19 Fun & Free (or cheap) Things to do in Asheville
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
11. Browse the unique local shops at The Grove Arcade
The Grove Arcade is a luxurious shopping/dining complex located in the heart of downtown. First off, the historic art deco architecture is truly stunning and draws you in from the street. Second, there are about a dozen shops to explore inside specializing in regional art and local souvenirs. Explore the huge used book selection at Battery Park Book Exchange. For a budget friendly treat, splurge on some homemade beignets with chocolate dipping sauce at Bebette’s New Orlean’s coffeeshop. Also be on the lookout for special events, particularly the Winter Wonderland festival.
12. Get back to nature at the Beaver Lake Bird Sanctuary
Enjoy a quaint nature stroll at the under visited Beaver Lake Bird Sanctuary. This is one of the most laid-back parks to spend an hour or 2 out in nature. The trails here are easy and short, so great for anyone looking to bird watch and/or get in a quick light workout. Guided bird walks are offered on the first Saturday of every month. Check out this handy bird checklist which you can print out for your visit.
Location: 1020 US-25, Asheville, NC 28804. Hours: Dawn-dusk
13. Get in some healthy exercise at French Broad River park
This pretty riverside park is a great place to take a jog, bike ride, or leisurely walk. The 3 mile long Greenway is the perfect distance for a short workout. The mature trees and river views provide a picturesque setting for any nature lover. It tends to get a bit busier than the other parks, so get here earlier on in the day if you are seeking peace and quiet. As a bonus, there is a fabulous dog park here with separate spaces for big and small dogs!
Location: 508 Riverview Dr, Asheville, NC 28806. Hours: 7am-9pm
14. Take a self-guided city architecture tour
The Asheville Urban trail is a great place to start if you are an architecture/history lover. Although there are numerous city trolley, pedaler tours, etc., the budget friendly route to go is walking the 1.7 mile Urban Trail. Along this route, you will cover much of the city’s unique history as you stroll past historic buildings, prominent figures, various art works, and more. Pictured above is Cat Walk.
15. Go leaf peeping
The Western North Carolina region is no stranger to incredible fall foliage. In fact, the area sees one of the longest and most colorful fall seasons in the country. The weather is usually perfect (highs in the 60’s-low 70’s) and there are so many trails to choose amongst, all of which are blazing with the hues of fall each October. I was really impressed with the color: it competes with New England in my opinion. Catawba Falls really is an amazing trail, and so close to the city. Not only will you get your fill of leaf peeping, but you will also come across one of the area’s most stunning waterfalls. The North Carolina Arboretum (pic above) is also amazing this time of year.
More great fall color hikes near Asheville
Location: 3074 Catawba River Rd, Old Fort, NC 28762 (Catawba Falls), 20 Frederick Law Olmsted Way (North Carolina Arboretum).
