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In the charming mountain town of Asheville, you’ll find a place that defies categorization. Known for its hipster vibe, love for craft beer, and vibrant arts scene, Asheville is so much more than just a college town or a bluegrass haven. Nestled in western North Carolina near the breathtaking Blue Ridge Parkway, this city combines Southern traditions with stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a food lover, or simply appreciate picturesque landscapes, Asheville has an abundance of experiences to captivate you.
In Asheville, there’s something for everyone. If you love history, you can explore the vast grounds of the Biltmore Estate. For food enthusiasts, there’s a wide variety of culinary delights to try and breweries to visit. Culture lovers can take a stroll through the vibrant River Arts District. And if you’re an adventure seeker, you can go all out with activities like hiking, biking, zip lining, or whitewater rafting in the many parks and forests around the city. Asheville is a place that brings together these different personalities, creating a unique identity that constantly evolves while remaining rooted in its traditions.
When it comes to visiting Asheville, the best times are from March to May and September to early November. These months provide ideal weather with temperatures ranging from the upper 50s to the mid-70s. It’s a great time to explore the beautiful spring blooms or enjoy the vibrant fall foliage. In the summer (June to August), the city experiences increased humidity, but it’s not as intense as other parts of the Southeast. Many travelers choose to visit during this time to escape the heat of nearby cities. Winter brings colder temperatures, although Asheville itself doesn’t receive much snowfall. However, the surrounding mountains may be snowcapped.
Here are some of our recommended things to do near Asheville. Take your pick!
Stretching across 14 states from Maine to Georgia, the Appalachian Trail covers a considerable distance of 2,190 miles. In North Carolina alone, you’ll find approximately 323 miles of this scenic trail, including a stretch of 226.6 miles that runs …
Asheville, the beer capital of the Southeast, boasts the highest number of breweries per capita in the United States. It offers a vast selection of approximately 100 local beers that are eagerly enjoyed by both residents and visitors. Sampling pints …
Discover the captivating journey of Asheville’s rich cultural and architectural heritage as you stroll along the 1.7-mile-long Asheville Urban Trail in the heart of downtown. This remarkable trail, thoughtfully curated by the city, allows visitors …
Dating back to 1889, the magnificent George Vanderbilt Estate holds a rich history. This French Renaissance-style mansion is renowned as America’s largest private residence, boasting an impressive 250 rooms, including 35 bedrooms and 43 bathrooms. …
Starting in Virginia, the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway stretches for 469 miles and winds its way through approximately 250 miles of beautiful western North Carolina. This delightful highway allows drivers to leisurely explore the area with a maximum …
Craggy Gardens, situated at milepost 364 along the Blue Ridge Parkway, is undeniably the ultimate destination for witnessing wildflowers. It is renowned for its profusion of rhododendron, which transforms the landscape into a stunning display of …
Located at milepost 382 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, is the Folk Art Center. This charming place serves as the home to the Southern Highland Craft Guild, an organization that has been supporting artists and craftsmen from Southern Appalachia since the …
Asheville is a great place to have adventures without even exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway! The French Broad River, located on the town’s western edge, offers a plethora of fun activities. You can enjoy tubing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, …
If you’re unsure about where to visit along the Blue Ridge Parkway, a must-see spot is Mount Mitchell State Park. It’s one of the most popular stops on the parkway and boasts breathtaking mountain views. What sets Mount Mitchell apart from other …
Pisgah National Forest, located approximately 30 miles southwest of downtown Asheville, is a vast natural expanse spanning over 500,000 acres. This scenic forest offers an abundance of activities and stunning views to explore. With an extensive …
The River Arts District in Asheville was created to provide artists with spacious areas to work while immersing themselves in the natural beauty and free-spirited atmosphere of the city. This district is composed of 22 buildings, once used for …
Are you curious about the experience of sliding down a natural waterslide? Well, in Pisgah National Forest, you can do just that! Sliding Rock is an extraordinary feature of the forest and definitely worth a visit. It’s a unique rock formation that …
The North Carolina Arboretum is a must-visit destination for gardening enthusiasts. Situated just 10 miles south of downtown Asheville, off Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 393, this expansive arboretum spans 434 acres and is nestled within the scenic …
When you’re eager to discover more about the natural world or Appalachia, or if you have children with you, don’t forget to include a visit to the Western North Carolina Nature Center in your plans. This amazing center is situated only 6 miles …