More Places to Visit in NCĢ10 Haywood Road, Asheville, NC 28806, Phone: 82 The family that owns and runs the company planted 55 apple trees on their property, but they will have to wait some time to make cider from their own apples. Since Asheville is close to one of the country’s biggest apple growing regions, Urban Orchard makes its ciders exclusively from local apples. It is a great place to learn more about hard cider, such as the fact that cider styles can be traditional Sweet English and Dry Ridge, or try inventive, quirky mixes with berries, hops, vanilla, and even jalapeno peppers. Spacious and relaxed, it is one of very few true cider bars in the country.

The first craft cider tasting room and production company in North Carolina, Urban Orchard is a family-owned production company and tasting room in West Asheville where visitors can taste up to six kinds of apple cider every day. Vending machines provide soft drinks and snacks.ħ5 Gashes Creek Road, Asheville, North Carolina 28805, Phone: 82Īsheville is best known for its craft beer, but Urban Orchard Cider Co. Picnic tables are scattered throughout the park for family picnics. The largest area of the park is the Appalachian Predators exhibit, which is home to red and gray wolves, bobcats and coyotes, while Black Bear Ridge features American black bears, white-tailed deer and a variety of birds of prey. If you are wondering what to do in Asheville with kids, this is a great place to visit. Otter Falls is home to North American river otters and several species of aquatic turtles. The Nature Center has an array of exhibitions showcasing incredible wildlife, including a variety of reptiles, amphibians and small mammals housed in the indoor Appalachian Station. Pack up your car for a road trip and explore 40 of the best NC mountain towns near you below.Home to over 60 species of animals, including black bear, cougar and red wolves, the Western North Carolina Nature Center is a 42-acre zoological park dedicated to connecting and educating people about the fauna and flora of the Southern Appalachian region. The natural beauty of Western North Carolina is at your fingertips! Find a variety of nearby outdoor adventures in any season, including whitewater rafting, kayaking, ski resorts, the Blue Ridge Parkway, waterfalls, hiking trails, and more.ĭon’t miss the mile-high swinging bridge at Grandfather Mountain, the sights and sounds of Linville Falls, and the beautiful mountain vistas you can stay at throughout the area. You’ll find many of the best mountain towns in NC near state parks and national parks, including Pisgah National Forest, Great Smoky Mountain National Park, and many more. Since many cities in the NC mountains are in close proximity, it's easy to visit several in a day trip (see the map at the bottom of the page). Your first stop should be the mountain city's Visitor Center to get insider tips and travel guides to find places that match your interests. Meet some locals, hear some live music, and experience a leisurely day of exploration, just like Mayberry.

Each town has its own personality and many things to do surrounding the Asheville area. When you’re ready for a getaway, explore the picturesque historic Main Streets, friendly shops, general stores, farm-to-table restaurants, breweries, art galleries, antique shops, and other quirky finds. We love exploring our cool, charming small towns in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina.

Best foodie towns near asheville