The mountain air is calling and Asheville, NC could be your next great option for a memorable getaway in the great outdoors.
Asheville is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking a unique blend of natural beauty, rich cultural experience and vibrant urban life. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers breathtaking scenery, a thriving arts scene and an underrated culinary landscape. Even if you aren't a fan of outdoor activities, there are plenty of things to do in Asheville for any type of traveler.
From exploring historic estates and engaging in outdoor adventures to savoring local cuisine and discovering eclectic art, Asheville is a great destination for a family vacation or quick weekend getaway.
Best Things to do in Asheville
No matter what your interests are, these are some of the best things to do in Asheville that should be considered on any traveler's itinerary.
1. Visit the Biltmore Estate
- Time needed: 3-6 hours
- Address: 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803
- Great for: family trips, couples, solo travelers and history buffs
Take a step back into the Gilded Age and experience America's largest home, the Biltmore Estate. Built by American magnate George Washington Vanderbilt II, the Biltmore Estate is a staggering 178,926 square foot mansion complete with a bowling alley and indoor swimming pool.
Aside from the mansion tour, you can wander through the vast grounds spanning more than 8,000 acres and enjoy complimentary wine tastings at the on-site winery, with additional wine to purchase. On days with nicer weather, we suggest wandering through the six formal and informal gardens, the Conservatory and the nature trails on the property. After working up an appetite, you can also stop by the Antler Hill Village for lunch. You can easily spend a full day here with the amount of activities at the Biltmore Estate and can also stay at the AAA Four Diamond The Inn hotel during your visit to Asheville.
2. Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway
- Time needed: 2-4 hours
- Address: multiple entrances from Asheville
- Great for: family trips, couples, solo travelers and outdoor enthusiasts
- Suggested activity: Scenic Blue Ridge Parkway Self-Guided Audio Tour
Take a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Known for its stunning views, especially in fall when the foliage is in full form. Taking a drive along the parkway is perfect for photo opportunities, hiking at one of the many trails along the parkway or just enjoying a peaceful drive. There are multiple marked pull-offs along the way that offer vistas that are nothing short of breathtaking.
3. Savor Unique Dining Experiences
Asheville takes its culinary scene seriously and has some excellent food options with a wide range of cuisine types. Enjoy a meal at one of the many farm-to-table restaurants, such as AAA Approved Tupelo Honey, offering fresh, local dishes that highlight the region’s bounty. Go for the famous brined fried chicken that is dusted with honey and pair it with Southern classics like Brussels sprouts, collards and baked mac & cheese.
Enjoy Spanish tapas at Cúrate bar de tapas, a AAA Three Diamond restaurant or sample Eastern North Carolina BBQ at AAA Approved Buxton Hall BBQ.
Things to do in Asheville for Couples
If you are your significant other are wondering what to do in Asheville, there are plenty of activities to complete a romantic getaway in the mountains. Consider a cabin rental in the mountains or stay in the heart of the city, close to the many activities and restaurants the city has to offer. Here are a few of our favorites:
4. Join a Ghost Tour
- Suggested activity: Asheville Night-time Walking Ghost Tour
Asheville's historic and sometimes eerie past makes it perfect for ghost tours with your cherished companion. Brave one if you're up for it. They're both thrilling and informative, exploring Asheville's spookier and historic sites.
5. Sample Local Brews
- Suggested activity: Asheville Signature Guided Brewery Tour
Asheville is "Beer City USA". Hop on an electric bike brewery tour to visit the breweries in style or visit some taprooms independently. Some of the most prominent Asheville breweries include New Belgium, Wicked Weed, Hi-Wire and Highland Brewing. Each offers a unique take on craft beer that are brewed on-premises.
6. Catch a Show at The Orange Peel
Experience Asheville’s dynamic music scene at The Orange Peel, one of the best live music venues in the nation. Known for hosting both big-name and local artists, it's a venue with state-of-the-art acoustics and an intimate vibe. What used to be a roller rink in the 1950s, a show at the Orange Peel is a great date night idea for you and your beau.
7. Relax (Or Stay) at the Omni Grove Park Inn Spa
Treat yourself to a spa day at AAA Three Diamond The Omni Grove Park Inn Spa. It not only offers luxurious treatments but stunning views and incredible architectural design. The indoor pool grotto is a romantic experience you'll be sure to not forget anytime soon. This is a perfect relaxation spot for you and your significant other to unwind or stay on a weekend trip.
Outdoor Things to do in Asheville
Asheville beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its breathtaking natural beauty and boundless opportunities for adventure. From exhilarating hikes along scenic trails to thrilling water activities in its pristine rivers, Asheville is a premier destination for outdoor experiences that cater to every adventurer's taste.
8. Hike in the Pisgah National Forest
- Suggested activity: Privately Guided Sunset Hike
Immerse yourself in nature at Pisgah National Forest. With trails for all levels, waterfalls and scenic views, it's an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. Bring a camera along to grab photos along the trail —this place is picturesque.
9. Stroll through the River Arts District
- Address: 191 Lyman Street, Asheville, NC 28804
Explore the eclectic River Arts District and immerse yourself in Asheville's vibrant artistic community. Wander through more than 200 artists' studios housed in repurposed warehouses, where creativity thrives. Watch live demonstrations, engage in conversations with artists and who knows, you might discover the perfect piece to tie together your space. Let your creative mind run wild in this inspiring environment.
10. Visit Asheville Botanical Gardens
- Address: 151 WT Weaver Blvd, Asheville, NC 28804
Escape to the Asheville Botanical Gardens for a peaceful stroll among native plants and flowers on this 10-acre garden dedicated to the promotion of the plants of Southern Appalachia. It’s an excellent spot for a leisurely walk, photography or simply enjoying a moment of tranquility. This is one of the best free things to do in Asheville, as parking and admission are always free.
11. Go on a Tubing Adventure
- Suggested activity: Asheville Tubing Adventure
A great summertime adventure when the weather can sometimes reach 90 degrees in the mountains, cooling off in an innertube in the river might be just what the doctor ordered. The French Broad River runs right through the heart of Asheville and you'll be sure to see plenty of folks floating along the river on a beautiful day.
Unique Things to do in Asheville
In Asheville, creativity thrives amidst the backdrop of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains. Beyond its stunning natural beauty, this eclectic city boasts numerous unique experiences waiting to be uncovered. Here a few unique things to do in Asheville on your next visit.
12. Asheville Pinball Museum
- Address: 1 Battle Square Ste 1b, Asheville, NC 28801
- Price: $15 per person
Not only can you explore the history of the beloved game of pinball, but you can also play on the 35 classic pinball machines to capture the nostalgia of the old-school arcades at the Asheville Pinball Museum. Go back in time to this hidden gem in Nashville to test your old skills on the machines or maybe try it out for the first time. The Asheville Pinball Museum does not take reservations and gameplay availability is on a first-come, first-served basis. Be sure to check the hours on their website before visiting, as they have unique public hours to upkeep all of the machines.
13. Folk Art Center of Asheville
Located off of the Blue Ridge Parkway, this Asheville hidden gem offers daily demos like broom making, needle felting and quilting demos. On the first floor, explore the Allanstad Craft Shop, the oldest craft shop in America with artisan-made jewelry, pottery and other crafts handmade by members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild. The second floor features a main gallery and a focus gallery with exhibitions from the Guild and other affiliated organizations.
The Folk Art Center is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and aims to preserve Southern Appalachian culture on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
14. Explore Craft Breweries Via Canoe
What better way to combine two of the things Asheville is most known for: the great outdoors and craft beer?
On this local craft beer tour, you take a guided canoe trip down the French Broad River and stop off at breweries along the way.
15. Get a Tarot Card Reading
Embrace the eclectic vibe of Asheville and receive a private tarot card reading. A tarot card reading is one of the most unique things to do in Asheville, as it doesn't necessarily predict the future, but focuses on the present. A reading can help you consider a problem or give a voice to problems or fears in your life.
Always remember as a AAA member, you can receive exclusive discounts and rewards on hotel stays, car rentals and activities.
Asheville, NC Frequently Asked Questions
How do I spend the day in Asheville, NC?
Whether you are into the eclectic, funky vibes of the artsy community, want to enjoy the great outdoors or sample the city's famous breweries, there are a ton of activities that can fill up a full day's itinerary in Asheville, NC. Choose from our list above or continue to explore AAA's Trip Canvas for more dreaming and inspiration for your upcoming trip to Asheville.
How far is downtown Asheville from the Biltmore?
From the heart of downtown Asheville (near Tupelo Honey) to the Biltmore Estate it is just under 10 minutes, or 2.3 miles by car. The walking route is roughly five miles, so we don't not suggest attempting to walk from downtown Asheville to the Biltmore.
How far is Asheville, NC from the Beach?
Asheville, NC is roughly ~275 miles from the beach. The nearest beaches to Asheville, NC are Folly Beach, SC, Myrtle Beach, SC, and Edisto Beach, SC. We do not recommend making a day trip from Asheville, NC to the beach. However, there are plenty of lakes nearby Asheville with man-made beaches, like Lake Lure.
How many days do you need in Asheville, NC?
We recommend at least a full weekend in Asheville, NC to get the full experience. You'll want to plan time to enjoy all of the activities on your itinerary without feeling rushed. If you can stretch your trip into a long (or longer) weekend you should full like you got the full experience of visiting Asheville.