The 61 Best Things to Do in Asheville (That Aren’t Boring)

function reportWindowSize() { let barContainer = document.querySelector(“#kb-progress-bar60052_c51db1-f5”); let type = “line”; let barSvg = barContainer.querySelector(“svg”); if ( ! barSvg ) { return; } let barPaths = barSvg.querySelectorAll(“path”); let path1 = barPaths[0]; let path2 = barPaths[1]; let stokeWidths = [1.75,1.75,2]; if( window.innerWidth < 768 ) { if( type === “line” ){ barSvg.setAttribute( “viewBox”, “0 0 100 ” + stokeWidths[2]); path1.setAttribute( “d”, “M 0,” + ( stokeWidths[2] / 2) + ” L 100,” + ( stokeWidths[2] / 2)); path2.setAttribute( “d”, “M 0,” + ( stokeWidths[2] / 2) + ” L 100,” + ( stokeWidths[2] / 2)); } path1.setAttribute( “stroke-width”, stokeWidths[2]); path2.setAttribute( “stroke-width”, stokeWidths[2]); } else if( window.innerWidth < 1025 ) { if( type === “line” ){ barSvg.setAttribute( “viewBox”, “0 0 100 ” + stokeWidths[1]); path1.setAttribute( “d”, “M 0,” + ( stokeWidths[1] / 2) + ” L 100,” + ( stokeWidths[1] / 2)); path2.setAttribute( “d”, “M 0,” + ( stokeWidths[1] / 2) + ” L 100,” + ( stokeWidths[1] / 2)); } path1.setAttribute( “stroke-width”, stokeWidths[1]); path2.setAttribute( “stroke-width”, stokeWidths[1]); } else { if( type === “line” ){ barSvg.setAttribute( “viewBox”, “0 0 100 ” + stokeWidths[0]); path1.setAttribute( “d”, “M 0,” + ( stokeWidths[0] / 2) + ” L 100,” + ( stokeWidths[0] / 2)); path2.setAttribute( “d”, “M 0,” + ( stokeWidths[0] / 2) + ” L 100,” + ( stokeWidths[0] / 2)); } path1.setAttribute( “stroke-width”, stokeWidths[0]); path2.setAttribute( “stroke-width”, stokeWidths[0]); } } window.onresize = reportWindowSize; var waitForProgressBar60052_c51db1f5 = setInterval(function () { if (typeof ProgressBar !== “undefined” ) { clearInterval(waitForProgressBar60052_c51db1f5); let responsiveStrokeSizes = [1.75,1.75,2]; let initialStroke; if( window.innerWidth < 768 ) { initialStroke = responsiveStrokeSizes[2]; } else if( window.innerWidth < 1025 ) { initialStroke = responsiveStrokeSizes[1]; } else { initialStroke = responsiveStrokeSizes[0]; } let progressBar60052_c51db1f5 = new ProgressBar.Line(“#kb-progress-bar60052_c51db1-f5”, { color: “#ffcc00”, trailColor: “var(–global-palette7, #EDF2F7)”, duration: “2000”, easing: “easeInOut”, strokeWidth: initialStroke, }); let progressBarController60052_c51db1f5 = new ScrollMagic.Controller(); let desiredAnimation = new ScrollMagic.Scene({triggerElement: “#kb-progress-bar60052_c51db1-f5”}); desiredAnimation.triggerHook(0.88); desiredAnimation.addTo( progressBarController60052_c51db1f5 ); desiredAnimation.on(“start”, function (e) {progressBar60052_c51db1f5.animate( 0.98 , { duration: 2000, step: function(state, bar) { let value = 0; let elementContainer = document.getElementById(“kb-progress-bar60052_c51db1-f5”); let elementAbove = document.getElementById(“current-progress-above60052_c51db1-f5”); let elementInside = document.getElementById(“current-progress-inside60052_c51db1-f5”); let elementBelow = document.getElementById(“current-progress-below60052_c51db1-f5”); if( false ) { value = Math.round(bar.value() * 100 ); } else { value = Math.round(bar.value() * 5); } value = bar.value() * 5; value = Math.round( value * 10) / 10;value = value.toFixed(1); if( elementAbove ){ elementAbove.innerHTML = “” + value + “%”; } else if ( elementInside ){ elementInside.innerHTML = “” + value + “%”; } else if ( elementBelow ){ elementBelow.innerHTML = “” + value + “%”; } elementContainer.setAttribute(“aria-valuenow”, value); } } , function(){} );});} }, 125);

French Broad River Greenway

Take a peaceful walk, run, or ride along this scenic riverside trail.

📍 Google Maps | Website | Entrance: Free

The French Broad River Greenway is located near the River Arts District just outside of downtown. This riverside trail is 3.5 miles long and runs north and south along the banks of the beautiful French Broad River. It connects three Asheville parks: Hominy Creek River Park, Carrier Park, and French Broad River Park.

This greenway is ideal for getting your nature fix without leaving Asheville. It has a paved path that’s suitable for visitors of all ages. You can run, walk, bike, or skate alongside the water and stop to play or have a picnic at one of the three parks. 

👉 Pro Tip: If you’re not staying in the River Arts District, no worries. You can still easily access and enjoy the French Broad River Greenway by parking at one of the three parks mentioned above.

Fly Fishing

Spend a day on Carolina rivers, reeling in fish and having a memorable time.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 779-9008 | Website | Hours: Varies per fishing charter | Cost: $200-$800 | 👉 Asheville Fly Fishing Guided Trips

Consider doing a fly fishing charter if you’re at all interested in fishing! This is a unique and memorable way to experience the Appalachian Mountains while also engaging with local wildlife.

There are guided trips dedicated to certain fish, as well as shorter and longer river trips. You can do multi-day fishing trips as well.

Asheville Fly Fishing Co. (linked above) is one of the big charter companies, but there are others like Hunter Banks Fly Fishing and Brown Trout Fly Fishing, too.

Camping

Reconnect with yourself and nature through a Carolina camping trip.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 577-7278 | Website | Entrance: Varies per campground

It’s no surprise that Asheville has some great camping spots nearby considering it”s surrounded by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.

One of the most popular camping spots is Lake Powhatan Recreation Area & Campground. This campsite is a wonderful option for families and those who want to stay close to Asheville, but still, get the full camping experience. 

Lake Powhatan Recreation Area & Campground offers RV and tent camping and has amenities and recreational opportunities. It’s also within Pisgah National Forest and close to attractions like Bent Creek, the NC Arboretum, and the Blue Ridge Parkway. 

A couple of other popular campground options include Campfire Lodgings and Mount Pisgah Campgrounds.

📚 Related Reading: Camping Essentials

Asheville Sites & Attractions

LaZoom Comedy Bus Tours

Laugh until your belly hurts with an off-the-wall comedy tour.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 225-6932 | Website | Entrance: $27-$39, age limits vary per tour

There”s no better way to embrace Asheville”s unspoken motto “Keep Asheville weird” than by taking a comedy ride with LaZoom. LaZoom Comedy Bus Tours are a recognizable part of the downtown Asheville scene and are best known for their purple buses and boisterous energy.

Four types of tours are offered, but the Hey Asheville! City Comedy Tour is the classic option. This will take you through downtown Asheville and other historic neighborhoods while your off-the-wall tour guide will entertain you with Asheville facts, history, and crazy comedy skits.

This is a great activity to do with friends, but if you’re traveling as a family, there’s a kids’ comedy tour, too.

Grove Arcade

Go shopping and dining in “Asheville’s Original Mall.”

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 252-7799 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 8 pm Mon-Sat, 10 am – 5 pm Sun

The Grove Arcade is known as “Asheville’s Original Mall.” It first opened in 1929 and has a rich history. Located downtown, this historic and ornate building houses over 30 local businesses. These businesses include shops of local makers as well as a variety of restaurants and cafes. 

Strolling through the Grove Arcade is already an activity in and of itself, but the diverse range of businesses also makes it a great place to shop for local goods and gifts. 

A personal favorite spot is Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar, where you can enjoy reading and wine all in one place. Whether you shop, dine or do both, you’re sure to find something you love here. 

👉 Pro Tip: Right outside the Grove Arcade along Battery Park Ave, there are usually local makers selling crafts and handmade goods.

Malaprops Bookstore

Get lost in between the shelves of Asheville’s favorite bookstore.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 254-6734 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Mon-Wed, 10 am – 6 pm Thu-Sat, 11 am – 4 pm Sun

No town or city is complete without a good bookstore and Malaprops is a local favorite. The shelves are stocked with a great selection of books that span different genres and the staff is always friendly and helpful. 

Malaprops has some unique sections, too, including “Western NC Picks” which are all about Asheville and the region. The “Books Undercover” section is great for those who aren’t sure what to read and are down for a surprise. And if you’re worried about the kids being entertained, don’t fret because there’s a great section for them as well. 

👉 Pro Tip: Interested in rare and used books? Hit up Malaprops’ sister store, Downtown Books & News, which is only a block away.

The Orange Peel

Sing, dance, and enjoy great vibes at this downtown music venue.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 398-1837 | Website | Hours: Vary per show | Entrance: $10+

The Orange Peel is a rock and indie music venue located in downtown Asheville. Catching a show here is one of the best things to do for music lovers.

Acts like Bob Dylan, Neon Trees, The Killers, and even Post Malone have played here. The venue holds up to 1100 guests and the vibe is fun but still really intimate. Tickets are pretty affordable and they offer a good selection of local beer.

The Orange Peel has an overall great sound and depending on who you’re seeing, the venue can be cool and intimate or upbeat and dancy. Do note that for the most part, shows are standing-room only and there’s typically an age limit of 18+. 

👉 Pro Tip: If you’re super into music, be sure to check out the Moog factory downtown!

Helen’s Bridge

Get chills as you pass under one of Asheville’s most haunted spots.

📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Asheville Walking Ghost Tour

Plan a visit to Helen”s Bridge—one of Asheville’s most haunted spots—if you”re into the paranormal. Legend has it that this 1909 stone bridge on Beaucatcher Mountain is home to the distressed spirit of a woman named Helen. 

Helen reportedly lived at or around the nearby Zealandia Mansion, and hung herself on this bridge after her beloved daughter died in a fire. People who have tried to call out Helen’s name or conjure up her spirit report paranormal activity and car trouble as they drive under the bridge. 

Western North Carolina Nature Center

Learn about and connect with the wildlife and plant life of Southern Appalachia.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 259-8080 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 4:30 pm daily | Entrance: $13.95 adults & youth, $9.95 children, Free for ages 2 and under

The WNC Nature Center is a family-friendly attraction that”s located less than 15 minutes from downtown Asheville. This educational center and zoo features animals native to the Southern Appalachian Mountains of Western North Carolina.

The nature center has tons of native animals from otters, turtles, and salamanders, to endangered species like red wolves. They even have a black bear habitat so you can experience these furry friends from a safe distance. 

WNC Nature Center also has interactive activities like play areas and gem mining for younger kids. 

Metaphysical Shops

Unlock something new and connect with yourself through the metaphysical.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 707-7802 | Website | Hours: Vary with each store | 👉 Private Tarot Reading

Asheville has a reputation for its spirituality scene and all things occult. This is why you’ll find a variety of metaphysical shops throughout downtown and the surrounding areas. Think everything from tarot cards and psychic readings to crystals and sage.

I recommend visiting Earth Magick in downtown Asheville if you’re into this sort of thing and want to have a reading done. Here, you can book tarot, astrology, and other readings. Gaea Gifts has a great selection of tarot cards if you’re looking to purchase your own, and Enter the Earth in the Grove Arcade has tons of crystals and jewelry. 

Local Farmers Markets

Feel like a local and shop from regional farmers and makers.

📍 Google Maps | Website | Hours: Vary based on farmers” market and season

Farmer”s markets (also called tailgate markets) are a classic North Carolinian thing, so hitting one up during your trip to Asheville is a no-brainer. Even if you’re visiting for a short trip, you can still pick up things like local honey, baked goods, and even crafts to take home with you.

Asheville City Market takes place downtown every Saturday, and it even runs through the winter. This is a classic Asheville farmer”s market with tons of vendors to choose from.

Other Asheville neighborhoods have their own markets, too, including the River Arts District Farmers Market, WNC Farmers Market, and tailgate markets in East, West, and North Asheville.

👉 Pro Tip: The city of Asheville is all about sustainability, so be sure to bring your reusable tote bags if you attend!

Lake Lure, NC & Chimney Rock State Park

Enjoy a day trip to this beautiful lake and state park.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 625-9983 | Website | 👉 Kayak Tour at Lake Lure

Add Lake Lure to your itinerary to experience the best of what mountain life has to offer. This town makes for a relaxing, yet fun-filled day trip from Asheville, at just under an hour away.

Lake Lure itself is the real attraction of this area, and visitors can enjoy a plethora of activities from swimming to boating. Simply put, if you visit while it’s warm, definitely take advantage of the lake! 

Chimney Rock State Park is also nearby and is a must-see destination. Here, you can enjoy spectacular views of Lake Lure and surrounding mountains at the park’s iconic stone monolith (hence the name “Chimney Rock”), as well as hiking trails and rock climbing.  

Hendersonville, NC

Take a day trip to this charming town with tons of activities for the whole family.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 693-9708 | Website

Hendersonville, NC is located just half an hour away from downtown Asheville. You”ll find many fun activities in Hendersonville for the whole family to enjoy. 

Main Street has a variety of local businesses including shops, restaurants, cafes, and even a few museums for the kids. Main Street is also full of cool, painted bear statues that are fun to see and take pictures with.

The surrounding areas near Hendersonville are filled with scenic apple farms and vineyards, which make for fun outdoor activities. Another great attraction? The Flat Rock Playhouse, where you can see amazing plays, musicals, and other productions. For a small town, Hendersonville will keep you busy with all its attractions.

🛎️ Need a Hotel?Kanuga Inn & Lodging is located 15 minutes outside of downtown Hendersonville. Staying in Hendersonville is a great option to help you save money in Asheville!

Brevard, NC

Take a day trip to the “Land of Waterfalls”.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 884-8900 | Website

Chasing waterfalls? Plan a day trip to Brevard, NC—a charming mountain town that’s been dubbed North Carolina’s “Land of Waterfalls.” Located just under an hour from downtown Asheville, it makes for the perfect day trip destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families.

Pisgah National Forest is Brevard’s backyard, so there’s no shortage of outdoor activities to do here. Hiking trails like John Rock Trail Loop or the Art Loeb Trail are fantastic treks. The Davidson River is also great for river tubing and a visit to Sliding Rock, where you can slide down a sloping waterfall into a cool river pool below. 

When you’re done with outdoor adventure, grab some dinner and spend some time walking around Brevard’s charming downtown area.

👉 Pro Tip: If you’re leaving Pisgah National Forest and don’t have time to go into Brevard for a meal, Hawg Wild Barbeque and Dolly’s Dairy Bar are located right at the entrance to Pisgah Forest.

Rock Climbing

Climb your way to new heights at one of Asheville’s local climbing gyms.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 676-2566 | Website | Hours: 12 pm – 10 pm Mon-Thu, 12 pm – 8 pm Fri-Sun | Day Pass: $25

Asheville is the perfect place to start rock climbing if you”ve never tried it before! There’s a pretty popular rock climbing scene here, and there are a couple of different gyms. Both offer day passes for adults and children, as well as day camps for kids. 

The Riveter is a popular rock climbing gym. It’s located in Mills River near Sierra Nevada and it has a truly impressive facility. Cultivate Climbing is another local rock climbing gym, with locations downtown and along the French Broad River.

U-Pick Farms

Slow down and create memories by handpicking fruit and flowers outside of Asheville.

📍 Google Maps | Seasons: Open April – October 

Asheville is surrounded by tons of local farms, all producing different crops and produce. Many of these farms are open to the public for picking! This can make for a super hands-on and fun family experience. Popular U-Pick crops include apples, berries, and flowers. 

Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard and Grandad’s Apples are great for apple picking. Try Ten Acre Garden, Flying Cloud Farm, and Queens Produce & Dairy Farm for things like berries and flowers. Each of these farms is within an hour’s drive of downtown Asheville. 

Asheville Festivals

Celebrate and play at one of Asheville’s many vibrant local festivals.

🌐 Website

Asheville”s lineup of festivals and seasonal celebrations is awesome. Several festivals take place throughout the year, so there’s a chance you may be able to catch one if you plan ahead! Plus, they’re all family-friendly. 

First up are some of the major, Asheville-centric festivals that celebrate local traditions. This includes AVL Fest, Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands, and Mountain Dance & Folk Festival. Biltmore also has annual celebrations like Biltmore Blooms and Christmas at Biltmore. 

The city also hosts a number of cultural festivals. This includes GRINDFest, Hola Asheville, LEAF Festival, and Blue Ridge Pride Festival. 

🛎️ Need a Hotel?The AC Hotel Downtown Asheville is a conveniently-located hotel in the heart of the city. This is an ideal option for those visiting during downtown festivals. 

Well Played Board Game Cafe

Enjoy all fun and games at Asheville’s only board game cafe.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 412-5788 | Website | Entrance: $5-$10 per person | Hours: 8 am – 10 pm Mon-Thu, Sun, 8 am – 12 am Fri & Sat

Well Played Board Game Cafe is the perfect spot to visit in downtown Asheville if you like games. This cafe has over 700 board games to choose from. Think traditional board games and cards to games you’ve probably never heard of. It’s an entertaining place for visitors of all ages—from children to teenagers and elderly folks. 

In addition to games, this cafe has a menagerie of food and drinks for everyone to enjoy. There are classic cafe drinks, but it serves beer and wine as well. It also has a full menu with sandwiches, charcuterie, and other small plates. 

Museums & Culture

Thomas Wolfe Memorial

Walk through this historic site, which was the childhood home of American novelist Thomas Wolfe.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 253-8304 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 5 pm Tue-Sat, Closed Mon & Sun | Entrance: $5 adults, $2 ages 7-17, Free for ages 6 and under 

The Thomas Wolfe Memorial is a historic home in downtown Asheville that”s best known for its impact on American novelist, Thomas Wolfe. Here, you can wander back in time and step into the pages of a 20th-century story.

Wolfe lived in this Queen Anne-style home during his childhood. The home also served as a boarding house. But most notably, this home inspired Wolfe’s famous book, Look Homeward, Angel.

Today, the historic site can be toured daily and visitors can learn all about Thomas Wolfe’s life and writings. Although not a light read, I recommend picking up a copy and giving Look Homeward, Angel, a read in preparation for your trip to Asheville!

Asheville Museum of Science

Let your kids play, explore, and learn at this downtown science museum.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 254-7162 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Mon, Wed-Sat, 1 pm – 5 pm Sun, Closed Tue | Entrance: $10 ages 3+, Free for ages 2 and under

The Asheville Museum of Science (AMOS) is one of Asheville”s best educational activities for children. Here, your kids can play, explore, and learn to their heart’s content through interactive exhibits and displays.

Think dinosaur bones with fossil digs, a variety of gems and minerals, and games about local ecology (including the French Broad River!). 

If you’re visiting Asheville for the summer, consider enrolling your kiddos in AMOS’ summer camp, where they can immerse themselves in all things science. Or, if you just want to visit for the day, it’s the perfect downtown Asheville activity since it”s located in the heart of the city.

Black Mountain College Museum & Arts Center

Experience the history and innovation of the arts and their impact.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 350-8484 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 5 pm Tue-Sat, Closed Mon & Sun | Entrance: Free but donations are encouraged

Black Mountain College served as a progressive, one-of-a-kind college institution for intellectuals and artists between 1933 and 1957. Today, Black Mountain College Museum & Arts Center celebrates that legacy. 

Over 3,000 permanent works of art from the early 20th-century era are displayed at Black Mountain College Museum & Arts Center—all of which have been donated by Black Mountain College alumni and their families. This includes sculptures, paintings, photographs, and more. 

👉 Did You Know? Famous alumni from Black Mountain College include Josef Albers, Ruth Asawa, Merce Cunningham, and others. 

Asheville Art Museum

Browse an exceptional collection of American and regional art.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 253-3227 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 6 pm Mon, Wed, Fri-Sun, 11 am – 9 pm Thu, Closed Tue | Entrance: $15 adults, $13 seniors, $10 students, Free for children under 6 

The Asheville Art Museum is located in Pack Square. This museum features over 7,000 works of art from American artists, as well as regional and local work from throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. 

Work includes paintings, prints, photographs, and sculptures, as well as a collection of fine crafts from Cherokee artists. Asheville Art Museum also has a collection of work from Black Mountain College artists. 

Folk Art Center

Get in touch with the history and creativity behind Southern Appalachian art.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 298-7928 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: Free 

Make a stop at the Folk Art Center located at milepost 382 near Asheville if you”re planning on exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway. Here, you’ll find traditional Southern Appalachian crafts all made by local makers.

Goods range from woodwork and pottery to basket weaving and quilts—all of which tell the rich crafting story of the Southern Appalachian mountains. 

Feel free to browse local work or purchase something as a keepsake of your Asheville trip. If you’re lucky, you may also catch one of the Folk Art Center’s special events or demonstrations aimed at celebrating Southern Appalachia’s craft traditions.

Asheville Fine Arts Theatre

Enjoy blockbuster movies and indie films at this cool, independent cinema.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 232-1536 | Website | Hours: Showtimes vary | Entrance: $11 general admission, $9 for matinees, seniors, military, & students 

The Asheville Fine Arts Theatre is Asheville’s premier theatre for art and independent films. It”s located downtown and just a short walk from Pack Square. The theatre is family-friendly, but also great for a date night.

A mix of popular movies and art & indie films are premiered here with both matinee and evening showings. The vibe is nostalgic and will charm you with that classic small cinema experience.

👉 Pro Tip: Want to do dinner and a show? I recommend making reservations at one of the many great restaurants located just across the street from the theatre like Shanghai Dumpling House or Curate.

Antiquing & Thrifting

Sift through hidden gems and give new life to items from the past.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 253-3070 | Hours: 10 am – 6 pm Mon-Sat, Closed Sun (Lexington Park Antiques)

Asheville is home to some great vintage shops if antiquing, thrifting, or vintage shopping is your thing.

You’ll want to check out Lexington Park Antiques in downtown Asheville. This place is bigger than it looks, and you can easily spend a few hours browsing the infinite shelves and sections. Honeypot, Reunion Vintage Goods, and Sugar Britches are a few other vintage shops downtown. 

Another great area for finding secondhand and vintage items is the River Arts District. Wildflowers Vintage and House of Kismet are great for clothes. Marquee and Splurge are good for finding homewares.

Pottery Class

Mold, shape, and wheel throw your way to one-of-a-kind pottery.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 285-0210 | Website | Hours: Class times vary | Classes: $50-$500 

A pottery class is a unique activity for visitors of all ages. Not only is it a great way to engage with Appalachian tradition, but it’s fun, too!

If you’ve never tried creating pottery, no worries. There are classes designed specifically for beginners. Alongside a trained teacher, you can try your hand at molding and shaping clay, and throwing at the pottery wheel.

Odyssey Clayworks is a great place to sign up for classes, but there are others in the area if things get booked up. You can check out The Village Potters Clay Center, Batton Clayworks, and Firefly Valley Pottery. 

Asheville Murals

Open up your creative eye and spot the colorful murals that decorate Asheville.

🌐 Website | 👉 A Taste of West Asheville Walking Tour

Asheville is colorful for many reasons, and this includes its urban art. All around the city, from downtown to RAD and extending through West Asheville, are vibrant and creative murals. Some depict Asheville”s history and culture, while others are just for fun. 

Notable ones include Daydreamer on Biltmore Ave downtown and Dolly Parton & RuPaul in West Asheville. There”s also ever-changing artwork on the Asheville silo in RAD. If you’re looking to hit up multiple murals, there’s actually a South Slope Mural Trail you can follow. 

Local Music

Listen to the sounds of mountain music and more, with one of Asheville’s many live music shows.

🌐 Website | Hours: Showtimes vary | Entrance: Varies per show

Live music is a prominent part of the Asheville scene since the city has several local music venues and well over 30 breweries. Not to mention, there are folks busking on the streets almost every day and live music events taking place in restaurants and cafes.

I highly recommend checking Asheville’s live music calendar (website linked above) to see what’s happening ahead of your trip. Catching a live show is a great way to support local artists and businesses while enjoying unique performances you won’t find elsewhere.

There’s also a good number of artists that play Appalachian-inspired styles like bluegrass and American folk.

Pritchard Park Drum Circle

Move to the beat as local musicians drum it up in downtown Asheville.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 251-1122 | Website | Hours: 6 pm – 9:45 pm Fridays (April through October, weather depending) | Entrance: Free

You”ll get a mixed bag of reviews and opinions on the Pritchard Park drum circles if you ask any Asheville local about it. However, it’s a free and unique event that takes place in downtown Asheville from the spring through fall. 

It’s a totally inclusive event that’s open to everyone and anyone. People are welcome to bring their own drum and join in, dance, or simply watch and listen. The sounds and rhythms of the drum circle echo through downtown. No matter what age you are, you’re welcome to join in on the fun.

Food & Drink

Love Food? See my guide to the best North Carolina food to try!

12 Bones Smokehouse

Get a taste of real North Carolina barbeque (and see why it’s the best!).

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 253-4499 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 5 pm Mon-Fri, Closed Sat & Sun

A trip to Asheville isn’t complete without some classic Carolina barbeque. Even though states like Tennessee and Texas claim to be the competition, North Carolina’s barbeque is hard to beat. And you can’t go wrong with a barbeque at 12 Bones Smokehouse located in Asheville’s River Arts District.

This is the perfect place to come after a long day of outdoor activities and exploring. The atmosphere is casual and comfortable, and the food never misses. I recommend going for the plates option so you can pick from meats like ribs or pulled pork, and then sample a couple of fixins like mac & cheese and collard greens. 

You’re sure to leave feeling full and hopefully biased towards Carolina barbeque!

Tupelo Honey

Get your fill of all the Southern classics from fried green tomatoes to grits.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 255-4863 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 8 pm Mon-Fri, 9 am – 9 pm Sat, 9 am – 8 pm Sun

Head to Tupelo Honey if you”re looking to indulge in Southern cuisine. You”re sure to get your fill of rich, fried, buttery goodness. With locations in downtown Asheville and South Asheville, it’ll be easy to squeeze in a meal, no matter the day’s activities. 

I recommend trying Tupelo Honey”s famous fried green tomatoes and fried chicken, which you can get on its own, with waffles, or in a sandwich. The restaurant atmosphere is inviting but still casual and perfect for the whole family. 

Sierra Nevada Brewing Company

Sit back and relax at one of Asheville’s best brew spots.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 681-5300 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 9 pm Sun-Thu, 11 am – 10 pm Fri & Sat

Sierra Nevada Brewing Company is a must-visit for any beer lover. It”s no secret that Asheville has a thriving beer scene and Sierra Nevada”s flagship brewery is one of the best breweries in Asheville.

Upon arrival, the state-of-the-art facility is a sight to take in—it’s massive! Once inside the taproom (you can make reservations, but walk-ins are also welcome) you can either settle into a table or head to the back porch to enjoy some outside ambiance, weather permitting. 

Although there are a number of beers to choose from, I recommend ordering a flight so you can sample a variety. Don’t miss out on the food here, either! The duck fat fries are to die for. 

👉 Pro Tip: For the full Sierra Nevada experience, go on a brewery tour and tasting. It’s a great way to learn about Sierra Nevada and sure to be a memorable experience, too. 

French Broad Chocolate Lounge

Indulge in these decadent, handcrafted chocolates.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 252-4181 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 10 pm daily

Chocolate lovers, brace yourselves because the French Broad Chocolate Lounge is going to blow you away. Located in Pack Square downtown, this chocolate shop creates decadent and sustainably sourced handcrafted chocolates in the tastiest of flavors. 

The French Broad Chocolate Lounge creates bars, chips, and chocolate-covered beans and nuts, but what they’re really known for is their bon bons. Flavors range from classics like salted honey caramel, to innovative flavors like rose, cardamom, and pistachio. 

You can customize a box of your own, or choose from one of their signature boxes like the Asheville Grown Collection. My recommendation? Purchase some bon bons to eat on-site, and take another box home with you. Trust me! 

No Taste Like Home

Go foraging with professional guides for a food experience unlike any other.

📞 Phone: (828) 209-8599 | Website | Tickets: $42 – $77 

What better way to immerse yourself in nature than a foraging tour? This is the perfect activity if you”re a foodie. Foraging tours are open to people of all ages and are a truly educational and unique experience. 

You can expect to go out on location (anywhere from 5 to 45 minutes from downtown) with a professional guide. You’ll learn about local and native plant life over three hours. Think anything from wild mushrooms and sassafras to other edible plants. 

At the end, there is a small cooking demo and tasting, and you can take home the rest of your finds.

👉 Pro Tip: No Taste Like Home has an option to make arrangements with select local restaurants to have them whip up your foraged finds into a free appetizer. Purchase of entree is necessary, however. 

Asheville Brewery Tours

Sample some of Asheville’s best brews on a tour with knowledgeable beer guides.

🎟️ Tickets: $35-$80 | 👉 Downtown Asheville Guided Brewery Walking Tour

A visit to Asheville just isn’t complete without visiting one of the 30+ breweries in the area. In fact, brewery hopping is one of the best things to do in North Carolina! Book a brewery tour if you want to really dive into the local beer scene. There are tons of options to choose from.

One of the best is the downtown Asheville brewery tour by BREW-Ed (linked above). It features stops at Catawba Brewing, Twin Leaf Brewery, and Green Man Brewing, which are all loved by locals. 

For something different, you can do a pubcycle tour. This is great for groups. Sierra Nevada also does brewery tours where you can do tastings and go behind the scenes.

👉 Love Beer? If one (or a few) beer tours isn’t enough for you, try doing a floating bar crawl tour down the French Broad River!

Visit a Winery

Experience (and taste) Western North Carolina’s rich wine scene.

🌐 Website | 👉 Red Wine & Chocolate Tasting at Biltmore

The Asheville beer scene gets a lot of attention. But what many people don’t know is that the WNC region is home to some great wineries, too. 

There are a couple of wineries close to Asheville. Biltmore Winery is a top recommendation. You can tour Biltmore’s vineyards and do tastings of its award-winning wines. Pleb Winery is another winery located in the River Arts District that serves a variety of WNC wines.

If you don’t mind leaving the city, there are many beautiful vineyards you can visit. Burntshirt Vineyards, Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards, and Point Lookout Vineyards are all located in the Hendersonville area and within an hour’s drive.

S&W Market

Sip local Highland beer and a collection of tasty eats at this historic downtown food hall.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 575-5236 | Website | Hours: 11:30 am – 8 pm Mon, Wed, Thu, 11:30 am – 9 pm Fri & Sat, 11:30 am – 7 pm Sun, Closed Tue

The historic S&W art-deco building is located in the heart of downtown Asheville. S&W first opened as a cafeteria chain in 1929 and today, it operates as a food hall serving up local beer and food. 

S&W Market is both a beautiful and convenient place for the whole family to grab a bite to eat. You can expect Southern, American, Thai, and Peruvian cuisines, along with a craft cocktail bar and ice cream shop. Plus, Asheville’s iconic Highland Brewing Company is located on the second floor.

Wellness Activities

Shoji Hot Tub Retreat & Spa

Relax and unwind at this unique destination spa.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 299-0999 | Website | Services: $68 – $546  

Shoji Hot Tub Retreat & Spa is a retreat located 15 minutes southeast of Asheville and right off the Blue Ridge Parkway. With mountains and nature all around, a spa experience is a natural thing to add to the wellness mix.

This Japanese-inspired spa and retreat is nestled into the surrounding forest scenery to create the perfect nature escape. You can visit just for the day, or stay overnight if you”re looking for a unique place to stay near Asheville.

You can choose from a number of packages and spa treatments including a soak in the salt hydrotherapy tubs, as well as different types of massage and bodywork. Overall, this is an incredible thing to do in Asheville for a girls weekend or couples getaway.

Asheville Salt Cave & Spa

Take in negative ions and release negative vibes at this deeply relaxing salt cave.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 236-5999 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 5 pm Mon & Tue, 10 am – 7 pm Thu & Fri, 10 am – 9 pm Sat, 10 am – 5 pm Sun, Closed Wed | Services: $24 – $525 

The Asheville Salt Cave & Spa is one of the most unique things in Asheville if you”re really into wellness and meditation.

The Asheville Salt Cave is full of 30 tons of pure pink salt, which creates a totally unique microclimate with healing properties. Think of the salt lamps you put in your home, but on a much bigger level.

Visitors can sit in the cave while listening to ambient music, all to support relaxation and meditation. Massage therapy can be added to your salt cave experience, or booked separately. 

The spa also has a Turkish Hammam, which is a traditional bathhouse that is brightly decorated. Here, you can enjoy a ritual of steaming, exfoliating, and cleansing. 

👉 Love meditation? Check out this group guided meditation hike!

Skinny Beats Sound Shop

Immerse yourself in a sound healing experience.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 768-2826 | Website | Hours: 12 pm – 5 pm Tue- Sun, Closed Mon

Head to Skinny Beats Sound Shop for a sound healing session if you’re into wellness, or just open to trying something new. Here, you can do a private or group session of sound healing meditation. You”ll lie down in the shop’s meditative space while relaxing, atmospheric soundscapes are played around you. 

Shop owner Billy Zanski plays a number of instruments from harps, gongs, and singing crystal bowls to help soothe your mind, body, and soul. The sound shop is located in downtown Asheville and sessions last up to an hour. Whatever your therapeutic style, this is a unique experience that’s true to Asheville’s local vibe. 

Wake Foot Sanctuary & Spa

Recharge and treat yourself at this downtown Asheville spa.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 575-9799 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 8 pm daily | Services: $40-$200

Wake Foot Sanctuary & Spa is the perfect place to unwind after a long day with a relaxing foot soak and massage. The spa is located downtown in the Grove Arcade.

For 45 minutes you can sit back and let your tired, aching feet soak in a relaxing bath of essential oils, revitalizing salts, and nourishing clays. Plus, there are a variety of foot soak combinations you can choose from, so you can customize it for your specific needs and preferences. I love the classic lavender chamomile option. 

Yoga Experiences

Relax and rejuvenate with unique and local yoga experiences.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 407-0711 | Website | Entrance: $25-$65 | 👉 Mountaintop Yoga & Meditation Hike

Sign up for an Asheville yoga experience if you want to try a wellness activity that’s a little more active. Asheville Wellness Tours offers a few different excursions, and each one has a local twist. 

One tour includes a hike, followed by mountaintop yoga during sunrise or sunset (linked above). There are private group yoga classes with the option to do the session in botanical gardens, at a park, or a local studio. Lastly, there’s a goat yoga experience that takes place on a local farm! 

Another yoga tour operator is Namaste in Nature. It offers things like a waterfall yoga hiking tour and a mountaintop vortex yoga hiking tour.

FAQs

***

Thanks for reading my picks for the best things to see and do in Asheville! This list is just the beginning of what makes Asheville such an incredible destination. Looking for more in the region? Check out my guide on the best places to visit in North Carolina.