Asheville, North Carolina is a captivating blend of natural beauty, historic charm, vibrant art, and culinary creativity.
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this eclectic city is a paradise for adventurers, history buffs, food lovers, and creatives alike.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, here are the 10 best things to do in Asheville for an unforgettable experience.
1. Explore Downtown Asheville
Why It’s Special: Downtown Asheville is the heartbeat of the city, brimming with quirky shops, indie bookstores, lively street performances, and locally-owned cafes and breweries.
Highlights:
- Grove Arcade: A historic architectural gem filled with boutique shops and artisan stalls.
- Urban Trail: A self-guided walking tour that narrates the city’s history through public art.
- LaZoom Comedy Bus Tour: A uniquely Asheville experience combining history and humor.
Pro Tip: Visit during the weekend to catch live music and street performers on every corner.
2. Tour the Biltmore Estate
Why It’s Special: America’s largest privately-owned home, the Biltmore Estate is an architectural marvel set on 8,000 acres of landscaped gardens and forest.
Must-Do Experiences:
- Tour the 250-room mansion
- Stroll the manicured gardens designed by Frederick Law Olmsted
- Sample wine at the Biltmore Winery
- Dine at one of the estate’s acclaimed restaurants
Pro Tip: Book tickets in advance, especially during the holiday season when the estate is adorned with thousands of lights.
3. Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway
Why It’s Special: Nicknamed “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway offers jaw-dropping views, scenic overlooks, and access to hiking trails.
Recommended Stops:
- Craggy Gardens: Ideal for wildflower viewing in spring and summer.
- Graveyard Fields: A beautiful hike to two waterfalls.
- Folk Art Center: Showcasing Southern Appalachian crafts.
Pro Tip: Go during the fall to witness the dazzling foliage.
4. Visit the River Arts District
Why It’s Special: This former industrial zone is now home to over 200 artists working in open studios.
Top Experiences:
- Watch live demonstrations by potters, painters, and glassblowers
- Browse unique, handmade art pieces
- Attend workshops and community art events
Pro Tip: Most studios are open daily, but some events and exhibits rotate monthly.
5. Hike and Chase Waterfalls
Why It’s Special: Asheville is a gateway to some of the Southeast’s most beautiful hikes and waterfalls.
Best Waterfalls Near Asheville:
- Looking Glass Falls: Easily accessible roadside waterfall
- Moore Cove Falls: A gentle hike leads to a fall you can walk behind
- Catawba Falls: A moderate hike with rewarding views
Pro Tip: Bring sturdy shoes and water. Some trails can get muddy, especially after rain.
6. Discover the North Carolina Arboretum
Why It’s Special: This 434-acre public garden in the Pisgah National Forest blends science, nature, and art.
What to See:
- Bonsai exhibit and seasonal flower gardens
- Hiking and biking trails
- Eco-friendly exhibitions and nature programs
Pro Tip: Admission is free; parking is $16 per vehicle.
7. Sample Asheville’s Culinary Scene
Why It’s Special: From farm-to-table bistros to innovative food trucks, Asheville is a foodie’s heaven.
Must-Try Restaurants:
- Cúrate: Award-winning Spanish tapas
- Chai Pani: Indian street food reinvented
- Biscuit Head: Famous for massive biscuits and creative toppings
Pro Tip: Make reservations ahead of time, especially on weekends.
8. Sip Your Way Through Local Breweries
Why It’s Special: With more breweries per capita than any U.S. city, Asheville is a craft beer mecca.
Top Breweries:
- Wicked Weed Brewing
- Highland Brewing Company
- Burial Beer Co.
- Green Man Brewery
Pro Tip: Join a brewery tour or try a flight to sample several styles.
9. Visit Chimney Rock State Park
Why It’s Special: Located 25 miles southeast of Asheville, this park offers panoramic views from a 315-foot monolith.
Top Activities:
- Ride the elevator to the summit of Chimney Rock
- Hike to the dramatic 404-foot Hickory Nut Falls
- Explore nearby Lake Lure
Pro Tip: Get there early to beat the crowds and afternoon thunderstorms.
10. Experience Asheville’s Nightlife and Music Scene
Why It’s Special: Asheville comes alive after dark with live music, cozy pubs, and quirky entertainment.
Best Night Activities:
- Join the Friday night drum circle in Pritchard Park
- Enjoy a concert at The Orange Peel or The Grey Eagle
- Take a spooky Haunted Asheville ghost tour
Pro Tip: Many venues are walkable from downtown hotels, so you can safely enjoy the scene.
Sample 4-Day Asheville Itinerary
| Day | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Biltmore Estate | Gardens & Winery | Dinner at Cúrate |
| 2 | Blue Ridge Parkway Drive | Hike Craggy Gardens | Craft beer at Wicked Weed |
| 3 | River Arts District | NC Arboretum | Live music at The Orange Peel |
| 4 | Chimney Rock | Lake Lure visit | Ghost tour + late night dessert |
Travel Tips for Visiting Asheville
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) for pleasant weather and colorful scenery.
- Getting Around: Rent a car if you plan to explore the mountains and waterfalls. Downtown is walkable.
- Where to Stay: Check out boutique hotels like The Foundry Hotel or cozy Airbnbs in West Asheville.
- Local Events: Don’t miss LEAF Festival, Brewgrass, and the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival.
Final Thoughts
Asheville is one of those places that captures your heart instantly.
With a stunning backdrop of mountains, an extraordinary range of things to do, and a creative spirit that permeates everything, it’s easy to see why it’s a beloved destination.
Whether you’re hiking, sipping, or exploring, Asheville offers a one-of-a-kind adventure every time.
Ready to plan your Asheville adventure? Let this guide lead the way and get inspired to create memories that last a lifetime.
