We will share some of the best things to see and do while you are visiting Asheville in the winter. Of course, you will want to visit websites and such to ensure operating hours and any other pertinent information that may apply during your visit.
Top Eight Winter Activities in Asheville
1. The Biltmore Estate
America's largest home, The Biltmore, is steeped in elegance and grandeur. A masterpiece of architecture, this French Renaissance castle is located in the heart of Asheville and the Blue Ridge Mountains. There are 250 rooms total in the house, including 65 fireplaces, 35 bedrooms, and 43 bathrooms.
In addition to the house, the 8,000-acre estate has lovely gardens, woodland walks, and one of the largest collections of azaleas in the nation. One of the most popular wineries in the country is located at Biltmore. Enjoy fine dining, shopping, and lodging as you tour the estate.
Things to do and see while visiting The Biltmore Estate:
- The Biltmore House
- The Gardens
- The Bass Pond and Trails
- The Biltmore Winery
- Antler Hill Village
- Guided Outdoor Adventures
- Guided Horseback Rides
- Dining
- Shopping
2. Grandfather Mountain
Grandfather Mountain offers a mile-high swinging bridge, wildlife habitats, hiking, the Forrest Gump Curve, and the new addition of The Wilson Center for Nature Discovery. The Wilson Center includes state-of-the-art interactive exhibits that educate about the mountain’s surroundings. It also includes a restaurant and shopping.
- Enjoy Outdoor Winter Sports
Winter sports enthusiasts will love Asheville because of its high-elevation mountain peaks and thriving adventure culture. No matter what type of vacation you are planning, there are plenty of outdoor activities for you to choose from.
Here are a few winter sports you can enjoy while visiting Asheville in the winter:
- Skiing
- Snowboarding
- Snow Tubing
- Ice Climbing
- Snowshoeing
- Hiking
- Mountain Biking
- The Adventure Center of Asheville
4. Take a Trolley or Bus Tour
Taking a guided tour on a trolley or bus is one of the best opportunities to learn about Asheville and see the town. Most trolley tours offer hop-on/hop-off tours and are heated with enclosed windows during the colder months making the tour more enjoyable than exploring the town outside in the cold.
5. Winter Hiking
Taking a winter hike has numerous advantages. Since there are fewer other hikers, you'll frequently have the trail completely to yourself. You'll also be able to appreciate the crisp, cool air. Moreover, enjoy the greatest views of the year due to barren trees and clear skies. Even though the higher mountain summits frequently get snow, winter days in the valleys are usually pleasant and ideal for being outside.
A few of our favorite hiking trails are:
- Lover’s Leap Loop Trail
- Moore Cove Falls Trail
- Bearwallow Mountain Trail
- Rattlesnake Lodge Trail
- John Rock Trail
- Grandfather’s Mountain
- Chimney Rock
- Hike or Drive to See Frozen Waterfalls
Frozen waterfalls are a must-see when visiting Asheville. Don’t worry; you don’t have to hike to see all the frozen waterfalls. Looking Glass Falls is an easy-to-see water you and your family can just drive right up to enjoy the frozen beauty.
If you are a fan of The Hunger Games, make sure you stop by Triple and Bridal Veil Falls. These are two of the filming locations. The Last of the Mohicans was also filmed at Bridal Veil Falls.
Linville Falls and Gorge, Rainbow Falls, and Mingo Falls are other breathtaking waterfalls to visit during your Asheville winter stay.
7. River Arts District
If you are a lover of art, you will want to visit the River Art District. You can visit working art studios, admire art, and even take art classes for yourself. The River Art District also has an array of food and drink choices for you to enjoy.
8. Eat, Drink, and Shop
The dining is exquisite in Asheville. So many good quality choices around town. Whether you are there for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, or even dessert, you will not be disappointed. Everywhere you turn are fabulous restaurants with any type of food that you desire.
Wine, beer, or mixed drinks…why, of course! You will find some of the best breweries, wineries, cideries, and distilleries in and around downtown Asheville.
If shopping is what your heart desires while vacationing, you will love the quaint little local shops throughout downtown Asheville. But don’t you worry, Asheville also has some of your favorite shopping chains as well.
Barkwells Vacation Retreat
And don’t forget to plan your vacation to include Winter at Barkwells! We create happy vacation memories for dogs with people who love them by providing exceptional vacation accommodations, fun, and freedom for dogs and their families.
Please contact us today with any questions you may have and to reserve your winter vacation with us.
