Asheville North Carolina Travel Guide
### Exploring Asheville: A Unique and Fascinating Destination
Asheville is a city brimming with unique experiences, captivating natural scenery, outstanding dining, and shopping options, along with exceptional outdoor recreational activities.
Whether you’re hiking in the mountains during the day or dining downtown with an outdoor concert in the evening, Asheville has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the wonders Asheville has to offer:
Downtown Asheville
Begin your trip by exploring the vibrant downtown area. The city center is full of incredible restaurants, fabulous boutiques, vintage shops, independent bookstores, and live street performances.
One of the best ways to discover the city is by taking a trolley tour. The Gray Line Trolley offers a comprehensive overview of the area, while the Urban Trail is perfect for those who prefer walking.
For a fun and unique experience, try the LaZoom Comedy Bus Tours. This tour offers a mix of sightseeing and comedy, with outrageous costumes and plenty of laughs.
Art enthusiasts will love Asheville’s vast selection of arts and crafts, open-air markets, craft fairs, and art galleries. The live music scene is also vibrant, with drum circles at Pritchard Park on Friday nights.
Historical and Haunted Tours
For a spooky adventure, don’t miss the Haunted Asheville Tour. History buffs will enjoy visiting the Biltmore Estate, the largest private home in the United States.
This magnificent estate, built by George W. Vanderbilt, boasts 250 rooms, splendid gardens, and exceptional architecture. Schedule a rooftop tour for additional views of this top-rated American tourist destination.
The Blue Ridge Mountains
The Blue Ridge Mountains are one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, offering stunning views, incredible national forests, and a plethora of outdoor activities.
The Blue Ridge Parkway, known as America’s favorite drive, provides a picturesque landscape over its 469-mile stretch. Hiking, biking, and chasing waterfalls are popular activities in this area. Mount Mitchell, the highest peak in the Blue Ridge, offers astounding views at 6,000 feet.
Folk Art and Outdoor Adventures
Visit the Folk Art Center for unique handmade crafts, or head to the French Broad River for kayaking, paddle boarding, or a relaxing cruise.
Adrenaline junkies can enjoy zip-lining through the sensational scenery and white-water rafting. Don’t miss soaking in the iconic hot springs along the Appalachian Trail at Lover’s Leap.
Adventure and Nature
The Adventure Center of Asheville offers exciting activities like treetop exploration and zip-lining.
For garden enthusiasts, the Botanical Gardens of Asheville and the North Carolina Arboretum in the Pisgah National Forest are must-see destinations, featuring themed gardens and the popular bonsai exhibit garden.
Culinary Delights
Asheville is a gem for foodies, with culinary delights crafted by food artisans and innovative chefs. Join a food tour to experience the best culinary treats or go on a guided foraging expedition.
Cheese lovers should not miss the award-winning Western North Carolina Cheese Trail.
Live Entertainment
Asheville boasts an impressive selection of live music acts and performing arts. The Diana Wortham Theatre offers a variety of live shows, including operas, puppetry, and dance performances.
The Asheville Music Hall is known for its lineup of local and touring music acts. For festival lovers, Asheville hosts several outstanding music festivals annually, including the Shindig on the Green festival, which celebrates the world’s oldest mountain dance and folk traditions.
Unique Museums
Asheville is home to several unique museums. The Asheville Art Museum showcases world-class art, while the Pinball Museum offers endless pinball games.
The Asheville Museum of Science features exciting exhibits and interactive activities. Vintage car enthusiasts will love the Estes-Winn Antique Car Museum. For something truly unusual, visit the Asheville Mystery Museum or the Silver River Center for Chair Caning.
Relaxation and Luxury
For a day of tranquility and luxury, visit the Omni Grove Park Inn Spa. Known as the best spa in North Carolina, it features comfy lounges with fireplaces, relaxing pools, and steam rooms.
The spa’s ceiling, designed with 6,500 fiber optic stars, makes it a popular spot for selfies. Interestingly, the spa was a relocation facility during the Cold War, adding a historical appeal.
Asheville is a destination full of beauty, uniqueness, and unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re exploring its vibrant downtown, enjoying the natural wonders of the Blue Ridge Mountains, or indulging in its culinary and artistic delights, Asheville is sure to captivate and delight.
