Time off – whether from work or just to get away from the daily routine – is a precious commodity. That’s why it’s important that you make the most of your vacation destination and indulge in all your favorite things to do.
So, what hits the spot? Wandering around art galleries? Listening to live music while you dance the night away? Taking in a Blue Ridge Parkway sunset? Pampering yourself with a massage? Well, we’ve got some ideas for just about everyone – from adventurers and spa-goers to art and music lovers.
For the Adventure Hound
The Asheville area is home to the highest peak east of the Mississippi – Mount Mitchell (elevation 6,684 feet). If you’re staying at one of our Inspired Getaways, you can easily take a scenic drive north on the Blue Ridge Parkway that will land you atop Mt. Mitchell in about one hour. Or, head south on the parkway till you reach Devil’s Courthouse for some of the most exceptional views from this jagged mountaintop. No matter which direction you choose, for many, driving on the Blue Ridge Parkway is truly a bucket list item. And for good reason – just about every turn reveals breathtaking vistas, sunset overlooks and miles and miles of hiking trails. Pack a picnic, grab your backpack and head out to nature’s playground.
For the Spa-goer
When you’re ready for a little serious r and r, Asheville is pretty good at finding ways for you to relax. From mobile massage to more traditional spas and saunas, you’re sure to find the perfect fit.
Asheville Onsite Massage Spa Services: Relax, they’ll come to you. Massages, facials, body wraps, foot soaks and more. This mobile massage service is ideal for bachelorette parties, romantic weekenders, or just anyone looking to unwind in the comfort of their Asheville rental.
Photo credit via Facebook: @saunahouse
Sauna House: This Asheville bathhouse is committed to sustainability and to making its guests feel good. Enjoy a two-hour bathhouse visit, relax in a private hot/cold room or heat up with an infrared sauna session. Stress and tension just melt away.
Shoji Spa and Retreat: Nestled on a mountaintop, but only minutes from downtown Asheville, Shoji spa-goers have the opportunity to experience traditional Japanese soaking baths and salt tubs in a natural setting. It also boasts more than 25 world-class massage therapists.
Photo credit via Facebook: @ShojiSpaAndRetreat
For the Art Lover
Asheville – there’s no better place to get your culture fix. This vibrant city is home to the River Arts District (affectionately known as RAD) where visitors can watch artists at work in their galleries or take an art class of their own. The North Carolina Glass Center offers several different glass-making experiences and the Village Potters has extensive educational programs that offer in-person and live online classes for adults, demonstration and hands-on workshops, as well as an Advanced Studies Ceramics Program.
Downtown Asheville is also filled with impressive art galleries such as Blue Spiral 1 and Momentum Gallery. It’s also home to the Asheville Art Museum which has an outstanding collection of American art from the 20th and 21st centuries. And, in the heart of Biltmore Village’s historic district, is the 12,500 square-foot New Morning Gallery which displays an abundant selection of decorative and functional craft, all handmade by American Artisans. If you head to North Asheville, be sure to stop at the Grovewood Gallery, adjacent to the iconic Grove Park Inn.
Photo credit via Facebook: @GrovewoodVillage
For the Music Maven
While Asheville has some amazing indoor music venues, spring is when this southern city really starts to get its groove on. So, when the weather heats up, the music scene really sizzles and takes to the great outdoors. Here are some local favorites that everyone can enjoy:
Photo credit via Facebook: Jim Donohoo Photography
Downtown After 5
In its 35th season, this free, public music event takes place the third Friday of every month from April through September. This year’s Downtown After 5 kicks off on April 21 and they just announced their 2023 season lineup. Concerts take place along North Lexington Ave. and food and beer vendors are onsite for all to enjoy. There’s sure to be some dancing in the streets too.
Photo credit via Facebook: Asheville Symphony
Asheville Amadeus Festival: The Asheville Symphony hosts its fourth annual 10-day festival which runs from May 11-20, 2023. This year, it celebrates the many shades of Americana music, from bluegrass, jazz, and classical to pop, rock and folk. While the festival is Mozart-inspired, the music will appeal to many.
The Asheville Drum Circle
Chances are if you head to Pritchard Park on a Friday night between April and October, you’ll be lured into this dynamic drum circle in the heart of downtown. People join together here to beat their drums and dance to their powerful rhythms. It’s a great celebration of diversity. Feel free to bring a drum or just take it all in. We’re sure, you won’t be able to sit still for too long. The drumming typically starts around 6 p.m. and winds down by 10 p.m.
