30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Asheville | Apr 2025
Waterfall Hike and Jeep Excursion - Waterfall Hiking Tour
Experience the “Land of Waterfalls” in our custom safari-style jeep. This is a must-do tour when visiting Asheville! This tour allows you to see our favorite waterfalls located in Pisgah National Forest.
4.98 (250 reviews)
From $119.00
Blue Ridge Parkway Waterfalls Hiking Tour from Asheville
We pick you up! Our tour offers a driver/seasoned local guide who will pick you up at your accommodation within 3 miles of city center (One North Pack Square) or will meet you at a convenient location in downtown Asheville if you are staying outside that distance.
4.97 (533 reviews)
From $105.00
(3 HR) Guided Scenic UTV Adventure
Our guided off-road tour takes you deep into the untouched beauty of the Smoky Mountains, offering an unforgettable experience for nature lovers alike.
4.95 (21 reviews)
From $175.00
Asheville Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Trolley Tour
There is no better way to DISCOVER and EXPLORE Asheville! Hop-on board one of Gray Line’s nostalgic trolleys for a fully narrated journey, highlighting the history, homes, hang-outs and hot spots of this “city of surprises.
4.80 (462 reviews)
From $39.00
3 HR Smoky Mountain, Cherokee, Blue Ridge Parkway, Jeep Adventure
Hey y'all, my name is Bryan. I love the mountains, wilderness, wildlife, culture, and history of the Great Smokey Mountains! My ancestors, both Cherokee and early Appalachians, have called Western NC.
4.73 (15 reviews)
From $99.99
Asheville Night-Time Walking Ghost Tour
Experience the spookiest sites of downtown Asheville with your expert local guide. Enjoy hair-raising tales and dark history! Created & owned by Joshua P.
4.69 (1925 reviews)
From $26.95
2-Hour Guided Segway Tour of Asheville
Hit the sidewalks & streets to explore the Paris of the South. It is an unforgettable way to tour a large area. Please ignore all of the flashbulbs going off while you tour the city as you may become an instant celebrity!
4.83 (676 reviews)
From $65.00
Asheville Signature Guided Brewery Tour
The Signature Asheville Brew Tour is the perfect introduction to Asheville's impressive and world-renowned craft beverage scene.
4.88 (59 reviews)
From $105.00
Three Vineyards Half Day Private Wine Tour From Asheville
Journey through beautiful and stunning North Carolina on this half-day winery and vineyard tour from the Asheville metropolitan area.
4.67 (3 reviews)
From $259.99
Brevard River Tubing
Come and enjoy a beautiful and relaxing section of the French Broad River with friends and family. Each tube rental also includes unlimited shuttle trips to the put-in location.
3.80 (5 reviews)
From $30.00
French Broad Whitewater Rafting near Asheville, North Carolina
This trip is perfect for ever experience level, from beginner to experienced rafters and for individuals, families, or couples! We are the longest continually operating outfitter on the French Broad and our professionally trained guides will navigate you down the river, sharing the French Broad’s rich history, and pointing out flora and fauna.
4.90 (29 reviews)
From $65.40
Guided Asheville E-bike Tour of River Arts, Mountains and Murals
Explore all of Asheville in less than 3 hours on a thrilling E-bike Guided Adventure! This ride takes you around beautiful sites, historic neighborhoods, the Omni Grove Inn and much more.
4.91 (22 reviews)
From $70.00
Grandfather Mountain Private Wine & Dine Tour from Asheville
Journey through beautiful and stunning North Carolina on this half-day tour from the Asheville metropolitan area. Your private chauffeur will pick up your group from your hotel or private residence anywhere in the Asheville metropolitan area, as well as drop you off at the end of the tour.
4.00 (2 reviews)
From $229.99
Scenic Driving Tour of the Blue Ridge Mountains
The Blue Ridge parkway Scenic driving tour is chauffered by a certified Naturalist that can tell you all about the flora, fauna an history of the parkway.
4.86 (59 reviews)
From $150.00
Asheville Insider Guided Walking Tour
Asheville by Foot’s remarkable guided walking tours will help you make the most of your Asheville experience. Whether you’re visiting Asheville for the first time or the tenth, with Asheville by Foot you’ll develop a deep appreciation for Asheville’s rich history, stunning architecture and unique culture.
4.80 (435 reviews)
From $35.00
Half Day Hike - Water Falls
Your guide is a certified naturalist who is knowledgeable of the flora and fauna of the area. You will learn tree and flower identifications as well as any wildlife you may see during your activity.
4.97 (38 reviews)
From $85.00
Premier Mobile Guided Brewery Tour Around Asheville
Join our mobile brewery tours for a one-of-a-kind beer adventure in Asheville. Our safe and comfortable transportation will whisk you away to exclusive breweries, providing a safe and fun journey.
5.00 (5 reviews)
From $99.00
Asheville Terrors: Ghosts of the Blue Ridge
Join us for an unforgettable adventure through Asheville’s shadowy streets on our captivating walking ghost tour, where history and hauntings blend seamlessly.
4.43 (143 reviews)
From $26.00
Custom Half-Day Photo Tour with Photography Lessons from Asheville
We offer small, private tours that focus on helping you capture better photos. Our tours take you to the most breathtaking locations across the Blue Ridge Mountains that only the locals know about.
4.93 (43 reviews)
From $170.00
Asheville Terrors Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl
Come on our Haunted Pub Crawl tour presented by US Ghost Adventures! Asheville's premier pub crawl. Take our Asheville Boos and Booze haunted pub crawl tour to spice up your work week or vacation with some drinking fun! This Premier pub crawl is thrilling for everyone! For up to two hours of spooky fun with drinks and Spirits, hop from one of Asheville's four favorite neighborhood bars to multiple haunted locations.
4.07 (41 reviews)
From $29.00
Gem Mining and Goat Farm Walking Tour in Hendersonville
Enjoy this experience at the farm. Pet the goats, visit the aviary, explore North Carolina's largest crystal store and much more.
4.95 (386 reviews)
From $25.99
Privately Guided Half Day Hike
Whether you want to see waterfalls, wildflowers, enjoy a quiet walk on a forested path, or climb a 6,000 foot peak, we will customize these trips based on your desired distance, difficulty, and destination.
5.00 (127 reviews)
From $150.00
Asheville Coffee Tours
ASHEVILLE IS OFTEN REFERRED TO AS BEER CITY SINCE IT IS HOME TO THE MOST BREWERIES PER CAPITA IN THE COUNTRY. BUT WHAT MANY FOLKS MISS ON THEIR WEEKEND TRIPS TO ASHEVILLE IS THE VIBRANT COFFEE COMMUNITY.
5.00 (12 reviews)
From $67.00
Private Tarot Reading - For Groups or Solo Adventurers
Personalized, one-on-one attention within a group setting can be both nourishing and deeply meaningful. We come to you so there's no need to worry about getting out of the house on time! Note that locations more than 10 miles from downtown Asheville will incur an additional travel fee.
5.00 (13 reviews)
From $85.00
Scenic Blue Ridge Parkway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour
Experience the beautiful southeast along the Blue Ridge Parkway! Cruise from the edge of the Great Smokies National Park to Shenandoah on this scenic highway bathed in blue mist.
3.80 (30 reviews)
From $24.99
Asheville's Historic Smart Phone Guided App (GPS) Walking Tour
Explore Asheville's historic city center at your own pace and schedule on our smart phone guided tour on our walking tour app.
4.63 (8 reviews)
From $7.75
Blue Ridge Parkway Asheville Self-Guided Audio Tour
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville with Shaka Guide's immersive audio tour. Let our audio tour guide lead you through the Appalachian Mountains, sharing captivating stories of the region's history, culture, and natural wonders.
From $8.99
$9.99 Save $1.00
Downtown Asheville Tip-Based Sightseeing Walking Tour
Discover the best of Asheville on this 2-Hour Public or Private Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour with Local Guide. As you take in some of the historical city sites, make your way over to a few local cafes, and a distillery for some bonus tastings.
4.74 (315 reviews)
From $5.00
French Broad Gorge Whitewater Rafting Trip
The French Broad river spans 218 miles from Rosman, North Carolina through Asheville, and toward the state of Tennessee.
4.95 (268 reviews)
From $71.00
Downtown Asheville Guided Brewery Walking Tour
BREW-ed offers the only brewery tours in Asheville led by certified beer experts. Our team of Cicerone certified guides will lead you through the brewing process as you sample some of the best beer Asheville has to offer.
4.92 (340 reviews)
From $69.00
What activities can I do in Asheville?
Asheville, located in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors. Here are some top things to do in Asheville: 1. Explore the Biltmore Estate: Visit the iconic Biltmore Estate, America's largest privately-owned home. Explore the grand mansion, beautiful gardens, and enjoy wine tastings at the estate's winery. 2. Discover the River Arts District: Wander through the vibrant River Arts District, where you can explore numerous art galleries, studios, and workshops. Watch artists at work and shop for unique pieces of art. 3. Visit the Asheville Botanical Gardens: Take a leisurely stroll through the Asheville Botanical Gardens, a 10-acre woodland garden featuring native plants of the Southern Appalachians. Enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of the gardens. 4. Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway: Drive along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, which offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. Stop at overlooks, go hiking, have a picnic, or enjoy a scenic drive. 5. Experience the Asheville Food Scene: Asheville is known for its vibrant food scene. Explore the numerous farm-to-table restaurants, breweries, and food tours that showcase the local flavors and culinary creativity. 6. Visit the North Carolina Arboretum: Spend a day at the North Carolina Arboretum, a 434-acre public garden featuring beautiful landscapes, hiking and biking trails, and educational exhibits. 7. Go hiking in Pisgah National Forest: Asheville is surrounded by the stunning Pisgah National Forest, offering a plethora of hiking trails for all skill levels. Enjoy waterfalls, mountain views, and abundant wildlife. 8. Take a tour of the Sierra Nevada Brewing Company: Beer lovers should not miss the opportunity to visit the Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. Take a guided tour, learn about the brewing process, and sample their award-winning beers. 9. Explore the Asheville Urban Trail: Take a self-guided tour of the Asheville Urban Trail, a 1.7-mile walking trail that highlights the city's history, art, and architecture through a series of sculptures and markers. 10. Enjoy outdoor adventures: Asheville is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Go whitewater rafting, zip-lining, mountain biking, or horseback riding in the surrounding mountains and rivers. These are just a few of the many things to do in Asheville. The city also hosts various festivals, live music events, and cultural activities throughout the year, so be sure to check the local events calendar for additional options during your visit.
When is the best time to travel to Asheville?
The best time to travel to Asheville, USA is during the fall season, specifically in September and October. During this time, the weather is mild with average temperatures ranging from the 60s to the 70s Fahrenheit (15-25 degrees Celsius). The fall foliage in the Blue Ridge Mountains surrounding Asheville is absolutely stunning, making it a popular destination for leaf peepers. Another great time to visit Asheville is in the spring, particularly in April and May. The weather is pleasant with temperatures in the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit (15-25 degrees Celsius), and the city comes alive with blooming flowers and trees. Springtime also brings various festivals and events to Asheville, such as the Biltmore Blooms at the Biltmore Estate. It's worth noting that Asheville is a year-round destination, so if you prefer different activities or want to avoid crowds, other times of the year can also be enjoyable. Winters in Asheville are relatively mild, with occasional snowfall, making it a great time for cozying up in a mountain cabin or exploring the nearby ski resorts. Summertime in Asheville can be quite warm, but it's a popular season for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and river tubing. Ultimately, the best time to travel to Asheville depends on your personal preferences and interests.
Travel culture you should know when traveling to Asheville
Asheville, located in western North Carolina, is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. Here are some highlights of Asheville's travel culture: 1. Art and Music: Asheville is home to numerous art galleries, studios, and music venues. The River Arts District is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, with its converted warehouses showcasing local artists' works. The city also hosts various music festivals throughout the year, including the renowned Moogfest celebrating electronic music and innovation. 2. Craft Beer: Asheville is often referred to as the ""Beer City"" of the East Coast. The city boasts over 30 craft breweries, offering a wide range of unique and flavorful brews. Visitors can take brewery tours, participate in beer tastings, and even attend beer festivals like the Asheville Beer Week. 3. Farm-to-Table Cuisine: Asheville is known for its commitment to sustainable and locally sourced food. The city has a thriving farm-to-table culinary scene, with many restaurants focusing on using fresh ingredients from local farms. The Asheville City Market and the WNC Farmers Market are great places to explore and taste the region's agricultural offerings. 4. Outdoor Recreation: Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Visitors can go hiking, mountain biking, or take scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The nearby Pisgah National Forest and Great Smoky Mountains National Park are also popular destinations for nature lovers. 5. Alternative and Hippie Culture: Asheville has a reputation for its alternative and bohemian vibe, attracting artists, musicians, and free spirits. The city embraces diversity and creativity, with a vibrant LGBTQ+ community and numerous alternative shops, cafes, and street performers. 6. Wellness and Spirituality: Asheville is a hub for wellness and spiritual practices. The city is dotted with yoga studios, meditation centers, and holistic healing retreats. Visitors can also explore the famous Biltmore Estate, a grand mansion built by the Vanderbilt family, which offers serene gardens and a winery. Overall, Asheville's travel culture is characterized by its artistic expression, love for craft beer, appreciation of local and sustainable food, connection to nature, and celebration of alternative lifestyles.
Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Asheville
When it comes to shopping in Asheville, USA, there are plenty of unique and locally-made items that make for great souvenirs. Here are some shopping lists or souvenir ideas to consider: 1. Local Arts and Crafts: Asheville is known for its vibrant arts scene, so look out for locally-made pottery, paintings, sculptures, and other forms of art. The River Arts District is a great place to explore numerous artist studios and galleries. 2. Appalachian Handicrafts: Asheville is located in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, so you'll find a variety of traditional handicrafts. Look for handmade quilts, wooden furniture, woven baskets, and handcrafted jewelry. 3. Craft Beer and Spirits: Asheville is a hotspot for craft breweries and distilleries. Consider picking up some local craft beers, spirits, or even a growler from one of the many breweries in the area. 4. Locally-made Food Products: Asheville has a thriving food scene, and you can find a range of locally-made food products. Look for items like artisanal chocolates, honey, hot sauces, jams, and locally-roasted coffee. 5. Outdoor Gear: If you're into outdoor activities, Asheville has several stores that specialize in outdoor gear. Whether you're looking for hiking gear, camping equipment, or outdoor clothing, you'll find a variety of options to choose from. 6. Appalachian Books and Music: Explore local bookstores and music shops to find books about the Appalachian region, its history, culture, and music. You might also come across local musicians' albums or traditional Appalachian music compilations. 7. Handmade Soaps and Skincare Products: Asheville has a thriving natural and organic skincare industry. Look for handmade soaps, lotions, and other skincare products made from locally-sourced ingredients. 8. Antiques and Vintage Finds: Asheville has several antique stores and vintage shops where you can discover unique and one-of-a-kind items. Whether it's vintage clothing, furniture, or collectibles, you might stumble upon a hidden gem. Remember to explore the local shops and boutiques in downtown Asheville, the Biltmore Village area, or the River Arts District for a wide selection of souvenirs and shopping opportunities.
Asheville travel review
Asheville, USA: A Hidden Gem of the South Nestled in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Asheville is a vibrant and eclectic city that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and a thriving arts scene. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and friendly locals, Asheville has become a popular destination for travelers seeking a laid-back yet vibrant getaway. From stunning landscapes to world-class cuisine, Asheville has something to offer everyone. One of the highlights of Asheville is its breathtaking natural beauty. The city is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic highway that winds through the mountains, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Visitors can explore the numerous hiking trails, take a leisurely drive along the parkway, or simply relax and soak in the beauty of the landscape. For those interested in the arts, Asheville is a haven of creativity. The city is home to a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, studios, and theaters showcasing the work of local and international artists. The River Arts District, located along the French Broad River, is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, with its converted warehouses and studios filled with a vast array of artwork. Asheville is also famous for its street art, with colorful murals adorning the walls of buildings throughout the city. Food lovers will be delighted by Asheville's culinary offerings. The city is a foodie's paradise, with a wide range of dining options to suit every palate. From farm-to-table restaurants to trendy cafes and breweries, Asheville is known for its commitment to locally sourced ingredients and innovative cuisine. The city is also home to a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries offering a wide selection of locally brewed beers. History buffs will find plenty to explore in Asheville as well. The Biltmore Estate, a magnificent mansion built by George Vanderbilt in the late 19th century, is a must-visit attraction. This sprawling estate boasts stunning gardens, a winery, and a fascinating history that can be explored through guided tours. The Thomas Wolfe Memorial, the childhood home of the famous American author, is another historical gem that offers a glimpse into Asheville's past. In addition to its natural beauty, arts scene, and culinary delights, Asheville also hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. From the Asheville Fringe Arts Festival to the Mountain Dance and Folk Festival, there is always something happening in this vibrant city. The vibrant music scene is also worth exploring, with numerous venues offering live performances ranging from bluegrass and folk to jazz and rock. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing getaway, Asheville has it all. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant arts scene, and delicious cuisine, this hidden gem of the South is a destination that should not be missed. So pack your bags and get ready to explore all that Asheville, USA has to offer.