Are you a tourist looking for a unique way to experience Asheville, NC? Well, you are in luck. This city is chock full of things to do. The charming downtown alone can keep you busy for days exploring the shops, boutiques, restaurants, and historical buildings.
If you have a bit of experience getting around Asheville, it's likely that you have seen some of the amazing sights and heard the wonderful sounds that the city has to offer. However, you may be missing out on some of the hidden gems and local spots that are often overlooked by the tourism directories.
To help you experience the best that Asheville, NC, has to offer, we have put together a quick locals guide to help you best see Asheville, NC.
Do You Think You Know Asheville?
Asheville is most notably known for its breweries, historic homes, and beautiful vistas, and for good reason. The Biltmore Estate and Gardens is home to some of the most impressive architecture in all of the United States. The history surrounding Biltmore alone is worth the visit.
If you like beer, many people will point you in the direction of New Belgium or Sierra Nevada, but did you know that there are at least 45 other breweries to check out? And what about the incredible music scene?
Many of these things are often swept under the rug and replaced by major tourist attractions. While these attractions are amazing in their own right, they don't always represent the city of Asheville as well as a destination.
1. Asheville Pinball Museum
Asheville is home to several quirky museums, one of which is the Asheville Pinball Museum. Located in the old Battery Park Hotel downtown, the Museum takes you back in time through different eras of Pinball. Some games date all the way back to the 1940s (which are not playable). The best part is that your entry fee covers unlimited pinball and arcade games.
2. Fleetwood’s
What do a wedding chapel, vintage clothing shop, and bar all have in common? Honestly, not much. However, in the case of Fleetwoods, all of these things come together in this off-the-wall west Asheville haunt.
3. Bob Moog Foundation MiniMoogseum
If you are a musician, you have probably heard of the Moog Synthesizer, which is now assembled in Asheville. Check out this museum, which showcases a collection of Moog synthesizers and other memorabilia.
4. Explore the River Arts District
One of the most unique parts of Asheville is the River Arts District. It would be easy to spend a whole day exploring the area, so make sure to stop by Summit Coffee to fuel up. The RAD exemplifies Asheville’s creative edge, with massive murals covering old buildings that have been converted into art studios and restaurants.
With lessons and demonstrations in glass blowing and ceramics, there are many options to learn how to create art. You may also visit the many artist studios, where artists both live and work.
An awesome, outdoorsy, and active way we love to see the River Arts District is to take an electric bike tour with Flying Bike Tours. You’ll meet local artists and get a front-row seat to watch them practice their craft. The tour will take you off the beaten path, guiding you down bike lanes and bike greenways along the banks of the gently flowing French Broad River as well.
The Wedge, a well-known Asheville brewery that has been bringing people together over delicious beer since 2017, is the place to go if you're seeking decent beer (and food, if you time it right with food trucks).
5. Off The Wagon Dueling Piano Bar
If you are looking for a truly unique experience, check out Off The Wagon Dueling Piano Bar. If you've never seen a dueling pianist play, you and your pals are in for a treat. We are sure that you and your friends and family will have a fantastic time if you're seeking a novel way to spend your night out!
We feature some of Asheville's finest musicians in addition to serving some of the greatest drinks in the city. We invite you to visit our website for further details, or just stop on by!
