Asheville, North Carolina, is a charming and vibrant city known for its stunning natural scenery, rich history, and diverse cultural attractions. Whether you are a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, Asheville has something to offer everyone. In this article, we will highlight the 12 best things to do in Asheville, NC, to help you plan your visit to this beautiful city.
Explore the Biltmore Estate
The Biltmore Estate is one of the top tourist attractions in Asheville, NC. This grand estate, built by George Vanderbilt in the late 19th century, features a 250-room French Renaissance chateau, expansive gardens, and a winery. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the mansion, explore the gardens and winery, and participate in a variety of special events throughout the year.
Take a Hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains
The Blue Ridge Mountains surround Asheville, providing visitors with ample opportunities to hike and explore the beautiful natural scenery. Some of the best hiking trails in the area include the Appalachian Trail, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the Pisgah National Forest. Visitors can also enjoy scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and bird watching in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
More Read
Visit the North Carolina Arboretum
The North Carolina Arboretum is a beautiful 434-acre public garden located within the Pisgah National Forest. The arboretum features 65 acres of cultivated gardens, 10 miles of hiking and biking trails, and a variety of educational exhibits and events. Visitors can explore the various gardens, attend a guided tour, or participate in one of the many workshops offered throughout the year.
Stroll through the River Arts District
The River Arts District is a lively neighborhood in Asheville that features over 200 artists’ studios, galleries, and shops. Visitors can stroll through the district, watch artists at work, and purchase unique handcrafted items. The River Arts District is also home to a variety of restaurants and cafes, making it a great place to grab a bite to eat.
Check out the Art Deco Architecture
Asheville is known for its unique Art Deco architecture, which can be seen throughout the city. Some of the best examples of Art Deco architecture in Asheville include the S&W Cafeteria Building, the Kress Building, and the City Hall Building. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour of the Art Deco landmarks in Asheville or participate in a guided tour.
Enjoy the Downtown Asheville Food Scene
Downtown Asheville is a food lover’s paradise, featuring a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and bars. Visitors can sample everything from Southern comfort food to farm-to-table cuisine, and enjoy a variety of international flavors. Some of the top restaurants in downtown Asheville include Cúrate, Rhubarb, and Tupelo Honey.
Sample Local Craft Beer
Asheville is known as Beer City USA, with more breweries per capita than any other city in the country. Visitors can sample a variety of local craft beers at the many breweries and taprooms in Asheville, including Highland Brewing Company, Green Man Brewery, and Wicked Weed Brewing.
Visit the Asheville Pinball Museum
The Asheville Pinball Museum is a unique and entertaining attraction in downtown Asheville. This museum features a collection of vintage pinball machines and arcade games from the 1950s to the 1990s. Visitors can play unlimited games with the purchase of an admission ticket and learn about the history of pinball machines and arcade games.
Take a Tour of the Thomas Wolfe House
The Thomas Wolfe House is a National Historic Landmark located in downtown Asheville. This historic home was once the residence of the famous American author, Thomas Wolfe, and is now a museum dedicated to his life and works. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and learn about the life of one of Asheville’s most famous residents.
See the Asheville Urban Trail
The Asheville Urban Trail is a self-guided walking tour that takes visitors through the history and culture of Asheville. This trail features 30 stops that highlight the city’s unique architecture, art, and history. Visitors can pick up a brochure at the Asheville Visitor Center and explore the trail at their own pace.
Visit the Folk Art Center
The Folk Art Center is a museum and gallery located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, just outside of Asheville. This center features a collection of traditional and contemporary Southern Appalachian crafts and folk art. Visitors can explore the galleries, watch craft demonstrations, and purchase unique handcrafted items.
Conclusion
Asheville, NC, is a city full of charm, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in history, art, nature, or food, Asheville has something to offer. From the Biltmore Estate to the Blue Ridge Mountains, there are countless attractions and activities to explore in this vibrant city.
FAQs
- What is the best time of year to visit Asheville, NC?
The best time to visit Asheville is during the fall, when the leaves are changing colors, and the weather is cool and crisp.
- What is the Asheville Pinball Museum?
The Asheville Pinball Museum is a unique museum featuring a collection of vintage pinball machines and arcade games.
- Can I visit the Biltmore Estate without a tour?
Yes, visitors can explore the gardens and winery at the Biltmore Estate without taking a guided tour of the mansion.
- How many breweries are in Asheville, NC?
Asheville has over 40 breweries, making it the city with the most breweries per capita in the country.
- What is the Asheville Urban Trail?
The Asheville Urban Trail is a self-guided walking tour that takes visitors through the history and culture of Asheville, featuring 30 stops that highlight the city’s unique architecture, art, and history.