Things To Do
Western North Carolina Nature Center
The WNC Nature Center connects people to animals and plants of the Southern Appalachian Mountain region and inspires appreciation, understanding, and advancing the conservation of the region’s rich biodiversity. The Nature Center is home to various plant and animal species and is home to 42 acres of award winning exhibits.
The Omni Grove Park Inn & Spa
A place of rest, relaxation and renewal in the mountains of Asheville, the Omni Grove Park Inn welcomes guests with a tradition of Southern hospitality. A historic resort hotel visited by many presidents, authors, and other notable people, the beautiful inn is on the list of the National Register of Historic Places. Guests can enjoy a game of golf on the property’s 18-hole golf course, originally designed by Donald Ross. The inn also features a 40,000 sq. ft. modern, subterranean spa and restaurants with beautiful views and exquisite cuisine.
The North Carolina Arboretum
Surrounded by the botanically diverse lands of the Southern Appalachian mountains, and conveniently located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway in the Pisgah National Forest, the NC Arboretum is one of the most naturally beautiful settings in the United States. The Arboretum includes many hiking and bicycling trails, a beautiful bonsai collection and various gardens including a holly garden and a stream garden. Admission is free and they host various events throughout the year!
Downtown Asheville
Downtown Asheville is one of the best places to be! This lively city has beautiful architecture, fantastic stores, interesting museums, fun performers, and a diverse mix of culture, music and arts. In addition, Downtown Asheville is home to many fabulous restaurants, bars and breweries. There is live music at every corner and fun festivals on most weekends! It’s also a shopper’s paradise with hundreds of locally owned boutiques and stores to select clothes, jewelry, antiques and books. You can also find some great art pieces to add to your collection at one of the many galleries!
Blue Ridge Parkway
Driving down the Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most popular attractions of Asheville! Spanning the Southern and Central Appalachian Mountains, the Parkway offers visitors an exceptional glimpse of the diverse flora and fauna surrounding the area. While driving through the curves of the Parkway, visitors will find many overlooks with beautiful views, picnic areas, easy to difficult hike accesses and stops with unique, rich history and wonderful stories.
Biltmore
Since 1895, Biltmore has combined the natural beauty of the mountains and the luxurious house and gardens leaving guests in awe and wonder. The property consists of various gardens, a winery, and of course, the historic Biltmore Estate! The estate has been beautifully preserved with original furniture and masterpieces of art, allowing an authentic and inspiring look into the Gilded Age life.