26 Fun & Best Things to Do in Asheville, North Carolina

Are you planning a vacation and looking for the best things to do in Asheville for a group trip, romantic getaway, or family vacation? Hiking trails, mountain scenery, historic attractions, and an award-winning culinary scene are all within easy access to the town deemed “Land of the Sky” (acquired, we’re sure, by the blue sky that hovers above the Blue Ridge Mountains and creates the perfect canvas for landscape and sunset photos).

Cool and quirky in nature, and sporting a unique boho vibe, the western North Carolina town of Asheville is a destination designed for arts, culture, history, and architecture enthusiasts. The River Arts District and the Downtown Art District offer museums, galleries, and former factories turned art studios. And then there’s that opulent castle that everyone seems to talk about when mentioning Asheville (that would be the Biltmore).

This isn’t to say that outdoor adventure and nature lovers can’t enjoy the area. Asheville is located in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains along the French Broad River and the Swannanoa River. The Appalachian Trail even goes through downtown Asheville.

So, add kayaking, canoeing, fly fishing, and other fun things to that itinerary you should be starting right about now. Great Smoky Mountains National Park makes up the western part of the region. It’s about an hour from Asheville if you’re looking for a road trip.

Whether you’re in Asheville for two days or two weeks, we’ve collected a few ideas to get your trip started. Let’s get going!

TL;DR

Best Things to Do in Asheville, North Carolina

1. River Arts District

Address: Asheville, North Carolina 28801

Asheville’s River Arts District, or RAD, is located along the French Broad River. More than 280 working local artists have studios and galleries in former warehouses and mills (now colorfully decked out in murals, urban art, and outdoor sculptures). You’ll know you’re in the area when you see the Asheville Silo playfully painted with mottos like “Stay Weird” or “Good Vibes,” quintessential North Carolina stuff.

Artists originally moved into the area in 1985. It officially became the River Arts District in 2005. Approximately 23 buildings include glassblowing, pottery, jewelry, metal, wood, paintings, textiles, and more.  You’ll also find restaurants, cafés, coffee shops, and breweries to grab a bite, beverage, or brew. Hang around for demonstrations, workshops, art…