Apple Quest is a permanent scavenger hunt for brass apples that was created by a local Henderson County Girl Scout Troop. Apple Quest is a fun free activity for families to explore downtown year-round. Stop by the Visitor Center, 201 S. Main St, to pick-up a brochure, or find it online here.
The Aquarium & Shark Lab by Team ECCO is the only public aquarium in Western North Carolina. It is recognized as the first inland aquarium in North Carolina. The Aquarium houses 20+ displays of tropical fish, eels, stingrays, sea horses, turtles, a touch tank, a 2,000-gallon shark study tank with bamboo sharks and more.
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and a short drive from the Asheville Regional Airport. Our location also provides easy access travel north to one of America’s most epic mansions – The Biltmore Estate – or further to downtown Asheville for wineries, shops, and restaurants.
Barkwells offers vacation rental style housing for dogs and their human companions. The main property has a dog park, a pond for dogs to swim in and people to fish in, dog crates available and private fenced in yards at each unit. This is sure to be a comfortable stay for you and your pooch, as everything here was created with them in mind first.
Due to its unique nature, Barkwells tends to book quickly, so be sure to reserve your accommodation early!
Bearfootin’ Public Art Walk is a whimsical, playful public art display, with the much-loved Bearfootin’ bears of Downtown Hendersonville. For this ‘Bear Hunt,’ follow the map to locate each of the decorated bears along the sidewalks of Main Street from May – October, when they are auctioned off. Each year, a new set of bears line the street.
The Bearfootin’ program is supported by area businesses and individuals, and part of the proceeds of each bear benefits an area non-profit organization. The remainder of the proceeds go back into supporting the Bearfootin’ program. Bearfootin brochures are available at the Visitor Center, located at 201 South Main Street. Click here to see the 2024 Bearfootin’ brochure
At the Bed & Breakfast on Tiffany Hill, you will find casual elegance filled with Southern hospitality. Nestled in the foothills of Western North Carolina, this purpose-built B&B is an ideal place to stay while sightseeing, hiking in nearby DuPont and Pisgah Forests, shopping, touring the Blue Ridge Parkway and Visiting the Biltmore Estate. All guests are treated to a 3 course breakfast and a comfortable yet upscale property to explore. Bed & Breakfast on Tiffany Hill is a proud member of the Southern Living Hotel Collection and the Select Registry. Additionally, guests may enjoy massages in the outdoor pavilion, nature trails on site, and families may take advantage of specially-designed pull-out beds in some rooms for children. Offers lodging packages.
Best Western is an exterior corridor hotel that is conveniently located near Downtown Hendersonville, I-26 at exit 49A, apple country, and the many wonderful attractions Hendersonville and Western NC have to offer.
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**As of 11/7/24,
the National Park Service restored access to nearly 55 miles the Blue Ridge Parkway from:
The Blue Ridge Parkway follows the mountain ridges from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina and Tennessee. The Parkway’s 469 toll-free miles combines natural beauty, mountain forests, wildlife, wildflowers and magnificent views. Located 15 miles north of Hendersonville, a portion of the most famous drive in America weaves through Henderson County. The closest access to the Parkway from Downtown Hendersonville is near the North Carolina Arboretum, at BRP milepost 393.6.
Managed by the National Park Service. Be sure to check out the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center, Folk Art Center and Southern Highland Craft Guild while driving the parkway through the Asheville area.
The Blue Ridge Parkway is known for:
Popular hiking options in the area include:
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Bullington Gardens is a 12-acre, nonprofit horticultural education center offering programs, activities and workshops. The gardens and grounds include a popular fairy garden, a large dahlia garden, therapy garden, shade garden, butterfly garden, perennial borders, native woodland garden, pumpkin patch and herb garden. The grounds also include a half-mile nature trail through the wooded area of the gardens.
Cabin Fever offers 7 cozy cabins on 15 acres located minutes from historic Saluda and beautiful Hendersonville. Step back in time and enjoy a gathering of friends and family on our secluded mountain property. Relax and enjoy our local nature trails, swings, rocking chairs, goldfish pond, playground, horseshoe pit and campfire circle.
Experience one of Western North Carolina’s most peaceful and unforgettable places to say I do!
Cabin Ridge is a scenic, open-air wedding venue atop Sugarloaf Mountain, just 25 minutes from Hendersonville, and 45 minutes south of Asheville. Exchange vows with sweeping Western-facing views, then toast your next chapter as the sun sets and stars emerge over the Blue Ridge Mountains. With delicious, locally sourced, in-house catering, staffing, and bar packages; two comfortable dressing suites; and so many pristine places to relax and retreat, Cabin Ridge is perfect for couples seeking a spacious, nature-inspired, mountain-top wedding experience. We also welcome retreats, reunions, and heartfelt gatherings of all kinds—if it’s worth celebrating, it’s worth celebrating here!
Catalyst Sports provides life changing, community based, adaptive adventure sports for people with disabilities in Western North Carolina, including all gear! They also offer volunteer opportunities to ride along and/or support their events. Regular group meetups are available at the following locations (see website for dates and to sign up)
Check their website for specific dates and locations as this list is growing!
Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park is a still-developing international outdoor destination located just 25 miles southeast of Asheville and nestled in the historic Chimney Rock Village at the foot of the Blue Ridge. It is recognized as one of the Southeast’s most iconic sites and popular travel destinations.
The Park’s 535-million-year-old monolith called Chimney Rock can be accessed via a state-of-the-art elevator or the nearly 500-step Outcroppings Trail. At the top, guests can enjoy 75-mile panoramic views of the Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. The Park features one of the highest waterfalls of its kind east of the Mississippi River, Hickory Nut Falls. Hickory Nut Gorge, one of the state’s most significant centers of biodiversity, is home to 36 rare plant species and 14 rare animal species.
A family and pet-friendly destination for travel groups, weddings and special events, the Chimney Rock section of the Park also hosts innovative educational programs for field trips, scout groups, and summer camps.
Visit chimneyrockpark.com for hours and ticket information.
Comfort Inn Asheville Airport couples inspiring mountain views with the convenience of being close to the airport. Whether you are looking for a great night’s rest before an early-morning flight or relaxing accommodations near many Asheville attractions.
Days Inn Hendersonville hotel near Chimney Rock offers easy access to popular attractions and abundant outdoor recreation. Stay with us and brighten up your visit to the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.
Econo Lodge guests can count on affordable rates and an easy stop on the road in Hendersonville.
The Ecusta Trail is a game changer for outdoor enthusiasts in Western North Carolina. The six-mile paved route follows the old railway line from downtown Hendersonville to the crossroads in Horse Shoe.
The multi-use trail is wide, flat and connects to several shops, eateries, breweries and coffee cafes.
Outside the city limits, the landscape changes to pine forests, bamboo groves, pastoral settings and the rippling waters of Shaw Creek, with the peak of Mount Pisgah visible in the distance.
The Hendersonville Welcome Center is an official trailhead, where folks can park, use the restroom, and learn more about places and things to do along the trail. The trail will eventually extend 19 miles, connecting the downtowns of Hendersonville and Brevard.
Currently, the western terminus of the trail (end of Phase I), is located at The Crossroads, which is home to Root + Bone restaurant and an adjacent rock-n-roll themed bar with outdoor deck.
The following businesses are adjacent to the Ecusta Trail:
These businesses are within a block or two of the Ecusta Trail:
For a list of trail etiquette and regulations, click this link.
Etowah Valley Golf Club is one of North Carolina’s premier golf courses, offering an unmatched golf experience. Etowah Valley Golf Club is certain to offer you an enjoyable golfing experience. Golf near Asheville, North Carolina at its finest
The Fairfield Inn & Suites Asheville Airport/Fletcher is located in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina just a short drive from the Blue Ridge Parkway, Biltmore Estate, Chimney Rock Park, Downtown Asheville and Historic Hendersonville.
Travel with confidence at Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Hendersonville Flat Rock – a hotel with outstanding service for an easy and comfortable stay at an exceptional value. Enjoy the beautiful mountain views and experience all the sights, sounds, and tastes of Western North Carolina.
Located right off I-26 and just a five-minute drive from Asheville Regional Airport and WNC Agricultural Center. Biltmore Park, Sierra Nevada Brewery, Linamar, and Pratt & Whitney are within five miles. It’s nine miles to Biltmore, and less than 15 miles to downtown.
Located right by the I-26/US-64 intersection, three miles from downtown Hendersonville spots like the Hands On! Children’s Museum and Sanctuary Brewing Company. It’s a 15-mile drive to skyline sightseeing at Chimney Rock State Park.
Highland Lake Inn & Resort is poised atop 26 scenic acres on a private lake in the mountains of Western North Carolina. Offers a variety of accommodations, a wealth of amenities, and a one-of-a-kind dining experience. For over a century, this has been a treasured place for people to gather and reconnect. Experience a resort that is rich in history, passionate about the environment, and eager to deliver warm hospitality. Offers lodging packages.
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Our modern, beautifully designed, and comfortable hotel located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains allows our guests to reap all of the benefits of staying in touch with all of the cutting edge conveniences of our high tech world while still enjoying the breathtaking beauty of the Western North Carolina Mountains.
Jackson Park is the largest municipal-owned park in Western North Carolina, covering 220 acres. Managed by Henderson County Parks & Recreation. Popular for birding, basketball courts, an accessible playground, athletic fields, disc golf, mountain biking skills park, walking paths and many picnic areas.
Just 15 minutes from downtown Hendersonville, Jump Off Rock provides one of the grandest panoramic views in Western North Carolina.
The rock is the centerpiece of a small, well-maintained mountaintop park. From the parking area, visitors follow a relatively short, flat path through the park to the rock, which is perched on a west-facing ridge with sweeping views of the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky mountains.
On a clear day, four states are visible – North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Tennessee. It’s also a popular spot to watch gorgeous sunsets.
Throughout the year, Jump Off Rock is utilized for concerts, weddings, group yoga and family picnics.
There are three hiking trials at Jump Off Rock, varying in length and difficulty. The trails dip down and circumnavigate the rock. The Blue Trail is rated as an easy trail and takes about eight minutes. The Yellow Trail is rated moderate and takes around 15 minutes. The Red Trail is the most difficult and the longest.
For a diagram and more information about the trails, see the sign at the edge of the parking area.
The park is open daily, sunrise to sunset. No admission charge. Pets are welcome on a leash, and there is a foot-pump spigot to get water for the pups.
Kanuga was established in 1928 as a mountain retreat for Episcopalian Church groups. It has since evolved into a conference and retreat center, a summer camp, and sanctuary, set on 1,400 peaceful acres. Accommodation options include the inn, which offers traditional hotel-style lodging, historic cottages and rustic guest houses. Offers lodging packages.
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Kenmure offers a wide variety of comfortable accommodations on our Hendersonville rental program from cozy condominiums to luxurious single-family homes. Our rental units are available from a short two-night stay, seasonally or for long-term. Offers event packages and a golf Stay And Play package to those staying at select accommodations.
Lake Julian Park is a family recreational facility located on the banks of 300-acre Lake Julian in Arden, off of Long Shoals Road. Lake Julian Park offers fishing, picnic areas, disc golf, outdoor games, a playground, paddleboats, special event venue rentals, and water access along a picturesque 300-acre public lake.
The top-rated, adults-only, 55+ RV resort in scenic Hendersonville, NC. Your new home away from home in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Lakewood offers a large number of ‘Pull Thru’ RV and trailer parking sites. Simply drive up and instantly set up your home.
Mills River Park is a 48-acre park located at 124 Town Center Dr. Its amenities include 1.25 miles of paved multi-use trail, access to Mills River for splashing and tubing, a dog park, large playground, 2 picnic shelters, many picnic tables and benches scattered throughout, tennis/pickleball courts, basketball courts, a baseball diamond, and more. Mills River Park opens at dawn and closes at dusk. Park Restrooms are open seven days per week, during daylight hours.
The Mineral & Lapidary Museum features the natural beauty of minerals, gems, fossils and artifacts found in North Carolina, in the United States and around the world. Displays include North Carolina minerals, dinosaur egg cluster, English minerals, fluorescent minerals, geodes, petrified wood & large logs, coral, artfully crafted jewelry, gem stones, Cullinan Diamond replicas and a Henderson County Meteorite, on loan from the Smithsonian, are featured displays. Gift shop is open daily. Geode cracking. Free admission!
Conveniently located between Asheville and Historic Hendersonville, just 4 miles from the Asheville Regional Airport. We are in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, just minutes from the Biltmore Estate, Blue Ridge Parkway, Western NC Agricultural Center, Pisgah National Forest, Carl Sandburg Home and Chimney Rock Park.
As an independently owned hotel, we take great pride in anticipating your needs and exceeding your expectations with a level of personal service you just won’t find at other hotels in Flat Rock. Our #1 goal is to provide you with clean and well-maintained lodging along with genuine service and mountain hospitality that is second to none.
North Carolina Arboretum is a member of the University of North Carolina System and spans 434 acres. The Arboretum offers curated gardens, horticultural exhibits, education center, hiking, biking, indoor exhibits, educational events and nature trails are a few of the attractions available to the public. Located 15 miles north of Hendersonville.
The Oklawaha Greenway stretches 3.25 miles, connecting Jackson Park, Patton Park, Berkeley Park, Sullivan Park & William H. King Memorial Park. It is a relatively flat paved trail and is handicap accessible. The Greenway is a 10-foot-wide asphalt path for cyclists and pedestrians. Mileage signs have been installed every quarter of a mile along the trail to help trail users know how far they have traveled and how much farther it is to their destination. Benches, water fountains, and three bicycle FixIt Stations are available along the trail. Blue light phones have been installed along the greenway using grant money from the state Department of Transportation.
The hotel provides a peaceful setting near both city life in Asheville and the area’s natural attractions and activities. We’re close to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Chimney Rock and the Flat Rock Playhouse, which has wonderful performances throughout the year.
Stay at the Quality Inn Asheville Airport, and you’ll be close to the airport and near Interstates 26 and 40. We’re easy to find and easy on your wallet.
Conveniently located just off I-26 and just minutes away from Asheville. Our pet-friendly location near Asheville Regional Airport was designed with your comfort in mind, and we feature thoughtful amenities to brighten your stay.
Convenient to downtown Historic Hendersonville, shopping, restaurants, local breweries, and the interstate. Close to DuPont State Park, Pisgah National Forest, Biltmore Estate, and the Tryon Equestrian Center.
Red Roof Inn coast-to-coast hotels are warm & welcoming, offering a value price and the quality and convenience that travelers demand.
Centrally located in the mountain area of North Carolina, we are 15 miles south of Asheville and 10 miles north of Hendersonville. Asheville RV Park offers your best Asheville camping location providing easy access to all area attractions and cultural events as well as a relaxing atmosphere in which to enjoy your vacation. Asheville lake cabin rentals are available for anyone looking to have a great camping experience. Just because you don’t have a “house on wheels” shouldn’t mean you have to miss out on a quality camping experience.
Downtown Saluda is just a couple of miles away and offers great restaurants, antique shops, and a fantastic park. Historic Hendersonville is a short drive and you can be in Asheville or at the Biltmore House in half an hour.
SKYLARANNA is a tucked-away Resort & Spa with breathtaking views, historic hotel rooms, and cozy cabins. Enjoy a drink at the pool or an elevated dish and a classically crafted cocktail at Elevations Chophouse, located inside the hotel. Guests can enjoy a nature walk on the property and end their day with a relaxing massage, detox in the sauna and steam room, or a soak in the largest hot tub in the city. Whether you are reciting your vows or planning a romantic dinner, SKYLARANNA is the perfect spot to create an unforgettable occasion. Lodging options include 17 cabins and 11 hotel rooms. In the summertime, the pool is open to adult outside guests for a small daily fee.
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The Henderson is a designated National Historic Building that combines old-time charm with modern amenities, located just one block off of the wonderful shopping and dining experiences of Main Street. Built circa 1919 in a Classical Revivalist architectural style, you’ll love the vintage design and details at this inn and the on-site dining at Harvey’s al Fresco restaurant, with award-winning Executive Chef Michael Gilligan. Offers lodging packages.
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A seamless blend of cosmopolitan comfort and refined mountain elegance, The Lodge at Flat Rock offers a guest experience that is second to none. Conveniently located near Hendersonville and Asheville, North Carolina. Offers wedding packages.
Whether work or play brings you to western North Carolina, you’ll find everything needed to recharge and refresh at Wingate by Wyndham Fletcher at Asheville Airport. Off I-26 and less than a mile from Asheville Regional Airport.
Yonder is North Carolina’s premier luxury vacation rental cabin, home and property management firm. With offices in Asheville and Tryon, we offer options for everyone. From quaint 1 bedroom lofts to sprawling 9 bedroom estates for a city or mountain escape.
