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.
The Basilica of St. Lawrence is a basilica which stands tall in the downtown neighborhood of Ashville. Established in 1906 it is said to have one of the greatest domes in North America. The imposing structure of the basilica is inspired by the Spanish Baroque style of architecture. The interiors of the church are equally mesmerizing. Several statues of saints make the interiors enchanting, thereby giving the basilica an ancient feel. The stained glasses on walls and the serene ambiance of the church make the experience worthwhile. Both self-guided and guided tours of the basilica are available for visitors. The Basilica of St. Lawrence is worth visiting for its sheer grandeur.
Visit the Southern Highland Folk Art Center at Milepost 382 along the Blue Ridge Parkway and you will be surely amazed by all the cultural exhibits at this museum. The center explains the history of Southern Appalachian craftsmanship. There are three galleries with changing exhibits, a craft shop, a library, and an auditorium. Several of the thousands of pieces from the guild's turn-of-the-century permanent craft collection can be seen at certain times throughout the year.
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 this hip and vibrant art-centric district near Asheville's downtown, up-and-coming local artists are transforming old factories and warehouses along the French Broad River. The Studio Stroll is the perfect opportunity to learn to throw a pot, work with steel, and paint with watercolors. Artists will show you the secrets of their trades.
Thomas Wolfe, one of the greatest Southern literary icons, once lived here. See the home that Thomas Wolfe grew up in and depicted in his famous novel, Look Homeward, Angel. Though damaged by arson in 1998, much has been restored to the delight of visitors. There are guided tours, trails, outdoor exhibits, monuments, a visitor's center and a gift shop. Each fall, the Thomas Wolfe Festival is held here as well.
Tryon is located less than an hour away from Asheville and if you're in the area, you'll want to see what this tiny town is up to these days. Tryon usually hosts a plethora of recreational and cultural activities. From equestrian and trade shows to concerts, festivals and theater productions, this tiny town packs an entertainment-filled punch. The Tryon Fine Arts Center can be found here.
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.
The Black Mountain Center for the Arts is a hub of culture in Western North Carolina. The Center houses monthly art exhibits in which often includes folk art and the work of local artists. A particular favorite in the community are the featured art classes and workshops that are held here. Although rare, on occasion the Black Mountain Center for the Arts hosts a theater production. Located in the Black Mountain's old city hall, this establishment brings well-appreciated art and events to the local community.
Opened in 1915, Asheville Masonic Temple is set in the city of Asheville. This historic venue is ideal for private and corporate events like weddings, celebrations, conferences and more. It even features a theater that can accommodate hundreds of guests. Events like musicals, plays, concerts and lectures can be held here. They also offer catering services for various events.