known artists performed here in the past, including Bob Dylan, The Killers, and Post Malone.

In addition to presenting concerts by famous artists, you can also often go here to enjoy music by up-and-coming artists. There are also concerts of a variety of genres that you can attend here.

Address: 101 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801

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What To Do in Asheville Tips

Asheville is a popular city and some places in the city can be very busy. So if you’re deciding what to do in Asheville and you want to visit a popular place in the city, such as the Asheville Pinball Museum, I recommend showing up early to avoid having to wait in line.

Asheville Things To Do Map

I hope I helped you find some fun activities in the city! Thanks for reading my guide to the best things to do in Asheville, NC.

16 Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Asheville

Written by Lana Law and Michael Law Updated Jun 7, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Lana Law has visited Asheville several times, most recently as part of an extensive tour of mountain towns in North Carolina.

Asheville, in the far west of North Carolina, has a different pace from the state's bigger urban centers of Charlotte and Raleigh.

The city has become well known for its vibrant culinary scene and continuously thriving artistic community, and you won't be at a loss for things to do. Downtown Asheville is packed with shopping, restaurants, and museums, including the family-favorite Pinball Museum, where you can play with the exhibits.

This city is full of interesting places to visit, including one of North Carolina's top tourist attractions , the Biltmore Estate , home of the Vanderbilts. This iconic estate is also home to one of the best resorts in the state.

Thanks to its proximity to the mountains, Asheville is an ideal base for excursions on the Blue Ridge Parkway and into the Great Smoky Mountains . It's also convenient to many of North Carolina's prettiest mountain towns .

Find the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions in and around Asheville.

See also: Where to Stay in Asheville

Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway

Tour the biltmore estate, wander through downtown asheville, shop and dine in the river arts district, visit the western north carolina (wnc) nature center, north carolina arboretum, the botanical gardens at asheville, pisgah national forest, blue ridge national heritage area, pack square park, asheville museum of history, craggy gardens, ziplines and hot air balloon rides, chimney rock state park, asheville pinball museum, biltmore village, where to stay in asheville for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to asheville, map of attractions & things to do in asheville, asheville - climate chart.

The Blue Ridge Parkway stretches 469 miles from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina.

October, when the leaves are colorful and picturesque, is the peak season for the parkway and one of the best times of year to visit the Great Smoky Mountains. But, if you prefer smaller crowds, plan a trip in early to mid-summer to view the blooming rhododendrons, mountain laurel, and flaming azaleas.

You can enjoy the scenic vistas from the road and its many pull-offs, or consider taking a closer look by exploring the hiking trails that wander through the surrounding countryside and the Southern Appalachian mountains.

The mountains around Asheville are also home to some of North Carolina's most beautiful waterfalls . If you are visiting in the heat of the summer, be sure to bring your bathing suit and water shoes to take a refreshing dip in the cool waters.

Those who aren't driving or simply want to get a more enriching experience will enjoy this 5-hour guided hiking tour of the Blue Ridge Parkway Waterfalls . Led by an expert local guide, this tour includes transportation to and from Asheville, refreshments, and the opportunity to see several waterfalls while learning about the area's history, flora, and fauna.

Scenic Drive

From Asheville, you can drive east or west on the Blue Ridge Parkway. For a short scenic loop, head west on the parkway until you reach Highway 215 and head south to Highway 64 . Take Highway 64 east to Brevard, which makes a nice lunch stop. The town is also known for its white squirrels, which you may see while you're there. From Brevard continue east and cut up on Highway 276 which will take you back to the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Stop along 276 to see Looking Glass Falls , which is right along the side of the road. Parking can be busy here, particularly on weekends, but since this isn't a hike and most people only spend a few minutes seeing the falls, spots come up frequently.

The Biltmore Estate is Asheville's most famous tourist attraction, and a big draw for couples who are looking for a romantic getaway in North Carolina .

At the center of this 8,000-acre estate is Vanderbilt Mansion , the largest private home in the United States. The mansion alone encompasses four acres and features 250 rooms — 199 bedrooms and 43 bathrooms. In addition to admiring the artwork, antiques, and impressive architecture in the home, leave time to stroll through the gardens and grounds .

Be sure to set aside plenty of time to fully explore the estate. The admission price might seem steep but most people spend almost a full day here. You can wander through the house at your own pace on a self-guided audio tour. Expect to spend 1.5 to 2 hours touring the house. Other guided tour options are available for an additional fee. Afterwards, you can enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants, or head directly to the gardens. Plan on spending at least 45 minutes in the gardens and conservatory.

Alternatively, you can buy a ticket for just the garden and grounds, which allows you to see the gardens and gives you access to walking, hiking, and biking trails.

Author's Tip: When you leave the grounds you'll pass a lagoon. Turn left and walk over the bridge to a parking area where you have a majestic view of the back of the mansion reflecting in the lagoon.

If you want to make this the focus of your trip, consider a stay at the luxury Inn on Biltmore Estate .

Address: 1 Lodge Street, Asheville, North Carolina

The funky, artsy, and eclectic downtown area of Asheville has a friendly, Bohemian vibe. Locally owned shops and boutiques line the streets, along with a tasty selection of restaurants and cafés. Street performers of all kinds, from mimes to musicians, frequently make appearances.

Be sure to explore the historic Urban Trail , a 1.7-mile walking-tour route, which is marked by a series of 30 stations that feature informational plaques and sculptures at various significant sites.

Stroll down Wall Street , a bustling area of charming restaurants with inviting patios and a variety of shops lining its spacious sidewalks.

If you are looking for that special souvenir that captures the spirit of Asheville and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, be sure to stop in at the Grove Arcade . This wonderfully restored building dates from 1929 and is full of unique shops. In the evening, try and snag a spot on the patio of one of the many fine restaurants lining a full city block, and engage in some serious people-watching.

Feel free to join in the regular drum circles that take place at Pritchard Park every Friday night and spontaneously on other nights throughout the summer. If you don't want to participate, just stand around and enjoy the entertainment.

If you're looking for things to do at night in Asheville, see what's happening at the Asheville Community Theatre , Asheville Lyric Opera , or the Asheville Symphony .

Downtown Asheville is a good place to stay if you want to enjoy the city. You can park your car and walk everywhere if you base yourself in the city center. If you're just day tripping you can park your car at the Rankin Avenue Garage and be at the heart of the action and attractions.

An up-and-coming district in Asheville is the River Arts District , known by its acronym "RAD." This eclectic and colorful area consists of former industrial buildings by the French Broad River, which have found new life. Many of the buildings are themselves now works of art, covered in graffiti. Just walking around this area is a feast for the eyes.

Inside the buildings are a treasure trove of artist studios, restaurants, and cafés. Wandering around, touring studios, and grabbing a bite to eat are three of the best things to do in the RAD.

If you need a signature piece of art, this is the place to come. Innovative artisans from around the country descended on this area and have made it a hotbed of craftsmanship. Over 200 artists work in various mediums including, but not limited to, metal, pottery, paint, glass, and paper.

The area hosts Second Saturday Art Strolls , featuring a free trolley, you can even bring your dog if you like. Something is usually going on, so check their website for the latest news.

The Western North Carolina Nature Center is a 42-acre facility dedicated to educating the public about the area's varied animal life and natural habitats. Indoor exhibits include resident reptiles and amphibians; small mammals; and the World Underground exhibit, which explores what lies beneath.

The Nature Center is a fun family destination with a focus on natural play . Outdoor play areas offer all kinds of interesting and engaging natural things to do that will appeal to kids of all ages. Kids can also try their luck at finding that special rock at the gem and mining sluice for an additional fee. After exploring, take a rest and catch one of the many animal programs that let you get up close with snakes, turtles, and even otters.

Outdoor exhibits include a variety of habitats, which are home to native species like otters, turtles, endangered farm animals, raccoons, and foxes. The Appalachian Predators habitat is the park's largest, housing a bobcat, coyotes, grey wolves, and the critically endangered red wolf.

The nature center also has a hiking trail suitable for all ages and offers special programs and events throughout the year.

Address: 75 Gashes Creek Road, Asheville, North Carolina

The North Carolina Arboretum features over 65 acres of cultivated gardens, which are home to a diverse range of plants. Highlights include the National Native Azalea Collection; the G-scale Rocky Cove Railroad model train; and the Bonsai Exhibition Garden, which houses up to 50 of these unique and fragile plants.

The Heritage Garden will be interesting to those who want to learn more about traditional uses for plants, including medicinal and functional applications, and the Quilt Garden is maintained in homage to Appalachian quilting traditions.

This 434-acre natural escape offers outdoor activities and 10 miles of hiking trails , and the center offers guided trail walks, self-guided mobile device tours, and geocaching. The arboretum also hosts traveling exhibits.

Address: 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville, North Carolina

For another escape in the natural world, The Botanical Gardens at Asheville are a series of immaculately tended gardens bursting with color and scent. The horticultural displays focus on local flowering plants and trees, many of which are unique to the state.

The gardens are open year-round, but peak bloom seasons are generally during mid-April and mid-August. Families will want to stop at the visitor center to pick up Investigation Passports for the kids, a fun way to engage younger ones in learning about the plants they will see.

There are also classes and topic-focused walks put on throughout the year for varied ages. This non-profit organization is free and open to the public, so be sure to stop by the on-site gift shop for a memento.

Address: 151 W T Weaver Blvd, Asheville, North Carolina

The Pisgah National Forest covers more than 500,000 acres and is one of the first designated national forests in the country. Within the park, multiple day-use areas offer a variety of amenities and activities, including swimming, trails, and boat ramps.

Multiple camping areas are also found throughout the park. Visitors will find numerous geological landmarks including Table Rock , the Chimneys , and Linville Gorge , as well as the Forest Discovery Center located near the town of Brevard.

Other highlights include guided nature hikes and seasonal interpretive programs and activities like horseback riding, fishing, hiking, bicycling, and rock climbing.

Expanding on the scenery of the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area includes communities and scenic byways, which add to the area's cultural richness. In addition to scenic drives, hiking, bicycling, wildlife viewing, and other outdoor activities, the area has a myriad of things to do.

Within driving distance of Asheville, you'll find farmers markets, local festivals and events, theaters, and gemstone quarries. There are also several opportunities to learn more about the history and culture of the Cherokee and other natives who first occupied the land.

During the peak tourist season, there is a Cherokee Bonfire series and Cherokee Artisan shows, and in the town of Cherokee, you can find a museum dedicated to the culture, as well as the Oconaluftee Indian Village.

This delightful open green space is the perfect place to rest and catch your breath after a day of exploring downtown Asheville. Wide lawns, ample seating, and some shade encourage lingering and relaxation. Surrounding the park are impressive buildings dating from the 20 th century.

Families with children will enjoy the waterpark , where children can run through fountains that spray up from the ground.

Most importantly, Pack Square is the place to catch free outdoor concerts in the summer. Bring a blanket and set up on the grassy slope to catch local musicians and performers.

On the edge of the park is the Pack Square Pavilion with visitor information and restrooms.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the beautiful Smith-McDowell House is home to the Asheville Museum of History . Asheville's oldest surviving dwelling, this pre-Civil War mansion is full of restored with period furniture from the 19th century and decorative arts. The elegant brick building was once also the home for local mayors and a Civil War major.

Another point of interest in Asheville is the Thomas Wolfe Memorial State Historic Site on North Market Street. The childhood home of the famous American author, this Victorian house is the former Old Kentucky Boarding House, once operated by Wolfe's mother. The house is featured in several of Wolfe's works, most notably the largely autobiographical Look Homeward, Angel .

Address: 283 Victoria Road, Asheville, North Carolina

A pleasant 35-minute drive east of Asheville takes you to Craggy Gardens, up on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Home to some 20 endangered or threatened varieties of flowers, Craggy Gardens is the perfect stop for anyone interested in rare plants. The Visitor Center (open seasonally) has exhibits about the local flora,

Be sure to bring your camera, because you will want to photograph the whimsical, wind-bent trees that grow on the mountain. If you visit during June and July, you will find purple rhododendrons in full bloom, but there are plenty of other blossoms to enjoy throughout spring, summer, and fall.

There is a good hiking trail that leads to panoramic views from Craggy Peak, and amenities include free parking, a picnic area, restrooms, and dog-friendly grounds.

Address: 364 Blue Ridge Parkway Black Mountain, NC 28711 (Exit at Mile Marker 382.5)

For a different perspective on the North Carolina landscape, why not get a bird's-eye view from the sky or the treetops? Quiet and serene, hot air balloon rides offer a unique way to see Asheville and the surrounding countryside from above.

There are multiple tour operators to choose from, and there are also several options for thrill-seekers who want to experience a zipline canopy tour. Autumn is a particularly popular time of year for both activities when the forest canopy is ablaze with vibrant foliage. Make sure to take (and hold tightly onto) your camera.

Twenty-five miles southeast of Asheville, Chimney Rock State Park features its landmark namesake: a 315-foot solid granite spire that rises over 2,280 feet. Don't worry, you don't need to climb to the top, visitors of all physical abilities can reach the top thanks to a 26-story elevator built inside the mountain.

Families will enjoy a variety of kid-friendly activities, including the educational Great Woodland Adventure Trail, the Animal Discovery Den, a kids' climbing tower, and scavenger hunts.

Another popular sightseeing spot in the park is reached via the Hickory Nut Falls Trail. The moderate, mostly level trail leads to the base of the 404-foot Hickory Nut Falls . For boaters, Lake Lure is the destination of choice.

Address: 431 Main Street, Chimney Rock, North Carolina

Located in downtown Asheville, the Asheville Pinball Museum allows you to not only see their 40 vintage pinball machines but play most of them as well. This nostalgic museum allows free play on its machines, which also include 40 classic video games, with a flat admission fee, and is a great way to regain your inner teenager.

The Pinball Museum can become very busy, and the facility limits capacity. To make it easier, the museum has a waiting list service, which allows you to explore and shop in downtown Asheville until your turn comes up. You can also pass your time shopping and dining across the street at the Grove Arcade while waiting.

Be sure to check the website for opening hours, they are not open in the mornings.

Address: 1 Battle Square, Suite 1B, Asheville, North Carolina

Biltmore Village was one of the country's first "company towns" — an entire community planned for the purpose of housing Biltmore Estate workers and their families.

Designed to resemble an English village, it has become a top tourist destination for both its historic charm, European ambience, and shopping. You'll find everything from independent boutiques to major labels, as well as a wide variety of some of Asheville's best restaurants.

Another Biltmore-related spot is Grovewood Village , once the center of Biltmore's woodworking and weaving branches. Here, you will find the Biltmore Industries Homespun Museum , as well as an antique car museum, an art gallery, and a sculpture garden.

We recommend these great hotels in Asheville, near downtown shops, restaurants, and attractions:

• The Windsor Boutique Hotel is a luxury boutique hotel in a great central location. Rooms have exposed brick walls, the apartments have full kitchens and the bedding is luxe linens.
• Hilton Garden Inn Asheville Downtown is a mid-range priced spot in an excellent location that is easily walkable to the sights of downtown. A highlight here is the sunny rooftop terrace that is ideal for catching the sunset. The hotel also has a complimentary downtown shuttle and a well-equipped fitness center.
• A good mid-range option is the Country Inn & Suites Asheville River Arts District . This 3-star hotel has bright rooms, an indoor pool and gym, and a free downtown shuttle.
• A couple of miles farther out from downtown is the Quality Inn Asheville Downtown Tunnel Road . This is a budget hotel with clean rooms, free breakfast and parking, in-room fridges, and microwaves. The hotel also has a free downtown shuttle.

Ghostly Asheville :

• Believers and skeptics alike will enjoy this evening tour of Asheville's most haunted spots, including the Basilica of St. Lawrence and the Omni Grove Park Inn. A local guide shares stories and interesting historical facts during the two-hour Night Time Walking Ghost Tour .

Blue Ridge by Horseback:

• The Flame Azalea and Fern Forest Combo Horseback Trail Ride gives you the opportunity to see some of the area's most beautiful plant life and scenery from the unique perspective of horseback. Lessons are available for beginners at no extra charge, and ride time is not shortened, making this a great family outing for those who want to try out something new.

Paddle through Downtown:

• You'll be able to see the city from a new angle on the Guided Stand-Up Paddleboard Tour Through Asheville's River Arts District . Starting in the River Arts District , you are provided with all necessary equipment and will get a paddleboard lesson before embarking on a peaceful small-group tour.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Nearby Places to Visit: This area of North Carolina is a treasure trove of quaint mountains towns and scenic drives. Other highlights in this region are the beautiful waterfalls . These are easily visited on day trips from Asheville. You can also work in some hiking if you have enough time. If you're visiting in winter, some of North Carolina's best ski resorts are not that far away and can make a nice side trip.

More on North Carolina

Home » Travel Guides » United States » North Carolina (NC) » 15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Asheville

15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Asheville

See the outline of Downtown Asheville on a map, and its radical, irregular edged shape could be a piece from a jigsaw puzzle. But it doesn’t take long to work out, when it comes down to having a good time, this North Carolina city district is the perfect fit and has more going on than many downtown areas twice its size.

Make an inspiring visit to the home of one of America’s greatest writers, indulge in a salt cave spa or explore a fascinating urban trail. Zoom around Downtown Asheville on a purple bus, watch craftsmen blow glass or investigate the district’s culinary scene on a walking tour then watch the sunset on the mountains. It doesn’t get better than that. Or does it?

Do all of these best fifteen things to do in Downtown Asheville, and you’ll find your stay in the “Paris of the South” won’t just be better than good, it’ll be downright amazing.

1. LaZoom Tours

A wild and wacky way to see Downtown Asheville is on a LaZoom Comedy Bus Tour . Don’t expect normal. It’s just not going to happen.

Think more along the lines of men dressed as nuns and plenty of hilarious slapstick combined with sightseeing around Downtown, the River Arts district, and the Montford neighborhood.

The LaZoom Comedy Bus departs from Biltmore Avenue in Downtown Asheville. The jokes flow from the word go and continue for the entire trip which lasts around ninety minutes.

Prefer a walking tour with beer? Try out the BREW-ed Downtown Asheville Brewery Walking Tour

2. Thomas Wolfe Memorial

The Thomas Wolfe Memorial is a rambling 19th-century mansion on North Market Street in Downtown Asheville dedicated to honoring the famous American author whose writing was inspired by the city and its people.

The museum contains over eight hundred items pertinent to the writer and the era of his literary works. In a time-capsule fashion, the rooms of the house are furnished as they were during the period Thomas Wolfe was resident in the property and it was functioning as a boarding house.

It’s possible to explore the exhibits alone or to join a guided tour of the house with narration by a qualified historian.

Related tour : Asheville City Tour

3. Grove Arcade

The Grove Arcade is Downtown Asheville’s most popular mall for shopping and eating out. Built in the late 1920s, the historic building was one of the most elegant of its time and is a registered landmark.

The mall was renovated in 2002 and re-opened to continue trading in its original way with a diverse collection of select retailers offering unique services and products. Inside there are fine jewelers, specialist clock and watchmakers and even an outlet selling only fossils and minerals imported from around the globe.

The Grove Arcade also has a diverse selection of eateries serving everything from falafel, burgers, and pizza to a champagne bar with a book exchange and a wine bar with an outside patio. There is also a daily Artists Market for local crafters to sell their work.

4. Asheville Urban Trail

Walking the Asheville Urban Trail is a great way of getting to know Downtown Asheville, learning some of its history and seeing its plethora of public artworks all at the same time. The trail is just under two miles long, commences in Pack Place and makes almost a complete circuit around the Downtown area before culminating not far from where it started.

Trail maps are available from the information center in Pack Square Park or downloadable online. There are thirty individual artworks in total along the trail. Among them bronze turkeys and pigs, an enormous flat iron and life-size statues of a fiddler and dancers to name just a few.

Take a camera and snap shots of the sculptures. They’ll make a great addition to any souvenir collection of Downtown Asheville photographs.

Related tour : 2 hour Guided Segway Tour

5. French Broad Chocolate Lounge

Skip dinner and go straight for dessert at the French Broad Chocolate Lounge. The celestial blue building, on the corner of Pack Square in Downtown Asheville, houses every chocoholic’s idea of heaven.

In the Lounge’s bare brick and polished wood interior, indulge in handmade truffles, ice creams, cookies or any other of the multitude of sweet confections or chocolate orientated drinks.

All the desserts are created from chocolate made in the French Broad Chocolate Factory which, although outside of the Downtown district, is also well worth a visit

6. Asheville Community Theater

The Asheville Community Theater on East Walnut Street is where the local Downtown Asheville community go to show off their talent.

The community theater has been hosting top-class performances from local actors for over sixty years in productions as varied as Sweeney Todd, Young Frankenstein and Annie, Get Your Gun.

While the participants may not be full-time actors and actresses, expect a great show presented with professionalism.

7. Asheville Museum Of Science

Make a fascinating visit to the Asheville Museum Of Science on Downtown Asheville’s Patton Avenue. The museum may be small, but it has some powerful interactive exhibits which will blow any visitor away.

Step inside the Hurricane Simulator and feel the full force of a storm or create rain in the French Broad River Water table display before getting up close to the skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus Rex or a robot used to explore Mars.

The museum also houses an extensive collection of minerals in the Colburn Hall of Minerals as well as multiple displays on the geology of North Carolina.

8. Off The Wagon

The Off The Wagon is a lively dueling piano bar on North Market Street in Downtown Asheville.

Grab a seat in the 1920s speakeasy-style bar and wait for the party to start. Be prepared to join in with either choosing songs for the piano players to perform or sing along when the words are familiar.

It’s cool, it’s casual, and it’s a fun night out in Downtown Asheville.

9. Asheville Salt Cave

Experience the therapeutic qualities of rock salt at the Asheville Salt Cave on Eagle Street in Downtown Asheville.

Meditate among the negative ions in a cave constructed of twenty tons of pink salt blocks to recharge your spiritual and physical batteries, take a detoxifying hot salt stone massage or an aromatherapeutic salt glow treatment.

Sound healing concerts, Yoga Nidra sessions and new moon meditation are also practiced at the Asheville Salt Cave.

10. Lexington Glassworks

Visit the Lexington Glassworks on Downtown Asheville’s South Lexington Avenue to watch master glass blowers at work in their studio.

View the entire process as the blowers transform an innate blob of glass into an incredible and unique work of art with their breath and a few twists of the rod.

If the heat of the furnace brings on a thirst, the studio has an in-house tap room selling Asheville craft beers served in hand-blown glasses.

11. The Flying Bike

Take the hard work out of pedaling and tour around Downtown Asheville on a Flying Bike. Join the tour just outside of Downtown on Coxe Avenue, mount one of the Pedego Boomerang Plus cycles and whizz back to the district for a morning of electric-powered exploring.

Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, take in the main Downtown Asheville sights during the two and a half hour tour which covers around nine miles of the district’s streets.

Don’t want a tour? Then hire a Flying Bike and cycle around Downtown at your own pace. Both ways are great fun.

12. Asheville Pinball Museum

Take a trip back in time and into the historic world of gaming at the Asheville Pinball Museum at Battle Square in Downtown Asheville.

The museum has eighty machines ranging from antique pinball to classic video games such as Pac-man which are all playable.

Entrance is restricted to a maximum of eighty people at a time to ensure every visitor has a machine to test their skills on. Get there early; pinball is a popular activity in Downtown Asheville.

13. Taste Carolina Food Tour

One way to delve deep into the cuisine and sample what’s on offer in more than one Downtown Asheville restaurant at a time is to join a Taste Carolina Food Tour.

Enjoy a Downtown Asheville Tasting Tour early in the day visiting farm-to-table restaurants, gourmet food stores and hidden culinary gems which are hard to find or take a Downtown Asheville Evening Eats and Drinks Tour for some sophisticated sampling.

You’ll soon discover why DT Asheville has become a preferred destination for foodies in North Carolina.

Related tour : Hidden Gems! Walking Eats & Drinks Tour of Downtown Asheville

14. Asheville Music Hall

There is nothing old-fashioned or vaudeville about the Asheville Music Hall on Downtown Asheville’s College Street.

The Asheville Music Hall is an up to date concert venue which features top bands and DJ’s as well as hosting trivia nights plus talent and songwriting competitions.

The venue has a standing capacity for over three hundred and fifty spectators plus an additional bar, the One Stop, for showcasing local musical talent.

15. Montford Rooftop Bar

The Montford Rooftop Bar in Hyatt Place on Haywood Street is the place to watch the sun go down on Downtown Asheville.

The sky-high bar has a west-facing, glass-walled terrace with uninterrupted views over the mountain ranges surrounding the city

Sipping on an Asheville craft beer or a cocktail and nibbling on some baked Carolina bison meatballs or house tater tots while enjoying sensational sunset vistas is the perfect way to end a day in Downtown Asheville.

15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Asheville:

• LaZoom Tours
• Thomas Wolfe Memorial
• Grove Arcade
• Asheville Urban Trail
• French Broad Chocolate Lounge
• Asheville Community Theater
• Asheville Museum Of Science
• Off The Wagon
• Asheville Salt Cave
• Lexington Glassworks
• The Flying Bike
• Asheville Pinball Museum
• Taste Carolina Food Tour
• Asheville Music Hall
• Montford Rooftop Bar

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14 Hikes Near Asheville For Every Type Of Hiker, According To Locals

Local hiking experts guide us through the best hikes for every kind of Asheville adventure, from easy walks and hikes with waterfalls to more rigorous loop hikes and more.

How to Prepare For Your Hike

Trail terminology to know.

• Waterfall Hikes with Swimming
• Hikes for a Picnic Lunch
• Workout Hikes
• Off the Beaten Path Hikes

Katie Linsky Shaw

A trip to Asheville, North Carolina —or any of the scenic small towns surrounding it like Black Mountain , Sylva , Flat Rock, and Lake Lure—should always include a hike. Finding the right hike near Asheville can be overwhelming when the Western North Carolina mountains boast more than 1,000 miles of trails within an hour of the city. Add in the different fitness levels and ages of your traveling companions, and you’re faced with what can seem like an impossible decision.

We turned to local experts at Blue Ridge Hiking Company, owner Lindsey Barr and hiking guide Bev MacDowell, to round up a list of hiking trails near Asheville that accommodate a variety of ages and interests. Keep in mind that some trails require a 30-minute to one-hour drive from Asheville, but we promise the time on the road will be worth it.

• Lindsey Barr is the owner of Blue Ridge Hiking Company based in Asheville, North Carolina.
• Bev MacDowell is a hiking guide with Blue Ridge Hiking Company.

Clothing and Gear

Before heading out to the trail, preparation is a must. Barr said hikers should wear comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing (no cotton) and shoes with good tread. Wool socks are also recommended. Barr’s other tips include bringing a rain jacket regardless of the forecast, and dressing in layers because temperatures can vary greatly from morning to afternoon. MacDowell added that hikers should carry one to two liters of water per person. She also suggested hiking poles to help with elevation climbs and descents. 

The Blue Ridge Mountains are home to black bears which are normally not aggressive or confrontational unless defending their cubs or food source. MacDowell recommends hiking with a loud whistle which she said is usually enough to scare off a bear. Barr uses bear spray if hiking in areas where bears have recently been active and problematic. 

If you do encounter a bear, don’t run, approach, or turn your back. The National Park Service advises you to simply back away slowly. If the bear comes toward you, stand your ground and make yourself appear larger by shouting at it and throwing non-food items like rocks and sticks. Do not play dead. Black bears are naturally afraid of humans and prefer to be left alone. Don’t feed them.

Temperature and Seasonal Closures

The Blue Ridge Parkway closes portion when temperatures drop below freezing. Visitors can still walk and bike the closed section. If visiting in winter, check for any parkway closures here. Oh and please keep your dogs on a leash.

• Out and Back : An “out and back” trail means you hike to a point, turn around, and hike back. The mileage listed for the trail is the entire distance of the hike. So a 2-mile “out and back” trail means you’ll hike one mile in, usually to an overlook or waterfall, turn around, and hike one mile back out.
• Loop : A loop trail is just what it sounds like: a trail that loops around and doesn't have a specific point to turn around.

Easy Hikes Near Asheville

These trails are relatively flat and most people can comfortably walk them. There might be a few sets of stairs or a very small hill but overall, an easy trail is suitable for all levels. 

Buck Springs Trail

Buck Springs Trail is a 2.5-mile “out and back hike” that starts at the Pisgah Inn Overlook road along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The trail leads to the grounds of the former hunting lodge of George Vanderbilt who traveled there by horseback from the Biltmore Estate. Foundation ruins, original stairs, and the well house are all that remain. You can still enjoy the views of Pisgah National Forest and see why Vanderbilt chose this part of the country to build his estate.

The trail is part of the 500,000-acre Pisgah Forest system made possible by Edith Vanderbilt’s sale of 86,000 acres according to her husband’s wishes following his death. 

For traveling companions unable to hike the entire trail, there’s a small parking lot at Buck Springs Overlook, down the parkway from the trailhead entrance, where you can park and easily walk up a set of stairs to view the ruins.

Pink Beds Loop

Pink Beds Loop is an easy, mainly flat trail that’s either 5.1 miles if you follow the entire loop or 2.5 miles if you take the Barnett Branch Trail halfway into the hike. The forest trail winds through meadows of flowers while crisscrossing a stream. Wooden bridges and boardwalks guide hikers over the swampy areas. Watch your step because of exposed roots along the trail. There’s no long-range view on the hike but with the trailhead’s location—only 3.5 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway—you can easily drive up when you’re through and stop at a nearby overlook. Or head to the Cradle of Forestry next door to explore the grounds and historic buildings of America’s first forestry school.

Waterfall Hikes with Swimming Near Asheville

Dupont State Forest , a rather young recreational area that was acquired by the state in 2000, is known for its mountain biking trails and waterfalls. It’s located about an hour from Asheville and 23 minutes from Brevard. You could easily spend a full day in the area.

Two trails—an easy trail and one that’s more strenuous—start from the same parking lot. Head to Hooker Falls Parking as your base for both hikes. There’s plenty of space and restroom facilities for cleaning up. Know that the area is popular and the lot might be full on warm weekends. Either go early or visit during the week to avoid crowds

Hooker Falls Trail

Hooker Falls Trail is a short, family-friendly, easy hike to a wide waterfall with a large area for swimming. Barr said she reminds visitors that the water here is very cold year-round. The entire trail is only 0.8 miles roundtrip. Some hikers use this short route and swimming hole to cool off after hiking the next trail.

Triple Falls Trail to High Falls Loop

For a more moderate hike, Triple Falls Trail to High Falls Loop is a 2.7-mile roundtrip loop with a few climbs in elevation. The trail follows the river and winds around a series of breathtaking waterfalls featured in The Hunger Games and Last of the Mohicans movies. 

Catawba Falls

Catawba Falls River Trail is a 2.3-mile “out and back” hike just east of Asheville in Old Fort and about 3 miles from the Interstate 40 exit. The trail follows the river to the beautiful lower falls and includes several spots along the way for wading in the water. The trail was recently reopened with improvements like wider paths and expanded access to the Upper Falls. However, access to the Upper Falls and its much larger, picturesque swimming hole includes climbing an observation tower with stairs equivalent to a 30-story building.

The top part of the tower consists of grated, metal stairs which may be difficult for some dogs to climb. I saw at least one owner carrying his very large pup down the stairs. My dog reluctantly made the climb.

The trail can also be completed as a loop by adding the new ridgeline trail. Hikers can choose to do the loop clockwise by climbing 1,100 feet to the Upper Falls and descending the steps to the Lower Falls. Or they can hike it counter-clockwise which makes the hike down the new ridgeline trail easier but includes the challenging tower climb between falls. No matter which way you choose, I was thankful for the swimming holes for cooling down.

Loop Hikes Near Asheville

These loop hikes are usually ranked as “moderate” by the AllTrails app but keep in mind that portions of these trails could easily fall in the “hard” category. Good hiking boots are a must and poles can be helpful. If you don’t have poles, MacDowell said to hike hands-free meaning without holding a water bottle or phone. That way, you’ll be able to easily and safely steady yourself as needed.

Black Balsam Knob and Tennent Mountain Loop via Art Loeb Trail

Black Balsam Knob and Tennent Mountain Loop via Art Loeb Trail is a 4.3-mile hike about an hour outside of Asheville along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Leave time to pull over at one of the many overlooks on the way to your hike. 

It’s recommended to hike the trail counter-clockwise by starting on the Ivestor Gap Trail which is a gravel road located at the end of Black Balsam Knob Road off the parkway. The gravel road winds around the mountain to the Art Loeb Trail where your ascent to one of two peaks begins. The trail is challenging in sections but offers incredible views throughout the route. 

The Sam Knob trail is also accessible from the same parking lot. It’s a 2.5-mile “out and back” trail with a moderate hike through a meadow and forest, and a more difficult climb to the top over large rocks and steps. But the views are amazing.

 Katie Linsky Shaw

John Rock Trail to Cat Gap Loop

John Rock Trail to Cat Gap Loop is a 5.6-mile loop that starts in the Pisgah Fish Hatchery parking lot just outside Brevard. The diverse trail includes water crossings, a hike through a serene forest, a gradual climb in elevation, and views of Looking Glass Rock from the top. We recommend you hike it counter-clockwise. Make sure and follow a map to avoid missing the John Rock lookout point which is actually right past the top of the trail as you start to head down. This is a great spot to rest and enjoy a snack.

Watch for slippery wet rocks at the top and please keep your dog on a leash.

Hikes for a Picnic Lunch Near Asheville

Craggy Gardens , located about 40 minutes outside of Asheville on the Blue Ridge Parkway, has scenic picnic spots with incredible views. The thickets of rhododendrons, grassy meadows, and jagged rocks, give this high-elevation area a serene, “fairy tale feel,” especially when the flowers bloom in the summer. 

Head to the picnic area turn-in which is three miles before the Craggy Gardens visitors center to enjoy lunch. The area has two options for hiking.

Craggy Gardens Trail

The Craggy Gardens Trail , a 2.2-mile “out and back” hike along a portion of the Mountains to Sea Trail, starts at the picnic area and includes long-range views and the Craggy meadow with wildflowers. 

Craggy Pinnacle Trail

For a much shorter hike, hop back in your car and drive a half mile past the visitor’s center to the Craggy Pinnacle Trail . This popular, one-mile “out and back” trail takes visitors through tunnels of rhododendrons up to the mountaintop for a 360-degree view. Watch for fog rolling in. This can happen quickly and block those picture-worthy views.

After Craggy Gardens, continue on the parkway for another 25 minutes to Mt. Mitchell State Park which at 6,684 feet, is the highest point east of the Mississippi River. It’s an easy walk up the hill from the parking lot to an observation deck.

Bearwallow Mountain Trail

Bearwallow Mountain Trail , located just east of Asheville in the tiny community of Gerton, offers a roundtrip loop of 2.1 miles, or an “out and back” hike of 1.6 miles. The trail is accessed by Bearwallow Mountain Road off Hwy. 74 on the way to Lake Lure. The road eventually turns to gravel before reaching the trailhead with parking along the road. 

It’s about 0.8 miles to the top and is ranked by the AllTrails app as a moderate hike. Rock steps are set up along the trail which climbs 587 feet in elevation to the grassy bald and picturesque mountain meadow. Don’t be surprised to see a few cows at the top near the fire tower in the warmer months. (Watch for cow patties!)

Once you reach the meadow, go to your left for an unobstructed view of the mountains or find a spot on the right. There’s plenty of space to stretch out and enjoy a snack.

The hike can be extended by following the trail across the meadow and entering the Wildcat Rock Trail at the edge of the woods. To loop down, follow the gravel road below the meadow back to the trailhead. 

Workout Hikes Near Asheville

Technically, any hike can be considered a workout, even the easy ones. But for those who require a bit more of a challenge, we’ve got that covered, too.

Lookout Trail

The Lookout Trail in the tiny village of Montreat outside Black Mountain is only a one-mile, “out and back” trail, but the 0.5 miles up hundreds of stairs to the top will quickly leave you breathless and questioning your decision to hike it. Stick with it! The views at the top are incredible.

There is a spot near the top that requires a little scrambling over rocks. If you have bad knees, remember what goes up must come down which means a descent of all the stairs you just climbed. 

If excessive stair-climbing is not your thing, Montreat and nearby Black Mountain are relaxing places to stroll while your traveling partner hikes.

Shut-In Trail

For trail runners, the Shut-In Trail is a 17-mile point-to-point route that starts beside the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville and ends at the Upper Mt. Pisgah parking lot. It shares its name and route with the Shut-In Race, an endurance running event that welcomes 225 participants each year. The trail follows the path originally blazed by George Vanderbilt from the Biltmore Estate to his hunting lodge. The trail can be accessed through the Arboretum parking lot or by following the Mountains to Sea Trail with parking just off the Blue Ridge Parkway right before the entrance to the arboretum. The only views are through the trees in winter, but for the trail runner, it’s a fun challenge.

Off the Beaten Path Hikes Near Asheville

Finding a trail that’s not packed with people usually involves a gravel road to get there. Here are two trails suitable for different skill levels within one family. 

Discovery, Log Hollow, and Logging Road Waterfalls Trail

Discovery, Log Hollow, and Logging Road Waterfalls Trail is a 2.6-mile “out and back” trail that features three waterfalls. The trailhead is about four miles off the parkway which includes turning on gravel road 475b off Pisgah Highway near the Cradle of Forestry. 

The main trail starts on an old logging road which makes it an easy walk to view Log Hollow and Logging Road Waterfalls. This is where your “easy level” hikers can relax while the more moderate ones head to Discovery Falls. 

That trail starts on the right, just before you reach the first waterfall. Follow the trail up and through the woods. It does get steep when approaching the falls so be careful and use your poles. It’s the most impressive of the three waterfalls on the hike.

Buckhorn Gap Trail to Twin Falls

Buckhorn Gap Trail to Twin Falls is a 4-mile loop with two waterfalls. The trailhead is located past the Pisgah Forest Horse Stables. If the road is closed, hikers must park at the horse stables and walk a half-mile to the trailhead.

Going counter-clockwise, the trail winds through the woods with several scenic stream crossings. The first waterfall can be seen from the trail or reached by hiking off the path. Continue hiking until you reach beautiful Twin Falls before looping back down. This is a great waterfall hike for avoiding the crowds. 

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The 10 Best Hotels in Asheville, North Carolina

I n Asheville, the mountains (the Blue Ridge ones, that is) are calling, along with bluegrass music, innovative plays on farm-to-table cuisine , more craft beer than you'll know what to do with, and a dynamic homegrown art scene . As Asheville continues to draw more and more visitors, it's resisted losing its local flavor, making it a tried-and-true place to experience the crossroads of Appalachia and the South.

As the city evolves, so does its hotel scene. On April 26, 2024, the Flat Iron Hotel will debut with 77 rooms that nod to the Gilded Age with art deco–inspired design, and May 2024 brings two unique hotels just outside the city that are steeped in nature: The Mirror Hotel , which features cabins covered in mirrors that reflect the surrounding natural beauty, and AutoCamp Asheville , an outpost of the brand known for its Airstream and glamping accommodations. Meanwhile, the best hotels in the city, which we've hand-selected for our Hotels We Love series, manage to capture Asheville's essence and turn it outward so guests can experience what makes this city distinctive. Here are the 10 top hotels in Asheville, North Carolina, listed in no particular order, that we recommend.

Blind Tiger Asheville

• Why we love it: Individually designed rooms in a former residence dating to 1889

The Blind Tiger in Asheville is the third Blind Tiger in the growing collection (the others are in Burlington, Vermont, and Portland, Maine). Opened in June 2023, Blind Tiger Asheville is housed in a building that was originally built as a private residence in 1889. The hotel's decor incorporates vintage, antique, and handmade pieces into the 14 rooms and suites, which range from an airy artist's loft on the top floor of the historic main house to a cozy stand-alone two-room cabin. Some rooms have fireplaces, jetted tubs, kitchenettes, and charming sitting nooks.

Outside, the grounds feature green and flowering gardens and charming koi ponds. When hunger strikes, guests can visit the pantry, which is stocked with a curated selection of complimentary snacks, cold brew, and cocktail fixings. From $179

Foundry Hotel

• Why we love it: A well-located modern hotel with a standout culinary program

Opened at the end of 2018, the 87-room Foundry Hotel occupies North Carolina's former steel foundry (which forged the steel used to build the Biltmore). The boutique property consists of three old steel mill buildings and two new structures and maintains several original features, including a pulley elevator, exposed beams, steel-star fastenings, exposed brick, and industrial-style windows.

Take a ride in the house Tesla Model X, play bocce on the lawn, or relax on a rocking chair by one of the outdoor firepits. The hotel honors its surroundings-Asheville's historically Black business district-via tours with a historian and its acclaimed, Appalachian-inspired soul food restaurant, Benne on Eagle, which employs former neighborhood restaurant owner Hanan Shabazz as a consultant and serves many of her recipes. With Shabazz's mentorship, the restaurant aims to ensure the African American culinary traditions that once thrived in the area will continue to do so for years to come. From $209

The Inn and the Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate

• Why we love it: Two ways to stay at a grand (and eco-conscious) hotel on a historic property

George Vanderbilt came to Asheville in 1895 to pursue his dream of building a self-sustaining residence. Today, his 8,000-acre Biltmore Estate remains an eco-friendly marvel-nine acres of solar panels offset 20 percent of the energy used at the estate and its farmland-and is a must-see for anyone visiting Asheville. For an extra special experience, book a room at one of several lodging options on the estate. (Sorry, no overnights in the Vanderbilts' original home are allowed.)

The most luxurious choice is the Inn, with rooms that exude old-world elegance in the form of dark wood furniture, rich textiles, and plush beds. The Inn is renovating all rooms while remaining open; the first set was completed in early 2024, and the second set will be completed in 2025. The newly designed rooms take inspiration from the Vanderbilt mansion.

In between strolling the spectacular gardens and grounds, enjoy the hotel's heated outdoor pool and hot tub, deluxe spa, fitness center, library lounge, and stately white-linen dining room with a menu of farm-to-table Southern classics-the ingredients come straight from the estate's farm. Keep a lookout for grazing Angus cattle, White Dorper sheep, and Berkshire pigs that are humanely raised on the estate and served in the restaurants, and be sure to tour the working vineyard and winery.

Also on the expansive Biltmore Estate is the more casual (and more affordably priced) Village Hotel. The atmosphere is relaxed, with a farmhouse-meets-cottage vibe; rooms feature a white-and-gray color palette, plus natural wood and metal accents. Village guests also have access to the estate grounds, gardens, and winery, as well as to an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a grab-and-go café. Best of all, you can bring your dog-the Village Hotel is pet-friendly . The Inn from $320; the Village Hotel from $210

Kimpton Hotel Arras

• Why we love it: A former bank turned modern mountain retreat
• Loyalty program: IHG One Rewards

The pet-friendly Kimpton Hotel Arras opened in October 2019 as part of a historic transformation of the former BB&T Bank, which was built in 1965 in Asheville's bustling Pack Square. Now the building (the tallest in Asheville) features 128 rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, some showcasing impressive views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The decor is inspired by a modern mountain motif, with wood paneling, stone features, custom ironwork, and an original metalwork by local artist Catherine Murphy hanging above each bed. In fact, there's local work throughout the entire hotel, with nightly art tours available (don't miss the massive steel sculpture just outside the building, which the hotel commissioned from Asheville artists Chukk Bruursema and Ash Knight to honor the city's music scene). Guests can also explore the area on complimentary Public bikes and return to use the hotel's Exhale Massage Spa, yoga area, and fitness center featuring Peloton bikes. From $191

Omni Grove Park Inn

• Why we love it: A century-old Blue Ridge Mountains getaway with modern creature comforts
• Loyalty program: Select Guest (Omni Hotels & Resorts)

A historic resort dating to 1913, this grand dame of the Blue Ridge Mountains was originally designed to echo the iconic Old Faithful Inn and Canyon Hotel in Yellowstone National Park. Built from granite stones mined from adjacent Sunset Mountain, it's listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a member of Historic Hotels of America.

Guests of the Omni Grove Park can expect 513 luxurious rooms, plus 36-foot-wide stone fireplaces, elevators hidden in chimneys, and one of the largest collections of arts and crafts furnishings in the world, including more than 400 oak chairs, corner servers, sideboards, writing tables, and lighting fixtures. To keep you busy, there are also 10 bars and restaurants; a 43,000-square-foot subterranean, rock-wall spa with a grotto-like relaxation pool; a fitness complex complete with indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, and hiking trails; and an award-winning golf course. Plus, it's only a 10-minute drive to downtown Asheville.

Since becoming part of Omni Hotels & Resorts, the hotel has donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to nonprofit partners across western North Carolina during the holiday season. It also donates one meal to a local food pantry for every guest stay. From $229

The Radical

• Why we love it: Showy, maximalist interiors celebrating urban creativity

Living up to its name, this hotel is filled with bold touches such as graffiti-style art, intricate patterns, and bright colors. Opened in the fall of 2023 in the city's funky River Arts District, The Radical is located inside a graffiti-covered former 1920s cereal factory. The 70 unique guest rooms and suites retain their original building features, including raw concrete pillars and exposed brick walls (that now complement vibrant street art), marble and brass bathrooms, and large windows (ask for one with French Broad River views).

The hotel features more than 200 works of art, including several murals and graffiti painted on the building over the years that the owners preserved and incorporated into the design. Guests can dine at wood-fire restaurant Golden Hour (try the wood-grilled skewers with Japanese sweet potato, chicken, shrimp, and local mushrooms), sip on cocktails at the rooftop bar, and start and end the day at the café and bar AfterGlow, all with menus by local Asheville chef and two-time James Beard–nominated Jacob Sessoms. From $152

The Restoration Asheville

• Why we love it: A design-forward retreat in the heart of downtown

In 2023, one of Charleston's favorite hip hotels opened its second location in downtown Asheville. The all-suite Restoration Asheville features 60 guest rooms ranging from 375 to 600 square feet, with perks including locally roasted coffee, late-night cookies, and an in-room Nosh Box with locally made snacks. Design details include hardwood floors, exposed brick walls, richly patterned textile accents, and leather headboards.

Signature restaurants include the Exchange, with a seasonally driven menu; the Observatory, a rooftop cocktail bar and event space; the Rise, a coffee shop with breakfast sandwiches and pastries; and the Draftsman, an underground speakeasy-style lounge complete with bowling lanes, vintage arcade games, and a stage for live music. Also on the property, you'll find a library stocked with Assouline books; flip through a tome there or in the sun-drenched Solarium. From $277

Windsor Boutique Hotel

• Why we love it: A dose of Paris in downtown Asheville

Initially constructed in 1907, the Windsor went through an 18-month renovation before opening as a Parisian-inspired boutique hotel in the heart of downtown, ideal for families or longer stays. The all-suite hotel has 14 spacious guest rooms with distinct designs, each containing either a king, queen, or double queen bedroom, bathroom, a fully equipped kitchen, a living room with sleeper sofa, and a washer/dryer. Complimentary amenities lend a residential feel to the experience and include free parking, snacks and drinks, yoga mats and free weights, and a selection of board games available upon request.

Art from Paris and pieces by Asheville artists can be found throughout the hotel, and on the ground level you can find Benjamin Walls's art gallery and wine bar. From $653 for two nights (two-night minimum)

Wrong Way River Lodge & Cabins

• Why we love it: Urban glamping with plenty of creature comforts

Two former river guides opened this singular urban cabin campground on the French Broad River Greenway in West Asheville in September 2022. The 16 A-frame cabins, sustainably built into the scenic natural landscape, give guests easy access to the great outdoors along the river and to the city. The cabins surround the communal River Lodge that anchors the property as a place to eat, drink, gather, and shop, creating a kind of mini village. Food and provisions at the Canteen come from James Beard semifinalist Ashley Capps and partner Travis Schultz (both of Asheville-based Newstock Pantry).

Each A-frame features a queen bed and queen sleeper sofa, an en suite bathroom, a desk, a kitchenette with a microwave, and a deck. Instead of a TV, there's a record player with records, books, and games. The modern interior design of the cabins combines rustic elements of Appalachian craftsmanship with minimalist Scandinavian design. Local artists created details: There are wooden animal sculptures by woodworker Ben Grant and reclaimed wood countertops by Julian Harris of JF Kraftworks.

Enjoying the outdoors is encouraged here; guests will find a hammock, camp chairs, and a portable table in their cabins that they can bring anywhere on property. The hotel also partners with outfitters for such activities as kayaking, river tubing, stand-up paddleboarding, mountain biking, and guided hikes. From $217

Zelda Dearest

• Why we love it: Asheville through the eyes of Zelda Fitzgerald

Inspired by Zelda Fitzgerald, who loved Asheville, Zelda Dearest from Lark Hotels debuted in October 2023 in downtown's South Slope with 20 rooms across four buildings. Fitzgerald's personality and art are captured in the design by Nashville-based design firm Anderson Design Studio. Rooms feature bathrooms with jungle-themed wallpaper, private patios and porches, separate sitting nooks, and art deco–inspired furnishings. Some accommodations have deep soaking tubs and a curated library.

While the service here is a little more hands-off, snacks are available in the Rosalind Building, while the on-site Parlour Bar is a great spot for a nightcap. From $206

This Is North Carolina's Most Underrated Alternative To Asheville

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• This small town is a quieter alternative to Asheville, North Carolina, with its arts scene and mountain culture.
• With a population of under 1,000, this North Carolina town is a haven for artists and is even a filming location for a popular TV show.
• Nestled between the Appalachians and the French Broad, this town offers unique hikes and natural beauty, just 20 miles from Asheville.

Traveling through the beautiful mountain towns in North Carolina is a popular road trip activity, with Asheville typically appearing at the top of vacationers' must-visit lists. Not everyone wants to make a temporary home in one of the more well-known areas, like Asheville, though. Instead, some prefer to search for an alternative with the same vibes but with a quieter and more laid-back approach.

Finding a suitable Asheville dupe, like Boone , or even any of the many North Carolina mountain towns similar to Asheville , will vary in terms of what each party desires most in a vacation experience.

However, one particular town in North Carolina hits all the right notes and is an up-and-coming fan favorite for many reasons, which we dive into below. Keep reading to learn why you should add this highly underrated tiny mountain town to your next North Carolina itinerary.

These 7 Oldest Towns In North Carolina Are Worth A Visit

Discover fascinating history, local eateries, and unique attractions in some of North Carolina’s oldest towns.

Marshall, North Carolina, Is 20 Miles From Asheville

Many people feel that marshall is a great alternative to the popular asheville.

Asheville, North Carolina, is an underrated vacation destination and has been known as such for a number of years, resulting in a surge of tourists that often leave the city crowded. However, many would actually press the issue to say that the town of Marshall, North Carolina, is a top contender for that title, as well as a suitable dupe for the better-known city of Asheville.

What's more, Marshall is located just 20 miles from Asheville, and it offers many of the same natural amenities, making for an enjoyable and relaxing experience compared to its much busier counterpart. While visitors won't find many options for shopping or an onslaught of hotel chains in Marshall, they will find the same level of beauty throughout both towns.

Marshall even rivals Asheville in its mountain views, and many people drive out to this small town to take advantage of the region's lesser-known scenic points and trails that showcase the beauty of North Carolina and its mountains from a more secluded spot.

The Most Overlooked State Parks In North Carolina Worth A Visit In 2024

These state parks don't get quite the attention as more famous North Carolina destinations but are more than worth a stop in 2024.

Marshall's Population Is Less Than 1,000 People

With such a small community, marshall is a quieter asheville alternative, but it offers a great arts scene and mountain culture and even appears on the big screen.

Coming in at quite a bit smaller than its other partner Asheville dupe, Mount Airy , Marshall has a population of around 800 residents. Compared to Mount Airy's population of 10,000 and Asheville's of 94,000, Marshall is a breath of fresh air for those who don't do well in a crowd and aspire to have a quieter and more laid-back vacation experience.

Plus, what many don't know is that Marshall, known for its mountain culture and traditional arts scene, is becoming a haven for up-and-coming artists, and the town's modest downtown is quickly growing with small galleries to display local art.

Another fun fact that surprises many visitors to the area is that the science fiction television series The Peripheral is filmed in this small town. The show, featuring actress Chloë Grace Moretz, focuses on a girl figuring out her own complex future through the use of technology in a small Appalachian mountain town.

7 Places In North Carolina Bad For Retirement But Perfect For A Vacation

Seasonal tourist influxes, high crime rates, limited facilities, and expensive housing options make these places unsuitable for retirement.

This North Carolina Town Is Nestled Between Two Iconic Landmarks

Marshall has no shortage of beauty, as it runs rampant within its natural setting between the appalachians and the french broad.

For those in search of gorgeous North Carolina mountain towns that provide access to incredible hikes , Marshall is the answer. Nestled between the iconic Appalachian Mountains and the French Broad River , the town enjoys easy access to the two famous landmarks just minutes away from anywhere within its boundaries.

As an Appalachian mountain town, Marshall is no stranger to unique hiking trails. Visitors can also enjoy bird watching, mountain biking, and an onslaught of additional outdoor activities.

However, Marshall doesn't just show off the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains. The town is also nestled next to the French Broad River, which flows throughout North Carolina and Tennessee and is one of the oldest rivers in the United States.

While the French Broad River isn't safe for swimming due to the historically high levels of e-coli in the water, the historical context is enough to bring people near to check it out.

There's another reason you shouldn't swim in the French Broad River, particularly if you hear singing !

Even without being able to swim a lap in the French Broad River, there are plenty of other activities that you can participate in. Many people like to kayak, boat, or paddleboard the river, sailing past the Biltmore Estate in Asheville on their journey. You can also rent a boat and go tubing for the day, an adventure that is enjoyed by many in the area

7 Underrated Cities In North Carolina With Asheville Vibes, But Better

Discover why these underrated cities in North Carolina rival the experiences Asheville promises to deliver.

For those who enjoy the area of Asheville but prefer a more secluded location that will give them all the same natural characteristics but with a quieter background, the small town of Marshall should be taken into consideration.

Not only is it small and quiet, with a population of less than 1,000 people, but it has an arsenal of beautiful and unique hiking trails and areas that allow for reflection and solitude among a variety of historical attributes.

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FALL , NORTH AMERICA , UNITED STATES · September 10, 2024 Last Updated on September 12, 2024

10 BEST DESTINATIONS TO VISIT IN SEPTEMBER IN THE USA

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September is the perfect time to go on a girls’ getaway, bachelorette party, or weekend getaway in the United States. With cooler weather in the Southern States, fall colors starting to appear, fewer crowds than summer months, and discounts on flights and hotels, September is an amazing month to plan a getaway.

From Hawaii to South Carolina, Arizona, Colorado, and back, many cities and states offer the perfect September USA getaway.

If you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or a relaxing weekend by the beach or pool, these handpicked USA destinations promise a fall escape like no other!

1) Oahu, Hawaii

September is a great time to visit Hawaii, especially if you enjoy warm weather and low chances of rain. With temperatures in the high 80s to low 90s, it’s perfect for activities like sunbathing on Waikiki Beach, learning to surf, and exploring the natural beauty of Oahu.

In addition, September is Hawaiian History Month, featuring various celebrations, music, and educational events at historical sites. It’s also the time for the Aloha Festivals, which celebrate Hawaii’s diverse culture.

The island offers a variety of activities, from shopping in Honolulu and trying Polynesian cuisine to hiking the volcanic crater of Le’ahi and playing golf at upscale resorts.

Best Places To Stay In Oahu, Hawaii

Luxury oahu hotels.

• Turtle Bay Resort – This 4.5-star resort is located by the beach in Kahuku, offering a tranquil retreat in a rural setting, allowing you to fully appreciate the serenity and natural beauty of the surroundings.
• Halekulani – This beach spa retreat is located in Waikiki, so it’s close to all the attractions of Waikiki Beach. It also offers beachfront dining, an outdoor pool, and three onsite restaurants.
• Ka La’i Waikiki Beach – This 5-star hotel offers a full-service spa, outdoor dining, and rooms and suites boasting ocean views.

Mid-Range Oahu Hotels

• Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach – This beach spa retreat is within walking distance of Kuhio Beach Park and features five restaurants, yoga classes, and a lovely rooftop terrace for relaxation and enjoying the scenery.
• Paradise Bay Resort – This resort is located near Kaneohe Bay and offers activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and boat tours.
• Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel – This beachside hotel in Waikiki features a terrace, yoga classes, an onsite art gallery, and an outdoor pool with cabanas.

Budget Oahu Hotels

• The Surfjack Hotel and Swim Club – A 3.5-star hotel in Waikiki is near Waikiki Beach and features an onsite restaurant serving Hawaiian cuisine.
• Ohana Waikiki East – This modern hotel is near the International Market Place and features a hot tub and two onsite restaurants.
• Park Shore Waikiki – This eco-certified resort features rooms with serene ocean views and three onsite restaurants, including a Japanese cuisine restaurant and an al-fresco dining option. dining. 

Best Tours To Take In Oahu, Hawaii

• If you’ve always wanted to see these magnificent creatures up close, join a shark cruise on the North Shore of Oahu and even get to enter the shark cage and see these creatures up close. 
• Get your group together and go snorkeling at Turtle Canyon to see the ocean’s most tranquil inhabitants. 
• Visit Pearl Harbor, the USS Arizona Memorial, and all of the historical sites of Honolulu on this guided tour.

2) Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is a popular tourist destination due to its vibrant food scene, unbeatable shopping, diverse restaurant options, bars, art, and a unique combination of modern and historic architecture.

September is a great time to visit Charleston as it is outside of peak season and less hot and humid than during the summer months. Avoiding the summer months allows you to experience the city from a more authentic local perspective.

Related Article: The Ultimate Charleston Bachelorette Party Guide

Best Places To Stay In Charleston, South Carolina

Luxury charleston hotels.

• Hotel Bella Grace – This hotel is located in the entertainment district, so you can explore the best of Charleston on foot!
• The Vendue – This hotel features a delightful and intimate ambiance, along with an amazing rooftop terrace that offers the perfect setting to enjoy Charleston’s charm.
• The Loutrel – Located in the heart of the Charleston Historic District, this luxurious hotel is within walking distance of restaurants, the Charleston City Market, and boasts a four-star rating.

Mid-Range Charleston Hotels

• John Rutledge House Inn – With only 19 rooms, this hotel offers a more intimate stay with modern but traditional decor.
• The Restoration – This hotel offers a variety of suites, from studios to two-bedroom suites, ranging from 1,300 to 1,500 square feet of space, perfect for weekend getaways and accommodating up to five people.
• Market Pavilion Hotel – This hotel features a rooftop pool and bar, three restaurants, and a convenient location within walking distance of the Port of Charleston Cruise Terminal and Charleston City Market.

Budget Charleston Hotels

• Cambria Hotel Charleston – Located in Charleston’s West Ashley neighborhood, this hotel is easily accessible to Charleston Music Hall, the waterfront, and Patriots Point.
• The Palms Oceanfront Hotel – This hotel offers rooms with king and queen beds, balconies, and views of either the city or the ocean. The decor features shades of blue and purple.
• Hotel Bennett Charleston – Located in Charleston’s historic district, this hotel is within walking distance of restaurants, museums, and top attractions.

Best Tours To Take In Charleston, South Carolina

• One of the best ways to explore Charleston is by taking a  historic city tour to see over 100 famous and iconic landmarks.
• Take your girls on a  luxury dinner cruise to explore Charleston Harbor, enjoy a three-course southern meal, and watch the sunset.
• Explore Charleston through its incredible cuisine on a  food tour of local restaurants and culinary establishments. Your girl gang will try grits, sweet tea, Lowcountry BBQ, Southern pralines, gourmet chocolates, and Charleston Benne wafers.
• Learn about the history of the city at  Fort Sumter  with a ferry ride to the Fort Sumter National Monument and a walk around the museum.
• Magnolia Plantation is a 12th-generation plantation dating back to 1676. You and your girl gang can take a walk around the house and garden while learning about the plantation’s history and the history of the area.

3) San Francisco, California

San Francisco is a large city located along the coastline in northern California. It is famous for its rolling hills and landmarks, particularly the Golden Gate Bridge. San Francisco is also known as one of the world’s leading technological and start-up hubs.

September is a great time to visit the city, with some of the best weather conditions of the year and bright blue skies.

San Francisco has a lot to offer, including popular attractions such as the Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, Alcatraz, Coit Tower, Fisherman’s Wharf, and many museums. There is always more to explore!

Best Places To Stay In San Francisco, California

Luxury san francisco hotels.

• Grand Hyatt at SFO – This hotel is ideal for a weekend trip because it is close to the airport.
• Hotel Via  – This hotel features an impressive rooftop bar with  a 360-degree view of Oracle Park, making it the perfect location to enjoy a basketball game.
• Hotel Drisco – Who wouldn’t want to stay here with a daily evening reception featuring complimentary cheese and wine?

Mid-Range San Francisco Hotels

• Omni San Francisco Hotel – This hotel offers a 24-hour gym, an American-cuisine restaurant onsite, and cycling. Guests can enjoy premium bedding and home comforts in the spacious rooms.
• Hotel Kabuki – This boutique hotel is connected to a shopping center and has a Michelin-starred restaurant.
• Hotel Adagio, Autograph Collection – This 4-star boutique hotel has thoughtful touches and fun architecture. It offers suites with balconies.

Budget San Francisco Hotels

• Four Points by Sheraton San Francisco Bay Bridge – This 153-room hotel has an onsite restaurant, a bar, and an outdoor pool. It is also close to Bay Street.
• Hampton Inn San Francisco Downtown – This hotel offers free breakfast and comfortable rooms in a central location near Union Square.
• Hotel 32One – This quaint hotel is close to Union Square and has a business center and free WiFi.

Best Tours To Take In San Francisco, California

• Play tourist by joining a  hop-on/hop-off bus tour . I think that taking the bus is a great way to get around San Francisco. Taking the bus meant we could stop at each destination and enjoy a glass of rose without worrying about driving.
• Take in city views by taking a daytime or  twilight cruise through San Francisco Bay
• Free your inner child and go to  House of Air , an adult-only trampoline park, after 6 pm

4) Sedona, Arizona

Sedona, Arizona may be a small town, but it’s a haven for hikers. There are plenty of hotels and restaurants in Sedona, ranging from Old West-style eateries to wineries. The landscape surrounding Sedona is gorgeous, offering a wide range of fantastic hiking spots such as the Broken Arrow hike, Cathedral Rock trail, Buddha Beach, Devil’s Bridge, and Centennial Trail.

These are all stunning hikes through canyons that offer excellent opportunities for photography. Just imagine spending the day or morning hiking through picturesque landscapes and then spending the rest of the day at a winery or taking a wine tour of the various Sedona wineries.

Related Articles : The Ultimate Guide to Sedona and The Perfect 3 Day Sedona Campervan Itinerary

Best Places To Stay In Sedona, Arizona

Luxury sedona hotels.

• Arabella Hotel Sedona – This hotel is ideal for adventure enthusiasts, offering convenient access to hiking and biking trails. It features a heated swimming pool with sun loungers, two hot tubs, and a Mexican restaurant on site.
• Amara Resort and Spa – A luxury Sedona hotel in Uptown Sedona with an outdoor swimming pool, an onsite spa, and a local restaurant.
• Orchards Inn – Located close to the Sedona Arts Center, this hotel is within a walkable area of Sedona with good shopping.

Mid-Range Sedona Hotels

• Hiking Trails Home – Set against stunning hiking trails, this holiday home offers undisturbed views of Mystic Mountain from a rooftop terrace with a hot tub. It’s an iconic and perfect spot to unwind with your friends after a day of hiking.
• Restful Refuge Vacation Rental – Complete with an upper deck offering expansive 360 views of Sedona’s famous red rocks.
• Sky Ranch Lodge – This hotel offers 94 rooms, including king rooms, cottages, queen rooms, and mountain view rooms, as well as an outdoor swimming pool and complimentary self-parking.

Budget Sedona Hotels

• Los Abrigados Resort and Spa – This hotel has two onsite restaurants and a room that can accommodate up to six people. It is situated in a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood of the city, close to great shopping and hiking/biking trails.
• Sedona Real Inn and Suites – Located in West Sedona, this hotel has 89 rooms that feature unique touches such as fireplaces and laptop-friendly safes.
• Arroyo Pinion Hotel – This eco-certified Sedona hotel has a tremendous outdoor firepit area, an outdoor swimming pool, and cabanas and sun loungers.

Best Tours To Take In Sedona, Arizona

• Discover Sedona’s red rock geology, energetic vortexes, and history on a guided sightseeing tour with photo stops.
• Watch the sunset from Centennial Trail ; top tip – pack a picnic and prosecco and create your own magical girls’ getaway Instagram moment as the sun goes down or head out on a star gazing tour.
• Experience the tranquility of Canyon X on a guided tour that includes Horseshoe Bend, Lake Powell, and Glen Canyon Dam. Enjoy a delicious lunch along the way!

5) Lake Tahoe, California

Located on the California-Nevada border, northeast of Sacramento, Lake Tahoe is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers. Known for its clear, blue water, beautiful beaches, great hiking, and top-notch ski resorts, Lake Tahoe attracts over 2.7 million visitors every year.

It has consistently been ranked as one of the top five places to visit in California and one of the top five best adventure vacations in the USA. During the fall, visitors can enjoy world-class mountain biking at numerous ski resorts.

Bike paths along the lake provide the opportunity to go biking through the mountains or around the lake with family. Additionally, there are excellent hiking options all around Lake Tahoe.

Related Articles: The Ultimate Guide to Lake Tahoe and 10 Things To Do In Lake Tahoe

Best Places To Stay In Lake Tahoe, California

Luxury lake tahoe hotels.

• Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe – Located in Incline Village on the Nevada side of the North Shore, the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe is a highly rated  resort situated on a beautiful beach with outstanding dining options and an exceptional spa.
• Edgewood Tahoe Resort –  Edgewood Tahoe Resort is situated on the shores of South Lake Tahoe, on the Nevada side of Stateline. It provides luxurious 5-star accommodations with amenities such as an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and a stunning Lake Tahoe terrace.
• Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe – This luxurious resort in Lake Tahoe offers guests access to a spa, two outdoor swimming pools, and three restaurants. Each room is furnished with a gas fireplace, a flat-screen TV, a seating area, and a private marble bathroom. The rooms are adorned with modern furniture and accents inspired by the lodge aesthetic.

Mid-Range Lake Tahoe Hotels

• Heavenly Village Condos – A great choice if you plan to hike or mountain bike at Heavenly Resort.
• Gravity Haus Truckee-Tahoe – Enjoy the bespoke comforts of a mountain boutique hotel that captures the genuine alpine experience. Gravity Haus is conveniently situated in Truckee near Northstar Resort and Palisades Tahoe Resort.
• The Landing Resort and Spa – Located near the Heavenly Village Ski Resort in South Lake Tahoe, The Landing Resort & Spa offers complimentary transportation to the Heavenly Village and Casinos. The spacious guest rooms feature a stone gas fireplace, a Keurig coffee machine, and a refrigerator.

Budget Lake Tahoe Hotels

• Cedar Glen Lodge – Located on the North Shore in Tahoe Vista, Cedar Glen Lodge offers affordable accommodation with a cozy cabin vibe. 
• The Jeffrey Hotel –  The Jeffrey Hotel is an affordable hotel with modern decor located in Lakeside Park, a neighborhood in South Lake Tahoe.
• The Coachman Hotel – This hotel was refurbished in 2021 and provides a rooftop terrace, coffee shop, and garden. It is conveniently located close to Heavenly Gondola and Lakeside Beach.

Best Tours To Take In Lake Tahoe

• South Lake Tahoe: Sightseeing Cruise of Emerald Bay –  Enjoy the breathtaking Emerald Bay on this daytime or sunset cruise and admire once-in-a-lifetime scenery.
• Discover Kayaking or Paddleboarding Tour – Learn paddling skills as you explore Lake Tahoe’s beautiful coastline.
• Emerald Bay Wine Tasting Boat Tour – Take a trip on a vintage wooden boat and taste eight wines from Northern California as you take in the scenery.
• Zephyr Cove Helicopter Flight – Explore the entire south shore of Lake Tahoe by helicopter as you venture into the state of Nevada before circling back to Fallen Leaf Lake and Cascade Lake along Emerald Bay.
• South Lake Tahoe Private Boat Charter – Experience the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe on your own private boat. Do as much or as little as you want as your qualified Captain takes the wheel and drives you around in customizable tours that last 2-4 hours.

6) Seattle, Washington

Seattle is located in the beautiful state of Washington, within the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. Known for its creative energy, Seattle is a popular destination for food lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and culture enthusiasts.

The city is famous for its coffee, stunning landscapes, and the iconic Space Needle, making it a fantastic destination for a girls’ weekend getaway or a week-long trip.

With its abundance of independent restaurants, local coffee shops, top-notch museums, and ample green spaces for outdoor activities, Seattle offers an exciting experience for travelers. Seattle also serves as an excellent starting point for exploring Olympic National Park, which boasts hiking trails, hot springs, and lakes.

Best Places To Stay In Seattle, Washington

Luxury seattle hotels.

• Hotel Ballard – Located in the Ballard area of Seattle, a charming neighborhood filled with unique shops and renowned restaurants.
• The Palihotel – Located in downtown Seattle is a charming boutique hotel, perfect for a girls’ group getaway and well-reviewed.
• The Four Seasons Hotel – This hotel is an excellent luxury option for your group, with a stunning rooftop pool.

Mid-Range Seattle Hotels

• CitizenM Seattle Pioneer Square – Located close to Seattle Waterfront and Pike Place Market, this hotel has 216 rooms with an onsite coffee shop, a restaurant, and a bar.
• Mediterranean Inn – This hotel in Uptown Seattle is conveniently located near SIFF Cinema Uptown, Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle Children’s Theatre, and a short walk to the Space Needle. It offers 180 rooms with thoughtful touches throughout.
• The Belltown Inn – Located a short walk from Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, and the Seattle Waterfront, the hotel offers three room options: one with a king bed and two with queen beds.

Budget Seattle Hotels

• Reside Seattle Downtown – This hotel is situated in a prime location near the Seattle Aquarium, Pike Place Market, and Seattle Art Museum. Each guestroom features unique furnishings and amenities such as premium bedding.
• Best Western Plus Pioneer Square Hotel Downtown – This eco-certified hotel is situated near Lumen Field, Pike Place Market, and T-Mobile Park. It offers rooms with two double beds that can accommodate up to four adults.
• Warwick Seattle – Just a short walk from Bell Street Cruise Terminal at Pier 66 and Washington State Convention Center, this hotel is in the center of activity. There is also an onsite restaurant and an indoor swimming pool.

Best Tours To Take In Seattle, Washington

• Head to the top of the  Space Needle and see 360-degree views of the city.
• Relax and take in Seattle’s skyline on a narrated cruise , showcasing iconic spots since 1949.
• Embark on a culinary tour of Pike Place Market with a local chef, visiting nine artisanal vendors to learn about local food producers and taste the flavors of the Northwest.

7) Boulder, Colorado

Boulder’s trails are filled with beautiful fall colors in the fall, providing unique hiking experiences. Music sounds even better when carried by a breeze in Boulder! The arts also take place outdoors, with dance concerts and theater performances held on the trails.

Despite the summer heat, which often reaches the high 70s, the cooler mountain air makes for excellent hiking conditions. In September, the average daily high temperature in Boulder decreases from 71°F to 81°F.

Boulder has a large number of festivals and events in September with Fall Fest and Boulderthon.

Best Places To Stay In Boulder, Colorado

Luxury boulder hotels.

• Omni Interlocken -This upscale resort hotel features two restaurants and two swimming pools. Situated in Broomfield, the hotel is conveniently located near the Butterfly Pavilion. Additionally, guests can enjoy 27 holes of golf, a poolside bar, and a terrace.
• Boulder Marriott – Located just a short walk from the Downtown Boulder Historic District, this hotel is a great place to explore the city. It has an indoor swimming pool and 157 rooms.
• Moxy Boulder – Situated just a short walk from Folsom Field, Pearl Street Mall, and Boulder Theater, this hotel offers a great luxury base for exploring the city or hiking.

Mid-Range Boulder Hotels

• Hilton Garden Inn – This cozy hotel features a spa, an American restaurant, and an outdoor swimming pool.
• A-Lodge Boulder – This lodge hotel has guestrooms with patios. Some have separate dining areas, others have mountain views and can sleep up to eight people.
• Residence Inn By Marriott – Located on Canyon Boulevard in Boulder, this hotel is close to the Downtown Boulder Historic District. The hotel has 155 rooms, including studios, one-bedroom suites, and rooms that can sleep up to five people.

Budget Boulder Hotels

• Courtyard by Marriott Boulder – This hotel is conveniently located near the University of Colorado Boulder. It features an indoor swimming pool, complimentary self-parking, a garden, and an onsite restaurant.
• Embassy Suites by Hilton – Located near Twenty Ninth Street and the University of Colorado Boulder, this hotel offers a free daily manager’s reception, an outdoor swimming pool, and the Brickstones Kitchen & Bar.
• Hyatt Place Boulder – Located near Folsom Field, Boulder Theater, and the University of Colorado Boulder, this hotel has an indoor swimming pool, The Gallery restaurant, and a free continental breakfast.

Best Tours To Take In Boulder, Colorado

• Explore Boulder on an electric bike with a knowledgeable local guide and discover its best on a guided tour .
• Explore Boulder’s vibrant murals and street art on a guided e-bike tour , suitable for all experience levels.

8) Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is a town in North Carolina, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is famous for its lively arts scene, historic architecture, and vibrant Downtown Art District filled with galleries and museums. Asheville offers a variety of outdoor activities such as watersports, hiking, climbing, and mountain biking.

The area also boasts breathtaking views and magical waterfalls. It’s an ideal spot for a bachelorette party or a girls’ getaway, as it has wineries, a vibrant craft beer culture, and relaxing spas available.

Visit Asheville in September, with daytime temperatures climbing into the low to mid-80s. This is a great time to experience lively street performances, a super-fun nightlife scene, and romantic rooftops.

Best Places To Stay In Asheville, North Carolina

Luxury asheville hotels.

• The Omni Grove Park Inn – This resort, situated just outside the city, boasts 513 rooms, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, an 18-hole golf course, and five onsite dining options.
• The Radical – Located in the River Arts District, this hotel is within walking distance of bars and restaurants. The hotel has 70 rooms, including suites, rooms, lofts, and rooms sleeping up to four people.
• Aloft Asheville Downtown – Located in the heart of downtown, this hotel is conveniently situated within walking distance of breweries, restaurants, and the shopping district.

Mid-Range Asheville Hotels

• Beaufort House Inn – Come and experience a delightful stay at this four-star bed and breakfast. The inn features 11 individually furnished rooms, each capable of accommodating between two and four people. This makes it a perfect choice for small bachelorette parties or larger groups that require multiple rooms.
• Princess Anne Hotel and Breakfast – Located on Charlotte Street near the mountains, this hotel offers easy access to the city, nearby mountains, and national parks. The hotel boasts spacious rooms ranging from 269 sq ft to 699 sq ft, which provide beautiful views of the mountains and the city.
• Cambria Hotel Downtown Asheville – This hotel is perfect for larger groups, offering a variety of room types that can accommodate up to four people. Some rooms have large windows with great views, while others have balconies and outdoor spaces.

Budget Asheville Hotels

• The Restoration Asheville – This four-star hotel offers a range of accommodations, including premium king suites, signature king suites, studios, and rooms with terraces. Guests can relax on the rooftop terrace, enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast, and dine at three onsite restaurants. Additionally, the hotel offers free bicycle rentals.
• Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate – With an onsite winery, this hotel is perfect for a girls’ getaway. It offers wine tasting, mountain biking, fishing, horseback riding, and spa relaxation.
• Grand Bohemian Asheville – The hotel is situated in Biltmore Village and features a full-service spa, a terrace, rooms with balconies, and a fireplace in the lobby. It has 104 rooms, all of which provide premium bedding and spacious layouts with multiple living spaces; some rooms even feature terraces.

Best Tours To Take In Asheville, North Carolina

• Discover Asheville’s top breweries on a guided walking tour featuring local history and craft beer experts. Your girls will also get the opportunity to taste beers along the way.
• Join the Asheville Terrors for a night of bone-chilling ghost stories and local drinks on a dramatic pub crawl of the downtown district .
• Escape to the serene Blue Ridge Mountains with your girls for a 2-mile hike followed by an hour of mountaintop yoga .

9) New England

New England is a northeastern region of the United States consisting of Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. It is renowned for its Colonial history, Atlantic coastline, vibrant autumn foliage, and forested mountains.

The fall foliage in New England starts in September in Maine and New Hampshire and then moves south to Massachusetts and Connecticut. Other great fall and September attractions include whale watching, visiting festivals and events, and experiencing the harvest season when apple cider is produced on many farms.

Best Places To Stay In New England

Luxury new england hotels.

• Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport – Located near Seaport Common and Harpoon Brewery, this hotel has 1,054 rooms, including one-bedroom suites that can sleep up to three people.
• Copley Square Hotel – This eco-certified Boston hotel in Back Bay has a bar, a full breakfast and valet parking.
• The Mansion at Ocean Edge – This luxury upscale hotel has three outdoor swimming pools, two indoor swimming pools and a golf course. Active guests can enjoy cycling, basketball and aerobics.

Mid-Range New England Hotels

• Aloft Providence Downtown – This Riverwalk Providence hotel is located in Downtown Providence. It has an onsite American cuisine restaurant, two bars, a cafe, and a shop, and the 175 rooms boast home comforts.
• Kimpton Taconic Hotel – This upscale Manchester hotel has an 18-hole golf course, a free daily manager’s reception, and a terrace. It also has a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and 86 rooms that can sleep up to four people.
• The Essex Resort & Spa – Located near the Champlain Valley Exposition, this family-friendly resort features a golf course, seasonal outdoor and indoor swimming pools, two onsite restaurants, and six outdoor tennis courts.

Budget New England Hotels

• AWOL Kennebunkport – Located in Kennebunkport, this hotel is close to Dock Square and has a free breakfast buffet and self-parking.
• Brass Key Guesthouse – This adults-only hotel has 43 rooms, an outdoor swimming pool, a breakfast buffet, a nightclub and a poolside bar. Located in Provincetown, the hotel is within walking distance of Commercial Street and numerous beaches.
• The Provincetown Hotel at Gabriel’s – Located in Provincetown, this hotel features 22 individually decorated and furnished rooms with thoughtful touches and numerous room options.

Best Tours To Take In New England

• Sail along Newport Harbor, into Narragansett Bay, and Ocean Drive on a day trip . Take in the views of the Pell Bridge, Fort Adams, Clingstone, and Hammersmith Farm.
• Discover Fenway Park, the iconic Boston landmark and home of the Red Sox, with four exclusive stadium tours . Choose from public or private 1-hour tours, a pre-game tour, or a 15-minute tour.
• Explore Martha’s Vineyard on a day trip from Boston . Visit the gingerbread cottages in Oak Bluffs, the quaint shops of Edgartown, and the Gay Head Cliffs. Enhance your trip with a guided island tour.

10) Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is the capital of New Mexico and is known as “The City Different.” No state capital is older or has such a rich cultural history. Nestled in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountains, this city has become well-known for its pueblo-style architecture and unique fusion of traditions. It’s the perfect place to lose yourself in creativity and have a lot of fun.

Santa Fe boasts 250 art galleries, 20 museums, and unbelievable vistas. If you also want to explore the outdoors, you can visit the Atalaya Mountain Trail.

Best Places To Stay In Santa Fe, New Mexico

Luxury santa fe hotels.

• Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection – This century-old, 5-star, family-friendly resort allows its guests to surround themselves with lush nature while being convenient for all the local attractions. Expect rustic touches in a classy yet unpretentious resort that truly exemplifies the best of Santa Fe’s culture and identity.
• Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi – This hotel has 58 rooms, a garden, a library, and an onsite Latin American cuisine restaurant.
• Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado – An exceptional 5-star resort that offers an outdoor pool, firepit and activities such as eco-tours, mountain biking, and pilates.

Mid-Range Santa Fe Hotels

• Inn and Spa at Loretto – Located near Santa Fe Plaza in Downtown Santa Fe, this upscale hotel has a terrace, an onsite art gallery, and comforts such as premium bedding and a full-service spa.
• The Hacienda and Spa at the Hotel Santa Fe – This luxurious, family-friendly hotel near Santa Fe Plaza offers a complimentary continental breakfast and a rooftop terrace. The rooms are equipped with fireplaces and premium bedding and feature stunning contemporary artwork by Indigenous American artists from the Apache, Navajo, and Hopi tribes.
• Hotel St Francis – This hotel close to Santa Fe Plaza has 79 rooms and is named after the patron saint of Santa Fe. It is also the oldest hotel in the city and retains its historic character.

Budget Santa Fe Hotels

• Hilton Santa Fe Buffalo Thunder – This hotel has a casino, spa and outdoor pool along with 36 holes of golf.
• The Inn at Vanessie – A comfortable hotel in downtown Santa Fe that has authentic southwestern decor.
• Residence Inn by Marriott Santa Fe – This hotel provides a a free breakfast buffet and is close to the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture.

Best Tours To Take In Santa Fe, Arizona 

• Immerse yourself in the artistic culture of Santa Fe on this guided walking tour . Visit galleries on Canyon Road and speak to local artists to learn about local art history. 
• On this walking tour of Santa Fe discover the historic city’s most popular sites and learn about their history and culture with a professional local tour guide. 
• Discover the wonders of the Rio Grande on this half day float trip just outside of Santa Fe . Expect gentle rapids and relaxation as you meander through canyons and spot local wildlife.

Best September Destinations In The USA Wrap Up

There you have it, our top ten destinations to visit in September in the USA. Was your favorite included in the list? Let us know your picks for the best September getaway destinations in the comments below. 

Looking for more USA getaway inspiration? You can explore all our girls getaway guides or our North America guides . 

We hope that this article has inspired you to go on a September getaway! If you have questions about September getaways or tips to share with our readers please leave these in the comments below.

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