12 Best Things To Do in Asheville, North Carolina, Not To Miss

The best things to do in Asheville include hiking through the Blue Ridge Mountains and exploring the magnificent Biltmore Mansion. From its world-famous craft beer to its epic art scene, there are plenty of reasons to visit this amazing city.

Asheville sits in the valleys of the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina. For decades, it’s attracted artists, musicians, and other creative people who call it home. It’s also one of the East Coast’s hubs for outdoor activities.

It attracts almost 13 million visitors a year for its cultural activities, nature, and nightlife. Breweries such as Highland Brewing Company and top-rated restaurants give visitors plenty to savor.

We compiled the ultimate list of experiences and destinations based on Google reviews and our personal and local favorites. Below are the 12 best things to see and experience in beautiful Asheville.

Table of Contents

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Top Things to Do in Asheville, North Carolina Check Out the Local Craft Breweries

Craft beer crawl, obviously 1/5

Beautiful Destinations for Fall Foliage in the World Blue Ridge Parkway, USA

Blue Ridge scenic drive 2/5

Top Things to Do in Asheville, North Carolina Check out the Arts District

Arts District wander 3/5

13 Best Places To Travel in Winter in the US Asheville, North Carolina

Biltmore flex & fancy 4/5

Top Things to Do in Asheville, North Carolina Go Hiking Blue Ridge Mountains

Hiking like a pro 5/5

Results

Craft beer crawl, obviously

7 4

Blue Ridge scenic drive

9 2

Arts District wander

10 1

Biltmore flex & fancy

9 2

Hiking like a pro

9 2

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Highlights at a Glance

Luxury Hotel in Asheville: Pinecrest Bed & Breakfast offers a peaceful stay with a garden, daily breakfast, and a shared lounge, all within walking distance of downtown Asheville and the Botanical Gardens.
Mid-range Hotel in Asheville: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Asheville Tunnel Road offers an indoor pool, daily breakfast, and easy access to local breweries and outdoor activities, just a short drive from Biltmore Estate.
Budget Hotel in Asheville: Moxy Asheville offers a lively stay with a seasonal pool, fitness center, and bar, all in the heart of downtown and close to top attractions.

Check out the Arts District
Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway
Take a Ghost Tour

Go Foraging

Foraging is a local pastime in Asheville and the Blue Ridge Mountains. The forests are rich in wild plants, mushrooms, berries, and fruits.

As fun as this sounds, we DON’T recommend doing it without a knowledgeable guide. That’s where No Taste Like Home Foraging Tours comes in. It was rated as the world’s best foraging activity by TripAdvisor.

The team of wild food experts will take you on a grand tour of Asheville’s wild edibles. You’ll learn all about the natural bounty and try some of the most flavorful mountain ingredients around.

Tour Timing and Location: No Taste Like Home Foraging Tours typically run in the morning or early afternoon. Book your tour well in advance, especially during the spring and fall, when demand peaks due to the abundance of wild edibles.
Cooking Your Foraged Finds: After your tour, several Asheville restaurants, like The Market Place and Posana, will prepare your foraged items as part of your meal. Call ahead to confirm participation and make a reservation.

Take a Walking Tour

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Walking tours can sometimes be boring, but not in Asheville! The city is laid out to be extremely walkable and has an almost endless amount of historical monuments and sites.

For the ultimate experience, take a walking tour by Asheville by Foot – Walking Tours. You’ll spend around two hours learning about the city’s history and monuments from expert guides.

You’ll explore the historical downtown, see beautiful murals, and get tons of insider information. After you’re done, you can explore the city on your own and find your favorite hidden destinations.

Tour Meeting Point: Asheville by Foot tours usually start near Pack Square in downtown Asheville. Arrive 10–15 minutes early to check in and orient yourself.
Extend Your Walk: After the tour, head to the nearby South Slope district to discover breweries like Burial Beer Co. or Wicked Weed. It’s an easy stroll and a great way to unwind after learning about the city.

Check Out the Arts District

Ashville’s Arts District went through a disaster in 2024 with Hurricane Helene but is bouncing back. Visit this year and help support the community’s rebuilding efforts.

The neighborhood was built in a former industrial zone along the French Broad. Artists and creatives transformed the former warehouses into creative zones, art galleries, studios, and small museums.

You’ll get to meet local artists and learn about their work and their experience with the hurricane. The district also has incredible dining and nightlife, so spend as much time there as possible.

River Arts District Studios (RAD): Many studios participate in Second Saturdays, a monthly event featuring live demonstrations, artist meet-and-greets, and music. It’s free to attend and a great way to see the community in action.
Parking and Navigation: Free parking is available near the RAD Riverwalk or the Wedge Studios. Wear comfortable shoes—studios are spread out, and walking between them is part of the experience.

See the Biltmore

The Biltmore was built by tycoon George Vanderbilt in the 19th century as his Blue Ridge escape. The home has over 250 rooms and was built in the French Renaissance style.

When you visit, you’ll step inside one of the world’s most opulent and inspiring homes. It houses an immense collection of fine art and collectibles. Plus, each piece of furniture seems built for royalty.

Take a tour of the estate or visit during holidays. In the winter, the Biltmore transforms into one of the country’s best places to enjoy holiday lights.

Ticket Pricing: General admission starts at around $78 per person, but prices vary by season and day. Book your tickets online in advance to save money and secure your preferred time slot.
Special Tours: Consider the Rooftop Tour for $45, which offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and a behind-the-scenes look at the estate’s architecture.
Dining Nearby: After your visit, dine at Cedric’s Tavern on the Biltmore Estate. It offers locally sourced dishes and a cozy atmosphere inspired by George Vanderbilt’s beloved Saint Bernard, Cedric.

Check out Live Music

Live music is one of Asheville’s specialties! You’ll find endless bands, singers, and performers in almost any genre. Visit classic venues, such as the Orange Peel, to see new and popular artists.

Downtown’s bars are also great venues for live music. You’ll see local performers pouring their hearts out for their fans.

Of course, there are famous music festivals in Asheville. Throughout the year, there’s always something new. Check out the city’s website to learn more about these festivals and when you can enjoy them.

Free Live Music: For a more casual experience, visit Jack of the Wood Pub or The Grey Eagle Taqueria. Both host free or low-cost live music regularly and serve excellent local food and drinks.
Summer Festival Highlight: Don’t miss LEAF Downtown Asheville in August, a free outdoor festival celebrating music, art, and culture. It’s family-friendly and features performances across multiple stages downtown.

Drive the Iconic Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is arguably one of the best drives in the country. It’s one of my personal favorites and a must for any road trip.

You’ll travel through mountain passes and see stunning views and wildlife. Pass waterfalls, hidden rivers, and tons of geological monuments.

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Since 2024’s Hurricane Helene, much of the road has been closed for repairs. Now, many sections are opening up, and soon, the entire parkway will be open to visitors. Show your support for the local communities by stopping at locally owned businesses during your drive.

Best Scenic Stops: Don’t miss Craggy Gardens (Milepost 364) for wildflowers and sweeping views.

Check Out the Local Craft Breweries

Craft beer is another Asheville specialty. It makes sense, given the area’s incredible mountain water and delicious grains.

There are more than 50 breweries in Asheville to check out. Of course, driving isn’t recommended, so why not use City Brew Tours? You’ll check out the city’s top breweries with beer experts, local guides, and new friends.

Even if you don’t like beer, you’ll enjoy the city’s brewery food and other drinks. These destinations have plenty of delicious non-alcoholic options, live music, and local events.

City Brew Tours Pricing: Tickets start at $89 per person and include transportation, tastings, and snacks. Tours last about 3–4 hours and visit 3–4 breweries. Book in advance, especially on weekends.
Self-Guided Alternative: Use the Asheville Ale Trail app for a self-paced brewery tour. Many breweries, like Wicked Weed and Hi-Wire Brewing, are clustered downtown, making it easy to walk between them.
Non-Beer Options: Not a beer fan? Try Sierra Nevada’s Mills River Taproom for its craft sodas or New Belgium Brewing for kombucha and live music on its riverside lawn. Both offer great food menus, too.

Go Hiking

Hiking in Asheville is an incredible experience not to miss. The city is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains. There are hundreds of trails that crisscross their way through the summits and valleys.

Start from downtown and explore the nearby Haw Creek Valley. Check out unparalleled views over the city and surrounding mountains.

For experienced hikers, don’t miss the Bull Gap. This incredible trail system is located right on the Blue Ridge Parkway. If you want a more mellow hike, check out the North Carolina Arboretum’s short and stunning walks.

Lunch at Sunny Point Café: This popular spot in West Asheville serves farm-to-table dishes. Try the Huevos Rancheros—worth the wait. Arrive early or late to avoid peak crowds, as they don’t take reservations.

Try Golfing in Asheville

Golfing is truly special in Ashville. What sets it apart from other destinations is the diverse terrain and beautiful scenery. Plus, most of the courses are located a short drive from downtown.

The city’s golf scene evolved through the years to include high-end resorts and local courses open to everybody. Today, the city is a popular golf destination for amateurs and pros looking to improve their game while surrounded by mountains.

When you visit, try your golf swing at any of the public courses downtown. You can golf any season in Ashville, but spring and fall are the best for weather and scenery.

Asheville Municipal Golf Course: This historic Donald Ross-designed course is open to the public. It’s just 10 minutes from downtown and perfect for golfers of all skill levels. Book a tee time in advance, especially on weekends.
Lunch at The Green Tee Grille: Located at the Broadmoor Golf Links, this restaurant offers great mountain views and hearty sandwiches. It’s a convenient stop after a round of golf, just 20 minutes from downtown Asheville.
Equipment Rentals at Grove Park Inn: If you didn’t bring your clubs, Omni Grove Park Inn offers rentals for their world-class golf course. Green fees start at $190 and include stunning mountain views, but book early as slots fill up fast during peak seasons.

Visit the Black Cultural ‍Heritage Trail

The Black Cultural ‍Heritage Trail is a must if you want to learn about the culture and history of Asheville. You’ll walk along several routes where you’ll learn about the city’s African American community.

You’ll come face-to-face with the homes and businesses of influential figures and community leaders. Discover Asheville’s part in America’s Civil Rights Movement along the way.

You can explore the routes on your own, starting at information kiosks at different sites. The trail takes you through three neighborhoods: downtown, the Southside, and the River Area.

Start at the YMI Cultural Center: Begin your journey at the YMI Cultural Center in downtown Asheville. It’s a key historical site and offers great resources to understand the significance of the Black Cultural Heritage Trail. There’s a small exhibit and helpful staff, plus it’s free to visit.
Southside’s Historic Sites: Don’t miss the historic Stephens-Lee High School and the African American Heritage Garden. These landmarks are part of the rich history in the Southside neighborhood, where prominent leaders like Dr. George Washington Carver once visited.

Explore the Food Scene

Ashville’s food scene has diverse options, ranging from budget-friendly street food to high-end dining. Some of the best chefs in the South live and work here and continue to push the boundaries of American cuisine.

Start in downtown farmer’s markets to meet the farmers, cooks, and foodies who run the town’s food scene. You’ll try local fruits and vegetables. Plus, there are pies and sweets made locally.

Asheville’s specialties are smokey barbecues and mountain cuisine. Try them all downtown, or explore the city’s surrounding neighborhoods to try local favorites.

Asheville City Market: Stop by the Asheville City Market, open on Saturdays, to get a taste of the local produce and meet farmers. It’s a great way to pick up fresh ingredients for a picnic or just enjoy seasonal snacks like locally-made cheeses and baked goods.
Dinner at The Market Place: If you’re looking for a more refined meal, The Market Place in downtown Asheville offers locally-sourced, seasonal dishes. Their menu highlights mountain flavors with a modern twist, making it a great spot to experience Asheville’s culinary creativity.

Take a Ghost Tour

Ashville’s ghost tours are some of the most beloved spooky experiences in the country. The city has plenty of haunted haunts worth exploring.

Take a guided ghost tour and learn about the haunted history. You’ll see spine-chilling homes and mansions as well as haunted forests.

Appalachia is one of the most haunted places in the country, so there are bound to be some thrilling experiences. You can try one of these tours any season, but of course, October is the best time.

Asheville’s Haunted History Tour: Join the Haunted History Tour, one of the most popular ghost tours in Asheville. It departs nightly from downtown and lasts about 90 minutes. You’ll visit historic sites like the Battery Park Hotel, known for its eerie tales of spirits and unexplainable happenings.
Dinner at The Blackbird: Before or after your tour, stop by The Blackbird for a spooky, cozy dinner. It’s an intimate spot known for its Southern-inspired menu and vintage vibe. The location itself has a history, which makes it a perfect pre-tour meal.

This Southern Mountain Town Is Known for Its Artsy Vibe — and It’s Home to America’s Largest Private Residence