ASHEVILLE
Asheville, located in the picturesque mountains of North Carolina, is a city that offers a variety of activities for all types of travelers. From exploring the local history and culture to indulging in its unique cuisine, there are plenty of free things to do in Asheville that will keep you entertained without breaking the bank.
1. Experience the City’s Rich History at the Thomas Wolfe Memorial
The birthplace of one of Asheville’s most famous authors. Take a self-guided tour of the house and learn about Wolfe’s life and works. Afterward, head to the Asheville Urban Trail, a 1.7-mile walking tour that features 30 sculptures and monuments that represent the city’s history and culture.
2. Visit to the River Arts District
Located along the French Broad River, this area has over 200 artists’ studios and galleries. You can wander through the studios, watch artists at work, and even purchase some unique pieces of art to take home.
3. Experience the Natural Beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains
Take a hike on the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, which runs through Asheville and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You can also take a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway, one of the most scenic drives in the country, and stop at the overlooks to take in the breathtaking views.
4. Try the Local Cuisine
Be sure to indulge in some of the city’s unique dishes. Try a slice of pizza from Asheville Pizza and Brewing Company or grab a locally-sourced burger from Farm Burger. For dessert, head to French Broad Chocolate Lounge for a decadent treat.
5. Take a Guided Tour
The Asheville Music Tour offers an affordable and engaging way to explore the city’s vibrant musical history. Starting at Harrah’s Cherokee Center, the tour highlights Asheville’s famous musical figures, like Fred Foster and Roberta Flack, and introduces you to key venues like the ExploreAsheville.com Arena, known for hosting top-tier performances.
You’ll also visit Citizen Vinyl, a state-of-the-art vinyl production facility with a café and record store, where you’ll receive a discount for future purchases. The tour wraps up at the Moogseum, a museum dedicated to Bob Moog and his groundbreaking synthesizers. This one-hour experience provides a rich overview of Asheville’s music scene, combining history, culture, and local flair at a budget-friendly price.
So whether you’re a history fan, a local gastronomy enthusiast, or a cultural buff, Asheville has something for you. Take some time to explore the city and all it has to offer – you won’t be disappointed.
Popular Activities in Asheville
