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99 Unique Things to Do in Asheville NC & Western NC

The Best Things to Do in Asheville and Western North Carolina
 

With so much to see and experience in Western North Carolina, the hardest part of planning your trip to Asheville is deciding how to fit it all in. Covering a 90-mile radius across 16 counties, this region is packed with unforgettable experiences, whether you're drawn to the city’s vibrant arts and culture or the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
 

Start in downtown Asheville, where you’ll find award-winning restaurants, independent boutiques, music venues, performing arts spaces, and art galleries featuring local artists. Explore the city’s rich history through self-guided tours and museums, or take in a show at one of Asheville’s many theaters.
 

If the great outdoors calls to you, the surrounding mountains offer endless adventure. Hike through national forests and parks, chase waterfalls, or take in the spectacular mountain views along the Blue Ridge Parkway. From scenic drives to thrilling outdoor excursions, there’s something for every level of explorer.
 

To help you plan, our Asheville travel guide has everything you need to create your perfect itinerary. Check out our list of 99 things to do in Asheville and Western North Carolina for must-see attractions and hidden gems.

Asheville & WNC: Top Things to Do & Places to Go

If you’re looking for a peaceful escape in Asheville, the Arboretum’s got you covered

Touring America’s largest home is hands down the top indoor attraction in Western North Carolina. Step inside the stunning Biltmore House and wander through its century-old gardens, once enjoyed by the Vanderbilt family.

Get ready for an adventure at Nantahala Outdoor Center! Just outside Asheville, you can tackle thrilling whitewater rafting on the French Broad River, or head over to Bryson City for a 500-acre playground full of fun!

Hop on board for a scenic train ride you won’t forget! Cruise along the Nantahala and Tuckasegee Rivers, climb over mountains, coast through valleys, and even roll through tunnels.

Get your game on with over 3,800 slots and a huge variety of games, plus live-action tables for Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, and more!

Take a trip back in time and get your history on with historic cabins, crafty folks doing their thing, old-school logging gear, guided tours, movies, food, and shopping

Just 45 miles from Asheville in the scenic isothermal foothills near Columbus and Tryon, you'll find Tryon Foothills Wine Country

Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., located in Mills River just outside Asheville, offers a fantastic craft beer experience.

Downtown Hendersonville is a delightful mix of charm, culture, and a little bit of quirky fun! Picture historic buildings lining tree-filled streets, with a vibrant arts scene and tons of local shops and cafes to explore. Whether you're popping into a cozy bookstore, enjoying a meal at an outdoor patio,

Explore the highest peak east of the Mississippi River, right off the Blue Ridge Parkway. At the summit, you'll find an observation tower

Grab your hiking boots, mountain bike, or saddle up for some horseback riding across 10,000 acres of pure outdoor bliss! With trails leading you to stunning waterfalls, serene lakes, and even mountaintop picnic spots, you’ll never want to leave.

Seek out this tucked away treasure that’s practically bursting with art and history, right next door to The Omni Grove Park Inn.

Hop on a bright purple bus and get ready for the most fun city tour you’ll ever take! With a mix of captivating stories, comedy skits, and a soundtrack that’ll have you grooving

Unwind and let go of stress with a soothing soak in a private hot tub, nestled under a serene canopy of trees. For the adventurous, take a refreshing plunge into the invigorating cold plunge,

This stunning lake in Graham County, surrounded mostly by the lush Nantahala National Forest, is the perfect escape for outdoor lovers.

Explore North Carolina's only natural limestone caverns, where you'll discover breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites, along with an underground stream that adds to the mysterious beauty of the place.

Head over to 12 Old Charlotte Highway in Asheville and visit the pioneers of craft beer, brewing since 1994.

Step into the heart of the mountains at the WNC Farmers Market, where the vibrant atmosphere is as fresh as the produce!

The First Peak of the Blue Ridge offers a chance to immerse yourself in the mountains, no matter the season.

Home to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, this North Carolina town provides multiple opportunities to experience the tribe's rich cultural heritage and extensive history. Visit the Museum of the Cherokee Indian and the Oconaluftee Indian Village.

Looking for adventure just a short drive from downtown Asheville? This place has got you covered with whitewater rafting, ziplines, and canyoneering expeditions, all just 30 minutes away.

Step into a world of feline fascination with over 10,000 cat-themed curiosities, from rare antiques to quirky collectibles—all gathered over 20 years by the legendary Catman2.

Nestled at 3,700 feet, this charming mountain village sits between the Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain ski areas, offering easy access to Grandfather Mountain hiking trails.

Take a leisurely stroll down Marion’s Main Street, where history meets charm with its beautiful buildings, historic churches, and the courthouse sitting proudly at the heart of the town. Nestled at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains,

Discover a one-of-a-kind oasis in Asheville, where a salt-enriched microclimate promotes relaxation and balance for both body and mind.

There’s so much to explore! Take a ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, then stroll through downtown shops and galleries or try paddleboarding on the river. Nearby, Deep Creek offers camping, hiking, trout fishing, and the always-popular tubing.

Step into the heart of downtown Asheville for a truly special experience at one of the city's most intimate venues, where world-class theatre takes center stage.

Once home to a NASA campus, this unique space in Pisgah National Forest has transformed into an engaging science and space center

The River Arts District (RAD), is a vibrant community of over 700 artists, collectives, and galleries. The Upper River Arts District is now open for visitors to explore studios, galleries

Madison County, NC, is an outdoor lover’s dream come true! Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this charming county is a playground for anyone craving adventure.

Since the late 1890s, Saluda has been a charming stop for travelers, drawing visitors to its small-town vibe and rich history. With a population of just 700, this railroad town’s Main Street is lined with longtime businesses, including fantastic galleries and eateries.

Downtown Waynesville feels like a step back in time, with its charming old buildings, brick sidewalks, and cozy galleries. It’s the kind of place where you can wander and feel the slow rhythm of life.

Get ready for the thrill of a lifetime! Just 20 minutes outside Asheville, Navitat offers a zipline canopy tour so amazing,

This town doesn’t just sit high on the list—it is the highest, literally, at 5,506 feet, making it the coolest spot in more ways than one.

Brevard boasts a picturesque Main Street lined with local shops, delightful restaurants, vibrant galleries, a popular brewery, intriguing museums, and the much-loved O.P. Taylor toy store.

Step into the Asheville Art Museum and explore an exceptional collection of 20th- and 21st-century American art, along with the rich artistic heritage of Western North Carolina.

Asheville Festivals & Events
 

Check our calendar of events for festivals during each season, including art and craft shows, throughout the year, including most weekends. Most of these things to do are free! 

 

A Few of Our Favorite Asheville NC Things to Do
 

  • Step inside the Grove Arcade—a beautiful historic "mall" in downtown Asheville with high-quality specialty shops and local restaurants. See local art and craft at their outdoor market.
     

  • Explore the Montford Historic District located just north of downtown. Take a driving or walking tour to see a variety of architectural influences reflecting the cosmopolitan character of Asheville during the turn of the 20th century.
     

  • Play to win at the Asheville Pinball Museum—a downtown Asheville treasure trove for pinball and classic video games. It’s a great rainy-day activity with over 80 games!
     

  • Go a little outside city limits to the quaint small town of Black Mountain. Check out 40+ shops, 30 restaurants, and three breweries.
     

  • Take a leisurely stroll through the Botanical Gardens of Asheville, located just two miles from downtown at the University of North Carolina in Asheville. The garden collections focus on plants native to our Southern Appalachian Mountains, including approximately 600 species in all.
     

  • Hop in the car for a short drive from downtown Asheville to mile-high Craggy Gardens. Enjoy the crisp air, summer rhododendron, and super scenic trails.
     

  • Shop the wonderful Southern Highland Craft Guild store with a big variety of creations from hundreds of artists, browse rotating exhibitions in several galleries, and watch an artist at work at the Folk Art Center.
     

  • Catch a live music show at The Orange Peel—Asheville’s well-known concert venue that brings big-name acts from far and wide!
     

  • Take a walk through West Asheville to see a much more artistic and creative side of Asheville. Check out our travel guide.

Don't Forget to Check These Out!​

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