Current information post Hurricane Helene.
The Biltmore Estate is part of the Vanderbilt Family and is famously known as the largest private residence in the US. The estate includes but is not limited to a winery, hiking trails, large indoor/ outdoor botanicals, and so much more. We strongly encourage ordering your tickets far in advance.
This large national forest is located literally in Heidi's backyard. Great choice if you're looking for something free and healthy to do. Heidi has explored many trails in the area and can answer more questions about this option, if you're interested. FREE
Skip's "Go To" restaurant. Heidi and Skip have enjoyed many dates here and have shared many light/ heavy talks in this joint.
Heidi's favorite local park for running/ walking/ walking + talking. The park includes a pavillion, large playground system, paved/ gravel trails, and various courts and courses for different sports. FREE
Skip gifted Heidi this experience for her birthday and they had a very enjoyable experience. Located about 1.5 hrs from Asheville. Plan for the majority of a day. We strongly encourage ordering your tickets far in advance.
The Blue Ridge Parkway, part of the National Park Service, offers a very scenic drive along the longest parkway in the US. Mount Mitchell State Park is the highest point east of the MS River and located near Mile Post (MP) 355; this is about a 1 hr drive without traffic from Asheville. Another nearby favorite is Mount Pisgah, located around MP 411; this is also about a 1 hr drive without traffic from Asheville. There are lots of hiking trails available. Check out the Asheville Visitor Center located near MP 384 (GPS address is 199 Hemphill Knob Rd, Asheville). If you were to drive the entire Parkway without stopping, it would take about 15 hrs (speed limit is 35-45 mph). FREE
Great Smoky Mountains, part of the National Park System, is the most visited national park during the fall season. The eastern part of GSMNP is located about 1 hr west of Asheville. If you want a taste of the park but have limited time, check out the Cherokee area. PS: plan for crowds and longer travel time. FREE
Located about 5 mins away from our home in Fletcher. "Must be 21 or older to drink. ID’s required. Come in for FREE tastings 7 days a week! We offer specialty cocktails that rotate monthly. (21+ up, please drink responsibly) *Pet friendly Monday – Saturday 10 am – 7 pm Sunday 12 – 4 pm Our tasting room is a great way to explore Two Trees products and learn about our proprietary sustainable maturation process. If you have been drinking whiskey for years or are looking to try something new, our selection of smooth and flavorful whiskies will have something for you!"