What are the must-do places to see and experience during a romantic getaway to Asheville? According to the readers of RomanticAsheville.com Vacation Guide, here are the Top 20 Things to Do in Asheville and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. And romantic mountain outings dont have to be expensive. Many of these are free!
1. Blue Ridge Parkway: Ride the non-stop 200-mile Asheville area stretch of one of Americas most scenic drives and stop at countless overlooks with mountain views and a variety of places to explore along the way. Take a picnic!
2. Hiking: To really appreciate the natural splendor, explore by foot. RomanticAsheville.com Travel Guide features a list of the Top 40 hikes that offer the best mountain scenery and perfect for all fitness levels.
3. Biltmore Estate: This is a must see, even if you have visited before. In addition to Americas biggest house, stroll through amazing gardens, hike throughout the 8,000 acre estate, sample Biltmore wines, and enjoy many dining and shopping options. This summer, the new Tiffany at Biltmore exhibit runs July through October. For discount Biltmore tickets, order advance tickets on their web site.
4. Downtowns: With 200+ local stores, dozens of art galleries, beautiful architecture and 50+ restaurants, downtown Asheville is a wonderful place to explore. For a fun tour, take the LaZoom city tour on the big purple bus. And don't miss the Friday night drum circle. Nearby Hendersonville, Brevard, Black Mountain, Highlands and Waynesville also have charming downtowns with plenty to see, do and taste.
5. Cabins: Snuggle up in front of the fireplace of a secluded cabin, while being near so much to do. Many mountain cabins have outdoor hot tubs under the stars. Many offer lower rates on Sunday-Thursday nights.
6. Waterfalls: This is the Land of Waterfalls. Highest recommended are High Falls and Triple Falls at DuPont State Forest, along with Looking Glass Falls, Linville Falls and Rainbow Falls.
7. Food and Beer: Asheville was just named Beer City USA again, so sample some of the 60 local brews. At the same time, enjoy seasonal bounty at many farm-to-table restaurants. Take a farm tour and don't miss the apple orchards near Hendersonville in late summer.
8. Art: Asheville was just named as top small city for art in the USA. You will find galleries and studios all around. Watch the artists at work, and buy directly from them in the River Arts District and the Toe River area studios near Penland School.
9. Festivals: Street festivals and art fairs abound during the spring, summer and fall. Most are free to attend, including the giant of them all, Bele Chere.
10. Mt. Mitchell: Drive to the top of the highest peak east of the Rocky Mountains. Located along the Blue Ridge Parkway, you can enjoy 360-views from the observation deck on the summit.
11. Sliding Rock: Ride down this natural waterslide in the Pisgah National Forest near Brevard. Its fun for all ages.
12. Great Smokies: For a romantic evening watching elk graze a short distance away, drive to the Cataloochee Valley section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Hike to Mt. LeConte or the Chimneys. Or drive to Newfound Gap from Cherokee.
13. Bed and Breakfasts: Have a very romantic getaway in a grand, historic home and awake to a gourmet breakfast. Many B&Bs have great vacation packages that include flowers, turndown service, Biltmore tickets and more.
14. Zip Lines: Fly across rivers and valleys and through lush forests on canopy tours. Wildwater Ltd. offers tours at two zip line courses in the Great Smoky Mountains.
15. Music and Theatre: There are many choices for theatre, dance, opera, and music including the stellar Brevard Music Center Festival, Folkmoot and Shindig on the Green. Plus, hear a huge variety of bands in many live music venues and clubs, including the Orange Peel in Asheville.
16. NC Arboretum: Celebrating its 25th anniversary this summer, this showcase of blooms, plants and trees includes a fascinating bonsai tree garden, nature trails and exhibits.
17. Chimney Rock: See spectacular views of the Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure from atop this famous rock formation. Hike to a 400-foot waterfall, a movie location for several films.
18. Shopping: From antiques store and art galleries to consignment shops, the area is a shoppers paradise.
19. Whitewater Rafting: Ride down the rapids in a raft or kayak on the Nantahala, Pigeon or French Broad Rivers.
20. Get Married or Renew Your Vows: Celebrate your love and commitment in the beautiful and romantic wedding mountain setting. The area is especially popular for destination weddings and elopements.
For more details on these and other things to do, go to RomanticAsheville.com, with 400 pages and 1,400 photographs to help you plan your North Carolina mountain vacation. For the latest updates, find them on Facebook or go to their Asheville Travel Blog.
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