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.
16. View the winning entries in national gingerbread competition
The National Gingerbread Competition is the premier holiday event in Western North Carolina. This prestigious competition draws talented artists from across the county and has even been featured on various TV programs. The winning creations are displayed throughout the property each December. Some of these are so extravagant, you will find yourself questioning how it’s possible that each entry is completely edible.
Really, there are some truly creative artists whom enter this competition each year. Despite a crazy parking fee, this extravagant display is worthy of a look. The whole grounds of the resort are decorated beautifully for the season. For a small treat, indulge in a salted hot cocoa by the massive fireplace.
- Location: 290 Macon Ave, Asheville, NC 28804. Note: parking fees apply during the holiday season.
17. Explore the Smokies
Although it is a bit of a drive and will cost you a bit in the gas department, The Great Smokies is one of the only free national parks in the country. It’s also incredibly beautiful and not to mention one of the top spots to see a black bear due to the unusually high concentration. The Cherokee entrance to the park is about an hour and a half drive from Asheville. Consider checking out Clingman’s Dome, the highest point in the Smokies at 6643 feet. The views from the overlook are simply stunning!
Bear sightings are so common! I saw one on my first hike!
Here are a few easy waterfalls hikes to get started!
18. See where the Hunger Games was filmed
Movie buffs will want to make the drive over to the beautiful Dupont State Forest and embark upon the Triple Falls trail. Not only will you get to see 3 beautiful waterfalls via a moderate hike, but you will also get to see a famous Hunger Games filming location. When you arrive at the base of the falls, you may remember the scene from the movie, although it is only featured briefly. While I am not a fan of the movies, I did love this hike!
19. Visit Grovewood Village
After exploring the gorgeous Omni property, head over to adjacent Grovewood Village, Asheville’s best hidden gem. Biltmore Industries weaving and woodworking facilities were once located at this historic site. At the Biltmore Homespun museum, started by Edith Vanderbilt, you will learn how Biltmore Industries became one of the largest producers of handwoven wool.
Admission to Grovewood is free and includes entry into an antique car museum, galleries, a sculpture garden, and the Biltmore Homespun Museum. The setting amidst the tall trees truly is beautiful and relaxing. The outdoor garden is pretty amazing.
Location: 111 Grovewood Rd, Asheville, NC 28804. Hours: 10am-5pm, 7 days a week.
