Free Things to Do in Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville, North Carolina is full of things to do to keep yourself entertained. Most of them cost a pretty penny if you are looking for lots of fun and variety, but if you are looking for those things with a meager budget, I have scoured my hometown for things to do that will not cost you a dime. Some of these things may not be in the direct Asheville area, but are in nearby area, so travel time may be longer, but is still worth it. This is the first article in a series I will write about all the things Asheville has to keep residents and tourists alike, entertained.

Appalachian National Scenic Trail: This trail is a famous trail that runs from Maine down to Georgia, and about 300 miles of this trail run through North Carolina. It was voted the American Favorite National Park in 2003. For more information about this attraction, call: 828-254-3708.

Blue Ridge Parkway Folk Art Center: The 469-mile parkway intersects Asheville at US 25, 70 and 74, and NC 191.The Blue Ridge Parkway's Folk Art Center is located five miles east of downtown Asheville. For more information about this attraction, please call: 828-298-0398.

Mast General Store: This General Store has been restored back to its 1940's splendor and has great items for purchase. For more information please call: 828-232-1883. The Mast General Store has been an Appalachian Mountain institution since 1883.

The Smith-McDowell House Museum: This building was once home to a confederate Major, and friends of the Vanderbilt Family of the Biltmore Estate. The property is now undergoing restoration and is a national Tree Preserve. The grounds also hold the county Civil War Memorial. For more information, call 828-9231.

Waterfall Country: This attraction is a little outside of Asheville, and labeled as being located in Western North Carolina. The French Broad and Davidson rivers fuel many of the beautiful waterfalls that can be seen in the area. Directions to the specific site can be found at: http://www.segetaway.com/NC/Asheville/Attractions_Thingstodo.html Scroll to the bottom of the page, as Waterfall Country is the last listing.

Estes-Winn Auto Museum: This attraction is located in the Heart of Asheville behind the Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa. It proudly boasts a collection of 20 classic vehicles, and is sure to delight any car buff. The downside is that it is only open from April to December each year.

The next article in my series will be things to do with your children in Asheville, North Carolina. From there, we'll cover romantic things to do in Asheville, and Adult Only activities.