If the natural beauty of the mountains of Blue Ridge Mountains is not enough to keep you busy with sightseeing, then check out all there is to do at The Cradle of Forestry. There are guided tours, restored historic buildings, exhibits, a gift shop and more. Kids will certainly enjoy seeing the restored locomotive and wandering the forest.
One of the crown jewels of Asheville, Biltmore Estate seamlessly chronicles the legendary lineage of the Vanderbilts. Nestled in the sprawling Blue Ridge Mountains, the house was built between 1889 and 1895 by architect Richard Morris Hunt as the summer estate of George Washington Vanderbilt II. At its heart is the Biltmore House, a four-story mansion inspired by the Châteauesque architectural style in France and England. With 250 rooms encompassing 8000 acres (3237 hectares), it is one of the biggest private homes in the country. Replete with furniture, artwork, and antiques that exude grandeur, the house shelters an array of opulent spaces like the enormous Banquet Hall and George Vanderbilt's master bedroom. Complete with carved paneling, gilded ornamentation, and intricate ceiling work, this grandiose house is the epitome of elegance. Fronting the house are the marvelous gardens which have been modeled on Victorian landscaping principles, complete with delightful foliage and blooming colorful flowers. Designated a National Historic Landmark, the house also harbors restaurants, shops, an inn, and a gorgeous winery and a rooftop that affords breathtaking views of its surrounding environs.
At Silvermont Mansion and Park, a 33-room mansion forms the centerpiece of a lush green park around it. Once a home to the Silversteens family, the colonial revival style mansion was built in the early 20th-century. Visitors can access the mansion and see some amazing displays from the bygone era when the family stayed here. The 8-acre (3.23-hectare) property also includes multiple gardens and walking trails within its boundaries. Moreover, tennis courts, a basketball court and a playground are among the few other facilities offered here. Visit this scenic place to enjoy sun, grass and play with your loved ones.
This museum aims at honoring veterans of the U.S military from North and South Carolina so also educating masses about the country’s military history. It showcases exhibits in the form of artifacts, weaponry, uniforms, original newspapers, personal letters, and more. These exhibits give visitors an idea about the risks and challenges involved in the defense profession during war times. It helps people appreciate the real worth of those brave souls who have sacrificed their lives for the nation. This museum operates seasonally. Check their website for more details..
Housed in a 1903 building listed in the National Register of Historic Places, Saluda Historic Depot and Museum is a place to know all about the rail history of this city. It is one of the steepest mainline standard gauge railroads in the country. The museum showcases exhibits showing different aspects related to the railroad’s history from the last 100 years. Number of events are conducted here too. Don’t forget to grab a little souvenir from its gift shop if you visit this place.
This area includes many historical structures from Saluda’s past. Dating between late 19th and early 20th century, these buildings primarily show Late Gothic Revival and Stick style architecture. They house several shops, galleries and cafes in the present day, adding modernity to the old-rustic look of this city. With most of the buildings listed in the National Register of Historic Places, Saluda Main Street Historic District is one of the top attractions in the city.
Located on the banks of Pigeon River, Colonial Theatre was founded in 1924. Set in Keene, this theater showcases a number of plays and musicals. It is also a great place to host weddings, conferences and film festivals. This theater features a stage, modern sound and lights systems, comfortable seating and a well-equipped kitchen.
Church of the Transfiguration is a lovely structure built with the Carpenter Gothic style of architecture. It was erected in 1889 and is spread across an area of 1.7 acres (0.69 hectare). The classy white exteriors with the serene interiors look magnificent and are sure to take you back into time. The structure has been preserved exceptionally well. Services and other religious ceremonies are held in the church till date.
Housed in a 1903 building listed in the National Register of Historic Places, Saluda Historic Depot and Museum is a place to know all about the rail history of this city. It is one of the steepest mainline standard gauge railroads in the country. The museum showcases exhibits showing different aspects related to the railroad’s history from the last 100 years. Number of events are conducted here too. Don’t forget to grab a little souvenir from its gift shop if you visit this place.
Set on the east bank of the stunning Reasonover Lake, Terra Nova Center is a cozy retreat center. This retreat encompasses an area of 200 acres (80.9 hectares). Visitors can indulge in activities like swimming and canoeing on the lake. Guests can also hike along the surrounding wildlife sanctuary and explore the area’s flora and fauna. They offer lodging to those who wish to spend a few days amidst nature.
Opened in 1908, Brevard Lumberyard was established by the Jenkins family. After several restorations, this historic company was converted into an events center. This venue is ideal for indoor and outdoor events like weddings, celebrations, gatherings, fundraisers, prom nights, conferences and more. Covering an area of 5000 square feet (464.5 square meters), its indoor facility can comfortably accommodate hundreds of guests.