As you embark on a beautiful journey with your one-and-only, it’s time to find that special place where the magic of your love story can be captured. And with its picturesque landscapes, timeless venues, and endless romantic charm, you cannot go wrong in selecting Asheville as that place. While it’s true that there’s no end to its enchanting locations, we’re here to help you narrow it down. To find that perfect canvas, explore the eight following spots to take engagement photos in Asheville.
Cades Cove
At Cades Cove, you’ll find the ideal engagement photo backdrops everywhere you turn. The Great Smoky Mountains surround its rich green valley, providing a stunning natural setting for snap after snap. There’s even a trail to Abrams Falls if you’re up to a five-mile hike.
Before you start taking photos, drive the 11-mile loop to see all the sights in your midst. After you’ve soaked in the beauty, hop out of the car to walk the trails. Your backdrop options abound, ranging from vibrant flowers to flowing waterfalls. You can also seek out the working gristmill, churches, and buildings along the loop.
Triple Falls
Photo Credit by @toddbillmire on Instagram
If nothing else will do but waterfalls, set your sights on a visit to Triple Falls in Dupont State Forest. It’s just an easy walk from the parking area to the falls, and then the sky is the limit in how you can use the landscape for your photos.
As you reach the falls, you’ll see a triple-tiered waterfall cascading gracefully through the forested landscape. The tranquil sound of rushing water will relax your jittery nerves, allowing you and your partner’s love for each other to shine through. You’re welcome to stand by the base of the falls or go up to the overlook to snap all your photos.
Craggy Gardens
During the late spring and summer months, there’s perhaps no better place to go for Asheville engagement photos than Craggy Gardens. Located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, this famous garden is known for its stunning rhododendron blooms. The flowers light up the landscape in vivid pink and purple hues, pairing beautifully with the rocky outcrops.
You can start your visit with a stop by the visitor center to learn about the natural history of the region. Then, hike up Craggy Pinnacle trail for an open view of the mountainside. Once you reach the top, you’ll be in the prime location for photos, although capturing the full journey is not a bad idea.
Biltmore Estate
Do you want to elevate your engagement photos with pure elegance? Plan a trip to the extravagant Biltmore Estate. This historic estate features a grand mansion, meticulously landscaped gardens, and forested lands in every direction. There’s a wealth of photo opportunities all across its grounds, including six gardens, a conservatory, and the mansion’s roof.
To make a day of your photo adventures, take a tour of the mansion, gardens, and winery to begin. After you’ve scoped out every corner, decide where you’d like to take your engagement pictures. Then, continue the fun by savoring the estate’s fine wines and enjoying the splendid scenery.
Pack Square Park
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Downtown Asheville never fails to delight with its urban appeal blended with natural beauty. At the heart of it all is Pack Square Park, featuring stately fountains, colorful flowerbeds, and lush greenery. Nearby, the Art Deco City Hall and many other historic buildings add to the area’s beauty.
As far as photo backdrop options go, this park has many to choose from. You can find your favorite water feature and stand before it. Or you can follow the whimsical handrail to the observation point and take your photos there. If you time it right, you might even get to stand right on the stage adorned with handmade ceramic tiles from end to end.
North Carolina Arboretum
Photo Credit by @tcraig83 on Instagram
The North Carolina Arboretum is home to over 65 acres of carefully cultivated gardens filled with delicate flowers and greenery. Permanent exhibits range from the National Native Azalea Collection to the Bonsai Exhibition Garden. Wildflowers fill out every corner of the space, including all along the 10 miles of trails.
If you arrive during the spring and summer, you’ll get to capture your photos with many of the flowers in full bloom. But the winter season can be equally magical, especially if you come by during the Winter Lights festival. Need help finding the perfect spot for your engagement pictures? Stop by the Baker Exhibit Center to ask the garden caretakers for their recommendations.
The Omni Grove Park Inn
Photo Credit by @americanandthebrit on Instagram
What could be better than going on a romantic getaway and getting your engagement photos done on the same trip? If that sounds like your ideal vacation, plan to stay at The Omni Grove Park Inn. Set in the mountain hillsides, this serene retreat lets you get away with it all and just enjoy spending time with your partner.
It’s also a phenomenal spot to capture your engagement photos in Asheville. You’re welcome to pose against the Blue Ridge Mountains backdrop, within the inn’s grand halls, or beside the charming stone fireplaces. To take your photos to the next level, visit the onsite spa for some pampering before stepping into the spotlight.
With its diverse locations, Asheville is the place to go for stunning photos and lasting memories. Each spot in this guide has its unique ambiance and charm, but don’t forget there are many other wonderful places to explore nearby. So, watch for the perfect backdrop for your engagement photos as you experience all this area has to offer.
