Asheville North CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Asheville, North Carolina.
1. Biltmore Estate
GRAND HISTORIC MANSION
Biltmore Estate is America's largest privately owned home, built by George Vanderbilt in the late 19th century. The estate features a stunning 250-room mansion, beautifully landscaped gardens, and a working winery. Visitors can tour the opulent interiors, stroll the grounds, and enjoy a variety of on-site dining and shopping options.
2. The North Carolina Arboretum
BOTANICAL GARDENS & TRAILS
The North Carolina Arboretum spans 434 acres and is home to meticulously cultivated gardens, hiking and biking trails, and rotating exhibits. Nature lovers can explore bonsai collections, seasonal flower displays, and educational events. The Arboretum is a peaceful retreat perfect for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and botany fans.
3. The Folk Art Center
CRAFTS & ART EXHIBITS
The Folk Art Center showcases the finest in Appalachian crafts from the Southern Highland Craft Guild. The center features galleries, a museum, and a shop offering handcrafted goods made by regional artists. It is an ideal stop for those interested in traditional and contemporary mountain arts.
4. Asheville Pinball Museum
INTERACTIVE GAME EXPERIENCE
Asheville Pinball Museum is a unique attraction where visitors can play dozens of classic and modern pinball machines. The museum also displays vintage arcade games, offering nostalgia and hands-on fun for all ages. Admission allows unlimited play, making it a must for gaming enthusiasts.
5. New Belgium Brewing Company
CRAFT BREWERY & TOURS
New Belgium Brewing Company offers a lively taproom overlooking the French Broad River and a variety of its renowned craft beers. Guided tours provide insight into the beer-making process and the company's eco-friendly practices. The spacious beer garden and food trucks make it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
6. Lexington Glassworks
ARTISAN GLASS STUDIO
Lexington Glassworks is Asheville's premier glassblowing studio and gallery, featuring handmade glass art and live demonstrations. Visitors can watch skilled artisans create beautiful pieces and shop for unique souvenirs. The studio's industrial space and rotating exhibits offer a vibrant artistic atmosphere.
7. Basilica of Saint Lawrence
ARCHITECTURAL LANDMARK CHURCH
The Basilica of Saint Lawrence is renowned for its Spanish Renaissance architecture and the largest free-standing elliptical dome in North America. The church features intricate tile work, beautiful stained glass, and a peaceful sanctuary. It welcomes visitors for tours, prayer, and to admire its historic grandeur.
8. Woolworth Walk
ART GALLERY & SODA FOUNTAIN
Woolworth Walk is both an art gallery and a nostalgic soda fountain located in a restored 1930s Woolworth building. The gallery showcases works by local artists, including paintings, jewelry, and crafts. Visitors can enjoy classic milkshakes and sandwiches in the retro-style lunch counter downstairs.
9. River Arts District
ARTIST STUDIOS & GALLERIES
The River Arts District is home to dozens of working artists in converted warehouses and studios along the French Broad River. Visitors can explore galleries, witness art-making in action, and participate in workshops. The district also features cafes and breweries, creating a vibrant creative community.
10. Blue Ridge Parkway
SCENIC MOUNTAIN DRIVE
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a renowned scenic byway that passes just outside Asheville, offering breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Travelers can stop at overlooks, picnic areas, and hiking trails along the route. The Parkway is especially popular for leaf peeping in the fall.
11. Sierra Nevada Brewing Company
DESTINATION BREWERY & TAPROOM
Sierra Nevada Brewing Company is an expansive brewery campus featuring a taproom, restaurant, and outdoor amphitheater. Located a short drive from Asheville, it offers brewery tours, farm-to-table dining, and a spacious beer garden. The brewery frequently hosts live music and community events.
12. Biltmore Village
SHOPPING & DINING DISTRICT
Biltmore Village is a charming historic district adjacent to the Biltmore Estate, noted for its preserved architecture and cobblestone streets. The area offers boutique shopping, art galleries, and an array of popular restaurants and cafes. It is a favorite destination for both leisurely strolls and upscale retail therapy.
13. Cúrate
ACCLAIMED SPANISH RESTAURANT
Cúrate is a celebrated Spanish tapas restaurant led by James Beard Award-winning chef Katie Button. Located in downtown Asheville, it offers an innovative menu with authentic flavors and a vibrant dining atmosphere. Reservations are highly recommended due to its popularity with locals and foodies alike.
14. Asheville Outlets
DISCOUNT SHOPPING CENTER
Asheville Outlets is an outdoor shopping complex offering a wide selection of brand-name stores at discounted prices. The center includes dining options, seasonal events, and convenient amenities for families and groups. With well-known retailers and frequent sales, it's a favorite shopping destination in the region.
15. Pack Square Park
CENTRAL URBAN GREEN SPACE
Pack Square Park is a vibrant gathering spot at the heart of downtown Asheville, hosting concerts, festivals, and farmers markets. The park features open lawns, public art, and a splash fountain, making it a lively social hub. It offers a relaxing place to unwind while experiencing Asheville's city culture.