NikiAnne & Chris
Things To Do
River Arts District
Asheville is also an artist mecca, and the River Arts District (RAD) is at the center. This area of town is fun to walk around in and just peruse the galleries and artist workshops. In addition to the main area you'll be directed to if you research where to go, also check out a fringe section called Riverview Station that has a lot of funky and cool things to check out.
Folk Art Center
The Southern Appalachian Highlands is home to SOOOO many amazing cultural traditions, arts, crafts, and skills-people. The Folk Art Center is a fabulous place to learn about its arts and crafts history, experience regional craft, & admire the works of over 300 Appalachian artists.
Blue Ridge Parkway
Seriously, these mountains are spectacular. You can't go wrong anywhere you go. The Blue Ridge Parkway is accessible from all sides of Asheville. You can find recommended hikes all over the internet. If you aren't up for a hike, it's still a beautiful, scenic drive in any direction. A few of our favorite areas are: Lineville Gorge Black Balsam, Sam's Knob Table Rock (NC, not SC)
Micro-breweries
Asheville is now a mecca of micro-breweries. Although there's so many great ones, Farmer's favorite beers at the local breweries are: Hi-Wire Gose (Sour beer) Hi-wire Strongman Coffee Milk Stout New Belgium La Folie Sour Brown Ale New Belgium Hemporer HPA Catawba Brewing Co. Evening Joe Blonde Ale
Omni Grove Park Inn
Amazing architectural feat. You have access to the grounds and all its views for only the cost of parking. We highly recommend taking the old service elevator to the 4th floor to get a glimpse of its history and construction process via original photos and interpretive signs. Taking in the view of Asheville over a drink, or a tasty meal at the Edison Restaurant, is a great (and more affordable way) to experience all that it has to offer without having to stay there. Or you can just walk around without buying anything. This is a great way to experience the historical and architectural grandness of early 20th century Asheville without having to go to the Biltmore Estate.
Biltmore Estate
It's truly exquisite, and it's a commitment to go there and do it right, and it costs more than a penny. IF you're going to experience the Biltmore we recommend blocking out a good half of the day (if not a whole day, depending on how much you want to see) with nothing else strenuous to do the rest of the day as you'll be exhausted after so much walking and learning. And if you're going to spend the time touring the estate we HIGHLY recommend spending the extra money for each person to rent their own audio guided headset. It helps so much to stay engaged as well as understand and appreciate what you're looking at. The Biltmore Estate is awesome and worth checking out AND it's totally possible to experience all that Asheville has to offer without going there.
Lake Lure Flowering Bridge
The Lake Lure Flowering Bridge blooms year-round and is a sweet place to take a stroll outside. The Bridge and Gardens are always open, and there’s no admission charge to visit.