Ultimate Guide: The 20 Best Things to Do in Asheville, NC

Asheville is quickly becoming one of the South’s most sought-after destinations — and with good reason: a friendly, welcoming town, it offers something for everyone. Whether your idea of a good time involves hiking, crafts, history, or a good beer, you’ll quickly find your version of bliss as you stroll the streets of Asheville. Not sure where to start? These attractions are especially worth checking out:

1. Sliding Rock at Pisgah National Forest

Who needs a water park when you can hit up one of Mother Nature’s very best slip and slides? Pisgah National Forest’s Sliding Rock delights visitors of all ages. Embrace your inner thrill-seeker and head down this completely natural slide, which is powered by 11,000 gallons of water per minute. Crowds tend to gather here on hot days, but this natural form of refreshment is well worth the wait.

2. Lexington Glassworks

Both timeless and innovative, the hand-blown works of art from Lexington Glassworks are sure to impress. Stop in to witness the intriguing glassblowing process from start to finish — and to browse the gallery for beautiful accent pieces to adorn your home. You’ll be amazed by the artistry on display at this sought-after Asheville destination.

3. No Taste Like Home

Farm-to-table cuisine is a big deal in Asheville, but few people understand the work and passion that goes into locally foraged meals. No Taste Like Home pulls back the curtain with foraging tours that reveal the natural foods prevalent throughout the Asheville region. During your exclusive tour, you could find greens, nuts, berries, roots, and more. Bring your harvest home or let Asheville’s culinary geniuses transform it into a one-of-a-kind appetizer.

4. Hunter Banks Fly Fishing

Offering a variety of wade and float trips for fly fishers of all levels, Hunter Banks encourages you to embrace the beauty of the Asheville region as you score one amazing catch after another. You’ll emerge from your fly fishing adventure feeling completely rejuvenated.

5. LaZoom Tours

Tours abound in Asheville, but none quite match the whimsical, goofy nature of the popular LaZoom Tours. These zany expeditions bring out the hidden weirdness of Asheville. The company’s talented tour guides offer plenty of intriguing insights while also entertaining attendees with gut-busting comedy skits. Hop on the iconic LaZoom purple bus and get ready to laugh.

6. Moving Sidewalk Segway Tours

Explore Asheville atop a Segway as you discover what, exactly, makes this city so unique. Following a brief half-hour of training, you’ll enjoy well over an hour of Segway-based adventures that will have you feeling like a brave explorer or even a full-blown celebrity.

7. Asheville Brewery Tours

Are you in love with Asheville’s craft beer scene but short on time? Hit up the area’s best breweries during one of several available tours. From dog-friendly walking tours to vintage mobile tours, you’ll enjoy plenty of opportunities to taste the region’s finest brews.

8. BREW-ed — Brewery Tours of Asheville

Another great option for experiencing the quickly growing brewpub culture of Asheville, this walking tour exposes you to the best beers the city has to offer. Along the way, you’ll sample award-winning beers and learn about the fascinating history — and future — of alcohol in Asheville.

9. Sierra Nevada Brewery

If you have time to kill for a leisurely brewery visit, be sure to hit up Sierra Nevada. This local hotspot has long been an Asheville staple. Stop in for a tour and a guided tasting. You’ll gain valuable insight into the beer-making process and a greater appreciation for Sierra Nevada’s best brews.

10. Drum Circle

Asheville’s iconic Drum Circle provides a weekly party for all who dare to join. Held in Pritchard Park, this vibrant gathering shows off the talent of Asheville, complete with drummers, belly dancers, hula hoop enthusiasts, and more. One visit, and you’ll feel like an integral part of the Asheville community.

11. Mount Mitchell State Park

If you crave a little time in the great outdoors, feel free to hit up Mount Mitchell State Park. Home to a dramatic summit and an accessible observation deck, this park provides stunning mountain vistas. Stop by for a day hike or stay the night at the park’s small campground.

12. Grandfather Mountain

Best known for its impressive swinging bridge, Grandfather Mountain invites you to experience the wonders of the Blue Ridge Mountains from the most beautiful vantage point imaginable. Set aside time for a hike or to explore the nature museum — you won’t regret it.

13. Western North Carolina Nature Center

This local zoo aims to connect visitors to the animal world while building a greater appreciation for the region’s biodiversity. During your visit, you’ll observe turtles, otters, red wolves, black bears, and a variety of other animals. Knowledgeable staff members will clue you in on the local ecosystem — and the creatures that set it apart.

14. Biltmore

This historic estate brings a taste of luxury to the Asheville area. The stunning work of George Vanderbilt, Biltmore spans over 8,000 acres and is home to a vast mansion featuring gorgeous furniture and artwork. Self-guided tours of the Biltmore House provide an interesting glimpse into the history of the Vanderbilt family.

15. Crabtree Falls Trail

Hiking opportunities abound throughout the Asheville area, but the Crabtree Falls Trail is not to be missed. The short 2.5-mile loop descends through a dense forest, eventually reaching the visual spectacle of water cascading over a 60-foot cliff. During your return trip, you’ll observe additional views of the falls as you stroll along Crabtree Creek and its many tributaries.

16. Linville Falls Trails

Two beautiful trails offer views of Linville Falls. Both are short, and both begin conveniently at the Linville Falls Visitor Center. The Erwins View Trail offers plenty of overlooks and photo opportunities, while the Linville Gorge Trail explores the lower area of the falls and several rock cliffs. If you’re feeling ambitious, set aside a full day to experience both trails.

17. Rainbow Falls at Gorges State Park

Rushing over an almost vertical cliff at Gorges State Park, Rainbow Falls is named for the colorful rainbows its water forms when viewed at the perfect angle. The journey is nearly as stunning as the destination, with the trail also meandering past several other gorgeous waterfalls. The falls are amazing, of course, but depending on when you visit, you could also witness meadows full of blooming wildflowers.

18. The Grove Arcade Public Market

Shopping, dining, history…Asheville’s Grove Arcade offers something for everyone. Stop by to check out the unique architecture, purchase handcrafted items from local vendors, or grab a meal at one of several excellent restaurants located within this memorable shopping center. No matter when you visit, you’ll find the best of Asheville’s welcoming atmosphere on display at this inviting commercial center.

19. DuPont State Forest

This vast forest is home to some of the state’s most beautiful waterfalls, several of which can be viewed in a single trip if you’re an ambitious and active hiker. You’ll also find plenty of opportunities for biking and horseback riding. Short on time? Make Hooker Falls your priority — it is not to be missed.

20. Navitat Canopy Adventures

Witness the beauty of the hills and forest from above with a zipline adventure. Multiple tours are available, but the Treetop Tour is especially worth checking out if you crave thrills. During this exciting journey, you’ll climb a spiral tree staircase, zip 1,250 feet across Moody Cove, and rappel back to the forest floor.

The fun never stops in the Asheville region, where you can delight your senses with mountain vistas, exquisite cuisine, award-winning craft beers, and toe-tapping music. You’ll have no trouble filling your itinerary with enticing things to do, all of which will produce fond memories.