Are you on your way to the artsy town of Asheville and unsure what to get up to when you’re there?
Don’t worry. I’ve got you covered. You won’t be hard-pressed to find things to do in Asheville, NC.
Sitting on the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, this town is known for being a hipster haven thanks to its historic architecture, funky art scene, exciting downtown, and delish food.
But that doesn’t mean that with all the Instagrammable hangouts, there aren’t some cool outdoorsy spots to snap photos at. In fact, there are plenty!
From botanical gardens to cozy cafés, an endless list of activities is waiting for you.
Without further ado, here are the best things to do in Asheville, North Carolina.
Read Next: Planning a road trip? Check out the best things to do in Charlotte, NC, next.
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Asheville Essentials
Top Experiences & Tours In Asheville
Asheville has no shortage of amazing activities but if you’re short on time, I recommend you at least book a Waterfalls and Blue Ridge Parkway Hiking Tour (click here) or a Historic Downtown Guided Electric Bike Tour (click here)!
Where To Stay In Asheville
To get the best experience out of your Asheville trip, make sure you book a stay at one of these properties:
($) Sleep Inn Asheville-Biltmore West — Budget friendly hotel in a great location! Click here to check availability!
($$) Hilton Asheville Biltmore Park — Pet-friendly hotel centrally located near some of the best things to do in Asheville! Click here to check availability!
($$$) The Omni Grove Park Inn — This luxury hotel is the perfect place to call “home” if you want to stay somewhere beautiful with a calming ambiance (did I mention the views are perfect?). Click here to check availability!
How To Get Around Asheville
Now, how do you get around Asheville? I’d say the easiest way is to rent a car (click here to check rental car availability!) if you’re flying in or use your own if you’re road-tripping.
However, if you don’t want to drive, there are other options that are super easy to access.
Up first is the Asheville Rides Transit (ART), which offers bus services with extensive routes right out to Buncombe County.
You can take the bus between 5:30 AM and 10:30 PM Monday through Saturday and 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM Sunday.
Your second option is to take the Gray Line trolleys to popular areas like the River Arts District and downtown for sightseeing.
You can also walk through downtown. It’s pedestrian-friendly, with plenty of sidewalks connecting the shops, hotels, parks, galleries, etc.
Short on time? Book a Waterfalls and Blue Ridge Parkway Hiking Tour (click here) or a Historic Downtown Guided Electric Bike Tour (click here)!
1. Drive Down the Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a must-do in Asheville, NC.
This scenic drive offers impressive mountain views, especially during fall when the leaves change color.
I’d recommend stopping at the overlooks for photos and short hikes and to enjoy the fresh air and relaxing vibe of the area.
There are also many attractions along the drive within 20 miles of Asheville, like Craggy Gardens and Mount Mitchell State Park.
That means you can pack a picnic and enjoy it at one of the many scenic spots without going too far out of Asheville.
2. Feel Like Royalty at Biltmore Estate
The Biltmore Estate is a historic mansion that makes you feel like royalty.
Wander through the grand rooms, lush gardens, and stunning conservatory.
I recommend checking out the Butterfly Garden in summer when almost all the butterflies are out and about.
Are you wondering what else to do?
If you’re staying at Biltmore, you basically don’t need to leave since everything you need is right there.
Head to any of the many on-site locations, such as the winery for a tasting, the spa for some self-care, or The Creamery for some ice cream.
Want a real bucket list experience? I recommend booking at Beautiful Self-Guided Kayaking by the Biltmore tour! Click here to check availability!
3. Stroll Through the Botanical Gardens at Asheville
The Botanical Gardens are located near UNC Asheville, NC.
These gardens showcase native South Appalachian plants in a quiet and calm setting.
If you’re outdoorsy, love a good picnic, or even enjoy bird watching, you should definitely add this spot to your list.
Asheville’s botanical gardens are great for nature photography.
You can stroll through the various trails, admire the diverse flowers and plants, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Note: The cute little on-site gift shop is open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Admission and parking are free.
4. Visit Downtown Asheville
One of the best Asheville, NC attractions worth spending a day on is Downtown.
The lively city center is full of unique shops, galleries, and street art.
The buzzing vibes and colorful murals make it a great place for shopping, dining, and exploring.
I recommend spending a day walking through the area to view historic architecture, grab a coffee, people-watch, or head to well-loved spots like The Grove Arcade and Pack Square Park.
You’ll have your pick of places to eat, too. Try out 5 Walnut Wine Bar, which features live music and charcuterie, or The Exchange for mountain-to-table Appalachian-inspired dishes.
5. Experience Luxury at the Omni Grove Park Inn
You have to visit the luxurious Omni Grove Park Inn.
It’s a historic hotel with amazing mountain views. This grand hotel has welcomed guests for over a century and has a rich history.
The hotel can be found at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
If you choose to stay there, you’ll have access to the resort pool and sports complex.
However, if you just come to visit, you will enjoy its golf courses, its many restaurants and bars, and its on-site shopping opportunities.
You might even visit when the annual National Gingerbread House Competition happens in December.
6. Head Out To the North Carolina Arboretum
If you’re looking for things to do near Asheville, the North Carolina Arboretum is just 17 minutes from town.
With lots of seasonal displays, hiking trails, a bonsai collection, and gorgeous gardens, this spot is worth the short drive.
Get Insta-worthy snaps and enjoy the natural beauty of this well-maintained arboretum.
The nursery also hosts live events throughout summer and into the beginning of fall.
ArborEvenings, which run from June 27 to September 26, are events where you can get drinks and stroll through the gardens during golden hour.
Listen to music from local and regional artists and choose from beer, wine, and soft drinks.
7. Indulge at the French Broad Chocolate Lounge
Your trip to Asheville won’t be complete without visiting the French Broad Chocolate Lounge.
This charming café offers handcrafted chocolates, desserts, and drinks. You’ll find it in Park Square in the heart of downtown Asheville.
It’s a great stop for chocolate lovers with heaps of chocolate-related confections.
There are signature hand-crafted bonbons, ice cream, and milkshakes.
You can also book a tour of their chocolate factory from Monday to Saturday at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM.
PS: I highly recommend the liquid truffle hot chocolate.
8. Try Southern Cooking at Tupelo Honey Café
Tupelo Honey Café is famous for its delicious Southern cuisine. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes it an excellent spot for brunch.
There are so many dishes to try, and exciting cocktails are on offer, too.
You’ll love the sweet potato pancakes and fried chicken. Pair the food with signature drinks like the magic lemonade and the blueberry lavender mimosas.
The café focuses on using fresh, local ingredients in its all-day menu of Southern comfort food.
You’ll enjoy the charming interior, beautifully presented food, and outdoor seating options. It’s a delightful place for a weekend outing.
If comfort food isn’t your thing, I recommend booking an Electric Bike Brewery Crawl. You can check out this best-selling tour here!
9. Dive Into the River Arts District
For more cool things to do in Asheville, head to the River Arts District (RAD), an eclectic space made for art fanatics.
There is so much to see and do there, from watching artists work in numerous art studios to exploring galleries featuring local art and more.
There’s street art nearby, as well as public art installations and murals.
There are workshops you can participate in, as well as art walks.
When you’re done flexing your creative muscles, head to one of the many cafés and breweries close to this hub of creativity.
10. Get Cozy at the Battery Park Book Exchange
Another one of the cute things to do in downtown Asheville is to head to the Battery Park Book Exchange.
I highly recommend this spot for bookworms.
This bookstore and champagne bar in the historic Grove Arcade offers a unique experience.
Browse a wide selection of new and used books while sipping on champagne or coffee.
Settle into one of the reading nooks highlighted by the cozy and eclectic décor.
Its comfortable vibe makes it a wonderful spot to relax with a good book and a drink as long as you like.
11. Get Zen at the Asheville Salt Cave & Spa
The final activity on this list of best things to do in Asheville, NC, is to visit the Asheville Salt Cave & Spa.
This sanctuary of relaxation allows visitors to experience the therapeutic benefits of salt therapy in a tranquil setting.
While there, you can experience the chance to meditate with ambient music in the community salt cave and give the Turkish hammam bath house a try.
They also offer massages and other spa treatments. It’s a perfect place to unwind and get zen.
Read next: 16 Best Things to Do in Charleston, SC.
