Ashville PennsylvaniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ashville, Pennsylvania.
1. Biltmore Estate
AMERICA'S LARGEST HOME
Biltmore Estate is a magnificent Gilded Age mansion built by George Vanderbilt, set amidst 8,000 acres of gardens and woodlands. Visitors can tour the opulent house, stroll through lush gardens, sample estate wine, and enjoy a variety of shops and restaurants on the grounds.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway
SCENIC MOUNTAIN DRIVE
The Blue Ridge Parkway offers breathtaking mountain vistas along one of America's most scenic drives starting near Asheville. Outdoor enthusiasts will find countless hiking trails, overlooks, and picnic spots perfect for experiencing the region's natural beauty.
3. Downtown Asheville
LIVELY URBAN HUB
Downtown Asheville features gorgeous architecture, vibrant street performers, and a dynamic mix of restaurants, shops, and art galleries. The bustling city center is perfect for exploring local culture, people-watching, and sampling the area's celebrated food scene.
4. River Arts District
CREATIVE ARTS COLONY
The River Arts District is home to working artists' studios housed in historic warehouses along the French Broad River. Visitors can watch artists at work, shop for unique pieces, or participate in interactive workshops throughout this thriving creative community.
5. North Carolina Arboretum
BOTANICAL WONDERLAND
The North Carolina Arboretum showcases beautifully landscaped gardens, extensive hiking and biking trails, and seasonal displays including a renowned bonsai collection. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the educational exhibits and spectacular quilt garden within this 434-acre complex.
6. Western North Carolina Nature Center
WILDLIFE AND NATURE DISCOVERY
The Western North Carolina Nature Center is an interactive wildlife park featuring over 60 species native to the Southern Appalachians, such as red wolves and black bears. Family-friendly activities and educational exhibits make this a fun learning experience for all ages.
7. Asheville Pinball Museum
RETRO GAMING FUN
The Asheville Pinball Museum offers hands-on fun with more than 75 vintage pinball and classic arcade games, all included with admission. History meets entertainment as visitors can play and learn about the evolution of these gaming machines in a lively setting.
8. Basilica of Saint Lawrence
ARCHITECTURAL MARVEL
The Basilica of Saint Lawrence is renowned for its impressive Roman Catholic architecture, highlighted by the largest freestanding elliptical dome in North America. Guests can admire intricate stained glass, ornate statues, and serene interiors in this historic house of worship.
9. The Folk Art Center
SOUTHERN CRAFT SHOWCASE
The Folk Art Center displays traditional and contemporary crafts from Southern Appalachian artisans on the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors can watch live demonstrations, view rotating exhibitions, and purchase unique handmade items in the gift shop.
10. The Botanical Gardens at Asheville
NATIVE PLANT OASIS
The Botanical Gardens at Asheville are a peaceful urban retreat dedicated to preserving the region's native plants and wildflowers. Strolling the easy walking trails, guests can enjoy seasonal blooms, wooded streams, and educational exhibits in this 10-acre sanctuary.
11. Pack Square Park
COMMUNITY GATHERING PLACE
Pack Square Park is the heart of Asheville's civic life, offering green space, public art, and a venue for concerts and festivals throughout the year. Surrounded by downtown's striking historic buildings, the park invites both relaxation and celebration.
12. Biltmore Village
HISTORIC SHOPPING DISTRICT
Biltmore Village, originally built for estate workers, now features charming brick sidewalks, boutique shops, and excellent restaurants. The area preserves its quaint, historic architecture, making it a favorite spot for leisurely shopping and dining.
13. Pisgah National Forest
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE HOTSPOT
Pisgah National Forest encompasses miles of rugged mountain terrain, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails within easy reach of Asheville. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy camping, mountain biking, fishing, and stunning natural vistas in this expansive forest.
14. Craggy Gardens
RHODODENDRON BLOOM VIEWS
Craggy Gardens offers dramatic mountain scenery, noted for its spectacular rhododendron blooms in late spring and early summer. Visitors can hike to panoramic overlooks and picnic amid unique rocky balds along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
15. Asheville Art Museum
MODERN ART COLLECTION
Asheville Art Museum features an impressive collection of 20th- and 21st-century American art in a striking glass building downtown. With rotating exhibitions, studio workshops, and interactive family programs, the museum is a cornerstone of Asheville's cultural scene.