For a complete listing of "What's Happening" in Asheville, click on the following link to be taken to Asheville Convention and Visitors Bureau. Click Here
Biltmore Estate
Built by George Vanderbilt in the late 19th century, America’s largest private home, the 255-room Biltmore House still contains its original collection of 50,000 furnishings, artwork and antiques. The 8,000 acre estate also features fabulous gardens designed by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted and a winery which produces award-winning, European-style wine.
Located on US 25, just North of I-40. 800.543.2961
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Blue Ridge Parkway
Considered the nation’s most scenic highway, the 470-mile roadway winds through the Blue Ridge Mountains, through Asheville and into the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Numerous overlooks, roadside exhibits and hiking trails make a trip along the Parkway a delight year-round.
The Parkway intersects Asheville at US 25, US 70, US 74 & NC 191. Free to travel and audio guides may be purchased through Travel Narrator by calling 828.298.0398
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Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site
Home of famous poet and biographer Carl Sandburg, the site preserves and protects over 260 acres of land, 50 historic structures and over five miles of trails. The house and farm are open to the public for guided tours.
1928 Little River Road, Flat Rock (27 miles from Asheville) 828.693.4178
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Chimney Rock Park
Ride the 26 story elevator to the top of the “Rock” where you can enjoy 75-mile views. Experience the lush scenery featured in the film “The Last of the Mohicans”. Hike the trails, see the 404-foot Hickory Nut Falls, and take part in special events year-round.
Hwy 64/74A, Chimney Rock (25 miles from Asheville) 800.277.9611 or 828.625.9611
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Cradle of Forestry
Historic site and home of the Forest Discovery Center. Activities include: 18-minute movie, guided hikes, historic cabins, craftsmen, 1915 logging train, helicopter simulator, scavenger hut, hands-on exhibits, cafe and gift shop. Near waterfalls, hiking, fishing and camping on Highway 276
102 Pisgah Hwy (Hwy. 276), Pisgah Forest (41 mils from Asheville). 828.877.3130
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Folk Art Center
The nation's preeminent organization representing the crafts culture of the Southern Appalachians, the Southern Highland Handicraft Guild, owns and operates this facility where works of guild members are displayed and sold and artisans frequently demonstrate their craft.
Milepost 382 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville. 828.298.7928
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French Broad River Brewery
Maker of award-winning fine lagers and specialty ales brewed since 1999 in the tradition of old European breweries with an American perspective.
101-D Fairview Road, Asheville. 828.277.0222 Hours: Brewery tours and tastings are offered.
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Grandfather Mountain
Featuring environmental habitats with native wildlife, numerous hiking trails, the famous mile-high swinging bridge and a nature museum and theater. The mountain is designated an International Biosphere Reserve by the United Nations.
US 221 and Blue Ridge Parkway, Linville (75 miles from Asheville). 800.468.7325 or 828.733.4337
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Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
Scenic excursions through mountain gorges pulled by diesel-electric and steam locomotives. Allow three hours to all day. Dinner trains available. Daily departures from Bryson City, Dillsboro and Andrews year-round.
119 Front Street, Dillsboro (50 miles from Asheville). 800.872.4681 or 828.586.8811
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North Carolina Arboretum
Located at the edge of the Pisgah National Forest, a short distance from Interstates 26 and 40, the 424-acre site features a Visitor Education Center, state-of-the-art greenhouse complex, an array of gardens, a loop trail and a variety of ongoing special programs. 100 Frederick Law Olmstead Way. 828.665.2492
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Pack Place Education, Arts and Science Center
The center houses the Asheville Art Museum, Colburn Gem and Mineral Museum, The Health Adventure and the Diana Wortham Theatre, with the affiliated YMI Cultural Center located at the corner of Eagle and Market streets. The $14 million, 92,000-square-foot project is a cornerstone of downtown revitalization underway. Admission varies. Multi-museum passes available. 828.257.4500
Smith-McDowell House
Relive the Victorian era at Asheville's oldest house (circa 1840). Explore opulent period rooms, history exhibits and grounds designed by the renowned Olmstead brothers.
283 Victoria Road,
Asheville. 828.253.9231
Thomas Wolfe Memorial
The boyhood home of novelist Thomas Wolfe is located in downtown Asheville and was portrayed as Dixieland in Wolfe’s most famous novel, Look Homeward Angel. Guided walks are available of the interior and exterior of the house and the Memorial’s Visitor Center has interactive displays, programs and a gift shop.
52 North Market Street
Asheville. 828.253.8304
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WNC Farmers Market
Considered one of the finest such markets in the United States, this 36-acre state-owned facility operates year-round with an array of offerings, including fresh produce, mountain crafts, jams, preserves, plants, and garden supplies.
570 Brevard Road
Asheville. 828.253.1691
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WNC Nature Center
Native animals and plant life located in natural habitats with trails, exhibits and special activities.
75 Gashes Creek Road
Asheville. 828.298.5600
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Wildwater Rafting
Wildwater Ltd. is widely recognized as one of the finest whitewater rafting outfitters in the country. For 30 years, our attention to detail has made us a leader in the outdoor adventure industry. Providing high quality experiences on our adventure rafting trips is our number one priority. You may not recognize state of the art equipment or staff training programs, but you will recognize our commitment to Quality, Safety, and Service.
Not all outfitters are alike. Each outfitter has its own philosophy on how to offer an outdoor experience. Exceeded expectations and friendly faces are to be found on all Wildwater Ltd.'s trips! Wildwater Ltd. expects the best from our Team for our Guests. If you do not receive the quality of service we have promised, please let us know.
WILDWATER LTD. P.O. Box 309 Long Creek, SC 29658
Phone: 800.451.9972 Fax: 864.647.5361
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Grove Arcade
Shopping, Dining and Regional Crafts in one of Asheville's Architectural Jewels
Built by E.W. Grove, the visionary and creator of the Grove Park Inn, the Grove Arcade opened in 1929 and thrived until World War II as one of the country's leading public markets. The historically renovated Grove Arcade has once again returned as a destination featuring the best the region has to offer from fabulous foods to delicious dining and local crafts.
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Fun Depot
Come see why the International Association of Amusement Parks & Attractions named Asheville’s fun Depot a 2004 & 2005 Top Family Entertainment Center in the World award winner! A traditional arcade blended with more hi-tech attractions such as laser tag and go-carts, we’re perfect for every age. You’ll also find 18 hole indoor mini-golf, a 24-foot climbing wall, soft play area and batting cages. Hungry? Try our Depot Diner, which serves made-to-order items such as salads and wraps along with burgers, pizza and more.
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Biltmore Village
Built in the late 1890’s as a classic planned community at the entrance to George Vanderbilt’s Biltmore Estate, Biltmore Village today is truly on of the Carolinas’ most unique touring and shopping environments. Because of its history, its range of retailers, and its fine restaurants, Historic Biltmore Village has an international reputation.
It’s the way shopping used to be – relaxed and enjoyable with top quality merchandise at realistic prices and wonderful customer service. Enjoy quaint tree-lined streets, brick sidewalks, open air dining, original houses from the 1900’s, all combined with amazing collections of one-of-a-kind merchandise of true quality and value.
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