Vacation In Asheville
For a long time, Asheville was not on my radar. I’m from North Carolina and have lived throughout the state for a long time but had never been to the artsy mountain town. Of course, that started to change when we actually sat down and planned our family vacation. Our family has been taking trips up to Cherokee, in the mountains of western North Carolina, over new years holidays for six years. We always sit at the water’s edge with acres of land on one side and land on the other side and bask in the snowy weather as we sip hot cocoa upon arriving. We’ve taken snow tubing rides as well – something I would LOVE to do here in Asheville during our vacation here. Snow sports are numerous here in this winters wonderland such as tubing and skiing – both of which are happening right now! We will be here December 31st -January 2nd where I can sample some of those treats we enjoy up in Cherokee (think zeppole…) before kicking back in this fun mountain town so close to home! There are plenty of things to do around here once you’ve had your fill from snow sports or hanging out by a fire. I was lucky enough to receive free tickets to Chimney Rock Park for posting about it on
Creatively named, the Unassuming Victorian Bed & Breakfast is nestled on a quiet street in the heart of Asheville within walking distance to downtown and the Biltmore Estate. A short drive from Asheville Regional Airport, the Inn offers nine comfortable guest rooms, many with private baths and fireplaces. Enjoy your own claw-foot tub for two in your room or join a private group for a soak in our shared Jacuzzi. The gracious owners have created an elegant ambiance honoring the turn of the century Victorian era.
Travelplacesalong with our team recently visited Asheville and we had some real fun there. We managed to get the great pics of a place that I am going to share with you here.
Asheville, NC is a beautiful and magical town nestled in the mountains, where the roads are all twisty and turny. You’ll immediately notice that it doesn’t feel like your typical city. Locals refer to this place as “The Land of the Sky.” In our digital world, I think it’s one of the last places on earth that reminds us of how magical life can be. There are many reasons to come on vacation to Asheville. The biggest one for me? It’s my home town! I know the area pretty well and could tell you about all the great places to stay, eat, drink and explore. Contact me if you want me to set up a personalized itinerary for you and your family!
Asheville has to be one of the coolest small cities on the American East Coast, with a relaxed bohemian vibe and adventurous spirit. Here are some fun things to do there!
Vacation In Asheville
Located in North Carolina’s scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville has a unique mix of hipster coffee shops, award-winning restaurants, outdoor activities, and more breweries per capita than anywhere else in the US.
After hearing about Asheville for years, whether from friends, or the Obama’s visiting on vacation — it was time to learn what all the fuss was about.
The best activities and attractions in Asheville North Carolina!
Things To Do In AshevillePlay Video
There are many quirky, unique, unusual, and secret spots to discover in Asheville!
Asheville was rated the #1 US travel destination by Lonely Planet, and for some reason everyone thinks Asheville is super cool.
After 4-days visiting Asheville with my wife Anna in partnership with Explore Asheville Tourism, I totally get it now. We had a fantastic time!
In this short travel guide, I wanted to recommend a few fun and unusual things to do in Asheville, no matter what kind of stuff you’re into.
My Asheville itinerary is completely free! I’ve worked hard putting it together for you. If you find it useful, please use my affiliate links when you book hotels, rental cars or activities. I’ll get paid a small commission, at no extra cost to you! Thanks.
Table Of Contents
Asheville Highlights Map
HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Above you’ll find a map of highlights in Asheville, North Carolina. Click on the top left of the map to find separate layers marking the route and points of interest. You can hide and show different layers, or click icons on the map to see the names of places I mention in this travel guide. “Star” the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version. Enjoy!
Best Things To Do In Asheville 2022
1. Check Out Asheville’s Street Art
Asheville is known for its art scene, and you’ll quickly understand why. There’s fun street art all over the place, like colorful murals painted on the side of buildings & under bridges, depicting the city’s history.
My favorite was probably “Chicken Alley” by Molly Must, which you can find on Carolina Lane & Woodfin Street. Two giant chickens watch over the alley, a place that used to feature actual chickens in the past.
Right down the street from Chicken Alley you’ll see some “tiny houses” built into a brick wall. I also recommend stopping by the Flat Iron Sculpture downtown, created by local artist Reed Todd.
One of the best ways to experience the city fully is by exploring on foot. With about 87,000 residents, Asheville isn’t huge. But it’s not too small either.
Asheville Scavenger Hunt!
Discover Asheville on a smartphone guided walking tour. Explore rich history, art, monuments and other hidden gems.
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2. Drink Some Craft Beer!
Asheville is known as “Beer City USA”. Because with 26 different craft breweries in the city, and another 60 nearby, beer lovers won’t want to leave.
Some of the most popular in town are Green Man, Catawba, Wicked Weed, and Lexington Avenue Brewery.
About 100 local beers can be enjoyed in Asheville, and each brewery has its own unique character. From strong hoppy IPAs to dark stouts, to fruity raspberry ales, you’re bound to find something you’ll love.
On top of the incredible beer scene, the city is also “steeped” in tea culture.
Check out Dobra Tea, afternoon tea at Biltmore, and The Herbiary.
3. Float The French Broad River
The French Broad River winds its way past Asheville, providing a natural space for all kinds of outdoor activities & adventures.
You have your obvious river sports like whitewater kayaking and inner-tube floating, but there are some lesser-known activities here too, like “bellyaking” and whitewater SUP.
Bellyaking was actually invented in Asheville — it’s a face first kayak-type ride using special “paddle gloves” to maneuver through the rapids.
I decided to try some whitewater SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding) for the first time with Wai Mauna SUP Tours. I fell a few times, but it was still fun!
Rent A Car In Asheville
Search both local and international car rental companies to help you find a good deal.
4. Visit The River Arts District
In the 1980s artists began transforming a bunch of old industrial buildings on the French Broad River into studio space.
Now the public can visit these studios as part of “the RAD” Rivers Arts District and browse works from 200 local artists.
They have painting exhibits, photography galleries, jewelry making, all kinds of different art.
The second Saturday of each month hosts art workshops, wine tasting, live music, and more. You can get around using a free trolley that stops at different venues.
Asheville Electric Bike tour
Experience the lovely city of Asheville on an e-bike tour. See architectural gems, stunning scenery, and hear stories behind Asheville’s history.
5. Farm To Table Dining
Asheville is home to over 250 restaurants, many serving locally produced meats and veggies while supporting North Carolina’s farmers. They’ve been doing “farm to table” long before it became a cliche.
We obviously couldn’t try every restaurant in town with just four days, but my favorite places to eat in Asheville were The Marketplace and Salsas.
French Broad Chocolates is an ice-cream lover’s dream too. The line outside is long, but there’s a reason for that.
The chocolate ice-cream floats are sooooo good! It was worth the wait.
6. The Biltmore Estate
The historic Biltmore Estate is one of the most frequently suggested places to visit in Asheville. George Vanderbilt’s gigantic, hundred-year-old property is quite busy all year long.
George, an heir to the Vanderbilt railroad fortune, fell in love with North Carolina and began building his property by late 1889. He decided to create a dream home surrounded by natural forests and productive farms.
This 178,926 square foot mansion sits on 8000 acres, with over 250 rooms, and is America’s largest home. The Biltmore holds regular exhibitions too. Tickets cost $70 for adults and $35 for kids with a free audio guide.
George Vanderbilt amassed a library of more than 22,000 books — including over 3,000 he read himself. Gazing at the wall of books in his library was fascinating.