Travel Discovery

Best Day Trips from Asheville, NC

Destination: Asheville, North Carolina

    1. The Biltmore Estate
    2. Overview: Start your day with a visit to America's largest privately-owned home, the Biltmore Estate. This 19th-century French Renaissance chateau, built by George Vanderbilt, boasts 250 rooms filled with priceless art and antiques. Surrounded by meticulously maintained gardens designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the estate also offers vineyard tours and wine tastings at its award-winning winery.
    3. Duration: Allow at least 4-6 hours to fully explore the mansion, gardens, and grounds.

    4. Afterwards: Enjoy a leisurely lunch in Antler Hill Village before heading back to Asheville.

    5. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    6. Overview: Venture into the misty peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains, just a short drive from Asheville. The park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers hiking trails for all levels, ranging from scenic strolls to challenging summits. Don't miss the opportunity to witness the diverse wildlife and ancient forests that make this park a nature lover's paradise.
    7. Duration: Plan for a full-day adventure; driving loops and short hikes can be completed within 6-8 hours.

    8. Must-Try: Stop at one of the traditional Appalachian-style restaurants along the way for a taste of Southern comfort food.

    9. Chimney Rock State Park

    10. Overview: Ascend 2,280 feet above sea level to Chimney Rock, an iconic granite outcropping offering panoramic views of Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. A 26-story elevator takes you most of the way up, or you can opt for a heart-pumping climb via stairs. Trails here lead to waterfalls, including the impressive Hickory Nut Falls.
    11. Duration: Allocate about 3-5 hours for exploration and sightseeing.

    12. Highlight: Refuel at the park's snack bar with a classic hot dog while enjoying the breathtaking vistas.

    13. Hiking in DuPont State Recreational Forest

    14. Overview: Discover the stunning waterfalls and lush forests of DuPont State Recreational Forest, a popular filming location featured in movies like "The Hunger Games." Trails like Triple Falls Loop and High Falls offer easy access to multiple cascades, making it a family-friendly destination.
    15. Duration: A half-day hike of around 4 hours should suffice to explore the highlights.
    16. Local Delicacy: Sample local craft beers at one of Brevard's breweries after your hike.