best things to do in asheville nc

Asheville, NC, is a vibrant city nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. Known for its arts scene, craft breweries, and outdoor activities, Asheville has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Asheville, NC:

Outdoor Activities

1. Blue Ridge Parkway: A 469-mile scenic road that runs through the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering stunning views and hiking trails.
2. Pisgah National Forest: A beautiful forest with hiking trails, waterfalls, and camping sites.
3. Whitewater Rafting: Experience the thrill of rafting on the French Broad River.
4. Zip Line Canopy Tours: Fly through the trees with companies like Navitat Canopy Adventures or Asheville Zipline Canopy Adventures.
5. Hiking: Asheville has numerous hiking trails, including the Appalachian Trail, which passes through the city.

Arts and Culture

1. River Arts District: A former industrial area turned arts district, featuring studios, galleries, and restaurants.
2. Asheville Art Museum: A premier art museum showcasing American art from the 20th and 21st centuries.
3. Galleries: Asheville has numerous galleries, including the Asheville Gallery of Art and the Haen Gallery.
4. The Orange Peel: A popular music venue hosting local and national acts.
5. Asheville Symphony Orchestra: Enjoy classical music performances at the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium.

Food and Drink

1. Craft Breweries: Asheville is renowned for its craft beer scene, with over 20 breweries, including Wicked Weed Brewing and New Belgium Brewing Company.
2. The Omni Grove Park Inn: This historic resort offers stunning views and a world-class spa.
3. The Early Girl Eatery: A farm-to-table restaurant serving Southern cuisine.
4. The White Duck Taco Shop: A unique restaurant serving Asian-fusion tacos.
5. Asheville City Market: A historic marketplace offering food, produce, and handmade crafts.

Other Attractions

1. Biltmore Estate: The largest privately owned home in the US, built by George Vanderbilt in the late 1800s.
2. The North Carolina Arboretum: A 434-acre park featuring beautiful gardens and walking trails.
3. Asheville Pinball Museum: A unique museum showcasing vintage pinball machines.
4. The Thomas Wolfe Memorial: A museum dedicated to the life and works of the famous author.
5. LaZoom Comedy Tour: A hilarious tour of Asheville’s streets and landmarks.

Festivals and Events

1. Asheville Festival of the Arts: A celebration of music, dance, and visual arts.
2. Mountain X Pottery Festival: A showcase of local pottery and ceramics.
3. Asheville Jazz Festival: A festival featuring local and national jazz musicians.
4. Moogfest: A festival celebrating electronic music and innovation.
5. Asheville Pride Festival: A celebration of diversity and inclusivity.

These are just a few of the many amazing things to do in Asheville, NC. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, arts and culture, or food and drink, Asheville has something for everyone.