Meet Obi-Wan and Olive, two adorable North American river otters that call the WNC Nature Center home. These playful creatures are found in a wide variety of aquatic habitats and can tolerate a great range of temperature and elevations. A river otter's main requirements are a steady food supply and easy access to a body of water. Facts You Otter Know Life expectancy in zoos: 16 years Life
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
The Entries in the National Gingerbread House Competition Go On Display this Year in Asheville for the Holidays. 2023-2024 National Gingerbread House Competition Viewing: Nov. 27, 2023-Jan. 2, 2024 The National Gingerbread House Competition is a favorite Asheville holiday tradition that has taken place for over 30 years. Held at The Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville, this nationally-known
Make the Most of the Multigenerational Getaway In search of the perfect family-friendly vacation destination for kids, parents and grandparents? Look no further. Asheville has something fun and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of age. Visitors have been flocking to Asheville since the 1880s when railroad companies transformed it from a wilderness outpost to a destination for those in search of
Take the Easy Path to Mountain Beauty Asheville is an outdoor lover’s paradise, in large measure because of its many scenic hiking trails. Enthusiasts come from far and wide to explore the Blue Ridge Mountains. However, you don’t have to be a seasoned hiker to enjoy what nature has to offer. Whether you are beginner or simply want an easy nature jaunt suitable for the entire family,
A Fun-Filled Day in Pisgah National Forest The Pisgah National Forest is home to mile-high peaks, countless waterfalls, rushing rivers, endless trails and rich forests covering a mind-boggling half million acres. This vast preserve reaches north and west of Asheville and includes the first tract of land purchased under the Weeks Act of 1911 that led to the creation of national forests in the
From Vintage to Creepy, These Aren't Your Typical Exhibits Looking for a walk on the whimsical side? Take a look at some of Asheville's most pleasantly peculiar museums: Asheville Pinball Museum, downtown Asheville Party like it's 1979 as you play over 30 pinball machines ranging in year of origin from 1960 to 2003. Pay one admission, but play as much as you like. Nine Inch
Waterfalls for All Occasions With hundreds of beautiful cascades near Asheville, where do you begin? Here’s a quick sampler to get you started. These 11 locations represent a diverse range of options, so there’s something for everyone. Tallest: Upper Whitewater Falls Walk a quarter-mile paved trail (accessible for wheelchairs or scooters) to see the mighty Upper
Your Guide to a Wallet-Friendly Weekend Asheville is well known for its splurge-worthy attractions and high-end culinary experiences, but there are just as many options for anyone seeking an affordable getaway to the mountains. Explore everything Asheville has to offer with a weekend itinerary that delivers on experience, but won’t break the bank. Friday 1 p.m. – Lunch at 12 Bones
As one of the countries top mountain bike destinations alongside hundreds of miles of road biking, there is no better way to explore Asheville than on two wheels. Here's a list of places and local businesses that can help you on your way. 1. Flying Bike Tours Enjoy a tour of Asheville on these e-bikes. Geared toward: Anyone who wants to explore Asheville on two wheels! These
