things to do in asheville

Asheville, North Carolina, is a vibrant city known for its arts scene, outdoor activities, and eclectic culture. Here are some things to do in Asheville:

Outdoor Activities:

1. Blue Ridge Parkway: Explore the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, which runs through Asheville and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
2. Pisgah National Forest: Hike, camp, and explore the beautiful Pisgah National Forest, which is just a short drive from Asheville.
3. Whitewater Rafting: Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the French Broad River.
4. Asheville River Arts District: Take a stroll along the river and explore the many art studios and galleries in the River Arts District.

Arts and Culture:

1. Asheville Art Museum: Visit the Asheville Art Museum, which features a diverse collection of American art from the 20th and 21st centuries.
2. River Arts District: Explore the many art studios and galleries in the River Arts District, which offer a glimpse into the city’s vibrant arts scene.
3. Asheville Symphony Orchestra: Attend a performance by the Asheville Symphony Orchestra, which offers a range of classical music concerts throughout the year.
4. The Orange Peel: Catch a live music performance at The Orange Peel, a popular music venue that hosts local and national acts.

Food and Drink:

1. Asheville Food Tours: Take a guided food tour of Asheville, which will introduce you to the city’s best restaurants and eateries.
2. Breweries: Asheville is known for its craft beer scene, with many breweries offering tours and tastings.
3. The Early Girl Eatery: Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine at The Early Girl Eatery, which offers a seasonal menu that changes frequently.
4. The Nightbell: Visit The Nightbell, a popular cocktail bar that offers creative drinks and a lively atmosphere.

Other Attractions:

1. Biltmore Estate: Visit the Biltmore Estate, a grand chateau-style mansion that was built by George Vanderbilt in the late 1800s.
2. Asheville Botanical Gardens: Explore the beautiful Asheville Botanical Gardens, which feature a variety of plants and flowers.
3. The North Carolina Arboretum: Visit the North Carolina Arboretum, which offers beautiful gardens and a variety of plant species.
4. Asheville Pinball Museum: Play classic pinball machines at the Asheville Pinball Museum, which offers a fun and nostalgic experience.

Events and Festivals:

1. Asheville Festival of the Arts: Attend the Asheville Festival of the Arts, which features live music, food, and art vendors.
2. Asheville Jazz Festival: Enjoy live jazz music at the Asheville Jazz Festival, which takes place in June.
3. Asheville Oktoberfest: Celebrate Oktoberfest in Asheville, which features live music, food, and beer.
4. Asheville Christmas Parade: Attend the Asheville Christmas Parade, which takes place in December and features festive floats and performances.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Asheville. The city has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, arts and culture, food and drink, or other attractions.