10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Asheville, North Carolina
If you’re dreaming about a laid-back mountain escape with great food, craft beer, and stunning views,
Asheville, North Carolina should be on your list. Tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountains in
Buncombe County, Asheville feels like a cozy small town and a creative city all at once.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer North Carolina road trip, here are
10 awesome things to do near Asheville that give you a real taste of the area.
1. Tour the Iconic Biltmore Estate
You really can’t talk about Asheville without mentioning the
Biltmore Estate. It’s America’s largest privately owned home, built by George Vanderbilt in the late 1800s, and it’s every bit as grand as it sounds.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Dozens of lavish rooms, including a massive banquet hall
- A vintage indoor pool and bowling alley
- Original artwork and antiques
Outside, stroll the
gardens designed by Frederick Law Olmsted (the same guy who designed Central Park in New York). In spring, the tulips and azaleas explode with color. In fall, the whole estate is wrapped in fiery red and gold leaves.
You can also:
- Visit the on-site winery for tastings
- Walk or bike the trails on the grounds
- Book special tours, like rooftop or behind-the-scenes tours
Tip: If you’re visiting Asheville in peak seasons (October foliage or December holidays), buy Biltmore tickets ahead of time. It does sell out.
2. Wander Around Downtown Asheville
Downtown Asheville is compact and very walkable, which makes it perfect for an easy day of exploring. The vibe is artsy, relaxed, and a little quirky in the best way.
Things to see and do downtown:
- Grove Arcade – a historic building filled with local shops, galleries, and places to eat.
- Pack Square Park – a central spot that often hosts markets and events.
- Street musicians and buskers – especially on weekends and evenings.
You’ll find plenty of:
- Independent bookstores and record shops
- Local boutiques with mountain-inspired goods
- Cozy coffee shops perfect for a break
If you like to people-watch, grab a coffee or an ice cream, find a bench, and just soak in the energy of downtown Asheville.
3. Drive (or Hike) Along the Blue Ridge Parkway
The
Blue Ridge Parkway is often called “America’s Favorite Drive,” and Asheville sits right along one of its prettiest stretches. Even if you only have a couple of hours, this scenic road is worth the time.
Within about a 30–45 minute drive from downtown Asheville, you can:
- Pull off at scenic overlooks with sweeping mountain views
- Take short hikes to waterfalls or rocky viewpoints
- Enjoy sunrise or sunset without too much effort
Popular stops near Asheville include:
- Craggy Gardens – Known for rhododendron blooms in late spring and early summer.
- Mount Pisgah – Offers a rewarding hike and a beautiful overlook.
- Folk Art Center – Showcases traditional Appalachian crafts and art.
Reminder: The parkway can get foggy and icy in colder months, and some sections close in winter, so always check conditions before you go.
4. Explore the River Arts District
If you enjoy local art, the
River Arts District (often called “RAD”) is a must-see in Asheville. Just a few minutes from downtown, this former industrial area along the French Broad River has turned into a creative hub.
You’ll find:
- Working studios where you can watch artists create
- Colorful murals and street art
- Galleries featuring everything from pottery to photography
Many artists are happy to talk about their work, and some even offer classes or workshops. It feels more personal than a traditional gallery.
Plus, the River Arts District has:
- Casual spots for tacos, barbecue, and burgers
- Cafes and breweries with river views
It’s a great area to just wander and see what you discover.
5. Sample Asheville’s Famous Craft Beer Scene
Asheville has earned the nickname
“Beer City USA”, and once you see how many breweries are here, you’ll understand why. For beer fans, this is paradise.
A few well-known spots include:
- Wicked Weed Brewing – Popular for creative beers and a lively taproom.
- Hi-Wire Brewing – Known for easy-drinking, approachable styles.
- Burial Beer Co. – Offers unique flavors in a fun outdoor space.
- New Belgium Brewing – A larger brewery with a big riverside lawn.
Even if you’re not usually a beer drinker, many breweries:
- Offer light options like pilsners or wheat beers
- Serve non-alcoholic drinks and snacks
- Have food trucks or nearby restaurants
Travel tip: Consider walking, rideshare, or a brewery tour so you don’t have to worry about driving around Asheville after tasting flights.
6. Hike in the Pisgah National Forest
For anyone who loves the outdoors,
Pisgah National Forest is a highlight near Asheville. Parts of this massive forest are within an easy 45–60 minute drive from the city.
Here you’ll find:
- Waterfalls you can reach on short trails
- Longer hikes with big mountain views
- Shaded forest walks that stay cooler in summer
Popular spots near Asheville include:
- Looking Glass Falls – A beautiful roadside waterfall you can see without a long hike.
- Moore Cove Falls – A gentle hike through the woods leading to a pretty waterfall you can walk behind.
- Black Balsam Knob (in the nearby Shining Rock Wilderness) – A bit farther out, but offers sweeping 360-degree views.
Bring:
- Sturdy shoes (even for short hikes, trails can be wet and rocky)
- Water and snacks
- A light jacket – mountain weather can change quickly
7. Enjoy Food, Music, and Culture at a Local Festival
Asheville loves a good festival, and there always seems to be something going on, especially from spring through fall. If you can time your visit around an event, you’ll get a fun peek into local culture.
A few favorites in and around Asheville:
- LEAF Festival (nearby in Black Mountain a couple of times a year) – Global music, art, and family-friendly fun.
- Asheville Art in the Park – Local artists set up booths in Pack Square.
- Shindig on the Green – Traditional mountain music and dancing in downtown Asheville on summer Saturday nights.
These events are perfect if you:
- Want to sample local food
- Enjoy live music
- Like browsing handmade crafts
Check local event calendars when planning your Buncombe County trip—there’s usually something going on.
8. Take a Day Trip to Charming Black Mountain
Just about 15 miles east of Asheville, the town of
Black Mountain offers small-town charm with mountain views. It’s close enough for a half-day trip, but you might end up staying longer.
In Black Mountain you can:
- Stroll Main Street and browse local shops
- Grab coffee and homemade pastries at a local bakery
- Check out the town’s many outdoor sculptures and art installations
There are also
easy hikes and lake walks nearby, which makes this a relaxing break from city sightseeing. It’s a great add-on if you’re exploring more of Buncombe County beyond Asheville.
9. Ride the Rapids on the French Broad River
The
French Broad River flows right through Asheville, and it’s one of the oldest rivers in the world. On warm days, locals love getting out on the water.
You can:
- Book a guided whitewater rafting trip (several outfitters run trips north of Asheville)
- Rent tubes or kayaks for a more relaxed float in calmer sections
- Try stand-up paddleboarding if you want a little challenge
This is a fun way to:
- Cool off in summer
- See a different side of Asheville
- Add some adventure to your North Carolina vacation
Most tour companies provide the gear you need, along with basic instructions, so beginners are welcome.
10. Eat Your Way Through Asheville’s Food Scene
Asheville might be a mountain town, but it has a big-city
food scene. From farm-to-table restaurants to food trucks and diners, you’ll find something for every taste and budget.
You’ll notice:
- Lots of local ingredients, especially fresh produce from nearby farms
- Plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans
- Creative twists on Southern comfort food
Think:
- Fluffy biscuits and gravy for breakfast
- Shrimp and grits for dinner
- Homemade ice cream or donuts for dessert
If you’re a foodie, you might even book a
food tour in downtown Asheville. It’s a great way to try several local spots in a single afternoon and learn a bit about the city’s history along the way.
Planning Your Asheville Trip
Here are a few quick tips to make the most of your visit to Asheville and Buncombe County:
- Best time to visit: Fall for colorful leaves, spring for flowers, summer for river fun, and winter for a quieter, cozy vibe.
- Getting around: Downtown is walkable, but you’ll want a car for the Blue Ridge Parkway, Pisgah National Forest, and nearby towns.
- Where to stay: Choose downtown for nightlife and restaurants, or pick a cabin or mountain lodge for a more peaceful escape.
Asheville is one of those places you can visit again and again. One trip you might focus on hiking and waterfalls, and the next time you might dive into art, food, and breweries. It’s easy to mix and match these activities to create your own perfect Asheville itinerary.
Share Your Asheville Experience
Have you been to Asheville or anywhere else in Buncombe County?
Which of these
10 things to do near Asheville would you try first—Biltmore, a brewery hop, a Blue Ridge Parkway sunrise, or a waterfall hike?
I’d love to hear your stories, tips, and favorite local spots.
- Drop a comment below and share your Asheville recommendations.
- Share this post with friends or family planning a North Carolina mountain getaway.
Your insights can help other travelers plan an unforgettable trip to Asheville, North Carolina!
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