What are the Best Places to Visit in Asheville, NC?
If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Asheville, NC, there are tons of great options to choose from. Asheville is a picturesque mountain town with plenty of unique sights and activities for visitors, including local breweries, galleries, and stunning outdoor recreation. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back vacation or an adventure-filled getaway, here are a few of the top places to visit while in Asheville.
Botanical Gardens at Asheville
The Botanical Gardens at Asheville is not to be missed. This beautiful oasis features over 600 species of native and non-native plants, along with breathtaking water features and paths perfect for walking, running, or just taking it all in. The gardens have been the backdrop for various movies and TV shows, including Daniel Day-Lewis’s Last of the Mohicans. Visitors can also take part in educational programs and special events throughout the year.
Biltmore Estate
The Biltmore Estate has been a destination in Asheville since 1895. Built by George Vanderbilt, this majestic estate is situated on 8,000 acres of lush gardens and forests and features the largest privately owned house in the United States. Visitors can take self-guided and audio tours of the property and explore stunning gardens, scenic overlooks, and 250 rooms filled with artwork and historical artifacts.
Chimney Rock State Park
One of the most popular attractions in Asheville’s Blue Ridge Mountains is Chimney Rock State Park. Visitors can take a guided tour up to the iconic granite peak which offers stunning 360-degree views from an elevation of almost 2,500 feet. Other highlights include Rick’s Cafe, the Great Woodland Adventure (including hiking trails, a zip line course and more), and some of the best natural scenery in the area.
Asheville Urban Trail
For those who want to discover Asheville’s history while they explore the city, the Urban Trail is a must-see experience. Created by local artists, crafts people, and historians, this 1.7 mile walking tour takes visitors around downtown landmarks and features incredible public art installations. Each stop on the tour is marked with a bronze plaque providing information on local history and culture.
Blue Ridge Parkway
One of the top places to visit in Asheville when looking for beautiful outdoor scenery is the Blue Ridge Parkway. This picturesque 469-mile road stretches from Virginia to North Carolina and offers some of the best views along its winding path through the Blue Ridge Mountains. Popular stops along the way include Mount Pisgah, Linville Gorge, and Craggy Gardens.
Asheville Pinball Museum
If you’re looking for an interactive way to explore Asheville, don’t miss out on the Pinball Museum. This fun-filled museum features over 70 vintage pinball machines from different eras and styles you can play as you explore its interactive exhibits and displays. Kids of all ages will love trying out the different machines and learning more about pinball’s fascinating history.
Asheville has lots of great places for visitors to explore, from outdoor adventures to unique cultural experiences. Whether you’re looking for natural wonders or historical landmarks, there’s something here for everyone. And remember—while you’re there, be sure to take some time to enjoy all that Asheville has to offer!
An Insider’s Guide to Asheville, NC: The Best Places to Visit
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a charming city located in western North Carolina. Known for its vibrant arts scene, stunning natural beauty, and Southern hospitality, this town has something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie, an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff or a culture lover, Asheville has you covered. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take you on a journey to discover the best places to visit in Asheville.
Top Attractions in Asheville
Asheville is home to numerous attractions that cater to various interests. Here are some of the best:
– Biltmore Estate: This French Renaissance-inspired chateau is the largest privately-owned home in America, featuring 250 rooms, manicured gardens, and stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
– Blue Ridge Parkway: This scenic drive offers 469 miles of breathtaking views of the mountains, with plenty of picnic areas, hiking trails, and overlooks to enjoy along the way.
– Asheville Pinball Museum: This unique museum features an extensive collection of vintage pinball machines, dating back to the 1940s.
– The North Carolina Arboretum: Explore the 434-acre arboretum featuring 65 acres of cultivated gardens and 10 miles of hiking and biking trails weaving through the woods.
Where to Eat in Asheville
Asheville is a foodie’s paradise, with a range of farm-to-table dining options, culinary tours, and local breweries. Here are some of the best dining spots in Asheville:
– Curate: This Spanish tapas bar boasts a lively atmosphere and mouth-watering dishes, such as the traditional paella and the grilled octopus.
– White Duck Taco Shop: This casual eatery offers an eclectic menu of international taco flavors, such as Thai chicken and Korean beef Bulgogi.
– Sunny Point Cafe: Located in West Asheville, this cozy cafe serves up Southern-style breakfast favorites, such as shrimp and grits and the homemade biscuits and gravy.
– Highland Brewing Company: Enjoy a cold, locally brewed beer in a lively taproom with outdoor seating and occasional live music.
Cultural Experiences in Asheville
Asheville is known for its vibrant arts scene, featuring art galleries, music venues, and street performers. Here are a few cultural experiences you can’t miss in Asheville:
– The River Arts District: Located in the former industrial area along the French Broad River, this district is now a hub of over 200 artists’ studios, galleries, and workshops.
– The Orange Peel: This legendary music venue has welcomed top names in the industry, such as Bob Dylan, Arcade Fire, and The Black Keys, to name a few.
– Lexington Avenue Arts and Fun Festival: This annual festival, held each September, showcases local art, music, and food, as well as street performers and acrobats.
– Asheville Symphony Orchestra: This award-winning orchestra attracts national and international guest artists and performs classical and pops concerts throughout the year.
Local History in Asheville
Asheville has a rich history dating back to the 18th century, with numerous historic sites and landmarks that pay homage to its past. Here are some of the must-visit historic sites in Asheville:
– Thomas Wolfe Memorial: This historic home is the childhood residence of the celebrated author Thomas Wolfe and is now a National Historic Landmark and a museum.
– The Grove Arcade: This stunning building, completed in 1929, was originally a commercial center, and now houses a variety of shops, restaurants, and offices.
– Vance Memorial: This monument commemorates former North Carolina governor and U.S. senator Zebulon Vance, who played a key role in rebuilding the state after the Civil War.
– Asheville Urban Trail: This self-guided walking tour consists of 30 stops highlighting Asheville’s history and architecture, such as the Woolworth Walk, the Flat Iron Building, and the Jackson Building.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions in Asheville
Beyond the staples, Asheville has plenty of delightful off-the-beaten-path spots to explore. Here are some suggestions:
– Sliding Rock: This natural waterslide, located in Pisgah National Forest, is a perfect spot for cooling off on a hot day.
– Mount Mitchell State Park: North Carolina’s highest peak, Mount Mitchell, offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
– WNC Farmers Market: This year-round market features local produce, baked goods, crafts, and gifts, as well as a popular restaurant serving Southern-style cooking.
– Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.: This brewery, located just outside of Asheville, boasts beautiful grounds, brewery tours, and tastings of their award-winning beers.
In conclusion, Asheville is a must-visit destination for travelers looking for a unique blend of culture, nature, history, and culinary delights. Whether you’re here for the weekend or a week, you’ll never run out of things to explore. This insider’s guide has showcased just a few highlights of Asheville, but the best way to experience the city is to explore it firsthand. Plan your trip to Asheville today!
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