Fun Things to Do in Asheville: Top Mountain Adventures
Asheville sits in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering countless outdoor activities. The city is surrounded by a million acres of protected forests and parks. Nature lovers and thrill-seekers will find plenty to do here.
Asheville’s attractions cater to all types of adventurers. The Adventure Center of Asheville features over 70 challenge elements across 7 aerial trails. This gives visitors an exciting view of the mountains from above.
Water enthusiasts flock to the Nantahala Outdoor Center for whitewater rafting. Six nearby rivers are perfect for rafting and kayaking. The 70-mile-long French Broad River is a local favorite.
The Great Smoky Mountains boast over 1,660 flowering plant species. Hikers can explore Pisgah National Forest’s 500,000 acres. South Mountains State Park offers 40 miles of trails.
Asheville’s diverse landscape hosts outdoor events almost every weekend. These festivals run throughout spring, summer, and fall. They celebrate the area’s natural beauty and active lifestyle.
Mt. Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi, awaits climbers. After your adventure, enjoy craft beers from Asheville’s 50+ local breweries. This city truly offers a unique blend of nature and culture.
Explore the Biltmore Estate
The Biltmore Estate is a must-see attraction in Asheville. It offers a peek into America’s Gilded Age. This massive property spans 8,000 acres and features the country’s largest private mansion.
The Biltmore House has 250 rooms. It stands as a symbol of luxury and innovation. Visitors can explore this architectural wonder during their tour.
Tour the Historic Mansion
The self-guided tour of Biltmore House takes about two hours. You’ll see amazing features like the 70-foot-high Banquet Hall ceiling. The Library houses 10,000 books.
Behind-the-scenes tours are also available. These provide unique insights into the lives of the Vanderbilts and their staff.
Stroll Through the Gardens
After touring the house, explore 75 acres of beautiful gardens. The Walled Garden covers four acres and has over 250 rose varieties. Nature lovers can enjoy 22 miles of walking and hiking trails.
Wine Tasting at the Winery
Visit America’s most popular winery at the Biltmore Estate. You can sample over 20 handcrafted wines and find new favorites. The winery supplies fresh ingredients to on-site restaurants.
The Biltmore Estate hosts special events throughout the year. Biltmore Blooms showcases 130,000 flowers in spring. Christmas at Biltmore features 65 hand-decorated trees during winter.
Experience the Great Outdoors
Asheville’s wilderness offers diverse landscapes and endless adventures. Nature lovers can explore rugged mountain trails and serene forest paths. The area provides numerous outdoor activities for all enthusiasts.
Hiking in Pisgah National Forest
Pisgah National Forest spans over 500,000 acres, offering a hiker’s paradise. Hundreds of miles of trails showcase cascading waterfalls and lush vegetation.
Breathtaking vistas await those who venture into the forest. The popular Hickory Nut Falls trail is a 1.5-mile round trip suitable for most hikers.
Mountain Biking Trails
Asheville boasts world-class mountain biking trails for thrill-seekers. The area’s diverse terrain caters to riders of all skill levels.
Trails range from beginner-friendly paths to challenging downhill routes. Many wind through ancient forests, blending adrenaline with natural beauty.
Scenic Drives on the Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway offers unmatched views of the Appalachian Highlands. It’s often called “America’s Favorite Drive” for good reason.
Stop at Craggy Pinnacle (milepost 364.1) for dramatic vistas. The parkway connects to numerous hiking trails and picnic spots.
It serves as an ideal starting point for outdoor exploration. Visitors can easily access various natural attractions along the route.
| Outdoor Activity | Location | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Hiking | Pisgah National Forest | 500,000+ acres, hundreds of miles of trails |
| Mountain Biking | Various trails | Diverse terrain for all skill levels |
| Scenic Drive | Blue Ridge Parkway | Breathtaking views, access to trails |
Discover the River Arts District
The River Arts District (RAD) in Asheville buzzes with creativity. It spans a mile along the French Broad River. Over 200 artists work in 22 former industrial buildings, offering art for every taste and budget.
Visit Local Art Studios
Explore numerous studios open throughout the week. Fridays and Saturdays see increased availability. Don’t miss St Claire Art, where Stephen creates unique “Dialuminism” paintings.
Light passes through layers of paint in these works. The studio welcomes visitors Monday to Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM.
Attend Art Walks
Join Second Saturday events for special demonstrations and gallery openings. The Annual Studio Stroll showcases diverse artistic talent. It fosters community engagement and celebrates local creativity.
Enjoy Craft Beer Breweries
The RAD houses some of Asheville’s most innovative breweries. Wedge Brewing Company has two locations in the district. They offer spacious outdoor areas perfect for enjoying river views.
| Brewery | Specialty | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Wedge Brewing Company | Variety of craft beers | Two locations in RAD |
| Daidala Ciders | Small batch ciders | 122 Riverside Drive |
| Ginger’s Revenge | Unique ginger beers | RAD |
| New Belgium Brewing | Fat Tire beer | RAD |
The River Arts District blends art studios, craft breweries, and scenic river views. It offers a unique Asheville experience. Here, you’ll find the city’s creative spirit in full bloom.
Visit Asheville’s Historic Downtown
Asheville’s historic downtown pulses with culture and creativity. Over 200 locally-owned stores and boutiques make it a shopper’s dream. Art Deco buildings line the streets, each telling a unique story of Asheville’s past.
Explore Unique Shops and Boutiques
Downtown Asheville offers diverse shopping options. The Kress Emporium displays work from over 80 artists. Malaprop’s Bookstore has been a local gem since 1984.
For handcrafted gifts, visit the Asheville Emporium. It showcases a variety of local artisan creations.
Dine at Top Restaurants
Food lovers will delight in downtown Asheville’s 100+ restaurants. Early Girl Eatery serves farm-to-table breakfast. Chai Pani offers tasty Indian street food.
The New York Times named Chai Pani one of its favorite restaurants in 2021. For dessert, try the French Broad Chocolate Lounge.
Check Out Local Festivals
Local festivals add excitement to your downtown visit. LEAF Downtown Asheville in August celebrates music and arts. Art lovers should attend Asheville Art in the Park in June and October.
For a unique experience, join the Friday Drum Circle in Pritchard Park. It happens weekly from April to October.
Explore the Asheville Urban Trail, a 1.7-mile loop featuring 30 sculptures. It showcases local history while you enjoy downtown Asheville’s lively atmosphere.
Take a Brewery Tour
Asheville’s craft beer scene is a hop lover’s paradise. With over 50 brewery locations, this mountain city has earned its “Beer City USA” title. Exploring Asheville breweries is a must-do for any visitor.
Taking an organized tour lets you sample the best brews safely. It’s the perfect way to dive into Asheville’s beer culture.
Sample Local Craft Beers
A typical Asheville tour visits three breweries and offers nine samples of local brews. The variety ranges from crisp lagers to bold IPAs and complex barrel-aged stouts.
Try Asheville Brewing Company’s Fire Escape Ale, made with smoked jalapenos. Wedge Brewery’s popular Iron Rail IPA is another must-taste.
Learn About the Brewing Process
These tours offer more than just tastings. You’ll get behind-the-scenes access to learn about beer making. At Oyster House Brewing Company, you can see their 5 bbl brewhouse in action.
French Broad Brewing shows off their unique Randall filter. It’s used to infuse beers with flavors like roasted almonds or lavender.
Visit Notable Breweries
Tours often include stops at renowned locations like Wicked Weed’s Funkatorium, which specializes in sour beers. Highland Brewing, Asheville’s first craft brewery, is another popular stop.
The South Slope district is a fast-growing brewing hub. It’s home to Burial Beer Co. and Hi-Wire Brewing.
Tours last about 3 hours and feature expert guides. Transportation is provided for a safe, enjoyable experience. It’s the ideal way to explore Asheville’s vibrant beer scene.
Embrace the Music Scene
Asheville’s music scene is the heart of its entertainment. The mountain town thrums with rhythm and melody throughout the year. From cozy venues to grand festivals, there’s always a beat to follow.
Catch Live Performances
Asheville’s streets buzz with music nightly. The Orange Peel, a legendary venue, has hosted stars like Bob Dylan. Jack of the Wood offers intimate bluegrass sessions for a cozier vibe.
Street performers add soul to downtown walks. Every outing could turn into an impromptu concert.
Attend the Asheville Music Festival
The LEAF Retreat and Festival is a top Asheville event each fall. It celebrates world music, art, and culture with flair. Local and national acts blend harmoniously, showcasing Asheville’s diverse musical landscape.
Explore Local Music Venues
Asheville’s music spots are as diverse as its tunes. Pack Square Park and the River Arts District host outdoor concerts. These feature bluegrass, folk, jazz, and indie rock.
For a unique twist, visit Pisgah Brewing. Sip organic beer while enjoying live music in a laid-back setting.
| Venue | Known For | Genre |
|---|---|---|
| The Orange Peel | Hosting big-name acts | Various |
| Jack of the Wood | Intimate setting | Bluegrass |
| Pack Square Park | Outdoor concerts | Mixed genres |
| River Arts District | Artistic atmosphere | Indie, Folk |
Enjoy Family-friendly Activities
Asheville offers exciting activities for families. The city blends fun and education perfectly. It’s an ideal destination for kids and parents.
Discover the Western North Carolina Nature Center
The Western North Carolina Nature Center is a must-visit for nature-loving families. It’s home to over 60 species native to the Southern Appalachian region. Kids can see black bears, red wolves, and river otters up close.
The center’s programs spark curiosity about local biodiversity. It’s a living museum that educates and entertains.
Explore Hands-On Children’s Museums
AMOS, open since October 2024, is a treasure trove for budding scientists. It offers interactive exhibits on geology, climate science, and astronomy. Kids can marvel at a Teratophoneus dinosaur skeleton and explore the Colburn Hall of Minerals.
The Hands On! Children’s Museum in Hendersonville provides free admission through October. It’s another budget-friendly option for families visiting Asheville.
Visit Family-Friendly Attractions
Asheville caters to families with diverse interests. The Adventure Center features an aerial challenge course with 77 challenges across 30 trees. The Asheville Pinball Museum houses over 30 pinball machines and classic video games.
Families can enjoy the Jingle Bell Trolley tour, a festive 25-minute ride. It ends with a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Asheville boasts over 40 family-friendly activities. From nature exploration to hands-on learning, memorable adventures await all ages.
Experience Local Cuisine
Asheville’s food scene reflects the city’s creative spirit. With over 150 local restaurants, this mountain town is called “Foodtopia.” Let’s explore the diverse flavors of Asheville’s restaurants.
Savor Farm-to-Table Dining
Farm-to-table is a way of life in Asheville. The Market Place has served locally sourced meals for over 40 years. Early Girl Eatery offers farm-fresh breakfast showcasing local produce.
Enjoy Southern-style Barbecue
Taste authentic Southern barbecue in Asheville. 12 Bones Smokehouse is popular, with long wait times. Buxton Hall elevates whole-hog barbecue to an art form.
Indulge in Vegan and Vegetarian Options
Asheville caters to all dietary preferences. Plant offers innovative vegan cuisine that even meat-lovers appreciate. Many gluten-free and vegetarian options are available throughout the city.
Asheville Food Tours offers a unique tasting experience. Their tours include up to 7 eatery stops. These tours last about 3 hours and cost $85 per person.
Asheville’s restaurants offer Southern comfort food, farm-fresh ingredients, and plant-based dishes. This food scene celebrates culinary creativity and the bountiful harvest of the surrounding mountains.
Participate in Outdoor Festivals
Asheville’s outdoor festivals showcase its vibrant cultural scene. These events blend local flavors, music, and traditions. They’re must-attend experiences for visitors and locals alike.
Asheville Food and Wine Festival
The Asheville Food and Wine Festival is a culinary extravaganza. It features the region’s finest cuisine and wines. Nearly 200 craftspeople display their creations, delighting both taste buds and eyes.
LEAF Festival
The LEAF Festival is a cultural kaleidoscope. It features over 70 performance styles, from world music to poetry slams. This multi-day celebration captures Asheville’s diverse spirit.
Seasonal Celebrations
Asheville hosts about 200 outdoor events and festivals yearly. Biltmore Blooms dazzles with over 130,000 flowers. The Winter Lights event illuminates gardens with nearly one million lights.
These festivals are Asheville’s heartbeat. They bring together over 1.5 million people annually. Visitors can savor local delicacies, enjoy live music, and admire handcrafted art.
Asheville’s festivals offer unforgettable experiences. They embody the city’s unique charm and foster community spirit. Each event showcases the city’s creative energy.
Go on a Scenic Train Ride
Asheville sightseeing reaches new heights on a scenic train ride. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad offers a captivating journey through Western North Carolina’s stunning landscapes.
Ride the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
The Nantahala Gorge Excursion is a 4.5-hour round-trip adventure. It costs $58 per adult and $33 for kids aged 2-12. You’ll travel through lush forests and along rushing rivers.
The Tuckasegee River Excursion lasts 4 hours. It includes a 90-minute stop in the charming town of Dillsboro.
Explore the Beautiful Landscape
These train rides offer unmatched views of Western North Carolina. The journey takes you deep into Nantahala National Forest. You’ll see vistas that are inaccessible by car.
For a special treat, try the Wine & Dine on the Rails. It features a three-course meal with wine pairings.
Learn the History of the Region
These rides combine natural beauty with historical stories. You’ll hear about the area’s rich railroad history and trackside communities. History lovers can visit the North Carolina Transportation Museum.
The museum offers a 25-minute ride on historic trains. It costs $12 per adult and runs from March through Labor Day.
A ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is unforgettable. It’s perfect for train enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Try Adventure Sports
Asheville offers thrilling activities in its mountain paradise. The Adventure Center of Asheville provides exciting experiences just minutes from downtown. These adventures get your heart racing and showcase the stunning natural surroundings.
Soaring through treetops on a zip line tour is exhilarating. Asheville Zipline Canopy Tours welcomes adventurers aged 8 and up. KidZip Park caters to young daredevils aged 4-10.
Asheville Treetops Adventure Park features seven aerial trails with 77 elements. These trails reach heights of up to 50 feet. It’s a comprehensive challenge for thrill-seekers.
Kolo Bike Park offers four miles of trails for two-wheeled excitement. It also has two pump tracks and multi-lane jump lines. Nearby ski resorts provide excellent slopes for winter sports enthusiasts.
The Blue Ridge Parkway becomes a peaceful winter hiking spot during snow closures. For a unique experience, try ice climbing with Fox Mountain Guides from November to February.
These activities show why Asheville is perfect for adventure sports lovers. The mountain town offers year-round thrills for all ages and skill levels.
FAQ
What’s the best time of year to visit Asheville?
Asheville shines in spring and fall with mild weather and stunning views. Summer is great for outdoor fun. Winter offers cozy getaways and snow sports.
Are there any free things to do in Asheville?
Asheville has plenty of free activities. Hike in Pisgah National Forest or explore the River Arts District. Enjoy street shows downtown or drive the Blue Ridge Parkway.
How many days should I plan for a trip to Asheville?
A 3-5 day trip covers Asheville’s main attractions. This includes the Biltmore Estate, downtown, and outdoor activities. A week allows for deeper exploration of the city and mountains.
Is Asheville family-friendly?
Asheville is great for families. Kids love the Western North Carolina Nature Center and hands-on museums. Outdoor adventures and art experiences are fun for all ages. Many restaurants welcome children too.
What’s the best way to experience Asheville’s craft beer scene?
Dive into Asheville’s beer scene with a guided brewery tour. Join a beer festival or create your own brewery route. Don’t miss Wicked Weed, Highland Brewing, and Green Man Brewery.
Are there any unique shopping experiences in Asheville?
Asheville’s shopping scene is one-of-a-kind. Downtown has quirky boutiques, galleries, and artisan shops. Buy directly from artists in the River Arts District. The Grove Arcade offers local and regional goods.
What outdoor activities are available near Asheville?
Asheville’s outdoors are a playground. Go hiking, mountain biking, or rock climbing. Try whitewater rafting or zip lining. Explore Pisgah National Forest, Blue Ridge Parkway, and Chimney Rock State Park.
