Asheville is stunning, and I have to say my first trip to North Carolina did not disappoint. There are so many amazing things to do in Asheville, North Carolina. I could have spent much more than a week there and I still wouldn’t have been able to enjoy all this town has to offer.
Whether you like the great outdoors, hitting up breweries, or visiting historical sites, Asheville has it all. Here are the best things to do in Asheville, North Carolina.
Biltmore Estate is a Timeless Thing to Do in Asheville, NC
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A visit to Biltmore Estate is an absolute must thing to do in Asheville, North Carolina. If you’ve never been to the Biltmore Estate before (or even if you have), prepare to have your jaw drop. This estate is about as close to a castle as we get here in the United States. I felt like I was walking into a fairytale scene.
The interior features a walk-through tour with an audio guide so you can learn some history about the Biltmore Estate. But don’t stop there. Your ticket also gives you full access to the Biltmore Estate grounds, which are also lovely. Walking trails and flowers abound as far as the eye can see.
Don’t forget to reserve a time for wine-tasting which is complimentary with your ticket for visiting the Biltmore Estate. It sure is difficult to imagine someone actually living in such an expansive place.
Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway Near Asheville, NC
If you can’t find something to do in Asheville, North Carolina, a bit of a drive might be in order. Honestly, you could pick a direction, start driving and be greeted by breathtaking mountain views. One of the best places to take it all in is by driving the Blue Ridge Parkway. You can even drive this road all the way from Asheville to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It isn’t called “America’s Favorite Drive” for nothing.
Visit Crabtree Falls
If you want to enjoy the great outdoors, Asheville is known for having many waterfall hikes. On my trip, I visited a few. Crabtree Falls and Rainbow Falls (coming up next) were by far the best if you ask me.
Crabtree Falls trailhead is located off the Blue Ridge Parkway, so while you’re out and about, you might as well plan to stop here. The trail is a 2.5-mile loop. The hike is rated as moderate to strenuous, but my parents were able to take it on with just an occasional hand. If your balance isn’t the best, you might want to get some hiking poles for this hike. It is quite steep, but the reward is so worth it.
Crabtree Falls cascades approximately 60 feet over the rocks and into a pool below. If you hike here in the summer months, be prepared for afternoon rain. We got rained on every afternoon, so I think it must just be part of the weather here. It was also extremely humid but surprisingly, not too buggy.
Rainbow Falls and Turtleback Falls
Another thing to do in Asheville, North Carolina, is Rainbow Falls. Although it is outside the city itself, you’ll be poised to access this hike after a short drive if you stay downtown. The hike to Rainbow Falls is an out-and-back. If you hike all the way to Turtleback Falls (which you should), you’ll also get to see this bonus fall.
Wolf Ridge Ski Resort
Whether you are visiting in the summer or the winter, a trip to Wolf Ridge Ski Resort should be on your list of things to do in Asheville. In the winter, there are 4 lifts that service the area or you can go snow tubing. It is on the smaller end of ski resorts, but sometimes those hidden gems are better than the big places. Less competition for the pow.
During the summer, when Joel and I visited, a hike on the runs was a perfect opportunity to enjoy the scenery. The views from the top of Wolf Ridge were lovely. We hiked up the backside, which is no longer operational for winter skiing, but worked perfectly for an easy stroll.
Asheville River Arts District
Asheville’s River Arts District is also another must-see place. There is artwork from hundreds of artists. Many of the galleries are open every day of the week, but there are also some special days and events where you can get an inside look at more studios and see the artists work in progress. You can even take classes.
Eateries in Asheville, NC
Asheville is a hit for foodies. You can find almost anything you want to eat there. Wherever you stay or visit in the city, you’re sure to find a tasty spot to dine at an amazing Asheville restaurant. When I visited, we didn’t eat out because of the ongoing pandemic, but I have heard good things.
Breweries
Why stop with food. Another of the popular things to do in Asheville is visit local breweries or cideries. You’ll have nearly 50 options to choose from, so prepare to be amazed.
When to Visit Asheville
Asheville is a beautiful place to visit all year round. Joel and I made our trip there in the summer. The weather was a pleasant temperature but a little muggy. We also just dodged a tropical storm. So while summer is a great time to visit, you’ll probably be happy any time of the year. And man, would I love to see Biltmore decked out in it’s Christmas decor.
After you visit Asheville, don’t forget to check out more travel guides like Things to do in the Twin Cities and Things to Do on the Oregon Coast.
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