Asheville On Nc Map
Introduction
Asheville, North Carolina is a charming city nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Known for its vibrant arts scene, eclectic food scene, and natural beauty, Asheville is a must-visit destination for travelers. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover all the top attractions in and around Asheville, including hidden gems, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, and much more.
Top Attractions
Biltmore Estate
The Biltmore Estate is a must-visit attraction in Asheville. This grand estate was built by George Vanderbilt in the late 1800s and is now open to the public for tours. The estate features a stunning mansion, beautiful gardens, and a winery.
Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive that spans 469 miles through the Blue Ridge Mountains. The drive offers stunning views of the mountains and is a popular destination for hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts.
Downtown Asheville
Downtown Asheville is a vibrant area filled with art galleries, shops, and restaurants. The area is known for its eclectic mix of architecture, including Art Deco and Victorian styles. Be sure to check out the street performers and musicians on the weekends.
Hidden Gems
The North Carolina Arboretum
The North Carolina Arboretum is a 434-acre public garden located in the Bent Creek Experimental Forest. The arboretum features a variety of gardens, including a bonsai exhibit, a quilt garden, and a medicinal garden.
Asheville Pinball Museum
If you’re looking for a fun indoor activity, check out the Asheville Pinball Museum. The museum features over 80 vintage pinball machines that you can play for just a few quarters.
Food Scene
Tupelo Honey Cafe
Tupelo Honey Cafe is a popular restaurant in downtown Asheville that serves up Southern comfort food with a modern twist. Be sure to try their famous biscuits with honey and blueberry compote.
12 Bones Smokehouse
12 Bones Smokehouse is a local favorite for barbecue. The restaurant has been featured on several TV shows, including “Man vs. Food” and “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.”
Budget-Friendly Tips
Free Walking Tours
Take advantage of the free walking tours offered in downtown Asheville. These tours are led by local volunteers and offer a great way to learn about the history and culture of the city.
Picnic in the Park
Pack a picnic lunch and head to one of Asheville’s many parks. Pack Square Park and Carrier Park are both great options with plenty of green space and scenic views.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking
Asheville is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, so there are plenty of hiking trails to explore. Check out the trails at Chimney Rock State Park or DuPont State Recreational Forest.
Whitewater Rafting
The French Broad River offers some of the best whitewater rafting in the Southeast. Several companies in Asheville offer guided rafting trips for all skill levels.
Family-Friendly Activities
Asheville Museum of Science
The Asheville Museum of Science is a great place to take kids of all ages. The museum features interactive exhibits on topics like geology, astronomy, and biology.
WNC Nature Center
The WNC Nature Center is a 42-acre wildlife park that is home to over 60 species of animals. Kids will love seeing the red wolves, otters, and black bears.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Navitat Canopy Adventures
Navitat Canopy Adventures offers zipline tours through the forest canopy. This is a great way to experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains from a unique perspective.
Folk Art Center
The Folk Art Center is a museum and gallery dedicated to preserving and promoting the traditional arts and crafts of the Southern Appalachians. Be sure to check out the craft demonstrations and workshops.
Natural Wonders
Sliding Rock
Sliding Rock is a natural rock slide located in the Pisgah National Forest. Visitors can slide down the 60-foot rock slide into a deep pool of water below.
Looking Glass Falls
Looking Glass Falls is a 60-foot waterfall located in the Pisgah National Forest. The waterfall is easily accessible from the parking area and is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Orange Peel
The Orange Peel is a popular music venue in downtown Asheville that has hosted acts like Bob Dylan and Smashing Pumpkins. Check their calendar for upcoming shows.
Asheville Brewery Tours
Asheville is known for its craft beer scene, so why not take a brewery tour? Several companies offer guided tours of local breweries, including Asheville Brewery Tours and BREW-ed.
Local Markets
Asheville City Market
The Asheville City Market is a year-round farmer’s market that features local produce, meats, and crafts. The market is open on Saturdays from April to December and on Wednesdays from May to October.
WNC Farmers Market
The WNC Farmers Market is a large indoor/outdoor market that features local produce, crafts, and food products. The market is open daily from 8am to 6pm.
Beaches and Mountains
Lake Lure
Lake Lure is a beautiful mountain lake located about 30 minutes from Asheville. The lake offers swimming, fishing, and boating, as well as stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Outer Banks
If you’re looking for a beach getaway, head to the Outer Banks. This chain of barrier islands offers miles of pristine beaches, as well as historic lighthouses and charming seaside towns.
Cultural Immersion
Cherokee Indian Reservation
The Cherokee Indian Reservation is located about an hour from Asheville and offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Cherokee people. Be sure to check out the Museum of the Cherokee Indian.
Asheville Art Museum
The Asheville Art Museum is a great place to immerse yourself in the local art scene. The museum features a variety of exhibits, including works by regional artists.
Art and Music Scene
River Arts District
The River Arts District is a collection of former warehouses that have been converted into art studios and galleries. Visitors can watch artists at work and purchase their creations.
Grey Eagle
The Grey Eagle is a music venue in downtown Asheville that features local and national acts. The venue has a cozy atmosphere and is a great place to catch up-and-coming musicians.
Walking Tours
Historic Montford Walking Tour
The Historic Montford Walking Tour is a self-guided tour of the Montford Historic District. The district features over 600 historic homes, many of which were built in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Urban Trail
The Urban Trail is a 1.7-mile walking tour of downtown Asheville. The trail features 30 stops, each with a bronze sculpture that tells a story about the city’s history and culture.
Architectural Marvels
Grove Arcade
The Grove Arcade is a historic building in downtown Asheville that was built in the 1920s. The building features an impressive Art Deco style and is now home to shops and restaurants.
Flat Iron Building
The Flat Iron Building is a historic landmark in downtown Asheville that was built in 1926. The building features a unique triangular shape and is now home to offices and apartments.
Historical Sites
Thomas Wolfe Memorial
The Thomas Wolfe Memorial is a historic home in downtown Asheville that was the childhood home of author Thomas Wolfe. The house is now a museum and features exhibits on Wolfe’s life and works.
Battery Park Book Exchange
The Battery Park Book Exchange is a unique bookstore in downtown Asheville that is housed in an old bank building. The store features over 22,000 books and a cozy wine bar.
Biking Routes
French Broad River Greenway
The French Broad River Greenway is a 2.8-mile paved trail that runs along the river. The trail is popular with bikers, joggers, and walkers.