Best Things To Do in Asheville NC for Every Type of Traveler

Asheville is a city nestled in the mountains, full of life and surrounded by nature, heritage, and friendliness. Within the confines of the Blue Ridge Mountains, it strikes a perfect balance between outdoor adventure and city excitement. From hiking trails to breathtaking viewpoints, galleries, and historic landmarks, Asheville has something for every traveler.

Its food scene is very famous, along with local breweries and a strong community spirit. It allows one to have serene natures during the day and then pedestrian streets during nightfall. Whether it's a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Asheville is sure to create lifelong memories at every turn.

Get ready to discover the best of Asheville, NC, and explore exciting activities that make this mountain city the best travel destination.

Fun Things to Do in Asheville NC

Asheville has plenty of exciting things for an individual who loves the great outdoors and the city. Asheville nature and city activities may include hiking trails for exploration. In addition, it may include a love for music and artistic centers.

The River Arts District enables a person to view paintings being created. The creative ambiance and the laid-back environment of the pubs and cafes will make an individual have enjoyable times regardless of age.

Below are some fun things to do in Asheville NC to enjoy the fun experiences waiting for you:

1. Hunt for wild edible plants on a professional Appalachian forest foraging adventure.
2. Explore the massive collection of Appalachian crafts at the Folk Art Center.
3. Admire the massive freestanding elliptical dome of the Basilica of Saint Lawrence.
4. Play unlimited classic arcade games and pinball at the Asheville Pinball Museum.
5. Find giant wooden troll sculptures hidden throughout the North Carolina Arboretum.
6. Meet rescued cougars and black bears at the Western North Carolina Nature Center.
7. Witness vinyl records being pressed while sipping coffee at the Citizen Vinyl facility.
8. Follow a storyteller through dark alleys on a guided nighttime haunted walk.
9. Shop for used books while enjoying champagne at a cozy bookstore bar.

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Things to Do in Downtown Asheville NC

The downtown part of Asheville is quite lively and pedestrian-friendly and has lots of character. You can take a walk down these colorful streets lined with shops and local eateries. The historic buildings and murals in the area only enhance its beauty. The presence of street performers can sometimes lead to a lively atmosphere for tourists.

Here are some things to do in Downtown Asheville NC to feel the city’s vibrant energy:

1. Watch professional glassblowers create hand-blown art at Lexington Glassworks.
2. Catch a live performance at the legendary Orange Peel social aid and pleasure club.
3. Grab a local bite from various vendors inside the Art Deco-style S&W Market food hall.
4. Sip sparkling wine while browsing thousands of titles at Battery Park Book Exchange.
5. Explore rotating contemporary exhibitions at the Asheville Art Museum.
6. Discover the legacy of electronic music and synthesizers at the interactive Museum.
7. Follow the Urban Trail walking tour to see bronze sculptures depicting city history.
8. Shop for regional crafts and fine jewelry at the expansive Kress Emporium.
9. Admire the stunning architecture and local boutiques within the historic Grove Arcade.
10. Enjoy a flight of locally crafted sour beers at the Wicked Weed Brewing pub.

Free Things to Do in Asheville NC

Asheville has plenty of free fun that budget-conscious travelers can participate in. You can go hiking in the scenic trails, get the breathtaking mountain scenery, or simply sit back and relax in the public park. A walk through the downtown area to check out the street art is free. Many art galleries and festivals that the community hosts are free.

Here are some free things to do in Asheville NC without breaking your budget by trying free attractions:

1. Visit the Folk Art Center to see traditional Appalachian crafts on display.
2. Drive along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway to experience stunning mountain overlooks.
3. Browse the regional produce and mountain crafts at the WNC Farmers Market.
4. Experience the historic 18th-century farmstead at the Vance Birthplace site.
5. Navigate the high-elevation trails and high-altitude meadows at Graveyard Fields.
6. Picnic beside the French Broad River at the recreational fields of Carrier Park.
7. Stroll through the native plant collections at the Botanical Gardens at Asheville.
8. Photograph the vibrant murals and public street art found across West Asheville.
9. Observe the roadside beauty of the cascading waters at Looking Glass Falls.
10. Master the challenging disc golf course located within Richmond Hill Park.

Things to Do in Asheville NC for Couples

Asheville is a very romantic place for couples who want to spend quality time with each other. One can go for drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway or simply watch the sunset in the mountains. Some cafes and restaurants are great for dates. Couples could also go for spa treatments or nature walks. Asheville provides a warm and lovable environment.

Here are some things to plan a romantic Asheville trip and create unforgettable memories together:

1. Roam the opulent halls and lush conservatory of the massive Biltmore Estate.
2. Reserve a private outdoor salt tub session at Shoji Spa and Retreat.
3. Hear spooky local folklore on a lantern-guided Asheville Ghost Tour.
4. Soak in geothermal mineral waters along the river in Hot Springs.
5. Summit the grassy bald of Max Patch for a romantic sunset picnic.
6. View native black bears and wolves at the WNC Nature Center.
7. Catch a comedy show on the move with the purple LaZoom bus tour.
8. Enjoy local vintages and live jazz music at 5 Walnut Wine Bar.
9. Tap your feet to live bluegrass at the historic Jack of the Wood pub.
10. Indulge in Spanish small plates at the intimate Cúrate tapas bar.

Things to Do in Asheville NC with Kids

Asheville is a family-friendly city where children have plenty of things to do. Kids can enjoy nature parks, easy hiking trails, and outdoor adventures. Interactive museums and fun amusements will keep them happy and engaged. The relaxed environment makes traveling with kids easier. Families can learn and have fun at the same time.

Here are some things to do in Asheville NC with kids and enjoy kid-friendly adventures together:

1. Navigate the sprawling corn maze and pumpkin patches at Eliada Farm.
2. Explore massive indoor soft play structures and slides at the Mountain Play Lodge.
3. Play hundreds of classic video games and consoles at the Asheville Retrocade.
4. Catch a fly ball and enjoy fireworks during an Asheville Tourists baseball game.
5. Pet farm animals and take a scenic hayride at Hickory Nut Gap Farm.
6. Challenge the whole family to a round of Tropical Gardens Mini Golf.
7. Work together to solve interactive puzzles at Fox-N-Otter Adventure Escapes.
8. Pick out old-fashioned candies from the famous barrels at Mast General Store.
9. Treat the family to unique artisanal scoops at The Hop Ice Cream Cafe.
10. Float down the gentle French Broad River in a colorful rental tube.

Things to Do in Asheville NC in Winter

Winter in Asheville is almost bellicosely tranquil. The mountain views, sometimes light falls of snow, and a hike up the quiet mountain trails are also quite appealing. In the cold days, you could enjoy home-style cafés and restaurants more than any other time. Winter festivities and seasonal activities give charm to this town. It is a good time to visit Asheville because the crowd will be much smaller.

Here are some things to do in Asheville NC in winter to enjoy its quiet beauty and cozy charm:

1. Enjoy a traditional Japanese salt soak at Shoji Spa and Lodge while overlooking the winter forest.
2. Relax near the towering stone fireplaces in the Great Hall of the Omni Grove Park Inn.
3. Spend an afternoon playing retro arcade games and classic machines at the Asheville Pinball Museum.
4. Navigate the Blue Ridge Parkway for stunning panoramic vistas of the surrounding frosted mountain peaks.
5. Experience a meditative session inside the therapeutic environment of the Asheville Salt Cave.
6. Browse thousands of used titles while enjoying a beverage at the Battery Park Book Exchange.
7. Attend an intimate live performance at one of the city's many independent music venues.
8. Walk through the North Carolina Arboretum to see the specialized winter garden exhibits and sculptures.
9. View the dramatic ice formations on a cold-weather hike to the base of Looking Glass Falls.
10. Discover local craft flavors by visiting several microbreweries tucked away in the South Slope area.

Plan your Asheville trip today and enjoy memorable experiences, beautiful scenery, and moments you will cherish long after your visit.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Asheville best recognized for?

Asheville is recognized for its art scene, Blue Ridge Mountains, food culture, and outdoor activities.

Q: Are there free things to do in Asheville?

Yes, visitors can explore street art, hiking trails, parks, and festivals for free.

Q: Is Asheville perfect for a family trip?

Yes, Asheville reflects many parks, kid-friendly attractions, and outdoor experiences for families.