16 Must See & Do Things In Asheville, North Carolina


Asheville, North Carolina, is a vibrant city in the Blue Ridge Mountains known for its stunning natural beauty, thriving arts scene, and eclectic culture. It combines outdoor adventure with rich history and culinary innovation, making it a popular destination. Here are 16 things to do for your next trip to Asheville!

1. The Urban Trail

Asheville, North Carolina
The Urban Trail

Asheville’s Urban Trail is a self-guided walking tour through downtown Asheville, blending art, history, and culture. The 1.7-mile trail features 30 interactive stations, each marked by sculptures and plaques that tell stories of the city’s vibrant past, from its early settlers to its rise as a cultural hub. Often referred to as a “museum without walls,” the trail highlights landmarks, local legends, and Asheville’s architectural beauty, making it a creative and engaging way to explore the city’s unique heritage.

2. Basilica of Saint Lawrence

Asheville, North Carolina
Basilica of Saint Lawrence

The Basilica of Saint Lawrence in Asheville is a stunning architectural gem renowned for its Spanish Renaissance design and impressive craftsmanship. Built in 1909, it features an awe-inspiring freestanding elliptical dome, intricate stained-glass windows, and ornate interior details. Designed by Rafael Guastavino, the basilica is both a place of worship and a historical landmark, drawing visitors for its beauty, serenity, and architectural significance.

3. Biltmore Estate

Asheville, North Carolina
Biltmore Estate

The Biltmore Estate in Asheville is America’s largest privately owned home, built by George Washington Vanderbilt II in 1895. This 250-room French Renaissance-style mansion is surrounded by 8,000 acres of stunning gardens, forested trails, and the Antler Hill Village. Visitors can explore the opulent interior, featuring priceless art and antiques, and enjoy activities like wine tasting at the estate’s winery, outdoor adventures, and seasonal events. It’s a must-see destination blending history, luxury, and natural beauty.

4. Biltmore Village

Asheville, North Carolina
Biltmore Village

Free to walk around, Biltmore Village, located near the entrance of the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, is a charming historic district filled with quaint cobblestone streets, unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. Originally designed as a community for estate workers in the late 1800s, the village features picturesque architecture and a cozy atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy boutique shopping, fine dining, and exploring the area’s rich history, making it a delightful destination for a leisurely day out.

5. Asheville Pinball Museum

Asheville Pinball Museum

The Asheville Pinball Museum is a fun, interactive attraction featuring over 80 vintage and modern pinball machines, along with classic arcade games. Located in downtown Asheville, it offers unlimited play with admission, making it a nostalgic and hands-on experience for visitors of all ages. The museum celebrates the history of pinball while providing a lively and unique way to spend time in the city.

6. Rowan Coffee

Asheville, North Carolina
Rowan Coffee

Rowan Coffee in Asheville is a cozy, community-focused coffee shop known for its artisanal brews and inviting atmosphere. Offering carefully sourced, high-quality coffee beans, Rowan serves a variety of espresso drinks, pour-overs, and cold brews. The shop is a local favorite, celebrated for its warm, minimalist space and friendly service, making it a great spot to relax, work, or meet friends.

7. Asheville Botanical Gardens

Asheville Botanical Gardens

Free to enter, the Asheville Botanical Gardens is a beautiful, 10-acre garden located near the University of North Carolina at Asheville. It showcases a diverse collection of native plants, including wildflowers, ferns, and trees, all thriving in the region’s natural landscape. With peaceful walking trails, seasonal blooms, and educational displays, the gardens offer a serene retreat for nature lovers and a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or quiet reflection.

8. River Arts District

Asheville, North Carolina
River Arts District

The River Arts District in Asheville is a vibrant hub for local art, located along the French Broad River. This area features working studios, galleries, and shops where visitors can view and purchase art directly from artists. With a mix of visual arts, crafts, and public art installations, the district offers a creative and lively atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and those looking to experience the cities thriving arts scene.

9. Asheville Museum of History

Asheville Museum of History

Located in one of the historic homes of Asheville, this museum offers various real items of western North Carolina’s 19th century!

10. The Omni Grove Park Inn

Asheville, North Carolina
The Omni Grove Park Inn

Probably my favorite place in Asheville, the Omni Grove Park Inn is a historic luxury resort known for its stunning architecture, spectacular mountain views, and inviting atmosphere. While you can stay at the inn, it’s also a great spot for visitors to enjoy its renowned restaurants, including a terrace with a picturesque sunset view. Even if you’re not a guest, you can relax in the inn’s massive, grand lobby, complete with a large stone fireplace and cozy seating. It’s a perfect place to dine, unwind, and take in the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

11. Drum Circle at Pritchard Park

Asheville, North Carolina
Drum Circle at Pritchard Park

Asheville’s Drum Circle at Pritchard Park is a lively, weekly gathering where local musicians and visitors come together to drum, dance, and celebrate community. Held every Friday evening starting around 6:30 (weather permitting), the event draws people of all ages to participate or simply enjoy the vibrant rhythms and festive atmosphere. It’s a beloved part of the cities cultural scene, offering a spontaneous, joyful experience in the heart of downtown.

12. Woolworth Walk Art Gallery

Asheville, North Carolina
Woolworth Walk Art Gallery

The Woolworth Walk Art Gallery in Asheville is a unique art space located in a historic former Woolworth store. It features a diverse collection of local artwork, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and photography, from over 170 regional artists. Visitors can browse the gallery, meet the artists, and even enjoy the charming soda fountain on-site, making it a perfect stop for art lovers looking to explore the creative scene.

13. Soda Machine

Asheville, North Carolina
Soda Machine

Also located within the Woolworth Walk Art Gallery, the Soda Machine is a quirky, retro-inspired shop located in the heart of downtown, offering a wide selection of craft sodas, both local and from around the world. With its vintage vending machine aesthetic, the shop serves as a nostalgic trip back in time, providing unique, hard-to-find beverages in a fun and inviting atmosphere. It’s a must-visit for soda enthusiasts looking to try something new or enjoy a classic favorite.

14. Grove Arcade

Asheville, North Carolina
Grove Arcade

The Grove Arcade in Asheville is a historic, beautifully restored building known for its stunning architecture and vibrant shopping experience. Built in the 1920s, it features a mix of boutique shops, galleries, restaurants, and cafes, all housed within its elegant arched hallways and ornate design. Located in downtown, it’s a great place to explore, offering a unique blend of history, local art, and modern retail.

15. Asheville Skatepark

Asheville Skatepark

Asheville’s Skatepark is a popular outdoor skateboarding destination offering a spacious, well-designed park for skaters of all skill levels. Located in the heart of the city, the park features a variety of ramps, bowls, and street elements, providing a dynamic space for both beginners and experienced skaters. It’s a fun, active spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy skating in a friendly and vibrant community atmosphere.

16. Lexington Glassworks

Asheville, North Carolina
Lexington Glassworks

Lexington Glassworks is a captivating gallery and studio where visitors can watch skilled artisans create beautiful glass art using traditional glassblowing techniques. Located in the River Arts District, the studio offers a unique, interactive experience, allowing guests to witness the entire glassmaking process, from molten glass to finished masterpiece, right before their eyes. You can purchase one-of-a-kind pieces or simply enjoy the artistry in action, making it a must-visit for art lovers.

Final Thoughts on Traveling to Asheville, North Carolina

In case you’re interested in an adventure near Tennessee, check out Glen Falls here. But if you want to watch a video on these top things to do in Asheville, see that here.

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