Things to Do

Downtown

Downtown Asheville is filled with great restaurants, shopping, breweries and more! Stroll through a vibrant entertainment hub in the heart of Asheville, brimming with independent shops and a remarkably distinctive mountain vibe.

Asheville Arts District

The River Arts District consists of a vast array of artists and working studios in 22 former industrial and historical buildings spread out along a one mile stretch of the French Broad River. This eclectic area is an exciting exploration of arts, food and exercise.

Grove Arcade

The historically renovated Grove Arcade reopened to the public in 2002 as a downtown destination featuring boutique shopping, services, and diverse dining options in a beloved architectural wonder.

Asheville Pinball Museum

All-you-can-play arcade featuring 75+ pinball machines & classic video games, plus beer & soda.

Biltmore Estate

George Vanderbilt's historic country estate in Asheville, NC; Biltmore includes Biltmore House--America's largest home--plus gardens, winery, Antler Hill Village, historic farm, 4-star Inn on Biltmore Estate, shops, restaurants, branded products, and outdoor adventures. This National Historic Landmark is an amazing destination offering a wide range of activities for all ages.

The Botanical Gardens

Welcome to The Botanical Gardens at Asheville! Our native plant collection includes more than 600 species native to the Southern Appalachians. These include many species of trees, shrubs, wildflowers, vines, grasses and sedges. The Gardens has a full collection of native pine, magnolia and birch trees.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Everyone should experience a drive on The Blue Ridge Parkway. The Parkway runs from Virginia all the way to Cherokee, North Carolina. Beautiful scenery all the way. Overlooks and amazing vistas the whole way. No big trucks are allowed on the Parkway and the speed limit is 45. This allows you to take in all the amazing sights that creation has to offer. Of course, there are exits all along the way to take in the art, culture, and crafts of the Appalachian and Smokey Mountains.

Chimney Rock State Park

Chimney Rock, the 535-million-year-old monolith for which the Park is named, is considered one of the most iconic sites in North Carolina. From its top, you’ll soak in the 75-mile panoramic views of Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. You can hike to the top of this towering 315-foot granite outcropping located on the very edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains. At an elevation of 2,280 feet above sea level, this mountaintop experience will take your breath away. The climb is well worth the effort!

Tupelo Honey

This is one of our favorite breakfast/brunch spots.

Vortex Doughnuts

Stylish, funky shop offering donuts in unique flavors, including vegan options, plus gourmet coffee.

Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co

New Belgium Brewing Company

Pisgah Brewing Company

Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.

Wedge Brewing Company

This brewery is set in the arts district and has a really interesting patio. It sits next to the river. You can actually float on the river, get out at this brewery, then get back in the water and continue on to other watering holes.

Wicked Weed Brewing Pub

This place has great beer and great food! One of our personal faves.

Points of Light Crystal and Mineral Gallery

If you love gemstones like we do, check this place out!

Enter the Earth

Cornerstone Minerals

Asheville Art Museum

Asheville by Foot Walking Tours

The Flying Bike Tours and Rentals

Gray Line Trolley Tours of Asheville

LaZoom Tours

Asheville's Fun Depot

Majik Studios 207

WNC Nature Center

Asheville Outdoor Center

French Broad Adventures

Navitat Canopy Adventures

Wai Mauna Asheville SUP Tours and Paddleboard Rentals

USA RAFT French Broad River

Zen Tubing