Top Things To Do

Asheville’s downtown serves as a historic centerpiece for the city (list historical things here). Encircled in beautiful mountain views the walkable neighborhoods of  downtown are adorned with impressive architectural collections of the Deco era. It has one of first indoor shopping malls in America, the Grove Arcade. During the warmer seasons there is a monthly "Downtown After 5"outdoor musical concert that features several touring musicians and popular local acts. Every Friday evening be sure to check out the Drum Circle. The Twin Rivers Media Festival is an annual film festival (add dates here for when it is). In Asheville Downtown, arts, culture and history blend into one to serve you an unforgettable experience.

Located at 1 Lodge Street the Biltmore Residence is the largest private home in America. Built in 1889 by George W. Vanderbilt the home features among other things an extensive private art collection. The entire estate spans about 10.8 square miles and the home itself is over 178,000 square feet. Visitors to the Biltmore Estate also have the opportunity to tour outside the gardens, winery, village, historic farm, 4-star inn, shops and multiple restaurants. Famous past visitors include: Henry James, Theodore  Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson and Edith Wharton. The Biltmore Estate was also showcased in feature films: The Swan, Riche Rich, Forrest Gump, One Tree Hill, Hannibal, The Last of the Mohicans, Patch Adams and The Odd Life of Timothy Green. Tickets, Hours and Special Events are listed on the website.

Travel south along the Blue Ridge Parkway to view acres of cultivated gardens featuring a diverse selection of cultivated plants. The Arboretum is home to over 2,000 samples of seeds and endophytes. On display are "Wicked Plants" (inspired by Amy Stewarts). And yes, it is also the perfect location for a destination wedding. The Arboretum has special seasonal events that you might enjoy as well. A full schedule is available on their website website. 

Constructed in 1905 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places the Basilica is a popular destination for visitors to Asheville. Each of the several side chapels depicts a different saint and features beautiful stained glass windows. The Basilica holds the title of the largest freestanding elliptical dome in the whole of North America.

After more than a full day at the Biltmore Estate, Basilica, Arboretum and downtown the sun begins to set and it is time for some great Asheville nighttime activities. One of our favorites is the 2-hour guided tour called “Haunted Asheville”. Covering several parts of the city prepare to be regaled with hair raising tales and adventures  of ghosts and apparitions. You will learn about the Pink Lady of the Grove Park Inn, ghosts spotted at the Helen Bridge, several paranormal adventures and the reported "vortex" energy. Take it from us, this tour will surely send some chills down your spine!

After a scary tour it is time the next day for a refreshing hike in the woods. Chimney Rock Park is a 996-acre living classroom that features a 404 foot waterfall, 315-foot rock formation and a granite monolith. Perfect for bird watchers, it is a favorite spot for summer breeding birds like Scarlet Tanagers, Cerulean and Swainson's Warblers, etc. Not just that, Chimney Rock is also famed for its over 550 known species of vascular plants, including several that are on the State and Federal list of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants.

Up for some water slides? Then we have located the perfect recreation for you. Located deep in the Pisgah Forest, this adventure will simply take your breath away. A 60 foot natural water slide with a 8 foot deep pool of water.  It is known as the king of all swimming holes. What if you don't fancy getting wet? Then there is a hiking trail to the top of the waterfall which can take about 1 hour with the help of a ranger.

If you are brave enough to go back after the Ghost tour consider the Omni Grove Park Inn as your last stop in Asheville. Built over a hundred years ago the inn has a majestic sunset view overlooking the mountains. The inn is host to a day spa rated 13th among the World's Best Hotel Spas. Past guests include 10 U.S Presidents. The Inn is also home to collections of art and hosts the annual Gingerbread House tour in the winter time.