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Best places near asheville nc - best places near asheville nc:The Top Places For Outdoor Adventure Near Asheville, N.C.
True to the free-spirited nature of Asheville, the River Arts District is made up of 22 buildings of historical or previous industrial purpose. A cotton mill, a tannery, and all sorts of other fascinating spaces by the French Broad River fill the district with an old-fashioned atmosphere, offset by the modernity of the art found. Walking through the River Arts District will let you feast your eyes on works created by over different artists, ranging from paintings to ceramics and from photography to textiles.
Even hand-crafted jewelry and more lovely souvenirs can be found here, and you might get to meet some of the artists behind them! Local artists enjoy talking about their work but take note of studio operating hours if you want to meet them. Studio Strolls is an exciting event where a free trolley service takes guests across multiple different studios, all open for the special occasion!
Looking for one of the best places to go on vacation? No trip to Asheville is complete without a stop at Biltmore Estate. It is cited as the biggest privately owned house not just in North Carolina, but in all of the country. The home eventually expanded its uses, with a winery being built in the s and hotels being set up in the s. Finished in , it boasts an opulent French Renaissance design and a whopping rooms, including 35 bedrooms and 43 bathrooms.
Many secret passages hidden behind trick doors are scattered about the home, some of which are available to tour. Meanwhile, the outside consists of 8, acres of garden, with 2. Each season hosts different events, ranging from regal Christmas displays to beautiful spring blooms. Essentially, the Folk Art Center is an eclectic exhibit of all sorts of arts and crafts made locally, not just from Asheville but across the Appalachian region.
It was created during the Great Depression in in order to help create a market for artists and their work across the area — though it does have roots all the way back to the s. The goal of the Folk Art Center is to promote handmade works that combine traditional and contemporary elements, some dating all the way back to the 19tch century.
Three galleries showcase all sorts of handicrafts, ranging from sculptures to woodworking, from paintings to glass, and from quilts to jewelry. There are also demonstrations of crafts that have almost been forgotten since they were brought down from mountain tribes, such as broom-making, cabinetry, and weaving.
The facility covers 42 acres and is dedicated to an educational mission: to teach the public about the habitats, diversity, and variation of the everyday life of mammals in Asheville and beyond. The indoor exhibits of the nature center include small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and the very interesting World Underground exhibit that discusses what exists beneath the ground. The outdoor exhibits, on the other hand, are dedicated to local species, like foxes, turtles, raccoons, otter, and even endangered farm animals.
Events are hosted every now and then throughout the year, and a hiking trail spans the grounds of the center so you can take a nice hike and enjoy the natural atmosphere. Wolfe spoke of the home unflatteringly: a cheaply-made house, as he called it, with dirt yellow paint and a broken-down look.
The Thomas Wolfe Memorial, housed in that former boarding house, is amazing for fans of the novel because of the accuracy with which he described each room. The Grove Arcade was one of the first indoor shopping malls in all of the country, which makes it a unique mix of historical and fun on this list of places to go in the city of Asheville.
The Gray Line Trolley is an amazing way to see all the tourist attractions and activities that the city has to offer. Grovewood Gallery is housed in a building that was once the woodworking and weaving factory for Biltmore Industries — a name you likely remember from another one of the places to visit in the city of Asheville, Biltmore Estate. Now, Grovewood Gallery is home to crafts of all kinds from contemporary artists, both local to North Carolina and from all across the country.
More than creators have their work on display here, and there are sculpture gardens outside that promote a peaceful and calming environment. Asheville to Chimney Rock is about 45 to 50 minutes, and if you are hoping to explore multiple towns around Asheville, visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure together.
Tired of generic Asheville travel itineraries? Experience Asheville like a local with our free Asheville Favorites checklist, including restaurants, breweries, and hiking. Plus, get local updates — including events and hidden gems — straight to your inbox. Sign up here. Lincolnton is one of those cities near Asheville that we just happened to wander into and now love. And, not too many tourists head into Lincolnton. The perfect stop if you want to grab food on your way to or from Charlotte Douglas International Airport, Lincolnton is east of Asheville and slightly north of Charlotte.
Asheville to Lincolnton is about a 1 hour and minute drive — also making it one of the furthest cities on this list. Stop in Lincolnton for the cafes, bookstores, woodfire pizza, and a walkable downtown filled with old school murals. Get lost in North State Books. Asheville to Waynesville is about a minute drive, and if you are starting at Lake Junaluska, Asheville to Lake Junaluska is an easy minutes. Like many of the other mostly Western North Carolina towns on this list, Waynesville promises a unique downtown filled with beer, food, and shops.
Along with Lake Junaluska, visit Maggie Valley while here — another one of the most charming small towns near Asheville. Tyron is known for its equestrian culture, wineries, Christmas festival, Pearson Falls, and shops. Tryon International Equestrian Center hosts numerous horse events and competitions.
Mountain Brook and Russian Chapel Hills are close by too. Parker-Binns even has a delicious Burger Barn and Airbnb property for rent. Catch a movie at the indie theater, Tryon Theatre, and shop downtown for used books and local art. Saluda — another one of the small cities near Asheville worth a trip — is only 15 minutes away.
Asheville to Tryon is just under a one-hour drive. Maggie Valley is most well-known for being close to the Smokies, its craft shops, winter skiing, and Soco Falls. Driving through the town, spot funky vintage motels. Drop into Wheels Through Time, a car and motorcycle museum. Or, enjoy the short hike to Soco Falls.
Many people head out this way in the winter for the Cataloochee Ski Area — home to skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.
As we search for a Blue Ridge Mountain town to call home, Weaverville NC would be at the top of our list if real estate prices were not a factor. Located 8 miles from downtown Asheville, Weaverville population 4, feels far removed from the hustle and bustle of the burgeoning metropolis.
There are lots of fun things to do in Weaverville NC, including an array of downtown parks, great restaurants , historical museums , and cultural attractions. From weekly drum circles in Pritchard Park to decades of killer concerts at the Orange Peel, Asheville is known as one of the hippest music towns in the Blue Ridge region.
The Moog Store and Moogseum both offer great opportunities to learn more about this iconic inventor and his enduring influence on the evolution of popular music.
The Moog Store is offering small group sessions by appt only that include a brief history of Moog Music, demos of historically significant instruments, and more. Located on a picturesque acre plot of land in Leicester NC about 17 miles from Downtown Asheville , this fourth-generation family farm started focusing on growing grapes back in They have more than 6 acres of grapes planted now, and plan to gradually expand it 10 acres.
You can also purchase their small-batch wines online. Although there are no apple orchards in Asheville proper, there are quite a few options in Hendersonville NC, which is just 25 miles south of the city. Starting on Labor Day weekend, the farm also features family-friendly activities such as an apple cannon, cow train, and a corn maze you can try to navigate. Formally known as the Basilica of St.
Inside, the basilica features elaborate stained glass windows made in Munich , statues of saints made in Italy , a marble altar from Tennessee , and a wood carving of the Virgin Mary and John the Apostle made in Spain. Walk-in visits are permitted during the hours posted on their website, and self-guided tours of the basilica are free though donations are always appreciated.
Horseback riding is a great way to immerse yourself in natural beauty Asheville has to offer, and the Biltmore Equestrian Center offers private two-hour tours. Theirs are the only Asheville horseback riding tours within the city limits, exploring the trails of the historic property. Expert guides lead up to four guests at a time through the world-renowned estate, which is surrounded by the Pisgah National Forest.
Note that all participants will need a Biltmore day pass or annual pass, or an overnight room at the estate. The area is home to two beautiful lakes Junaluska and Logan , surrounded by some of the tallest mountains in NC, and offers awesome outdoor recreation in the Shining Rock Wilderness.
Downtown Waynesville is very walkable, with the best shops in a 5-block area on Main Street. Christmas at the Biltmore is easily the largest celebration, with a tree-raising event, daytime and candlelit nighttime tours of the festively decorated rooms of the Biltmore House, and holiday happenings in both the Antler Hill and Historic Biltmore Village areas.
But the largest privately owned home in America is far from the only Asheville Christmas game in town. We encourage anyone who loves the Blue Ridge region to learn about the Leave No Trace principles of responsible environmental stewardship. Stay on marked trails, take only pictures, pack out your trash, and be considerate of others who share the trails and parks you explore.
Put simply by Terri of Clayville, N. There's a reason the Blue Ridge Parkway is one of America's most treasured scenic drives. You'll discover unparalleled views of the Blue Ridge Mountains on this scenic road that winds through the highest elevations of the Southern Appalachians. There's no admission fee. And, with hundreds of paved overlooks, the views from the Parkway are easily accessible. You can stop as many or as few times as you like while you explore nature's beauty.
Consider packing a scenic picnic to help you slow down and enjoy the breathtaking vistas. And, see our interactive online guide to the Blue Ridge Parkway to begin planning your visit from home. The Craggy Gardens Pinnacle Trail is on the Blue Ridge Parkway but it's so beloved by our fans that it's earned its own spot on the list. What makes Craggy Gardens so special?
Craggy Pinnacle is just 30 minutes from downtown Asheville about 19 miles and is an easy-to-moderate hike that is perfect for people of all skill levels and hiking experience. The hike is just 0. While Craggy is beautiful throughout the year, in June the mountain bursts into bloom with the showy, purple Catawba Rhododendron flowers. It's truly a sight to see! With gorgeous gardens and forest trails, the North Carolina Arboretum is an outdoor gem.
What may first come to mind with the North Carolina Arboretum is the 65 acres of cultivated gardens , including the Instagram-worthy Quilt Garden. But the Arboretum also is home of one of the finest and unique bonsai collections in the United States! The 10 miles of hiking and biking trails connect with many area points of interest including Lake Powhatan, Pisgah National Forest and the Blue Ridge Parkway. All the trails at the North Carolina Arboretum are dog-friendly! It began as a farming community in the s and now boasts around 4, residents.
Like many North Carolina towns, the mayor and an elected town council and manager make legislative decisions. Overseeing five departments, management is focused on making Weaverville a distinct town with its own identity and great appeal to its residents, first and foremost. Black Mountain Head east from Asheville on I Named for the range of mountains that border it to the north, this town of 8, is perfect for foodies.
Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy golfing at the Black Mountain golf course and walking the path around Lake Tomahawk. Black Mountain was voted the prettiest small town vacation in America by Trip Advisor readers. Black Mountain , established in , is run by an elected mayor and board of aldermen. The council-manager governing body oversees legislation to keep the town feeling like home for all residents.
In , over new listings appeared on the real estate market. Also check out Montreat , a small mountain village near Black Mountain. Candler Although Candler is an unincorporated community in Buncombe County, it has grown into its own.
Pisgah and beyond. A hot air balloon ascends out of Candler with views of Mt. Pisgah by Asheville Hot Air Balloons. Many people buying homes in Candler do so for the secluded areas and acreage while still keeping within a minute commute to Asheville. The area is popular and has a wide variety of home types to choose from at a range of prices.
Known for its paper mill, Canton boasts a long history of industry and hardworking citizens.
Asheville's Top Surrounding Towns & Real Estate - Post navigation
The attractive downtown offers a mix of modern and Art-Deco buildings and an assortment of trendy restaurants and live-entertainment venues. There are several resorts and planned communities surrounding the city and especially to the north and west.
The city has controlled urban sprawl better than many of its type. At most times of the year, except winter, tourists can make the area feel crowded. Because of its inland location and higher elevation, the area sees considerably more below-freezing weather than nearby regions.
Overall, the area scores well in most categories with no major downsides. Mountain ridges to the east and west flank the entire valley with peaks from 2, feet to 4, feet above the valley floor. The Blue Ridge rises about 30 miles south. Mixed vegetation grows in the valley, with densely wooded foothills and mountains surrounding the city, particularly to the north and west.
The invigorating climate offers considerable temperature variation from day to day in all seasons. Summers are warm and humid, but the elevation and nearby mountains cause some cooling, particularly in the evenings. The high mountains to the northwest block precipitation and cold fronts in the winter. Precipitation in Asheville, particularly northwest of the immediate city, is the lowest in North Carolina.
Significant snowfall is uncommon. Heavy Gulf rains can cause flooding in the river valley. First freeze is late October, last is mid-April.
Recent job growth is Positive. Asheville jobs have increased by 1. More Economy. Today's Weather Climate Averages. More Voting Stats. Since , it has had a population growth of 9. Learn More The National Average is Home appreciation the last 10 years has been 6.
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Median Age Download Report. September, June and May are the most pleasant months in Asheville, while January and December are the least comfortable months.
Zip Codes: Cost of Living: 5. Pros Attractive setting Attractive downtown Nearby mountains. Cons Home prices Air service Winter cold. Best Places to Live in Asheville Rankings. Housing Market in Asheville. It's a good time to buy in Asheville. Grab your backpack, favorite boots and hiking gear, and hit the trail for some seriously stunning views and some sweet-scented fresh mountain air.
Wherever your adventures take you, please remember to always leave no trace to help preserve the beauty of these forests and wilderness areas. And please follow these tips for good trail etiquette to help make sure everyone has an equally enjoyable time. Climbing 6, feet into the clouds, the Mt Mitchell summit is the highest east of the Mississippi, and on a clear day, offers simply breathtaking views from the top.
Explore exceptionally beautiful high-elevation forests on this two-trail loop, catching soaring views from the summit and looping through a lush, fragrant, mossy forest of balsam fir trees on the Balsam Nature Trail. This hike on the Mountains to Sea Trail follows an old gravel road through a scenic forest, catching beautiful views above the Parkway from an angled rock outcrop. The route ends at the remains of Rattlesnake Lodge, a once-grand s summer estate, and explores the stacked-stone foundations of the lodge, swimming pool, barn, and several other structures.
And the surrounding forest is simply outstanding in autumn! At the summit, wind-blown grasses frame wildflowers and blooming flame azeleas in spring, and views stretch to the neaby crag at Craggy Pinnacle and far into the rolling blue yonder. A large communication tower borders the viewing platform at the summit — but the views of neighboring summits are well worth the climb, including the nearby Fryingpan Mountain.
Wildflowers by the millions, wind-blown grasses, and some of the best views in Western NC fill this popular trail. Be sure to arrive early to score a parking spot, and please help prevent trail erosion by staying on the trail and following these easy leave no trace tips. The Graveyard Fields Trail loops through a spectacularly beautiful valley just below Black Balsam Knob , diving through tunnels of gnarly-branched rhododendron and following wooden boardwalks through lush fields to visit several tumbling waterfalls.
Follow the Catawba Falls Trail along the river, catching view after view of small cascades along the way. The trail ends at the base of an enormous, moss-covered cliff, where Catawba Falls plunges in tendrils of whitewater and mist into a chilly, clear pool below.
Rising high from the surrounding forest, this enormous domed rock is an iconic sight on the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway. Hike to the summit on the Looking Glass Rock Trail to catch panoramic views from an overlook near the top, stretching far and wide.
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