Asheville, North Carolina, is one of those places that instantly makes you feel at home. It’s got that perfect blend of small-town charm and big adventure energy. Whether you’re hiking up misty mountains, exploring quirky art districts, or sipping craft beer while watching the sunset, Asheville delivers an experience you won’t forget.
This city is for nature lovers, foodies, and history buffs alike. So, if you’re planning a trip and wondering what to do, here’s a handpicked list of 15 must-do experiences in Asheville—from the most iconic spots to hidden gems!
Visit the Biltmore Estate – America’s Largest Home
Address: 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803
| Type | Historic Site, Museum, Winery |
| Time to Spend | 4 to 6 hours |
History and Significance: Built by George Vanderbilt in the late 1800s, Biltmore Estate is America’s largest privately-owned home. This 250-room French Renaissance château reflects the grandeur of the Gilded Age and remains a cultural treasure.
What to Expect: Visitors can explore the lavish interiors, beautifully landscaped gardens, and the on-site winery, which offers complimentary wine tastings. The estate also features dining options, guided tours, and breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Visitor Information: Located at 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC, Biltmore Estate requires an entry ticket, which includes access to the house, gardens, and winery. Plan to spend 4-6 hours to fully enjoy the experience.
If you love history, architecture, or just feeling fancy for a day, Biltmore Estate is a must-visit. This 250-room French Renaissance château, built by George Vanderbilt in the late 1800s, is America’s largest privately-owned home. Wander through opulent rooms, grand staircases, and lavish gardens. The Biltmore Winery is a bonus, offering complimentary wine tastings. It’s the perfect mix of luxury and history, plus the views of the Blue Ridge Mountains are just breathtaking.
Take a Scenic Drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Address: Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville, NC
| Type | Scenic Drive, Outdoor Adventure |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 5 hours |
History and Significance: Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway was established in 1935 to connect the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with Shenandoah National Park. It is famous for its scenic beauty and cultural heritage.
What to Expect: This 469-mile road offers stunning mountain views, charming overlooks, and access to hiking trails like Craggy Gardens and Looking Glass Rock. Fall is the best time to visit for breathtaking foliage.
Visitor Information: The Parkway is free to access and open year-round. Visitors can start at any point along the route, spending anywhere from an hour to a full day enjoying the scenery.
Few road trips compare to the Blue Ridge Parkway—aka “America’s Favorite Drive.” This winding scenic road stretches for 469 miles, offering jaw-dropping mountain views, charming overlooks, and stunning fall foliage if you time it right. Roll the windows down, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and stop at highlights like Craggy Gardens, Looking Glass Rock, and Graveyard Fields. Whether you’re up for hiking or just a leisurely drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway never disappoints.
Hike to the Stunning Craggy Gardens
Address: Blue Ridge Pkwy, Black Mountain, NC 28711
| Type | Hiking, Scenic Overlook |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Craggy Gardens is a part of the Blue Ridge Parkway, known for its high-elevation floral displays. The area is named after the rugged, craggy rocks and is home to rare plant species.
What to Expect: The 1.4-mile roundtrip hike leads through tunnels of rhododendron, opening up to panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The best time to visit is June when the flowers are in full bloom.
Visitor Information: Located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the trail is free to access. It takes about 1-2 hours to complete, making it perfect for a short but rewarding hike.
If you want a short but rewarding hike, Craggy Gardens is the spot. Just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, this 1.4-mile roundtrip trail takes you through tunnels of rhododendron, opening up to a panoramic view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The best time to go? June, when pink and purple rhododendrons are in full bloom. But honestly, the views are magical any time of year! Pack a picnic and soak in the scenery.
Explore the River Arts District (RAD)
Address: 140 Roberts St, Asheville, NC 28801
| Type | Art, Culture, Shopping |
| Time to Spend | 2 to 3 hours |
History and Significance: Once an industrial area, the River Arts District has transformed into a vibrant hub for artists. Over 200 artists now occupy former warehouses, making it a key part of Asheville’s creative scene.
What to Expect: Visitors can explore galleries featuring paintings, ceramics, glasswork, and more. Many artists offer live demonstrations, and the district has excellent cafés and street murals for added charm.
Visitor Information: Located at 140 Roberts St, Asheville, NC, RAD is free to explore. Plan to spend 2-3 hours browsing studios and enjoying the artistic atmosphere.
If you love creativity and quirky vibes, the River Arts District (RAD) is your spot. Over 200 artists showcase their work in restored warehouses, from painters and potters to street artists and glassblowers. Many artists are happy to chat about their work, and you might even catch a live demonstration. Grab a coffee at Ultra Coffeebar, explore some funky murals, and maybe take home a one-of-a-kind piece of Asheville’s creative energy!
Experience Downtown Asheville’s Food Scene
Address: Downtown Asheville, NC
| Type | Food, Culture, Shopping |
| Time to Spend | 3 to 5 hours |
History and Significance: Asheville has become a foodie destination, blending Southern traditions with modern culinary innovations. The city is known for its farm-to-table dining, craft beer, and vibrant café culture.
What to Expect: Visitors can enjoy a mix of fine dining, cozy cafés, and famous spots like French Broad Chocolate Lounge. The streets are lively with buskers, boutique shops, and unique food experiences.
Visitor Information: Downtown Asheville is open year-round with diverse food options. Expect to spend 3-5 hours exploring, with plenty of choices for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Foodies, get ready—Asheville’s downtown is a paradise for food lovers. From farm-to-table restaurants to cozy cafés and award-winning breweries, there’s something for every craving. Start your day with a French Broad Chocolate Lounge dessert, grab lunch at Cúrate for Spanish tapas, and don’t miss dinner at Rhubarb for Southern flavors with a modern twist. Strolling through the lively streets filled with buskers and boutique shops just adds to the experience.
Discover the Hidden Gem of the Omni Grove Park Inn
Address: 290 Macon Ave, Asheville, NC 28804
| Type | Historic Hotel, Spa, Dining |
| Time to Spend | 2 to 3 hours |
History and Significance: Built in 1913, this historic hotel has hosted famous figures like F. Scott Fitzgerald. It is known for its Arts and Crafts-style architecture and breathtaking mountain views.
What to Expect: Visitors can explore its grand stone fireplaces, dine at the Sunset Terrace, or book a spa treatment. Even if you’re not staying overnight, it’s worth a visit for its historic charm.
Visitor Information: Located at 290 Macon Ave, Asheville, NC, the hotel is open to visitors. Dining and spa reservations are recommended, and spending 2-3 hours here is ideal.
Even if you’re not staying at the Omni Grove Park Inn, visiting this historic hotel is a must. Its massive stone fireplaces, elegant lounges, and stunning sunset views over the Blue Ridge Mountains make it a cozy retreat. Enjoy a drink at Sunset Terrace, take a spa treatment, or just wander through the beautifully restored Arts and Crafts-style architecture. This place oozes old-school charm and relaxation!
Walk Through the Botanical Gardens at Asheville
Address: 151 W.T. Weaver Blvd, Asheville, NC 28804
| Type | Garden, Nature Walk |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Established in 1961, the gardens are dedicated to preserving native Appalachian plant species. They provide a peaceful escape just minutes from downtown Asheville.
What to Expect: Visitors can enjoy a gentle nature walk through 10 acres of wildflowers, trees, and a bubbling creek. The gardens are small but perfect for relaxation and photography.
Visitor Information: Located at 151 W.T. Weaver Blvd, Asheville, NC, admission is free. The best time to visit is spring or summer, and an hour or two is enough to explore.
Need a peaceful break? The Botanical Gardens at Asheville is a quiet escape just minutes from downtown. With 10 acres of native plants, wildflowers, and a bubbling creek, it’s perfect for a relaxing stroll or a quiet picnic. Spring and summer bring vibrant blooms, while fall showcases stunning golden hues. It’s small but incredibly charming, and best of all—it’s free!
Tour the Wicked Weed Brewing Pub
Address: 91 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
| Type | Brewery, Pub |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Established in 2012, Wicked Weed Brewing quickly became a staple of Asheville’s thriving craft beer scene. It specializes in bold, innovative brews.
What to Expect: The pub offers a wide range of IPAs, lagers, and sours, with the Funkatorium dedicated to wild and sour beers. Outdoor seating adds to the laid-back vibe.
Visitor Information: Located at 91 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC, the pub is open daily. Tasting flights are available, and a visit typically lasts 1-2 hours.
Asheville is known as Beer City, USA, and Wicked Weed Brewing is a local favorite. Whether you’re into IPAs, sours, or lagers, their selection is top-notch. The downstairs Funkatorium specializes in wild and sour beers, making it a must for adventurous beer lovers. Grab a pint, sit outside, and soak in the laid-back Asheville vibe.
Visit the Asheville Pinball Museum
Address: 1 Battle Square, Asheville, NC 28801
| Type | Museum, Entertainment |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: The museum preserves vintage pinball and arcade machines, offering a nostalgic experience for visitors of all ages.
What to Expect: Guests can play unlimited pinball games for a flat fee. The collection includes over 80 pinball and arcade machines, many of which are rare.
Visitor Information: Located at 1 Battle Square, Asheville, NC, entry is ticketed. Visits typically last 1-2 hours, and it’s a fun stop for families and gaming enthusiasts.
Want to relive your childhood? The Asheville Pinball Museum is part arcade, part museum, featuring over 80 vintage pinball and classic arcade games. Pay a flat fee and play unlimited games—no quarters needed! It’s a nostalgic, fun-filled stop whether you’re traveling solo or with family.
Hike to the Iconic Looking Glass Falls
Address: US-276, Brevard, NC 28712
| Type | Waterfall, Outdoor Adventure |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: This 60-foot waterfall is one of the most photographed in North Carolina. Its name comes from the way sunlight reflects off the wet rock.
What to Expect: The falls are easily accessible, with a short walk from the parking area. Visitors can take photos, enjoy the view, or swim in the pool below in summer.
Visitor Information: Located in Pisgah National Forest, the falls are free to visit and open year-round. Plan for 1-2 hours to fully enjoy the area.
Looking for a jaw-dropping waterfall with easy access? Looking Glass Falls is just off the road in Pisgah National Forest, making it one of the most photographed waterfalls in the area. The 60-foot cascade is especially stunning in winter when ice forms around it, but it’s a beauty year-round. You can even swim at the base in summer!
Explore the Folk Art Center
Address: Milepost 382, Blue Ridge Pkwy, Asheville, NC 28805
| Type | Art, Museum, Shopping |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Established in 1930, the center showcases Appalachian crafts and supports over 900 artisans from the region.
What to Expect: Visitors can browse handmade pottery, woodwork, and textiles, watch live craft demonstrations, and learn about Appalachian traditions.
Visitor Information: Located at Milepost 382 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, it is free to visit. A stop typically lasts 1-2 hours.
If you love handmade crafts and Appalachian culture, the Folk Art Center is a must-see. Located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, it showcases traditional and contemporary crafts from over 900 artists, including pottery, textiles, wood carvings, and jewelry. Watch live demonstrations, meet artists, and shop for unique souvenirs.
Go Ziplining at Navitat Canopy Adventures
Address: 242 Poverty Branch Rd, Barnardsville, NC 28709
| Type | Adventure, Outdoor Activity |
| Time to Spend | 2 to 3 hours |
History and Significance: Navitat offers eco-friendly zipline tours with stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
What to Expect: Thrill-seekers can enjoy high-speed ziplines, suspension bridges, and tree canopy walks. The fall foliage views are especially breathtaking.
Visitor Information: Located at 242 Poverty Branch Rd, Barnardsville, NC, tours require reservations. Expect to spend 2-3 hours.
For an adrenaline rush, head to Navitat Canopy Adventures and zipline over the Blue Ridge Mountains. Their treetop courses, suspension bridges, and rappels make for an unforgettable experience. The best part? The views from above are breathtaking, especially in the fall!
Visit the Thomas Wolfe Memorial
Address: 52 N Market St, Asheville, NC 28801
| Type | Historic Site, Literature |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: This historic site preserves the childhood home of Thomas Wolfe, one of Asheville’s most famous writers.
What to Expect: Guests can tour the 19th-century house, see period furniture, and learn about Wolfe’s literary contributions.
Visitor Information: Located at 52 N Market St, Asheville, NC, entry is ticketed. Visits last 1-2 hours.
Literary buffs, this one’s for you! The Thomas Wolfe Memorial is the preserved childhood home of Asheville’s most famous writer. Step inside to see period furniture, historical artifacts, and learn how Asheville influenced Wolfe’s work.
Take a Ghost Tour of Asheville
Address: Varies by tour company
| Type | History, Paranormal |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Asheville has a rich history of ghost stories, and many historic buildings are said to be haunted.
What to Expect: Tour guides share chilling tales while leading visitors through haunted hotels, cemeteries, and mysterious alleyways.
Visitor Information: Various tour companies operate in Asheville. Tours last about 2 hours and require reservations.
If you’re into spooky stories and haunted places, a ghost tour is a thrilling way to explore Asheville’s eerie history. Guides share chilling tales of spirits, legends, and haunted sites, taking you through old hotels, cemeteries, and historic streets.
Relax at Shoji Spa & Retreat
Address: 96 Avondale Heights Rd, Asheville, NC 28803
| Type | Spa, Wellness |
| Time to Spend | 2 to 3 hours |
History and Significance: This Japanese-inspired retreat offers a peaceful escape in the mountains.
What to Expect: Visitors can soak in private outdoor hot tubs, enjoy massages, and relax in nature.
Visitor Information: Located in Asheville, reservations are required. Stays typically last 2-3 hours.
End your Asheville trip with a peaceful escape at Shoji Spa, a Japanese-inspired retreat in the mountains. Soak in a private outdoor hot tub, book a massage, and let the mountain air melt your stress away.