Asheville is one of the most popular cities in North Carolina- and for good reason. People visit every year for the great food, beer, art and social scene. The beloved city is only 35 minutes away from The Village and The Hamlet– offering access any day of the week to residents looking to explore the area! There are so many things to do there, the list will never run out. Below are a few of the must-do’s and a couple of special finds that you can add to your list for your next visit.
River Arts District
The Asheville River Arts District is a collection of old buildings that were turned into studios. Here artists display their work for admiration and purchase. Not only that, but many of these creators offer classes and lessons, so visitors can learn to create their own unique pieces to take home. Some of the creations you’ll find in the River Arts District are:
- Photography
- Ceramics
- Jewelry
- Wood Carvings
- Lighting
- Painting
- Illustration
Wicked Weed Brewing Company
This city is known for its breweries. One we’d recommend is Wicked Weed, which has two locations. The Funkatorium offers a nice outdoor biergarten, craft bites, a sour beer tap room and a bottleshop to take home your favorite pours. The original Wicked Weed location, the Brew Pub, is much larger and offers a variety of experiences including a full restaurant, live music and a 15-barrel brewery. You really can’t go wrong with either one!
Blue Ridge Parkway
One of the most famous roads on the east coast- the Blue Ridge Parkway! This winding path weaves through stunning Western North Carolina, and is a must-do for the best views. Stop off and mountain look-outs and see the skyline like never before. You’ll also see a lot of the creations of local artists along the way. Driving down the parkway with the music playing and your windows down will be an experience you wont forget!
Battery Park Book Exchange and Champagne Bar
Located at the Grove Arcade, this lovely bookstore has built an impressive library of over 10,000 books. This is not your typical bookstore. You will want to spend the afternoon here once you see all of the reads you can comb through, and not to mention the champagne you’ll sip along the way. They really combined two of the best things- bubbly and a good read!
French Broad River
The French Broad River is the spot for water sports. It winds for over 200 miles, with calm waters for kayaking and canoeing, and rough waters for whitewater rafting. Take a guided tour on a sunny day and spend your afternoon on the water!
Western North Carolina Nature Center
Calling all animal lovers! The Nature Center is home to many different animals, including goats, bears, owls, snakes, pandas, deer and sheep. All of their species come from the Appalachian Mountains. The Center aims to educate both children and adults on the native wildlife, which they have been doing since they opened in 1977!
Burnt Shirt Vineyards
With one location in Hendersonville and another in Chimney Rock, Burnt Shirt offers delicious wine in the form of tastings, tours or simply a nice dinner. Overlooking the beautiful vineyards, guests can taste and learn about a variety of wines. If you enjoy it, you can join their special wine club to receive special offers, access to special events, and twice a year shipments of wine!
We hope this list has helped you plan your next visit to Asheville!
