Location: Asheville
Top Things to do in Asheville
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The 10 Best Things to do in Asheville, North Carolina (NC)
If you’re into eating locally and supporting sustainable agriculture, go to Asheville—and eat, eat, eat. This town of less than 100,000 people has 17 farmers’ markets, and the local restaurant scene is all about taking advantage of the seasonal produce sold there. And don’t miss the area’s microbreweries.
Restaurants in Asheville
1. Biltmore
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 26,629 reviews
George Vanderbilt's historic country estate in Asheville, NC; Biltmore includes Biltmore House--America's largest home--plus gardens, winery, Antler Hill Village, historic farm, 4-star Inn on Biltmore Estate, shops, restaurants, branded products, and outdoor adventures. This National Historic Landmark is an amazing destination offering a wide range of activities for all ages.
Reviewed By travelerfromsj - San Jose, United States
We did the self-guided audio tour of the house early in the morning, with tickets bought on-line a month earlier. While the house itself was fascinating, I have to say the audio part of it was a little corny and overacted at times- all about guests going to a party, and not much about the history or architecture of the house; but I liked seeing the period clothing. The tour ended appropriately with a tour of the servants quarters, at the bottom of the house. After that we walked around the gardens, to the Bass pond and back. The highlight was definitely the Conservatory, which was stunning; make sure to stop in there to see the orchids. After a quick lunch we took the Legacy of the Land tour, which is a shuttle tour that makes a few stops for guests to get out and look around. I think our tour guide was Jim, and it was absolutely fascinating. I was expecting a tour of the Farm, but it was more about Vanderbilt’s decision to build the Biltmore, how he acquired the land, Olmsted’s design of the grounds, the beginnings of the US forestry service… It was definitely a nice counterpoint to the house tour, and I highly recommend it. We ate at Antler Hill Village twice while here, and sampled wine at the winery. I have to say this place is HUGE; it’s about 5 miles between the Biltmore House and Antler Hill Village, so you’ll definitely want a plan and a car. Plan on spending at least a day. The only negative we ran into is that parking for the Biltmore House tours was confusing and not well signed, especially if you’re looking for the park and walk lot. Pretty much every car that came in ended up driving all the way up to the lawn in front of the house, where a guard told them to do a U-turn and go back. More signs or a couple of folks directing traffic in the morning would be really helpful.
2. The North Carolina Arboretum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,603 reviews
Nestled in the Southern Appalachian Mountains just south of Asheville, The North Carolina Arboretum offers acres of cultivated gardens and groomed trails featuring some of the most beautiful, botanically-diverse plants in the region.
Reviewed By SeniorTravelTales - Oldsmar, United States
We have visited the Arboretum previously initially just ourselves, seniors, touring this magnificent arboretum and gardens and another time with our grandchildren to thrill at Winter Lights. Having our grandchildren visit again and since they love “LEGO’s” we were excited to visit the Lego Exhibit at the Arboretum. Specifically this is a very popular traveling exhibit that has 500,000 Legos. The exhibit is called Nature Connects: Art with LEGO bricks by Sean Kenney. Our grandchildren were so excited to stroll the gardens locating the 16 larger-than-life-size sculptures. Amazing how each sculpture is carefully placed in an appropriate location. This created excitement to find each sculpture and get a picture with each one. These Lego sculptures are just magnificent with design, color, depth and imagination. Additionally, the scale train was exciting for them to watch. They loved the “eyes” on each engine searching the tracks. A fun afternoon. There is much more to do at the Arboretum with hikes, creeks, and more. We plan to check into on our next visit
3. Grovewood Village
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 565 reviews
Grovewood Village is a hidden gem rich with art and history. Located adjacent to the Omni Grove Park Inn, this site once housed the weaving and woodworking operations of Biltmore Industries, a force in American craft and textiles that was originally backed by Edith Vanderbilt. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the 11-acre property is now home to Grovewood Gallery, working artist studios, the Biltmore Industries Homespun Museum, and the Estes-Winn Antique Car Museum. PLEASE NOTE: Our 2 museums are closed during the winter months of January - March. Grovewood Gallery is open year-round. Grovewood Village has no admission fees, and free parking is available on-site.
Reviewed By MargieP562 - Goldsboro, United States
There is so much to see here and truly great shopping. There’s a speciality hand crafted master furniture store with top quality work on the second floor. The first floor sells beautiful work created for jewelry, kitchen ware, clocks, unique gifts and so much more. The free antique car museum is a real treat. All beautiful cars with a lot of history explained. There’s also an old boot legging still in there and an Asheville fire truck beautifully maintained. Outside the shops are lawn ornaments and wind ornaments all for sale. Excellent work on every piece for sale.
4. Western North Carolina Nature Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 766 reviews
Visit the Western North Carolina Nature Center - home to over 60 species of animals including river otters, black bear, red wolves and cougars. The Western North Carolina Nature Center connects people with the animals and plants of the Southern Appalachian Mountain region by inspiring appreciation, nurturing understanding, and advancing conservation of the region's rich biodiversity. The Nature Center is proud to be accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation. Look for the AZA logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting an institution dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things. Less than 230 facilities in the United States have met the high accreditation standards set by AZA
Reviewed By O7438UErebeccak
Veterans are really appreciated. Fantastic place to walk, and enjoy the beauty of North Carolina. The guides and animals were great. After the demonstration with Mitchel the mountain lion, I developed a new feeling of wild animal. WOW.... This place needs to be visited during different season to get the beauty of the varied flowers and trees.
5. The Folk Art Center (Southern Highland Craft Guild)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,360 reviews
Traditional and contemporary Southern Appalachian crafts, including century-old pieces, are displayed in this Folk Art Center, which also houses the first craft shop of the U.S.
Reviewed By ruthf289 - Laurinburg, United States
There are many interesting hand crafted items on display upstairs at the Southern Highland Craft Guild Folk Arts Center. Many items are also on sale on the lower level. You find things that you will not see in the usual shops.
6. Craggy Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 663 reviews
Reviewed By DavidSimchock - Asheville, United States
If you are passing through the Craggy Gardens section of the Blue Ridge Parkway, it's worth taking a short hike up to Craggy Pinnacle (when heading north on the Blue Ridge Parkway, once you pass the Craggy Gardens Visitor Center on your left, you'll come up to a parking lot on the left -- park here to access the trailhead). What I really like about Craggy Pinnacle is that you get 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, so it's a great spot for both sunrise and sunset. And, the hike is only about 3/4 of a mile, and on a very wide path (you can't get lost!). It can be busy during peak tourist season, so best times to go there are in the off-season, and on weekdays instead of weekends. Craggy Pinnacle is one of my favorite spots on the BRP for easy-access photography. If you aren't into the short hike or don't have time, you can catch a nice sunrise across the road from the visitor center (walk a couple of hundred yards south of the visitor center for best views).
7. Basilica of Saint Lawrence
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,184 reviews
Reviewed By Naturelover212 - Asheville, United States
As a newcomer to the city, I was eager to see the Basilica of St. Lawrence and was not disappointed. It is a gorgeous little church situated on a hill nestled by the mountains surrounding Asheville. In many respects it brought back memories of the older, elegant churches of the northeast U.S. and Europe with its Spanish Renaissance façade and jewel like interior. However, one of the most intriguing aspects of the basilica is that it was designed by Rafael Guastavino, the architect and builder of Spanish origin who built and designed many national landmarks, including Grand Central Station, the Great Hall of Ellis Island, Carnegie Hall, etc. To see his awe inspiring, resplendent tile work throughout the church is to be taken back in time to when such handiwork was prized and cherished. For anyone of a spiritual bent or who just wants to bask in the glory of architectural genius, this church should not be missed!
8. Asheville Pinball Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 872 reviews
Reviewed By 552kellyb - Plano, United States
What a great place! Pay entrance fee, play as much as you want. They only allow in 80 players for 80 games, so there's always something to play. 40 pinball, 40 arcade video games. TIPS: Arrive 20-30 mins. before opening if you want to be sure to get in right away. You can enter for free and not play (for instance if your child wants to play but you don't care about it). Once you have your wristband, you can come and go all day, and if you leave and come back, you go to the top of the waiting list.
9. Lexington Glassworks
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 949 reviews
Lexington Glassworks, located in the heart of downtown Asheville, NC, was born out of the desire to create timeless and innovative hand-blown glass. Each piece is skillfully crafted using century old techniques and locally sourced material with the singular goal of creating top-notch work. The gallery features high quality custom lighting and handmade glass for any budget. Lexington Glassworks is a makers studio where the public is invited to view the artists at work. While here take the unique opportunity to enjoy a locally crafted beer, this is truly an Asheville experience. Note: We do not blow glass on Tuesdays.
Reviewed By Stucolco - Myrtle Beach, United States
It was fascinating to be able to see glassblowers at work and all of the beautiful pieces on display for sale. Of course, we had to purchase one of the dishes, as well as a globe ornament for our son and his fiancee for their next Christmas tree.
10. New Belgium Brewing Company
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 592 reviews
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains along the French Broad River, and parallel with the River Arts District, Asheville is home to our East Coast Brewery and Liquid Center tasting room. Come spend some of your time in Western North Carolina with us imbibing on an Asheville-brewed Fat Tire and vibing with friends, family, our amazing bartenders and tour guides. Every Friday is Fat Tire Friday. A delicious cast of rotating food trucks will feed your belly as we feed your soul on one of our award-winning brewery tours. Please visit our website to learn more about upcoming events, our live music schedule, private room rentals, and to reserve your ticket on one of our tour experiences.
Reviewed By tefpa
On a day trip to Asheville, we made our way to the New Belgium Brewing Asheville Liquid Center tasting room for dinner. Brewery and Liquid outside an artsy neighborhood, familes playing and listening to music on the lawn, great food truck, laid back atmosphere, amazing always available and only-get-it-here-and-now options. Very knowledgable, helpful, and friendly experts pouring brews (thanks Aaron). Inside and outside seating. Lots of brews to choose. I had a small batch limited availability sour from ancient local grapes and Canadian wild harvested sumac. Wow. This place is worth the trip.
