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Downtown Asheville

The city of Asheville [1] is nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and Great Smoky Mountains in Western North Carolina. Asheville boasts pleasant year-round weather and serves as the county seat of Buncombe County. The city has a population of approximately 75,000 and is the largest city in Western North Carolina, the ninth largest city in the State. Asheville is also part of the four-county Asheville metropolitan statistical area, the population of which was estimated by the Census Bureau in 2006 to be 398,009.

[edit] Understand

Asheville is known as a liberal, artsy community. This "Paris of the South," has also been described as the "San Francisco of the East," "New Age Mecca," and "Land of the Sky." It's a city of which Rolling Stone magazine dubbed "America’s New Freak Capital." But Asheville is by no means simply a haven for Hippies and 'Out There's', as Money magazine has called Asheville one of the "Best Places to Retire," and AARP cites it as one of the "Best Places to Reinvent Your Life." Self magazine proclaims Asheville as America’s "Happiest City." PETA lists Asheville as "America's Best Vegetarian-Friendly Small City." Author Lee Pantas, in his guidebook The Ultimate Guide To Asheville & The Western North Carolina Mountains says it all in describing Asheville "as a city not easily forgotten once visited". From its titles alone one can easily see that Asheville is the place to go to see diversity in action.

[edit] Climate

Template:Climate Asheville has four distinct seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter. Year-round, the average relative humidity in the morning is 90% and in the afternoon is 58%. Summers are mild and afternoon thunderstorms are not uncommon. In the fall (peaking in October), the area is very popular with "leaf lookers", people who visit Asheville and the surrounding mountains to see the area's splendid foliage. Winters are generally mild and major snow storms are rare- usually the area receives multiple snow flurries averaging an inch or two at a time, normally melting off in a day or two.

[edit] Get in

[edit] By plane

The Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) [2] offers jet and commuter service on Continental, Delta, DayJet, Northwest, and US Airways; direct flights are available from Atlanta, Charlotte, Cincinnati, Detroit, Gainesville, Harrisburg, Houston, Minneapolis, Myrtle Beach, Newark, and Orlando. It is located fifteen miles south of downtown Asheville near the town of Fletcher. Ground transportation and major rental car companies are available at the airport terminal.

Flights into Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP) [3] located in Greenville, South Carolina, Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) [4] located in Charlotte, North Carolina, or McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) [5] located in Knoxville, Tennessee, are sometimes cheaper than flying directly to Asheville. Greenville is about a 1.5 hour drive, Charlotte and Knoxville are both about 2 hour drives.

[edit] By train

The closest Amtrak train station to Asheville is in Greenville, South Carolina or Spartanburg, South Carolina.

[edit] By car

Asheville is located at the junction of Interstate 26 and Interstate 40, with an I-240 connector that passes through downtown. Mountainous, curvy, and scenic sections of highway are found along the interstates in all four directions while traveling into Asheville. The Asheville area is also served by 10 US and state highways. The Blue Ridge Parkway has four primary accesses in Asheville at US 25, US 70, US 74A & NC 191.

[edit] By bus

Asheville is serviced by <listing name="Greyhound Bus" alt="" directions="" address="2 Tunnel Rd" phone="+1 828 253-8451" email="" fax="" url="http://www.greyhound.com/" hours="Daily 8AM-9PM" price=""></listing>

[edit] Get around

[edit] By car

A car is definitely your best bet. Street parking is metered Monday through Saturday, 8AM–6PM at $1 per hour. Street parking is free on Sundays, evenings and official city holidays (New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas). In addition to street and garage parking, there are several surface lots throughout downtown.

There are three parking decks, accessible 24 hours a day. Attendants are on duty 10AM–7PM Monday through Friday.

• Civic Center Garage - First hour free & $0.50 per hour thereafter. Daily maximum $4. After hours rate is $1 per exit.
• Rankin Avenue Garage - First hour free & $0.75 per hour thereafter. Daily maximum $6. After hours rate is $1 per exit.
• Wall Street Garage - First hour free & $0.75 per hour thereafter. Daily maximum $6. After hours rate is $2 per exit.

[edit] By taxi

Within the City of Asheville, fares are as follows: For the initiation (drop) of the meter - $2.50; For each one-tenth mile after initiation - $0.25; For each passenger in excess of two - $2.00; For each two minutes of waiting time or fraction thereof after the first two minutes - $0.40

• <listing name="Airport Limousine & Taxi Service" alt="" directions="" address="" phone="+1 828 253-3311" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price=""></listing>
• <listing name="Beaver Lake Cab Co" alt="" directions="" address="" phone="+1 828 252-1913" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price=""></listing>
• <listing name="Jolly Taxi" alt="" directions="" address="" phone="+1 828 253-1411" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price=""></listing>
• <listing name="Metro Cab" alt="" directions="" address="" phone="+1 828 254-1155" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price=""></listing>
• <listing name="New Blue Bird Taxi Co" alt="" directions="" address="" phone="+1 828 258-8331" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price=""></listing>
• <listing name="Red Cab Co" alt="" directions="" address="" phone="+1 828 232-1112" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price=""></listing>
• <listing name="Yellow Cab Co" alt="" directions="" address="" phone="+1 828 252-1913" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price=""></listing>
• <listing name="Your Cab" alt="" directions="" address="" phone="+1 828 259-9904" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price=""></listing>

[edit] By bike

Bike rentals are available at Self-guided tour routes, maps and guidebooks are available for bicycle rides on the area forest lands, on the Blue Ridge Parkway and around downtown Asheville.

All buses in the Asheville Transit System are equipped with bike racks.

[edit] By bus

Asheville Transit [6] provides bus service that is regular but infrequent outside of downtown; inside downtown walking is almost always faster. Buses run from 6AM-11:30PM Monday through Saturday. Routes radiate from the Transit Center, located downtown at 49 Coxe Avenue next to the U.S. Post Office. Bus fare is $1 for adults and $0.50 for seniors and handicapped individuals. A "fare-free" zone exists in the downtown area containing almost all of the businesses, restaurants and attractions of downtown. Riders can take any bus in the system within the Free Zone at no charge.

[edit] See

[edit] Architecture

Asheville is nationally renowned for its unique architecture, especially downtown and around the Biltmore Estate. The city suffered greatly during the Great Depression, and consequently little development happened during the time. This actually had a positive effect, as the city's famous Art Deco Architecture of the Roaring 20's was saved from destruction. Therefore, today, Asheville boasts the nations most complete collection of Art Deco structures. Other architectural styles, of course, are present in abundance throughout the city; from the Neo-Gothic Jackson Building "Skyscraper" to the Modern BB&T Tower.

Buncombe County Courthouse

• <see name="Battery Park Hotel" alt="" address="1 Battle Sq" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price="">A 14-story building faced with brick, limestone and terra cotta trim with a Mission Revival style roof, erected in 1924.</see>
• <see name="The Biltmore Estate" alt="" address="1 Approach Rd" directions="" phone="1-800-624-1575" email="" fax="" url="http://www.biltmore.com" hours="" price="Adults $29-$49, Youth price half-admission, Children 9 and under are free">A French Renaissance-inspired chateau; with over 250 rooms, it is the largest single family home in the U.S. and the largest privately-owned house in the world, just a few minutes outside the city and should be on any visitor's itinerary. Basic admission includes access to the fabulous gardens, stables, expansive hiking trails, vineyards and self-guided house tour.</see>
• <see name="Buncombe County Courthouse" alt="" address="60 Court Sq" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="M-F 8AM-6PM" price="">Completed in 1928, the outside features complex setbacks, window groupings and overlay of Neo-Classical Revival ornamentation. The Neo-Classical interior lobby contains a sweeping marble staircase, bronze and glass screens, a coffered ceiling with ornate plasterwork and a mosaic tile floor.</see>
• <see name="The City Building" alt="" address="" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/bu/?id=ashevillecityhall-asheville-nc-usa" hours="" price="">Designed by Art Deco architect Douglas Ellington and completed in 1927, the City Building is constructed out of Georgia Pink marble, brick, and terra cotta. The steeped, octagonal shaped roof is the logo of the City of Asheville.</see>

Asheville City Hall

• <see name="Drhumor Building" alt="" address="" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price="">The Drhumor (pronounced "drummer") is a boldly detailed, Romanesque Revival style building constructed in 1895.</see>
• <see name="Flat Iron Building" alt="" address="20 Battery Park Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 258-3999" url="http://flatironbldg.com/" hours="8AM-5:30PM" price="" lat="" long="" email="" fax="">A uniquely triangular shaped building bordering Wall Street and Battery Park Avenue constructed in 1926.</see>
• <see name="Grove Arcade" alt="" address="1 Page Ave" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.grovearcade.com/" hours="M-Sa 10AM-6PM, Su 12PM-5PM" price="">Commissioned by Dr. E. W. Grove, the Grove Arcade is an elaborate Tudoresque building occupying an entire city block. It is particularly worth noting, as it was, when it was built in 1927 by architect Charles N. Parker, one of the nation's most unique and interesting buildings. On each side of this city landmark, four giant arches allow entrance into the building. On the main side facing the equally impressive Victorian Battery Park Hotel, are two monumental gryphons, guarding the entrance into the expansive interior, which features oak shopfronts, spiral staircases, and opulence around every corner. Today, it serves as as an influential public market with several restaurants, vendors, and mountain craft shops.</see>
• <see name="Grove Park Inn" alt="" address="290 Macon Ave" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.groveparkinn.com/" hours="" price="">Completed in 1913, this historic resort hotel is an important example of the Arts and Crafts style.</see>
• <see name="Jackson Building" alt="" address="" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/bu/?id=jacksonbuilding-asheville-nc-usa" hours="" price="">Bordered by South Market Street and South Pack Square, completed in 1925. A Neo-Gothic style skyscraper complete with gargoyles and a bell tower.</see>
• <see name="Masonic Temple" alt="" address="80 Broadway St" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price="">Features robust brickwork and a tall portico of paired Ionic columns. A three-story, blind arched window is on its Woodfin Street side.</see>
• <see name="S & W building" alt="" address="52-58 Patton Ave" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price="">Another Art Deco masterpiece designed by architect Douglas Ellington.</see>
• <see name="Thomas Wolfe House" alt="" address="48 Spruce St" directions="" phone="+1 828 253-8304" email="" fax="" url="http://www.wolfememorial.com/" hours="Tu-Sa 9AM-12PM, Su 1PM-5PM" price="">A sprawling frame Queen Anne-influenced house immortalized in the epic autobiographical novel Look Homeward, Angel by Thomas Wolfe.</see>
• <see name="Vance Monument" alt="" address="" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.emporis.com/en/wm/bu/?id=222991" hours="" price="">Stands about 10 stories high, in the middle of Pack Square, Asheville's version of Times Square, Place de la Concorde and Piccadilly Circus. It is the heart of both downtown and the entire city.</see>
• <see name="YMI Building" alt="" address="at the corner of South Market and Eagle St" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="M-Sa 10AM-5PM" price="">A simplified English Tudor Cottage style with pebble-dashed walls, red brick quoin trim, multi-pane windows and hipped roofs.</see>

Churches:

Basilica of St. Lawrence

• <see name="Basilica of St. Lawrence" alt="" address="97 Haywood St" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.saintlawrencebasilica.org/" hours="" price="">Designed and built in 1905, the Basilica is on the National Register of Historic Places and was elevated in status to a Minor Basilica in 1993 by Pope John Paul II. Features the largest freestanding elliptical dome in North America. This place is gorgeous and a must-see.</see>
• <see name="Central United Methodist Church" alt="" address="27 Church St" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price="">Erected in 1902, the imposing limestone church presents Romanesque Revival style massing and forms, but the detailing more closely reflects the Gothic Revival style. A five-bay loggia, set between two pinnacled towers, fronts the large, gable-roofed auditorium.</see>
• <see name="First Baptist Church" alt="" address="5 Oak St" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price="">In Art Deco/Romantic style, Douglas Ellington's first big commission in Asheville. A beautiful distinctive dome with a copper cupola cap.</see>
• <see name="First Presbyterian Church" alt="" address="40 Church St" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.fpcasheville.org/" hours="" price="">Commissioned in 1884, the Gothic Revival style brick nave and tower feature deep-corbelled cornices, hood-molded windows and blind arcading at the eaves.</see>
• <see name="Mt. Zion Baptist Church" alt="" address="47 Eagle St" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price="">A redbrick late Victorian Gothic church featuring a tin-shingled roof where three towers are topped by ornamental sheet-metal finials. A large number of Art Glass windows ornament the towers and walls. Built in 1919.</see>
• <see name="St. Matthias Episcopal Church" alt="" address="1 Dundee St" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price="">A Gothic-style building with a gable roof nave. The brick walls are laid with a darker shade of headers presenting a horizontal texture to the building's surface on every face. The interior contains a rich display of well maintained dark woodwork fashioned in various Gothic motifs. The pulpit, lectern, altar and other furnishings are all original to the church and are decorated with trefoil arch panels, quatrefoil incisions and other Gothic elements.</see>
• <see name="Trinity Episcopal Church" alt="" address="60 Church St" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.trinityasheville.org/" hours="" price="">Designed in 1912, the Tudor Gothic Revival style brick building with granite trim features a simple, gable-roofed sanctuary with transepts and a short corner tower.</see>

[edit] Art galleries

• <see name="16 Patton" alt="" address="16 Patton Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 236-2889" email="" fax="" url="http://www.16patton.com" hours="Tu-Sa 10AM-6PM, Su (May-Oct) 1PM-6PM" price="">Features original contemporary fine art by southeastern artists including paintings, sculpture, glass, ceramics and fine craft.</see>
• <see name="American Folk Art & Framing" alt="" address="64 Biltmore Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 281-2134" email="" fax="" url="http://www.amerifolk.com" hours="M-Sa 10AM-6PM, Su 12PM-5PM" price="">Represents southern folk and visionary artists, as well as regional potters who adhere to the folk pottery traditions.</see>
• <see name="Appalachian Craft Center" alt="" address="10 N Spruce St" directions="" phone="+1 828 253-8499" email="" fax="" url="http://www.appalachiancraftcenter.com" hours="M-Sa 10AM-5PM" price="">Authentic mountain handicrafts including pottery, face jugs, quilts, mountain-made toys and handmade rugs.</see>
• <see name="Ariel Gallery" alt="" address="46 Haywood St" directions="" phone="+1 828 236-2660" email="" fax="" url="http://www.arielcraftgallery.com" hours="Tu-Su 11AM-6PM" price="">A contemporary craft cooperative featuring handmade work of renowned local artists. Original works in clay, fiber, furniture, glass, metal, jewelry and book arts.</see>
• <see name="Asheville Area Front Gallery" alt="" address="11 Biltmore Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 258-0710" email="" fax="" url="http://www.ashevillearts.com/" hours="Tu-F 10AM-5PM, Sa 11AM-3PM" price="">Owned and operated by the Asheville Area Arts Council, provides exhibition space for established and emerging local artists.</see>
• <see name="Asheville Gallery of Art" alt="" address="16 College St" directions="" phone="+1 828 251-5796" email="" fax="" url="http://www.ashevillegallery-of-art.com" hours="M-Sa 10AM-5PM" price="">A partnership of 29 professional, regional artists offering original two-dimensional works from representational to abstract.</see>
• <see name="Bella Vista Art Gallery" alt="" address="14 Lodge St" directions="in Biltmore Village" phone="+1 828 768-0246" email="" fax="" url="http://www.bellavistaart.com/" hours="M-Sa 10AM-6PM, Su 12AM-3PM" price="">Representing local, national, and international emerging artists. Focused on Art that will last for generations.</see>
• <see name="The Bender Gallery" alt="" address="57 Haywood St" directions="" phone="+1 828 225-6625" email="" fax="" url="http://www.thebendergallery.com" hours="M-Sa 10:30AM-6PM, Su 12PM-5PM" price="">Premier studio glass gallery featuring a variety of glass disciplines by regional and national artists.</see>
• <see name="Black Mountain College Museum & Art Center" alt="" address="56 Broadway St" directions="" phone="+1 828 350-8484" email="" fax="" url="http://www.blackmountaincollege.org" hours="W-Sa 12PM-4PM" price="">Explores the history and legacy of Black Mountain College.</see>
• <see name="Blue Spiral 1" alt="" address="38 Biltmore Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 251-0202" email="" fax="" url="http://www.bluespiral1.com" hours="M-Sa 10AM-6PM, Su (April-Oct) 12PM-5PM" price="">Presents contemporary Southeastern fine art and crafts.</see>
• <see name="BoBo Gallery" alt="" address="22 Lexington Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 254-3426" email="" fax="" url="http://www.bobogallery.com/" hours="" price=""></see>
• <see name="Crucible Glassworks" alt="" address="106 N Lexington Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 236-0920" email="" fax="" url="http://crucibleglassworks.com/" hours="" price="">Handmade glass art.</see>
• <see name="The Fine Arts League of Asheville" alt="" address="362 Depot St" directions="" phone="+1 828 252-5050" email="" fax="" url="http://www.fineartsleague.org" hours="M-F 10AM-5PM" price="">Realist artists and features figure drawings, portraits, landscapes and still lifes.</see>
• <see name="Flood Gallery" alt="" address="109 Roberts St" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.floodgallery.org/" hours="" price="">Seeks out art that is provocative, challenging, daring, relevant, and important.</see>
• <see name="Gallery Minerva" alt="" address="12 Church St" directions="" phone="+1 828 255-8850" email="" fax="" url="http://www.galleryminerva.com" hours="M-Th 11AM-6PM, F-Sa 11AM-8PM, Su 1PM-5PM" price=""></see>
• <see name="Grove Arcade Arts and Heritage Gallery" alt="" address="1 Page Ave" directions="in the Grove Arcade, Suite 115" phone="+1 828 255-0775" email="" fax="" url="http://www.grovearcade.com/index.php?cat=20&page=50" hours="M–Sa 10AM-6PM, Su 12PM-5PM" price="">Features regional crafts with an emphasis on wood, jewelry, fiber and clay as well as a selection of Cherokee crafts.</see>
• <see name="The Haen Gallery" alt="" address="52 Biltmore Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 254-8577" email="" fax="" url="http://www.thehaengallery.com" hours="Daily 11AM-7PM" price=""></see>
• <see name="Jewels That Dance" alt="" address="63 Haywood St" directions="" phone="+1 828 254-5088" email="" fax="" url="http://www.jewelsthatdance.com" hours="M-Sa 10:30AM-6PM and Su in December 1PM-5PM" price="">Premier jewelry gallery and working studio. Featuring contemporary and classic fine jewelry.</see>
• <see name="Kress Emporium" alt="" address="19 Patton Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 281-2252" email="" fax="" url="http://www.thekressemporium.com" hours="M-Th 11AM-6PM, F-Sa 11AM-7PM, and Su in season 12PM-5PM" price="">Featuring more than 100 distinguished artists and craftspeople, all showcased in the historic Kress Building.</see>
• <see name="K2" alt="" address="59 College St" directions="" phone="+1 828 250-0500" email="" fax="" url="" hours="M-Sa 11AM-6PM, Su 12PM-5PM" price="">The Kress Emporium's sister gallery.</see>
• <see name="Larson Porcelain & Design" alt="" address="1 Page Ave" directions="in the Grove Arcade, Suite 140" phone="+1 828 350-7707" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price="">Heirloom quality porcelain by artist-potters Julie and Tyrone Larson.</see>
• <see name="Merrimon Galleries" alt="" address="365 Merrimon Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 252-6036" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price="">Classic and contemporary oils, photography and sculpture.</see>
• <see name="Mountain Made" alt="" address="1 Page Ave" directions="in the Grove Arcade, Suite 123" phone="+1 828 350-0307" email="" fax="" url="http://www.mtnmade.com" hours="M-Sa 10AM-6PM, Su 12PM-5PM" price="">Featuring the work of over 80 Western North Carolina artisans.</see>
• <see name="Odyssey Gallery" alt="" address="238 Clingman Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 285-9700" email="" fax="" url="" hours="F 10AM-4PM or by appointment" price="">Features functional and sculptural work by national ceramic artists.</see>
• <see name="Olga Dorenko Fine Art Gallery" alt="" address="1 Battle Sq" directions="" phone="+1 828 225-4148" email="" fax="" url="http://theolgadorenkofineartgallery.com/" hours="Tu-Sa 10AM-5PM" price="">Features work from Russian born artist.</see>
• <see name="Overstrom Studio" alt="" address="35 Wall St" directions="" phone="+1 828 258-1761" email="" fax="" url="http://www.overstrom.com" hours="Tu-Sa 10AM-6PM, Su 12PM-4PM" price="">The working studio, gallery, and loft of internationally recognized jewelry designers Michael Overstrom and Susan Overstrom.</see>
• <see name="Pura Vida" alt="" address="39-B Biltmore Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 439-5451" email="" fax="" url="http://www.pura-vida-asheville.com" hours="" price="">Offers a strong blend of local and regional artists.</see>
• <see name="Red Square Gallery of Russian Art & Culture" alt="" address="7 Rankin Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 225-8777" email="" fax="" url="http://www.redsquareart.com" hours="Tu-Sa 11AM-7PM" price="">Work by Russian artists.</see>
• <see name="Satellite Gallery" alt="" address="55 Broadway St" directions="" phone="+1 828 505-2225" email="" fax="" url="http://www.thesatellitegallery.com" hours="Tu-Su 11AM-6PM" price="">Contemporary artists with roots based in the urban and pop counter cultures.</see>
• <see name="Studio Chavarria" alt="" address="84 Walnut St" directions="" phone="+1 828 236-9191" email="" fax="" url="http://www.studiochavarria.com/" hours="Tu-Sa 9AM-6PM by appointment only" price="">An exclusive members-only salon and gallery of fine art.</see>
• <see name="Vadim Bora Gallery & Studio" alt="" address="30 1/2 Battery Park Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 254-7959" email="" fax="" url="http://www.vadimborastudio.com" hours="Tu-Sa 11AM-6PM" price="">European salon style gallery features works from international artists hand-picked by painter, sculptor, and owner Vadim Bora.</see>
• <see name="Vitrum Gallerie" alt="" address="10 Lodge St" directions="" phone="+1 828 274-9900" email="" fax="" url="http://vitrumgallerie.abdstudios.com/" hours="M, W-Su 10AM-6PM, Su 1PM-5PM" price="">Contemporary glass art.</see>
• <see name="Woolworth Walk" alt="" address="25 Haywood St" directions="" phone="+1 828 254-9234" email="" fax="" url="http://www.woolworthwalk.com" hours="M-Th 11AM–6PM, F-Sa 11AM-8PM, Su 11AM–5PM" price="">More than 150 exhibiting artists and artisans selling and making jewelry, fine art, decorative art and crafts in nearly 20,000 square feet of air-conditioned, quality display and studio space.</see>
• <see name="YMI Cultural Center" alt="" address="39 S Market St" directions="" phone="+1 828 252-4614" email="" fax="" url="http://www.ymicc.org" hours="Tu-F 10AM-5PM" price="">Houses numerous exhibits, many dealing with the history of African Americans in Western North Carolina.</see>

[edit] Museums

• <see name="Asheville Art Museum" alt="" address="2 S Pack Sq" directions="" phone="+1 828 253-3227" email="" fax="" url="http://www.ashevilleart.org" hours="Tu-Th 10AM-5PM, F 10AM-8PM, Sa 10AM-5PM, Su 1PM-5PM" price="Adults $6, Students/Seniors $5, Children under 4 are free. Free admission the first Wednesday of every month 3PM-5PM">A collection of the very best of 20th and 21st century American art.</see>
• <see name="Colburn Gem and Mineral Museum" alt="" address="2 S Pack Sq" directions="" phone="+1 828 254-7162" email="" fax="" url="http://www.colburnmuseum.org/" hours="Tu-Sa 10AM-5PM, Su 1PM-5PM" price="Adult $4, Senior/Student/Child $3, Children under 4 are free"></see>
• <see name="The Health Adventure" alt="" address="2 S Pack Sq" directions="" phone="+1 828 254-6373" email="" fax="" url="http://www.health-adventure.com/" hours="Tu-Sa 10AM-5PM, Su 1PM-5PM" price="Adult $7, Senior/Student/Child $5, Children 2 and under are free">A health and science museum dedicated to improving health awareness, promoting wellness lifestyles, and increasing science literacy through programs and exhibits.</see>
• <see name="The Smith-McDowell House Museum" alt="" address="283 Victoria Rd" directions="" phone="+1 828 253-9231" email="" fax="" url="http://www.wnchistory.org/" hours="Th-Sa 10AM-4PM, Su 12PM-4PM" price="Adult $7, Child $3, Children under 5 are free">Asheville’s first mansion and oldest surviving structure.</see>
• <see name="WNC Nature Center" alt="" address="75 Gashes Creek Rd" directions="" phone="+1 828 298-5600" email="" fax="" url="http://www.wildwnc.org/" hours="Daily 10AM-5PM" price="Adults $7, Seniors $4, Youth $3">A living museum exhibiting plants and animals that are native to the Southern Appalachians.</see>

[edit] Do

[edit] Tours

[edit] Festivals

[edit] Live music

[edit] Theatre

• Asheville Community Theatre, [7]. A volunteer-driven community theatre.
• Asheville Contemporary Dance Theatre, [8]. Western North Carolina's first modern dance company. A diverse repertory reflects both traditional and experimental forms of modern dance.
• Asheville Lyric Opera, [9]. Productions of opera, operetta, and musicals, performed in the company’s home, the Diana Wortham Theatre.
• Asheville Symphony, [10]. Presents seven full orchestra concerts a year at the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium in the Asheville Civic Center.
• Diane Wortham Theatre, [11]. Located within the Pack Place Education Arts and Science Center on Pack Square, the theatre offers live performances of music, theatre and dance by nationally touring artists and professional regional arts groups.
• enigmatic theatre company, [12]. Asheville's only theatre company dedicated exclusively to the production of new work. Typically produces two-three full length works or collections of one-acts per year.
• Montford Park Players, [13]. Free Shakespeare and other classic plays held at the Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre in Montford.
• North Carolina Stage Company, Stage Lane across from Zambra Restaurant off of Walnut Street, +1 828 350-9090, [14]. Asheville's only professional theatre. Voted Best Local Theatre by readers of Mountain Xpress for four years running. Winner George A. Parides Award for Outstanding Professional Theatre, North Carolina Theatre Conference. NC Stage Company, now in its sixth season, has something either in rehearsal or performance 49 out of 52 weeks.

[edit] Outdoors

Hiking:

The Blue Ridge Parkway

Climbing:

Fishing:

Rafting:

Riding:

Skateboarding:

[edit] Sports

[edit] Yoga

[edit] Buy

Asheville does not necessarily have a specific commercial district but rather it resembles a long line, curving through the mountains. Beginning directly west of downtown, Merrimon Avenue has many low density restaurants and small shopping strip malls. It is the typical American shopping street and many locals consider it “The Strip.” As you move east towards the city-center, the modern Merrimon Avenue merges with Patton Avenue (which is considered the city’s ‘Main Street’), forming an immediate contrast between the old and the new. Patton Avenue then directly cuts through the center of downtown, ending at the city’s heart, Pack Square, home to the Vance Monument, located directly in front of City-County Plaza.

Surrounding this area, Downtown, you will find many boutiques, cafes, museums, and interesting historical buildings. At the eastern end of downtown, a tunnel is carved directly into Sunset Mountain. The recently renovated street leading out of downtown and into the mountain goes into the edifice as College Street and comes out as Asheville’s most celebrated shopping street, Tunnel Road.

Tunnel Road is very commercial and hosts mostly large corporate chains. Recently, construction has boomed along this stretch, and reaching towards the skies above the restaurants and stores you will see some brand new hotels. Finally, Tunnel Road transitions into South Tunnel Road, which is home to the city’s main mall and smaller chain shopping centers. This area of town is not at all touristy, and prices are average and intended for locals.

At the end of South Tunnel Road there is a vast shopping center that extends across the Swannanoa River and up over the mountain, eventually overlooking the Industrial district, containing a relatively new and quite controversial shopping complex along the river, having the city’s Super Walmart as its flagstore. It was built upon the rubble of the abandoned Sayles-Biltmore Bleachery, which used to bleach paper for the US Treasury's currency manufacture.

Downtown Asheville is full of neat and quirky shops and prides itself on the lack of corporate chain stores. Spend some time exploring downtown (it's very walkable) and see what you can find. Here are some highlights:

• <buy name="The Grove Arcade" alt="" address="" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.grovearcade.com" hours="" price="">A newly-restored and exquisite building built by E.W. Grove, who also designed the Grove Park Inn in the 1920s. It is filled with specialty food markets, restaurants, and local mountain craft stores.</buy>
• <buy name="Malaprop's Bookstore & Cafe" alt="" address="55 Haywood St" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.malaprops.com/" hours="" price="">An independent bookstore with a good selection and an open mind. Great staff recommendations. Grab a book or bring your own and relax in the cafe with coffee and a sandwich.</buy>
• <buy name="Mast General Store" alt="" address="15 Biltmore Ave" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.mastgeneralstore.com/" hours="" price="">Has an old-fashioned to modern day assortment of products. Old-time candy in barrels to hiking and camping equipment and apparel.</buy>
• Lexington Avenue is one of Asheville's hippest streets. For your music needs visit Static Age Records, specializing in vinyl, punk rock and heavy metal. Instant Karma [15] and the Octopus Garden specialize in smoking accessories along with a wide variety of other products. Hip Replacements [16] has some great vintage clothing, while up the block Spiritex [17] offers a wide variety of sustainably produced clothing. Buy a used book or read the newspaper or a magazine at Downtown Books and News. Get a tattoo at Liquid Dragon [18], and stop by one of the many restaurants on Lexington for a quick bite. On the next block up is the Chevron Trading Post [19] for all of your beading needs, and Tops for Shoes [20], the biggest shoe store in Asheville. While many wonderful stores and hot spots along this street are facing increasing pressure from landlords who want to "gentrify" the area, Lexington is still the best place to get a taste of Asheville's counterculture.

Biltmore Village [21] Just South of Asheville's downtown, and right outside the gates of the Biltmore Estate is the quaint village built around the 1890's called Biltmore Village. It is easily accessed from I-40 (Exit 50). A number of small independently owned retail stores which have carved out specialty niches can be found intermingled with restaurants beneath the shade of the tree-lined streets. Recently, National Specialty stores and a boutique Hotel have begun construction there. Of particular note are the following:

• <buy name="New Morning Gallery" alt="" address="" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.newmorninggallerync.com/" hours="" price="">Probably the best collection of regional Arts and Crafts in Western North Carolina. The gallery features ceramics, glass, jewelery and furniture from local Appalachian artisans. It is located in front of Bella Vista Art Gallery [22]</buy>

River Arts District [23] Wrapped along the river, and visible from the bridge over the French Broad River (i.e. from I-240 or Patton Ave.) is an enclave of Art Studios, Galleries, and restaurants that is still not quite user-friendly but accessible to the adventurous. Some worthy points of interest are:

• The Old Cotton Mill Building [24] Owned by Marty and Eileen Black and inhabited by a mixed group of artists and studios.
• The Phil Mechanic Building [25] Cutting edge Galleries, artists and a Bio-diesel plant can be found if you wander around inside the old building. Jolene Mechanic, the owner, is a great resource for getting to know the area.
• 240 Clingman [26] This was originally a warehouse. Right after the Katrina Hurricane it was turned into a gallery by the owners of Bella Vista Art Gallery [27]. After they left, Jonas Gerard, from Miami, took over the space. He was featured on 20/20 and has some eye-popping art on display, and for sale.
• The Wedge Filled with little art galleries, artists, a brewery, fine porcelain [28] and mechanical dinosaurs is interesting but not for the timid.

Head away from downtown and visit the WNC Farmer's Market [29] for a huge selection of locally grown and produced crops 'n' crafts. You could spend hours and still not see everything.

[edit] Eat

[edit] Budget

Downtown:

North:

West:

South:

[edit] Mid-range

Downtown:

West:

South:

[edit] Splurge

Downtown:

North:

South:

[edit] Drink

Liquor is available by the drink in Asheville, but if you want to buy liquor by the bottle you must do it at state-run ABC (Alcoholic Beverage Commission) stores rather than at a traditional liquor store. If you plan to explore nearby counties keep in mind Madison County (to the north) and Yancey County (to the northwest) are "dry counties" and prohibit all alcoholic beverage sales. Open containers of alcohol are never permitted on the street; if you order a beverage you must finish it before leaving the restaurant or bar. Beer and wine are available for purchase at most markets, grocery stores and gas stations. The alcohol laws of the state prohibit the sale of alcohol after 2AM Monday through Saturday, and from 2AM until noon on Sundays. Pick up a copy or check the website of the local alternative newsweekly Mountain Xpress for an up-to-date, detailed guide for what is going on at each bar and club for the night.

Downtown:

• <drink name="Asheville Brewing Company" alt="" address="77 Coxe Ave" directions="" phone="" url="http://www.ashevillebrewing.com/" hours="" price="" lat="" long="" email="" fax="">This APBC satellite location has their locally-brewed beers on tap and full liquor bar, an outdoor movie screen and piles of board games. 'Silent DJ's' every Saturday at 11PM.</drink>
• <drink name="Barley's Taproom" alt="" address="42 Biltmore Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 255-0504" email="" fax="" url="http://www.barleystaproom.com/" hours="" price="">A popular destination with an expansive variety of excellent beers, local, regional, and continental. 42 beers on tap. Small stage with live music 3-4 nights a week, no cover charge. Upstairs Billiard Room where smoking is allowed after 10PM, with four tables available by the hour.</drink>
• <drink name="Bier Garden" alt="" address="46 Haywood St" directions="" phone="+1 828 285-0002" email="" fax="" url="http://www.ashevillebiergarden.com/" hours="Daily 11AM-2AM" price="">Over 200 beers from around the world.</drink>
• <drink name="BoBo Gallery" alt="" address="22 N Lexington Ave" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.bobogallery.com/" hours="" price="">Combines the best of small club music and dance environments with cutting edge underground gallery concepts.</drink>
• <drink name="Broadway's" alt="" address="107 N Lexington Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 285-0400" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price="">Has 80's music on Wednesday nights.</drink>
• <drink name="Cinjades" alt="" address="22 N Market St" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price="">The best of 80's, 90's, and today.</drink>
• <drink name="College Street Pub" alt="" address="4 College St" directions="" phone="+1 828 232-0809" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price=""></drink>
• <drink name="Charlotte Street Pub" alt="" address="157 Charlotte St" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.charlottestreetgrill.com/" hours="Daily until 2AM" price="">Dark and smoky, with wooden furniture and customers that seem like they've been sitting the same spot for years. Cheap beer.</drink>
• <drink name="Club Hairspray" alt="" address="38 N French Broad Ave" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.clubhairspray.com/" hours="Daily" price="">A gay/lesbian dancebar.</drink>
• <drink name="Fred's Speakeasy" alt="" address="122 College St" directions="" phone="+1 828 281-0920" email="" fax="" url="http://www.fredsspeakeasy.com/" hours="Tu-Sa 4:30PM-2AM" price="">A small club and cigar bar. Karaoke on Wednesdays. Live music Thursdays thru Saturdays.</drink>
• <drink name="The Frog Bar" alt="" address="76 Haywood St" directions="corner of Haywood St and Battery Park" phone="+1 828 254-9411" url="http://www.flyingfrogcafe.com/frogbar.html" hours="" price="Infused cocktails $5.50" lat="" long="" email="" fax="">Outdoor and indoor tables, house-made infused liquors.</drink>
• <drink name="Green Man Brewing & Tasting Room" alt="" address="23 Buxton Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 252-5502" email="" fax="" url="" hours="M-F 5PM-10PM" price=""></drink>
• <drink name="Hannah Flanagan's Irish Pub" alt="" address="27 Biltmore Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 252-1922" email="" fax="" url="http://hannahflanaganspub.net" hours="M-Sa 11:30AM-2AM, Su 12PM-2AM" price="">40 different beers on tap, 140 bottles and a full bar. Live entertainment three nights a week plus Sunday afternoons. Nice outdoor deck.</drink>
• <drink name="Hookah Joe's" alt="" address="38 N French Broad Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 252-1522" email="" fax="" url="" hours="Daily 6PM-2AM" price="">Hookah bar with live music and bellydancing.</drink>
• <drink name="Jack of the Wood" alt="" address="95 Patton Ave" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.jackofthewood.com/" hours="M-Sa 11:30AM-2AM, Su 3PM-close" price="">Serves its own locally-brewed Green Man Ales on tap (as well as a limited selection of bottled beers). They supplement this with typical British pub fare.</drink>
• <drink name="New French Bar" alt="" address="12 Biltmore Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 225-6445" email="" fax="" url="http://www.thefrenchbar.com/" hours="Tu-F 3PM-2AM, Sa 11AM-2AM, Su 10:30AM-12AM" price="">Good service, drinks, a fine courtyard and a view of the street.</drink>
• <drink name="Scandals" alt="" address="11 Grove St" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.clubscandals.net/" hours="Th-Su 10PM-3AM" price="">A huge nightclub with 3 dance floors and 4 bars.</drink>
• <drink name="Scully’s Signature Dine and Drink" alt="" address="71 Walnut St" directions="" phone="+1 828 251-8880" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price="">Serves good pub fare and a good selection of beers. They have a cigarette vending machine inside as well.</drink>
• <drink name="Thirsty Monk" alt="" address="50 Commerce St" directions="" phone="+1 828 254-5470 " email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price="">Pub specializing in Belgian beers.</drink>
• <drink name="Yacht Club" alt="" address="87 Patton Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 255-TIKI" url="" hours="Daily 11:30AM-2AM" price="" lat="" long="" email="" fax="">Tiki bar.</drink>
• <drink name="Z Lounge" alt="" address="41 N Lexington Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 255-7550" email="" fax="" url="http://oldeuropeasheville.com/" hours="" price="Cocktails $7-$9">DJ's and live music. Dress Code: No sneakers, tanks, shorts, ballcaps or baggy clothes.</drink>

North:

• <drink name="Asheville Pizza and Brewing Company" alt="" address="675 Merrimon Ave" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.ashevillepizza.com/" hours="" price="">Locally brewed beer at $3.75 a pint.</drink>
• <drink name="Northside Bar & Grill" alt="" address="853 Merrimon Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 254-2349" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price="">A classic sports bar.</drink>
• <drink name="Usual Suspects" alt="" address="791 Merrimon Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 350-8181" email="" fax="" url="" hours="Closed Sundays" price="">A hotspot for many locals with a large crowd of 'regulars', featuring beer and cocktails, a comprehensive wine list full of boutique wines, and a menu ranging from simple pub to more exotic fare. Smoking is allowed, dartboards are in the back.</drink>

East:

• <drink name="French Broad Brewery Tasting Room" alt="" address="101 Fairview Rd" directions="" phone="+1 828 277-0222" email="" fax="" url="http://www.frenchbroadbrewery.com/" hours="Until 8PM" price="">Offers tastings, tours and live music five nights a week in a relaxed, intimate setting.</drink>
• <drink name="Root Bar" alt="" address="1410 Tunnel Rd" directions="" phone="+1 828 299-7597" url="http://www.rootbar.com/" hours="" price="$3-4" lat="" long="" email="" fax="">Home of the original sport of Rootball! A non-smoking bar. Beer only.</drink>

West:

• <drink name="28806" alt="" address="1328A Patton Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 252-5664" url="http://www.28806deli.com/" hours="Th-Sa 5:30PM-10PM" price="" lat="" long="" email="" fax="">Full bar and signature cocktail menu. Winner of the Asheville Citizen-Times 'Best Martini'.</drink>
• <drink name="The Admiral" alt="" address="400 Haywood Rd" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.myspace.com/theadmiralnc" hours="" price="">A divey bar for the 'hipster' crowd. Smoking allowed after 10PM.</drink>
• <drink name="The Rocket Club" alt="" address="401 Haywood Rd" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.therocketclub.net/" hours="Daily 2PM-2AM" price=""></drink>
• <drink name="Tolliver's Crossing" alt="" address="733 Haywood Rd" directions="" phone="+1 828 505-2129" email="" fax="" url=" http://www.myspace.com/tolliverscross" hours="" price="">Irish pub.</drink>
• <drink name="Westville Pub" alt="" address="777 Haywood Rd" directions="" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.westvillepub.com/" hours="Daily 12PM-2AM" price="">A non-smoking bar in West Asheville that also has great food and live music.</drink>

[edit] Sleep

[edit] Budget

[edit] Mid-range

[edit] Splurge

[edit] Bed and breakfasts

Chestnut Hill Historic District:

Montford Historic District:

Other Areas:

[edit] Cabins

[edit] Contact

The area code for Asheville is 828. For calls within the US or Canada, dial 1+area code+number. There are some public pay phones scattered around the city, but they are becoming increasingly rare with the predominance of cell phones. It is not safe to assume you will be able to find a pay phone at any given time. All ZIP codes in the city of Asheville begin with 288. The ZIP code of the downtown area is 28801.

Free wireless hotspots:

• <listing name="Asheville Brewing Company" alt="" directions="" address="77 Coxe Ave" phone="+1 828 255-4077" email="" fax="" url="http://www.ashevillebrewing.com/" hours="" price=""></listing>
• <listing name="Asheville Visitors Center" alt="" directions="" address="36 Montford Ave" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="M-F 8:30AM-5:30PM, Sa-Su 9AM-5PM" price=""></listing>
• <listing name="Buncombe County Courthouse area" alt="" directions="" address="in the City-County Plaza" phone="" email="" fax="" url="" hours="" price=""></listing>
• <listing name="Caffiend" alt="" directions="" address="120 Merrimon Ave" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.myspace.com/caffiendcoffee" hours="Open 24 hours" price=""></listing>
• <listing name="Dripolator Coffeehouse" alt="" address="144 Biltmore Ave" directions="" phone="+1 828 252-0021" url="http://www.dripolator.com/" hours="M-F 7AM-11PM, Sa-Su 7:30AM-11PM" price="" lat="" long="" email="" fax=""></listing>
• <listing name="Malaprops Bookstore/Café" alt="" directions="" address="51 Haywood St" phone="+1 828 254-6734" email="" fax="" url="http://www.malaprops.com/" hours="M-Th 8AM-9PM, F-Sa 8AM-10PM, Su 8AM-7PM" price=""></listing>
• <listing name="The New French Bar" alt="" directions="" address="12 Biltmore Ave" phone="" email="" fax="" url="http://www.thefrenchbar.com/" hours="Tu-F 3PM-2AM, Sa 11AM-2AM, Su 10:30AM-12AM" price=""></listing>
• <listing name="True Confections" alt="" address="1 Page Ave, Suite 147" directions="" phone="+1 828 350-9478" url="" hours="M-Th 8AM-9PM, F 8AM-11:30PM, Sa 9AM-11:30PM, Su 11AM-5PM" price="" lat="" long="" email="" fax=""></listing>
• <listing name="World Coffee Cafe" alt="" address="18 Battery Park Ave" directions="next to the Grove Arcade" phone="+1 828 258-1058" url="http://www.worldcoffeecafe.net/" hours="8AM-10PM" price="" lat="" long="" email="" fax=""></listing>
• <listing name="Asheville Pizza & Brewing Company" alt="" directions="" address="675 Merrimon Ave" phone="+1 828 254-1281" email="" fax="" url="http://www.ashevillepizza.com/" hours="" price=""></listing>
• <listing name="Biltmore Coffee Traders" alt="" directions="" address="518 Hendersonville Rd" phone="+1 828 277-9227" email="" fax="" url="http://www.biltmorecoffee.com/" hours="M-F 7AM-6PM, Sa 9AM-5PM" price=""></listing>
• <listing name="Ideal Market Cafe" alt="" directions="" address="733 Haywood St" phone="+1 828 258-5393" email="" fax="" url="http://www.theidealmarketcafe.com/" hours="M-Sa 8:30AM-5PM" price=""></listing>

US Post Offices:

• Downtown: 33 Coxe Ave. M-F 7:30AM-5PM, Sa 9AM-1PM.
• North: 725 Merrimon Ave. M-F 8AM-5PM, Sa 9M-1PM.
• South: 780 Hendersonville Rd (Suite 7). 8AM-5:30PM, Sa 9M-1PM.
• East: 1141 Tunnel Rd (Suite C). M-F 8AM-5:30PM, Sa 9AM-1PM.
• West: 1302 Patton Ave. M-F 8AM-5PM, Sa 9M-1PM.

[edit] Get out

View from Grandfather Mountain on the Blue Ridge Parkway

A thirty-mile drive south to Flat Rock will bring you to the Flatrock Playhouse [30] where dramas, comedies, and musicals are shown April through December. Also in Flat Rock is the Carl Sandburg Home. This historic site consists of a 22 room house, barns, sheds, rolling pastures, walking trails, two small lakes, ponds, flower and vegetable gardens, and an orchard.

A thirty-mile drive west to Waynesville during the last weeks of July will bring you to Folkmoot [31], a festival of song and dance staged by performance groups from around the world.

The town of Brevard, an hour drive southwest, hosts the Brevard Music Festival [32] each summer. Lasting almost two months, a variety of musical events ranging from grand operas and symphony orchestras to Broadway musicals and pop concerts as well as renowned guest artists are featured.

A 45 minute drive north brings you to the Hot Springs Resort and Spa [33]. Reserve the jacuzzi-style tub of your choice, all individually enclosed and private. Bring a bottle of champagne and spend an hour or two. Hot Springs also has a few campgrounds and is passed through by the Appalachian Trail.

The Cradle of Forestry [34] located about 20 miles southwest of Asheville off U.S. Highway 276 in the Pisgah National Forest in Transylvania County. Visitors will find a number of hiking trails in the area. Open 9AM-5PM, mid April through the end of October. $5 for adults, 16 and under free.

A very popular tourist attraction is Chimney Rock Park [35]. Located 25 miles (about a 30 minute drive) southeast of Asheville in scenic Hickory Nut Gorge. It's a privately owned park (not part of the US system) with a fairly high admission fee ($14 for adults as of 2005), but the views are incredible and there are six different hiking trails, ranging in difficulty from easy-to-moderate to moderate-to-strenuous. Open all year.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee and is the country's most visited national park. A variety of trails for hikers of any age or skill level are available.

Gorges State Park [36] is approximately 45 miles southwest of Asheville, located in Transylvania County and joins the North Carolina/South Carolina state line. Gorges State Park has over 80 inches of rain a year making it a temperate rain forest. The plunging waterfalls, rugged river gorges, sheer rock walls, and concentration of rare and unique species makes this a wonderful park to visit.

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