Western North Carolina is one of the most beautiful places in the country, and there is so much to do and see here! From the great outdoors to historical sites to a variety of entertainment venues, there is a lot to choose from. In fact, the list of fun activities in Western North Carolina is pretty long and can be hard to narrow down. Let’s take a closer look at the top five must see and do things in the area.
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Apple Picking
This is one of the most fun things to do in the fall! It is also a great family activity. Western North Carolina is one of the top apple producing places in the USA, and there are many terrific orchards that allow you to pick your own apples. You get to enjoy the gorgeous mountain scenery and walk among the apple trees! The apples just seem to be a little sweeter when you pick them yourself, too. The orchards have other fun activities, such as play areas for the kids, hay rides, and more. You can also purchase seasonal treats to eat, like apple donuts, homemade jams, local honey, pastries, and many more! With some many orchard to visit in Western NC, we recommend starting with this list of top orchards.
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Flat Rock Playhouse
North Carolina’s official state theater is Flat Rock Playhouse in Flat Rock, NC. Theater goers have enjoyed Broadway caliber shows and talent for generations here. Each season, there are a variety of shows, from drama, to comedy, to musicals, and more. All performances are something the entire family will love. It is such an entertaining locale to visit! If you love theater, then this is definitely the place for you! The main stage performances change each year, but there are yearly staples, like the Christmas holiday show, that return with the season.
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The North Carolina Arboretum
This is one of the most beautiful spots to visit. The flower filled gardens are simply stunning! Located just south of Asheville, the Arboretum is a wonderland to explore, especially in the spring when the flowers begin to bloom. There are more than just flower gardens here, though. Yes, the stars of the show are the garden exhibits, which change with the seasons, but there are also biking and hiking trails, food, activities for kids, and even guided tours. All ages will have fun at The Arboretum.
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Grandfather Mountain
Grandfather Mountain is the highest peak in the Blue Ridge Mountain chain. It is one of the most ecologically diverse areas in the region. Seventy-three rare and endangered species can be found on the mountain, and Grandfather Mountain State Park is part of the United Nations International Network of Biosphere Reserves (www.grandfather.com). There is more to do at Grandfather Mountain State Park than you think. There are wildlife viewing areas, hiking trails for all levels of climbers, guided tours of the mountain, a nature museum, a restaurant, and an incredible mile high swinging bridge, which gives a 360 degree panoramic view!
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Biltmore Estate
Biltmore Estate is by far the number one must see place in Western North Carolina! It is America’s largest home. Biltmore is a European chateau tucked away in the mountains of Asheville, North Carolina! Truly, there is no place else like it in the country. The house alone is just superb, but there is more to the estate than just the chateau. There are dazzlingly beautiful gardens, miles of hiking trails, horseback riding, delicious food, Antler Hill Village and Winery, and even a barn with a petting area. Words just do not do this magical place justice. It is something you just have to experience! Check out our step by step guide to the Biltmore Estate to plan your visit. in a previous post.
Western North Carolina has so much to offer visitors and residents! You can find lots of interesting things to see and do. The top five spots to spend some time, listed above, are places that you do not want to overlook as you explore the magnificent mountains of the area.