Travel Guide To Asheville, North Carolina

Introduction

Asheville, North Carolina is a charming city nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Known for its vibrant arts scene, eclectic food scene, and natural beauty, Asheville is a must-visit destination for travelers. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover all the top attractions in and around Asheville, including hidden gems, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, and much more.

Top Attractions

Biltmore Estate

The Biltmore Estate is a must-visit attraction in Asheville. This grand estate was built by George Vanderbilt in the late 1800s and is now open to the public for tours. The estate features a stunning mansion, beautiful gardens, and a winery.

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive that spans 469 miles through the Blue Ridge Mountains. The drive offers stunning views of the mountains and is a popular destination for hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts.

Downtown Asheville

Downtown Asheville is a vibrant area filled with art galleries, shops, and restaurants. The area is known for its eclectic mix of architecture, including Art Deco and Victorian styles. Be sure to check out the street performers and musicians on the weekends.

Hidden Gems

The North Carolina Arboretum

The North Carolina Arboretum is a 434-acre public garden located in the Bent Creek Experimental Forest. The arboretum features a variety of gardens, including a bonsai exhibit, a quilt garden, and a medicinal garden.

Asheville Pinball Museum

If you’re looking for a fun indoor activity, check out the Asheville Pinball Museum. The museum features over 80 vintage pinball machines that you can play for just a few quarters.

Food Scene

Tupelo Honey Cafe

Tupelo Honey Cafe is a popular restaurant in downtown Asheville that serves up Southern comfort food with a modern twist. Be sure to try their famous biscuits with honey and blueberry compote.

12 Bones Smokehouse

12 Bones Smokehouse is a local favorite for barbecue. The restaurant has been featured on several TV shows, including “Man vs. Food” and “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.”

Budget-Friendly Tips

Free Walking Tours

Take advantage of the free walking tours offered in downtown Asheville. These tours are led by local volunteers and offer a great way to learn about the history and culture of the city.

Picnic in the Park

Pack a picnic lunch and head to one of Asheville’s many parks. Pack Square Park and Carrier Park are both great options with plenty of green space and scenic views.

Outdoor Adventures

Hiking

Asheville is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, so there are plenty of hiking trails to explore. Check out the trails at Chimney Rock State Park or DuPont State Recreational Forest.

Whitewater Rafting

The French Broad River offers some of the best whitewater rafting in the Southeast. Several companies in Asheville offer guided rafting trips for all skill levels.

Family-Friendly Activities

Asheville Museum of Science

The Asheville Museum of Science is a great place to take kids of all ages. The museum features interactive exhibits on topics like geology, astronomy, and biology.

WNC Nature Center

The WNC Nature Center is a 42-acre wildlife park that is home to over 60 species of animals. Kids will love seeing the red wolves, otters, and black bears.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Navitat Canopy Adventures

Navitat Canopy Adventures offers zipline tours through the forest canopy. This is a great way to experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains from a unique perspective.

Folk Art Center

The Folk Art Center is a museum and gallery dedicated to preserving and promoting the traditional arts and crafts of the Southern Appalachians. Be sure to check out the craft demonstrations and workshops.

Natural Wonders

Sliding Rock

Sliding Rock is a natural rock slide located in the Pisgah National Forest. Visitors can slide down the 60-foot rock slide into a deep pool of water below.

Looking Glass Falls

Looking Glass Falls is a 60-foot waterfall located in the Pisgah National Forest. The waterfall is easily accessible from the parking area and is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.

Vibrant Nightlife

The Orange Peel

The Orange Peel is a popular music venue in downtown Asheville that has hosted acts like Bob Dylan and Smashing Pumpkins. Check their calendar for upcoming shows.

Asheville Brewery Tours

Asheville is known for its craft beer scene, so why not take a brewery tour? Several companies offer guided tours of local breweries, including Asheville Brewery Tours and BREW-ed.

Local Markets

Asheville City Market

The Asheville City Market is a year-round farmer’s market that features local produce, meats, and crafts. The market is open on Saturdays from April to December and on Wednesdays from May to October.

WNC Farmers Market

The WNC Farmers Market is a large indoor/outdoor market that features local produce, crafts, and food products. The market is open daily from 8am to 6pm.

Beaches and Mountains

Lake Lure

Lake Lure is a beautiful mountain lake located about 30 minutes from Asheville. The lake offers swimming, fishing, and boating, as well as stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Outer Banks

If you’re looking for a beach getaway, head to the Outer Banks. This chain of barrier islands offers miles of pristine beaches, as well as historic lighthouses and charming seaside towns.

Cultural Immersion

Cherokee Indian Reservation

The Cherokee Indian Reservation is located about an hour from Asheville and offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Cherokee people. Be sure to check out the Museum of the Cherokee Indian.

Asheville Art Museum

The Asheville Art Museum is a great place to immerse yourself in the local art scene. The museum features a variety of exhibits, including works by regional artists.

Art and Music Scene

River Arts District

The River Arts District is a collection of former warehouses that have been converted into art studios and galleries. Visitors can watch artists at work and purchase their creations.

Grey Eagle

The Grey Eagle is a music venue in downtown Asheville that features local and national acts. The venue has a cozy atmosphere and is a great place to catch up-and-coming musicians.

Walking Tours

Historic Montford Walking Tour

The Historic Montford Walking Tour is a self-guided tour of the Montford Historic District. The district features over 600 historic homes, many of which were built in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Urban Trail

The Urban Trail is a 1.7-mile walking tour of downtown Asheville. The trail features 30 stops, each with a bronze sculpture that tells a story about the city’s history and culture.

Architectural Marvels

Grove Arcade

The Grove Arcade is a historic building in downtown Asheville that was built in the 1920s. The building features an impressive Art Deco style and is now home to shops and restaurants.

Flat Iron Building

The Flat Iron Building is a historic landmark in downtown Asheville that was built in 1926. The building features a unique triangular shape and is now home to offices and apartments.

Historical Sites

Thomas Wolfe Memorial

The Thomas Wolfe Memorial is a historic home in downtown Asheville that was the childhood home of author Thomas Wolfe. The house is now a museum and features exhibits on Wolfe’s life and works.

Battery Park Book Exchange

The Battery Park Book Exchange is a unique bookstore in downtown Asheville that is housed in an old bank building. The store features over 22,000 books and a cozy wine bar.

Biking Routes

French Broad River Greenway

The French Broad River Greenway is a 2.8-mile paved trail that runs along the river. The trail is popular with bikers, joggers, and walkers.