Originally Posted by
uncertaintraveler
I'm considering spending 3 or 4 days in Asheville--probably in early October, and probably from a Tuesday to a Saturday. However, aside from the Biltmore Estate, what in the world is there to do in Asheville?
The town seems to get a lot of press, but the press is typically vague on the "must see/do" details. Accordingly, any advice or suggestions are welcome.
Thanks.
The answer to that question depends, of course, on what your interests are.
Some of the things Asheville has in abundance:
It is surrounded by hundreds of thousands of acres of national forest and national parks with waterfalls, mountaintop vistas, hiking, camping, rafting, mountain biking, fishing, and much more. Early October is the beginning of the fall foliage season, with the best color in the higher elevations (5000 feet and above) at that time.
There are festivals in and around Asheville in abundance. October's biggest are the LEAF festival and the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands, both Oct. 16-19.
In recent years Asheville has become a major center for craft beer. I think there are about 18 craft breweries in the area now.
We also have become somewhat of a foodie destination with all kinds of new restaurants popping up all the time.
Asheville has been a center for arts and crafts for over a century. There are lots of galleries and craft schools around here.
Asheville is full of music, dance and other creative arts all the time. Again, it mostly depends on what your interests/tastes are.
By the way, October is the peak of tourist season here. So, finding a hotel room at this late date may be difficult.