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If you’ve ever seen the movie “Dirty Dancing,” you’ll likely be familiar with Lake Lure because one of the hottest dance scenes ever made was filmed at the Lake Lure Inn and Spa. While the movie was set in a fictional town in New York’s Catskills, it all happened right here in this mountain town, about 30 miles from downtown Asheville. While that’s reason enough for movie lovers to visit, there are countless other motivations to make this a vacation destination. Here are just a few fun things to do in Lake Lure:  

Aerial view of Lake Lure

Take a Lake Lure Tour

Lake Lure Tours offers open-air pontoon boat tours and your captain is sure to point out where some of the more famous movie scenes were filmed. You’ll also learn about the area’s history, along with the natural and cultural background of Hickory Nut Gorge. If you want to cruise on your own, you can rent your own pontoon too.  Lake Lure Boat Rental has different options to meet your needs. 

Lake Lure Beach

Enjoy the Beach and Water Park

Lake Lure Beach and Water Park is a family-friendly destination that offers fun and relaxation for all ages. The sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, and swimming in the cool lake water. An adjacent water park features slides, splash zones, and other water attractions. This is an ideal spot for a day of sun, sand, and water play.

Flowering Bridge Lake Lure sunset

Explore the Flowering Bridge

This is truly a one-of-kind bridge and it’s one of Lake Lure’s most enchanting attractions. This former highway bridge has been transformed into a lush garden pathway, overflowing with flowers, shrubs, and artistic installations. Take a stroll. There’s a wonderful town center walkway that connects the beach to this beautiful Flowering Bridge. It’s a feast for the senses from every color imaginable to the sweet scent of rose and lavender. Grab your camera, because we’re sure you’ll want to remember this one. 

A women climbing a rock near lake lure

Thrill Seeking with Ziplining or Rock Climbing

If you’re an adrenaline junkie, ziplining over the treetops of Lake Lure is a must-do activity. Canopy Ridge Farm offers exhilarating zipline courses for all experience levels. You can also go bouldering or rock climbing at Fox Mountain Guides. So, why not add a bit of excitement to your visit? 

Aerial view of Chimney rock state park

Discover Chimney Rock State Park

A trip to Lake Lure wouldn’t be complete without visiting the iconic Chimney Rock State Park. This natural wonder offers stunning panoramic views of the Hickory Nut Gorge, Lake Lure, and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. Trails range from easy to challenging, and each offers unique perspectives of the landscape. The park also features guided nature walks, educational programs, and rock-climbing opportunities. For those less inclined to hike, there’s an elevator that takes you to the top. 

Lake Lure shops

Shop in the Town Center

Dotted with boutique shops, the town center has everything from handmade crafts to cool souvenirs. You’ll find local artisans showcasing their work, quaint gift shops, and specialty stores that highlight the best of Lake Lure. Many Google reviews spotlight Hickory Nut as one of the most unique shops around. 

Relax at Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure

Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure is a premier destination for those who want a little luxury. The Rumbling Bald Community offers an array of amenities, including golf courses, spa services, and fine dining. Guests can enjoy the private beach, swimming pools, and fitness center – ensuring a rejuvenating stay. 

Savor Local Food and Drinks

No vacation is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. Seafood lovers will find fresh lake catches at The Highlands Kitchen + Bar; we hear their lobster mac and cheese is pretty dynamite too. And for those craving BBQ, the Chimney Rock Smokehouse is close to Rumbling Bald and spotlights southern flavors. Don’t forget to try the local craft beers and wines too. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating with stunning lake views. 

Lake Lure beach

Explore Morse Park

This beautiful 23-acre park located along the shores of Lake Lure, offers a variety of recreational activities, including walking trails, picnic areas, and sports facilities. Birdwatchers will also appreciate the diverse bird species that inhabit the park, and the fishing pier offers a tranquil spot to wet a line. 

Try Non-Motorized Water Sports

Lake Lure is an excellent place for non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and canoeing. Rental services are available for those who don’t have their own equipment, and guided tours can introduce beginners to the basics. 

Mountain Bike at Buffalo Creek Park

Buffalo Creek Park is a haven for mountain biking enthusiasts. The park features a network of trails that cater to various skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders. The trails wind through thick forests and offer challenging terrain and scenic views. 

So, are you ready to experience the best of Lake Lure? Book your stay at one of our Inspired Getaway properties: Lake Lure Getaway or Rumbling Bald Getaway. And if you haven’t seen “Dirty Dancing,” add it to your vacation prep plan – it will only add to the fun. 

 

BOOK Lake Lure Getaway

Lake Lure - Rumbling Bald Getaway Vacation Rental. Table on porch Lake Lure - Rumbling Bald Getaway Vacation Rental. TV / Living Room Lake Lure - Rumbling Bald Getaway Vacation Rental. Kitchen Lake Lure - Rumbling Bald Getaway Vacation Rental. View from the kitchen Lake Lure - Rumbling Bald Getaway Vacation Rental. Barstools at kitchen island

 

BOOK Rumbling Bald Getaway Lake Lure - Rumbling Bald Getaway Vacation Rental bedroom. Lake Lure - Rumbling Bald Getaway Vacation Rental kitchen. Lake Lure - Rumbling Bald Getaway Vacation Rental bedroom.

 

Feature Photo Credit: @RumblingBaldonLakeLure on Facebook

July is a perfect time to visit Asheville. Whether you’re looking to escape the heat or just want a little change of scenery, we’re pretty sure you’ll find some fun things to do in Asheville. But, where to begin? We’ve rounded up some of the best tours in Asheville from sightseeing and food tours to bike, brewery and helicopter tours – and so many more.   

A group of people cheersing wine glasses on a food tour

Photo: Asheville Food Tours.

FOOD AND BEVERAGE

Asheville Brewery Tours

It’s no secret that Asheville’s beer scene is just bubbling over. This tour operator offers choices on whether to walk or drive – just leave the driving to them 😉.

Asheville Food Tours 

Who doesn’t love a good food tour? Asheville Food Tours is the original walking food tour in Asheville and takes guests to some of the best spots in town. So, take a bite out of Asheville. It’s delicious!  

No Taste Like Home Foraging Tours 

If you prefer to work, rather than walk for your food, this foraging tour is so much fun. And after the tour, you can take your haul to any of their restaurant partners – some of Asheville’s top restaurants – to prepare it all for you. So, are you ready to go wild? 

Van in Black

Wander around Asheville in style in the van in black. Just tell them what you’d like to see and do and your wish is their command. For example, if you’d like to visit a winery and brewery, check out the River Arts District with lunch at 12 Bones, take a spin on the Blue Ridge Parkway and have a final stop at the Grove Park Inn – the van in black will get you to all those places and back. They also have Asheville wine tours – some are even multi-day and they’re also available for things like airport pickups, wedding transportation, bachelorette parties, corporate events and more.

HISTORICAL / ART

Asheville Art Experience

Whether you want to make art or see art, Asheville Art Experience has a tour for you. Tour goers will have a chance to mix and mingle with local artists in the River Arts District – one of the most diverse districts in the nation. 

A group standing on a rooftop bar looking at a sunset

Photo: Asheville Rooftop Bar Tours

Asheville Rooftop Bar Tours

Ride the rooftops where history and cocktails collide! If you love history, long range views and sipping libations, then Asheville Rooftop Bar Tours is your ideal experience. Offering group and private tours in their VIP luxury van.

La Zoom Tours

These purple buses have practically become synonymous with Asheville. They offer four public tours: the city comedy tour, haunted comedy tour, band and beer bus and Lil Boogers (designed for kids, but fun for the whole family). These tours are chock-filled with fun surprises at every turn. 

Gray Line Trolley Tours of Asheville

This is Asheville’s number one sightseeing tour. You can hop on and hop off whenever you like. They also have a ghost and Christmas tour.

Gray Line Trolley Tours of Asheville

SCENIC / ACTIVE

Asheville Hiking Tours

This mountain adventure company is all about getting you outside! From hiking to waterfalls and bird-watching off the Blue Ridge Parkway to meeting wild mountain Elk, Asheville Hiking Tours will give you a good workout in one of the most biodiverse regions in the world.

Outfitter Bicycle Tours

Asheville is a cycling destination and this is one of the best ways to discover the beautiful hills and valleys of the Blue Ridge. This group offers six different tours ranging from 7, 5 and 3 nights to single-day trips. 

WNC Photo Tours

These photo tours take you to some of the most breathtaking vistas around – and teach you how to capture the best images possible. You’ll visit those off the beaten path locales that only the locals know about! 

A helicopter in an open field.

Photo: Scenic Helicopter Tours

Scenic Helicopter Tours

If you’re looking for a real birds-eye view, hop on board a heli for unique vistas of the Biltmore Estate, Blue Ridge Mountains, and more. They offer night flights and wine tasting tours too!

Mountaineer Motor Tours

Step back – or wheel back – in time. Enjoy a ride-a-long around Asheville in a 1923 For Model T and experience Asheville back in its heyday.

One thing is for sure, book your ticket ahead of schedule! Ready to take a tour (or 3) of Asheville? I mean really – why just choose one? Then book your stay here.

STAY WITH US

And, if you’re looking for a great place to start and end your day, these rental properties are ideal because they’re close to everything this vibrant city has to offer: 

King of the Hill (up to 9 guests) 

Hot tub next to a picnic table

King of the Hill

 

Adoring Asheville Luxury Bungalow (up to 4 guests)

Asheville Luxury Bungalow back porch with hot tub.

Adoring Asheville Luxury Bungalow

 

Hilltop Splendor (up to 10 guests)

Rental property living room

Hilltop Splendor

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Romantic scenery in Asheville

It’s February and our romantic friend cupid is at it again. This mythical god of attraction and affection is shooting arrows left and right and many are landing right here in Asheville. Why? It’s because Asheville is an ideal spot for a romantic couple’s getaway. It’s a city filled with beautiful spas, romantic dining spots, and gorgeous scenery. And there’s no shortage of romantic places to stay to create an unforgettable weekend with your loved one. So, are you ready to put romance back on your priority list? We’ve got some ideas to help you plan the perfect romantic Asheville, North Carolina vacation. 

Tranquil Spa Treatments

Asheville is home to many outstanding spas that offer several unique experiences. After all – it is Asheville – and we’d expect nothing less. At  Still Point Wellness, couples can enjoy an Esalen massage (a technique created at the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, CA) which is designed to deliver a deep sense of relaxation and integration of body, mind, and spirit. There’s also a saltwater float tank experience for those interested in reaching deep states of relaxation. 

Asheville Massage and Bodywork offers an array of different spa services. If you book an appointment onsite, you can enjoy their private sauna and foot bath services too. Or, you can choose their mobile massage service, where they’ll come to you for an amazing couple’s massage. 

If you’re looking for a spa experience with a view, the Shoji Spa and Retreat offers private outdoor salt tubs in a Japanese-like setting. Tea service is provided by Dobra Tea and soakers can book a massage or enjoy a sauna before or after. 

The Asheville Salt Cave is also home to one of the most unique massages around. When you book a private couple’s massage here, you’ll be surrounded by 30 tons of pure pink salt from Poland, the Dead Sea, the Himalayas, and the Celtic Sea. And if you want to indulge, book a private session in their hamman – and experience a traditional Turkish bath. 

Romantic Dinner Spots

After you’ve rejuvenated your mind and body with a spa experience, now it’s time to invigorate your appetite at one of Asheville’s many romantic restaurants. At Bouchon, couples can enjoy a taste of Paris in one of the city’s favorite bistros. The menu is filled with French comfort food ranging from mussels and steak frites to cordon bleu and salmon Dijonnaise. Try to book a table upstairs for some extra romantic ambiance. They also have a second location that’s a bit more off the beaten track – Rendezvous. 

Zambra is Asheville’s original tapas restaurant and wine bar. Its amber-muted lighting and stone floors just beckon couples to cozy up in a corner with a great glass of bubbly and some shared plates for two. 

The Sunset Terrace at the Omni Grove Park Inn offers the quintessential romantic setting. The view is one of the best in Asheville and the food features some of the top ingredients from western North Carolina farmers. 

If you’re wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of downtown, North Asheville is home to Bone and Broth. It’s southern-inspired menu features premium dry-aged steaks from its butcher neighbor – the Chop Shop. This local butcher is also a good place to shop for top-notch ingredients if you prefer to stay in and cook a romantic meal for two.  

Hand-holding Hikes

Hikes in Asheville

An ideal way to end your romantic weekend couples retreat is with a scenic, hand-holding hike.  Lover’s Leap in nearby Hot Springs is a nearly 2-mile loop that follows the Appalachian Trail along the French Broad River. It then turns up a ridge via switchbacks to reveal panoramic views of the river and Pisgah National Forest. Bearwallow Mountain is a short hike that ends up at a beautiful bald with 360-degree views. Hikers can also make a stop at the nearby Hickory Gap Nut Farm retail shop and grab a little edible treat to take home. 

Romantic Places to Stay

We’ve compiled a few places for you to stay during your romantic Asheville getaway. They all have hot tubs to melt those everyday stresses away. They include: 

So, what are you waiting for? Book your romantic Asheville getaway today. 

 

If you’ve got a few days off or just want to get away, a Thanksgiving vacation in Asheville makes for a perfect fall, holiday escape. Whether you choose to visit on your own, with a loved one, a friend, or the whole family, Asheville offers so many things to do. Fly or drive and find a cozy place to rent that will only enhance your stay. 

Dine in or out for your Thanksgiving vacation in Asheville

Since you’re on a fall getaway, cooking is probably not top of mind. And we respect that! That’s why we’ve come up with a few ideas that will keep you out of the kitchen and give you more time to soak in the season. If you choose to dine in at your rental place, there are several places in Asheville where you can order a sumptuous turkey dinner to go. They include:  

Moose Cafe: This farm-to-fork restaurant is an Asheville classic.

Black Bear BBQ: Get something smoked from this soulful kitchen that delivers dishes for those culinary adventurers. 

Post 25 Kitchen and Lounge. They offer a variety of platters that are sure to make you smile. 

Or – To help you plan, see more up-to-date information about local restaurants that are open on Thanksgiving, go to the Asheville Independent Restaurants website or social media.

Many Asheville supermarkets such as Whole Foods, Fresh Market and Ingles also offer Thanksgiving orders to go. And since this is Asheville, vegans and vegetarians will find plenty of options they can enjoy too. And, if you’re interested in grabbing a few Thanksgiving pies from local bakeries, consider placing an order at City Bakery or The Baked Pie Company. 

If you prefer to dine out, we’ve got you covered there too: 

Bargello: Located in the Kimpton Hotel Arras, this stunning restaurant offers a family prix fixe menu. 

Isa’s Bistro: Locally sourced and inspired, this Asheville restaurant is a local and tourist destination too. 

Pack’s Tavern: A local family-owned restaurant located in a renovated historic building. It’s warm and friendly service keeps people coming back time and time again. 

Red Stag Grill: Enjoy European flavors with a Carolina twist. 

The Blackbird Restaurant: Vibrant cuisine in a lively atmosphere. 

Keep in mind, this is not an exhaustive list. Explore Asheville is a good resource for updates on where to dine in or out in Asheville on Thanksgiving Day. 

Take a Thanksgiving Day Walk Around Asheville 

After you’ve filled up on turkey, stuffing and pie, what better way to work off those Thanksgiving holiday calories than taking to the great outdoors? Fall is an amazing time to be in Asheville’s mountains and there are so many great places to get out and walk without having to go too far off the beaten track.  

If you’re looking for something a bit more robust, head to the Blue Ridge Parkway (but check the map for possible weather closings first). There’s a multitude of hikes to do from Frying Pan Mountain and Mt. Pisgah to Crabtree Falls and Graveyard Fields. Dupont State Forest is also home to the magnificent Triple Falls. 

Activities to do Thanksgiving Weekend in Asheville

You can choose to do a lot or a little. It’s up to you. Here are some holiday-inspired activities to get you started:

So, are you ready to ditch the apron and grocery list? Treat yourself to an Asheville fall getaway. Cedar Cliff Village is a good place to check out if you’re looking to rent a place for your stay. It’s minutes from downtown and the Blue Ridge Parkway and it offers a variety of choices when it comes to booking group stays. 

 

Music lovers will be hard-pressed to figure out which Asheville music venues to choose from, so it’s probably best to plan to visit again and again. From rock and indie to blues, classic and bluegrass, the Asheville music scene is certain to strike a chord. The Asheville music culture is one that’s been written about – coast to coast – because it really marches to the beat of its own drummer.  

Photo credit: Jason Keefer

In 2019, “Rolling Stone Magazine” stated that “Asheville is “the new must-see music city.” It hails its musical spontaneity and close-knit camaraderie. Lonely Planet, a travel guide publisher, agrees and likens it to the early days of Nashville and Austin in the article – Why Asheville is America’s Next Major Music City.  And, the city’s melodic allure only continues to shine.   

Asheville Music Venues

Asheville has a mountain of music venues, but these are a few that locals love: 

The Orange Peel – In the heart of downtown Asheville, many locals affectionately refer to this place as simply – “The Peel.” It’s a top southeast musical destination and features state-of-the-art sound and lighting. Its musical roots run deep. Over the years it hosted musical greats such as Bob Dylan, Lou Reed, The Indigo Girls, The Smashing Pumpkins, Joan Jett, Ice Cube, Luke Combs and countless others. 

Grey Eagle – A family-friendly music venue in Asheville’s River Arts District, the Grey Eagle spotlights local talent and puts together a schedule of diverse musical genres that appeal to local interests. 

Photo credit: Tom Farr Photography via Facebook

Rabbit Rabbit – In Asheville’s South Slope, this outdoor live music venue also hosts movies and other special events. 

Photo credit: Libby Gamble Photgraphy via Facebook

Asheville Music Hall – This is an intimate, yet mid-sized music venue that, like many other Asheville music venues, has played host to an impressive roster of musical legends such as Ghostface Killah, Del the Funkee Homosapien and Disclosure. 

Photo credit at the AVL Music Fest, Matt Drum

Salvage Station – This place is often rated Asheville’s best live music venue. Why? It has indoor and outdoor stages, river views and several bars. Oh – and it’s all located in a defunct salvage yard where you can even enjoy a beer inside its oversized PBR can. Pretty cool – huh? 

Photo credit at Diane Wortham, Matt Drum

Wortham Center for the Performing Arts – Located in the center of Asheville’s Pack Square, this cultural icon hosts national and international touring artists. Past headliners include Kathy Mattea, Black Violin, Bela Fleck, DIAVOLO and more. 

Photo credit: Pat Cardwell via Facebook

Asheville Guitar Bar: Located in an old cotton mill in the River Arts District, this listening room  just hums with local musicians. Most nights music lovers will find acoustic music ranging from classical guitar and swing, to rock ‘n’ roll blues and more in a laid-back atmosphere with chandeliers, brick walls and leather chairs. 

Save the Date for these Asheville Concerts

While it’s nearly impossible to list them all, here are 15 live shows – of all different genres –

happening in Asheville this October, November and December that you may want to mark your calendar for:  

For a more comprehensive list of live shows in Asheville, visit:  https://www.exploreasheville.com/iconic-asheville/music/live-music-events-calendar/

And for those looking to explore a bit, a quick venture a few miles north of Asheville leads to the mountain town of Weaverville. A free music series – Music on the Knoll – kicks off in October and runs through April. Held in the community center above Lake Louise, these concerts will feature local and regional musicians. Zack Page and Friends is on the calendar for Oct. 22. 

Photo credit: Jason Keefer

Where to Stay While Enjoying Asheville Music Events

Visitors looking for a place to stay while checking out the local music in Asheville might want to consider the Downtown Asheville Modern Retreat in the trendy South Slope brewing district.   This modern retreat is conveniently located near Rabbit Rabbit, the Orange Peel, Asheville Musical Hall, the Salvage Station and the Grey Eagle – all within walking distance. 

So, are you ready to rock? Check your calendars, grab your tickets, and book your stay.

 

Asheville’s culinary landscape offers a kaleidoscope of flavors that range from the weird and wonderful to the trendy and obscure.  Its choices of places to eat and drink are impressive and most visitors will need to return again and again to discover all that this funky “Foodtopia” has to offer. 

Places to Eat in Asheville

It’s difficult to pick just a few, but here are some that top our list: 

Tastee Diner: This restaurant’s tagline is “Comfort food for the curious and adventurous.” Are your tastebuds ready to get turned inside out? Chef Steve Goff and his crew will get the job done.  

Tastee Diner's Chef Steve Goff

Chef Steve Goff, owner Tastee Diner

Cucina 24: The chef here works diligently to meld the traditional philosophies of Italian cooking with ingredients sourced from the mountains.  Four-course family meals are a fun way to sample a few different things. 

The Bull and Beggar: Sure, you can get a fabulous double patty burger and fries here, but you may want to reserve that order for their sister locale – Baby Bull. The Bull and Beggar serve some top-end steaks, seafood towers and oysters to die for – though we’re pretty sure you’ll want to live to eat some more. 

Vivian: You’ll find the perfect balance of European flavors and Southern heritage when you book a table here. The chef was primarily influenced by his grandmother who threw lavish Julia Child-like dinner parties when he was growing up. 

Vivian Asheville

Crudo! Raw golden tilefish from the coast, butter-poached shrimp, charred onion, and orange juice. Photo: Vivian Facebook

Neng Jr’s: A relative newcomer to Asheville’s food scene, this 17-seat café brings a taste of the Philippines to Asheville. Getting a reservation may be a challenge, but it’s well worth the wait. 

Curate: James Beard award-winning chef, Chef Katie Button, has been welcoming people through her restaurant doors since 2011. Spanish tapas is served in a warm and lively atmosphere. And, her nearby La Bodega is a smaller Spanish-style restaurant, bakery and market. 

Table: This “New American” gem is the brainchild of chef Jacob Sessoms, a two-time James Beard award nominee.  He offers many American classics with a Southern twist. 

Wineries, Cideries, Breweries – oh my!

One thing’s for sure, you’ll never go thirsty when you visit Asheville. 

Beer time: While spots like Wicked Weed and Highland Brewing often top tourists’ lists, there are more than 40 breweries where you can wet your whistle. And speaking of whistles, the Whistle Hop Brewing Company has a train-themed taproom and outdoor playground for all ages. 

Wine not? If beer’s not your bag, Asheville is home to some top wine spots too. Bottle Riot has an extensive wine list, imports beers, spirits and small bites. Pleb is another wine lover’s destination and offers flight experiences in a relaxed environment. You can also visit their winery and learn about their sustainable growing practices or have a tasting at the Aventine –across from the Grove Arcade. 

Private Wine “Sips with a Somm!” Looking for that extra special experience to top off the vacation? Melissa Ward is our top local wine sommelier offering private wine tastings. With Melissa’s skilled guidance and fabulous personality — you’ll want to pack her up and take her back home with you. Contact Melissa here.

Cocktails anyone? Cultivated Cocktails takes you from the distillation process through the cocktail creation. And, Antidote’s setting is reminiscent of an old apothecary and claims to be “the cure for the common cocktail.” Its gin distillery, Chemist Spirits, is right next door.    

Cider and mead, please. As the first cider producer in Asheville, Noble Cider is a fun place to sample craft cider, wine, hard cider spritzers, and mead. And, the Botanist and Barrel offer up an extensive menu and eclectic flights. 

Take a Farm or Food Tour 

Asheville Food Tours is the original walking food tour of downtown Asheville and they offer a variety of choices. For cheese lovers, the WNC cheese trail is the perfect pick. Visit a few or try them all. Or, maybe you’re more into mushrooms – the edible kind that is. Alan Muskat is the creator of “No Taste Like Home” and has been teaching people how to forage for food, specifically mushrooms, for more than 20 years. 

Have Fun at a Food Festival 

Chow Chow was founded in 2019 by some of Asheville’s most renowned chefs. It’s designed to be an immersive four-day experience of tastings and workshops in the heart of downtown Asheville. And, Eating Asheville hosts an elaborate wine and food festival – one of the largest of its kind. Both are ideal places to discover local chefs and sample some of the region’s best food and drink. 

Learn to Cook Something New

A cooking class is also a fun way to enjoy the Asheville food scene and Cottage Cooking is not your average cooking school. They focus on small format classes of up to six and all classes are held in the hosts’ home. They have more than 20 menus and most classes include an appetizer, entrée and dessert. 

Indulge in Chocolate 

No culinary roundup would be complete without chocolate. The French Broad Chocolate Lounge and the Chocolate Fetish never fail to satisfy that sweet tooth. 

For a comprehensive list of places to eat and drink, food tours and food festivals, visit https://www.exploreasheville.com/things-to-do/tours/culinary/ to get the full scoop on the fabulous Asheville food scene and make sure to book your Inspired Getaway. 

 

Your goosebumps may begin the minute you drive through the historic entry gate and continue on the drive up the winding, wooded driveway to the magnificent Biltmore House. Every year, teams of local elves spread their holiday magic across the 8,000 acres of the sweeping Biltmore Estate grounds. Visitors come from far and wide to see America’s largest private home transformed with miles of glittering grandeur.

America’s Largest Private Home

Christmas at Biltmore — surrounded by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains in Asheville, North Carolina — is their most popular time of year. Timed-entry tickets sell out quickly. Your team at Inspired Getaway ensures you get tickets and an entry time for this event when you stay at a participating vacation property. Christmas at Biltmore runs from early through the first week in January.

Photo credit via Facebook: @Biltmore

What Is Christmas at the Biltmore Estate All About?

The landmark Biltmore House is the centerpiece of any visit. Built for famed magnate George Vanderbilt and his family, the estate comes alive at Christmastime. During your visit, you’ll experience:

The Vanderbilt family Christmas, a tradition that began in 1895, lives on today. You may amble at your own pace through the expansive house, with a complementary audio guide explaining the history of each room. Decorating at Biltmore is different every year. It takes an entire year to plan and execute. 

Photo credit via Facebook: @Biltmore

What Can I Expect When I Visit Americas Largest Private Home?

A hallmark of any holiday visit is the immense Christmas tree installed in the grand Banquet Hall. The raising of the tree is the most anticipated event of the season — in 2022, the team purchased a 35-foot Fraser fir, brought from a mountaintop in nearby Avery County.

Dedicated crews pull out all the stops to give you an unforgettable experience. Biltmore House offers two different experiences:

What Else Can I Do at the Biltmore Estate?

In addition to the grand Biltmore House, your entry ticket to the grounds entitles you to participate in other activities around the Estate, such as:

If you’re looking for more to do at Biltmore, packages include lodging, specialty tours, events and spa services. Traveling exhibits occasionally come to the Biltmore House too, such as the Downton Abbey collection in 2020 and the Leonardo da Vinci immersive, multi-sensory exhibit in 2022.

Photo credit via Facebook: @Biltmore

How Much Does It Cost to Visit Biltmore at Christmas?

All tickets to Christmas at Biltmore include complimentary parking, the audio guide, access to the grounds and wine tasting. The prices vary, depending on the date you book and what’s included in the package. Ticket prices begin at $99.

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, consider a day or a weekend that includes Christmas at Biltmore. Contact Inspired Getaway to recommend the best times to visit and secure tickets to one of America’s time-honored traditions.

The Blue Ridge Mountains draw tourists every year because they’re glorious all year round. Asheville, the population hub of Western North Carolina (WNC), is nestled in the heart of these mountains. The Blue Ridge Parkway rolls through blue-grey peaks and green valleys. Wondrous views greet you around each bend in the road. But the region also offers an opportunity to explore local vineyards and delve into your favorite finds.

The mountains of WNC provide an idyllic climate for growing grapes. The rich, cool night air, coupled with the humidity needed for a vineyard to thrive, provides the perfect storm for great wine. While the Biltmore Estate in Asheville is the most toured winery in North and South America, you can discover other local vineyards throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains.

There are 60 wineries within a short driving distance of Asheville, so you’re sure to find one — or more — to make your personal favorites. Whether you live in one of the glorious mountain homes around Asheville or just like to visit the area wine country, you can end almost every day sipping wine at a different vineyard.

What Are the Exceptional Vineyards and Wineries Near Asheville?

You can find many vineyards in and near Asheville that produce excellent vintages, as Western North Carolina produces many award-winning wines. A few of the vineyards and wineries worth mentioning include:

Burntshirt Vineyards. Their Tasting Room and Bistro near Chimney Rock Village boasts magnificent views of Chimney Rock and Hickory Nut Falls. The actual vineyards and winery are in Hendersonville, where they have another tasting room. Burntshirt offers tours and tastings within an hour’s drive from Asheville.

Marked Tree Vineyard. This vineyard is in Flat Rock, which is also less than an hour’s drive from Asheville. They have a satellite sipping space in Asheville called The Grape.

Mark your spot at Marked Tree Vineyard

St. Paul Mountain Vineyards. Located in Hendersonville, this farm is a working vineyard and orchard. They offer award-winning wines and hard cider for your pleasure.

Grandfather Vineyard & Winery. A family-operated winery near Boone, it sits at the base of the unforgettable Grandfather Mountain in Banner Elk, NC. A visit may require a day trip, as Banner Elk is about a two-hour drive from Asheville.

Sip the Blue Ridge at Grandfather Vineyard & Winery

Silver Fork Vineyard & Winery. Huddled among the mountains, this Morganton winery is an event destination, so it offers a beautiful backdrop for enjoying the full flavor of its wines. Morganton is a bit over an hour’s drive from Asheville.

Mountain Brooks Vineyards. This award-winning winery is situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Tryon. It’s not even an hour’s drive away and it’s well worth the trip.

Parker-Binns Vineyard. Also in Tryon, NC near the Tryon Equestrian Center Resort, Parker-Binns is a lovely vineyard that is now over 30 years old and is a family-run winery. You’ll be impressed with the green rolling hills, rocking chairs and delicious wine produced right there on the property.

Biltmore Estate Winery. This famous winery is located in the heart of Asheville on the park-like grounds of the Biltmore Estate. Against the backdrop of the mountains, it’s one place you don’t want to miss.

Why Is Asheville and Its Vicinity a Great Vacation Spot?

The Blue Ridge Mountains attract every kind of traveler to its nooks and crannies. From whitewater rafting and extreme hiking enthusiasts to art and wine lovers, there’s something for everyone. Exceptional vineyards and wineries are abundant throughout WNC. So if you’re a local wine lover or you’ve traveled a far distance, welcome to your heaven.

Explore and discover it all if you’re so inclined. Sip and taste the fermented grapes as you enjoy a sunset from your front porch. Enjoy that bottle of wine you bought at your favorite winery after a long day of shopping. Plan a picnic at one of the many waterfalls that grace these mountains. Or sip some wine while basking in the hot tub at your vacation condo. Anyway, if you enjoy the vineyards near Asheville, you’ll be glad you came.

 

 

If you’re looking for an unforgettable mountain escape in the Blue Ridge Mountains, visit the Grove Park Inn in Asheville, NC. Sitting atop Sunset Mountain, it faces the city and neighboring peaks and pinnacles. It’s a historic inn built into the side of the mountain that’s designed for relaxing in the fresh mountain air.

Asheville’s mild climate makes it a great travel destination year-round. When you visit the Omni Grove Park Inn, you can count on first-class service, natural beauty and a location that’s been enjoyed over the years by many famous and historical figures.

What Makes the Grove Park Inn Memorable?

Photo credit via Facebook: @omnigroveparkinn

The Omni Grove Park Inn is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for good reason. It’s a massive hotel with luxurious rooms and breathtaking views. Other amenities that make the Grove Park Inn memorable include:

Photo credit via Facebook: @omnigroveparkinn

At the Grove Park Inn, you can enjoy a truly magical experience with quiet meditation by a roaring fire or activities such as a ride on a horse-drawn carriage or a rousing game on the legendary 18-hole Donald Ross championship golf course. And don’t forget to spend some time visiting the many unique gift shops at The Marketplace and Grovewood Village.

Photo credit via Facebook: @omnigroveparkinn

Which Historical Figures Have Stayed at the Grove Park Inn?

Walk the halls in the footsteps of an array of trailblazers and historical figures. From movie stars and country singers to first ladies and grand dames, the Grove Park Inn has been a constant in the celebrity world for decades. The hotel’s history includes visits by presidents, authors and other luminaries such as:

Author F. Scott Fitzgerald lived there for about a year while struggling with alcoholism and tuberculosis. His wife Zelda was hospitalized nearby for schizophrenia.

Can I Visit the Grove Park Inn if I’m Not a Guest?

As an Inspired Getaway guest, your visit to the Grove Park Inn can be arranged to suit your schedule with dining reservations at one of the hotel’s exclusive restaurants, or ELDR in the nearby Grovewood Village, golf dates and shopping excursions to fill your free time. Some of the things you can enjoy when you’re not an overnight guest include:

Photo credit via Facebook: ELDR Restaurant

Whether you’re looking for stunning views, history, comfort or convenience, you’ll find it at the Omni Grove Park Inn. Contact Inspired Getaway to book your upcoming stay in one of our modern, green-home rentals today, complete with special days and evenings at the Grove Park Inn.

Feature Image photo credit via Facebook: @omnigroveparkinn, The Omni Grove Park Inn

Asheville offers some memorable vacation experiences. The mountain scenery and cool summer temperatures are simply icing on the cake because the Western North Carolina region offers so many things to do. Your options include sightseeing, hiking and ziplining.

The North Carolina Arboretum, located just south of Asheville, provides well-groomed trails and beautiful gardens of native species. Educational programs, seasonal events, biking trails, photography, winter lights and garden exhibits make your visit worthwhile as you commune with nature. Other enticements include:

What Are Some Specific Features of the Arboretum?

This park sits within the Pisgah National Forest. It features easy hiking paths that include Bent Creek Road, Old Mill Trail and Wolf Branch Road, all of which are shorter than 1.5 miles. The Arboretum also has tougher hiking trails if you’re up for it. You can also find biking trails of various levels of difficulty.

ArborEvenings, a weekly event, includes live music, performances by numerous regional and local artists, and delicious food. It’s free for Arboretum Society members and for visitors who pay the standard parking fee. The parking fee runs from $16 for a passenger car to $100 for a large bus. Except for certain events, there’s no extra entrance fee to visit the Arboretum. Parking discounts include:

What Else Does the NC Arboretum Offer?

The NC Arboretum has 65 acres of maintained gardens to delight your senses. Wildflowers at the Arboretum and Bonsai Exhibition Garden always attract a crowd. The gift shops, educational sessions and guided programs offer something for every nature lover.

The Arboretum sits within the Bent Creek Experimental Forest, also part of the Pisgah National Forest. The nearby Bent Creek area is 6,000 acres of recreational forest that doubles as a research center. Broaden your nature experience in Western North Carolina with a visit to Bent Creek for:

Why Choose Inspired Getaway in Western North Carolina?

Inspired Getaway has concierge services for short-term vacation rental properties. Bringing together the best quality rental properties into one easy-to-access and easy-to-rent website, Inspired Getaway provides an exclusive experience and discounts for guests. The company includes rentals near Asheville and the Arboretum, making you feel at home with:

Whatever your reason for visiting Western North Carolina, Inspired Getaway properties suit your budget and taste. They help you find the perfect vacation home, from a rustic cabin to a luxurious downtown condo. For an experience of a lifetime, contact Inspired Getaway. 

 

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