Discover the best Asheville, North Carolina, points of interest with our helpful guide. Regarded as one of the top places to visit and live in the United States, Asheville has a lot to offer. The energetic vibe you’ll feel in the charming downtown district is a mixture of authentic Appalachian culture, bohemian spirit, modern style and amenities, as well as a thriving arts and music scene. Asheville, North Carolina, is home to unique restaurants, panoramic mountain vistas, a portion of the Blue Ridge Parkway and many fascinating points of interest. Depending upon who you ask, Asheville would be described as an art colony, a healing resort or a hip mountain city with a diverse population.

Asheville, North Carolina Points of Interest: Biltmore Estate

Built for George W. Vanderbilt in the 1800s, Biltmore Mansion is the largest home in the United States; it spans four acres and has 250 rooms. It is the “crown jewel” of architecture in western North Carolina and it was built in the style of a French Renaissance castle. The mansion still houses the original owner’s extensive art collection, artifacts, rare books, tapestries and furnishings. The estate originally covered 125,000 acres, and includes formal gardens, flower gardens, natural forest trails, a winery, gift shop, restaurants, horse riding trails and so much more. It hosts special events throughout the year, including a summer concert series. Learn more. Biltmore Estate is #1 on most lists of Asheville, North Carolina, points of interest.

Asheville, North Carolina Points of Interest: Botanical Gardens & Regional Market

Botanical Gardens at Asheville: This is the largest botanical garden in western North Carolina. Located at 151 West Weaver Boulevard in Asheville, North Carolina, the gardens display 700 species of plants native to the Southern Appalachians. Enjoy free admission to the gardens and to most events held at Asheville Botanical Gardens. Learn more at Asheville Botanical Garden.

Western NC Farmer’s Market – There are four regional farmer’s markets in North Carolina. This is one of the largest markets in the state and covers 36 acres. Set right in the center of all the action, the market is located in downtown Asheville and it’s open to the public seven days a week, all year round. Visit the website to learn more.

Asheville, North Carolina Points of Interest: Downtown Asheville / The River Arts District / French Broad River Kayak & Canoe Trail / New Belgium Brewing Co.

Downtown Asheville is an eclectic array of unique shops, farm-to-table restaurants, independent book stores, business offices, craft breweries, art galleries, bars and museums. Stroll along its neat sidewalks and you’ll encounter all types of people, as well as street musicians, trolleys and great food. Dive into the culture and roots of this pulsating mountain city with a ride on LaZoom, a purple bus where a tour guide gives background information as you see the sites. There are several trolley tours as well. Head up to one of the rooftop bars for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains.

The River Arts District is located along the banks of the French Broad River. Here, you’ll find historic industrial warehouses that have been revitalized into art galleries and a thriving working artist’s community. You’ll see all types of art, from paintings to sculptures. Stop by one of Asheville’s artsy restaurants for a great meal to fuel up for more sightseeing and shopping.

New Belgium Brewing Company is located in the River Arts District. It’s situated at 21 Craven Street in Asheville. They offer 90-minute guided tours as well as live music and tastings of a variety of craft beers. They have a large lawn and deck overlooking the river. Walk to the food trucks down by the river for excellent street food as you take in tranquil views of people in kayaks and paddleboats cruising the river. After your brewery tour, you might even want to kayak on the French Broad River yourself.

The French Broad River Kayak and Canoe Trail runs through NC and TN. The seven-mile section through Asheville is known as “The Biltmore Run.” As it enters Asheville, the river is wide but shallow, suitable for flat-water kayaks and canoes. Asheville Outdoor Outfitters and French Broad River Outfitters offer shuttle service, rentals and gear for outdoor enthusiasts.

Even More Exciting Things to Do in Asheville, NC

Are you interested in even more Asheville, North Carolina, points of interest? Check out this list or stop by the Asheville Visitor Center at 36 Montford Avenue in Asheville, North Carolina. Asheville is just an hour’s drive from scenic Maggie Valley, where you will discover the perfect place to stay at Meadowlark Motel. It’s just moments from exciting Great Smoky Mountain attractions. They offer an idyllic setting on the banks of Jonathan Creek, an array of accommodations, complimentary Wi-Fi and continental breakfast. Watch authentic Appalachian Mountain dancers perform at the nearby Stompin’ Ground or walk to the festival grounds and local restaurants from this legendary accommodation at the gateway to the Smokies.

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Photo “Biltmore Estate” by JC Pollock, Wikimedia