Shortly before fall in Asheville and the Great Smoky Mountains, thousands of Monarch butterflies pass through the Asheville area as they migrate south to Mexico. The butterflies travel more than 2,000 miles on their journey, and we're fortunate that Western North Carolina is right along their route! When to see Monarch butterflies in Asheville, NC From the middle of September and
From late October to early November (varies slightly each year), lower elevations around the Asheville area feature stunning color, which you can enjoy on these late-season scenic drives. Since the color changes happen often, visit our weekly leaf reports to stay up-to-date on the most colorful foliage. Reems Creek Valley Follow US Highway 19/23 north from Asheville to the New Stock Road exit 21.
Discover charming Black Mountain Located just 15 miles from downtown Asheville, Black Mountain is well-loved for its old-time southern hospitality, small-town charm and unique dining. Locals call it the “Front Porch of Western North Carolina” because it welcomes you to the region with its small-town flavor. Although it shares many traits with Asheville as a friendly and vibrant
Sweeten Up to Asheville’s Honey Culture Asheville is bee heaven. They buzz through local gardens, orchards and honey festivals and are celebrated throughout town. From restaurants to shopping excursions, bees keep Asheville’s honey culture humming. Honey in the Mountains Golden honey drizzled on biscuits and a glass of sweet tea are the cornerstones of a good Southern meal.
Getting Personal With Some Blue Ridge Boutiques Asheville’s emergence as a national destination is nothing new for this bohemian mountain city. At the turn of the 20 th century, Asheville was a favorite playground of America’s rich and famous. Look past its landmark buildings, however, and you’ll find a rich collection of eclectic B&B accommodations, many with a secret or
Experience a Popular Hike Series in Black Mountain, NC A group of hikers tops a ridge, puffing a bit at the incline. As they straighten and look up, pure blue skies open to sweeping views of the mountains surrounding the Swannanoa Gap. The Swannanoa Rim™ Hiking Series has once again lured serious hikers to walk trails whispering 12,000 years worth of human secrets. During this annual hiking
Find a New Statement Piece, or Even Make Your Own Artists creating jewelry in our mountains are inspired by nature’s forms and seasons and practice centuries-old techniques in metalsmithing to create unique, one-of-a-kind keepsakes. Ranging from traditional to cutting-edge contemporary, many of the area’s jewelry artists sell their work all over the country through national retailers,
Follow Your Ears to Asheville’s Hot Sounds Wander through Asheville and you’ll hear music in every nook and cranny. A bluegrass fiddler on the sidewalk, an indie rocker at a club and an old-timey jam session at a bar are equally at home here. Immerse yourself in Asheville’s live music scene with this handpicked list of the city’s top music spots. Busker Street Life Serenade
Enjoy Tasty Mountain Charm With an Artistic Twist It is easy to fall in love with Black Mountain. The charming downtown is packed with top-notch restaurants, art galleries and unique shops. Rockers line the streets, begging you to take a break and sit a spell. Beyond the store fronts, rolling mountains seem to perfectly circle the small town -- reminding you of this truly special location known as
