As a North Carolina local, my family and I love visiting Asheville and its surrounding areas multiple times a year. Each trip reveals new adventures and cherished memories—and also tends to start a debate in my family about whether we should move there or not! The North Carolina mountains are truly breathtaking and the towns nestled in them are relaxing, yet packed full of adventure! There is just something about the area that draws you in and makes you feel right at home. That’s why I’m excited to share with you the best things to do in Asheville, NC, with kids!
Whether you’re seeking outdoor excitement, educational experiences, or pure entertainment, you will find something in Asheville, NC, that your kids will love! Read on to find ideas for things to do with kids on your next trip to Western North Carolina that are sure to create fun and unforgettable moments for your family! And hey, you may end up just like us, falling in love with the North Carolina mountains, too!
When your done checking out all of the things to do in Asheville, NC, with kids on this list, be sure to take a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway to top off your trip!
Things to Do For Outdoor Adventure With Kids in Asheville, NC
Explore Pisgah National Forest With Kids Near Asheville, NC
Pisgah National Forest is a must-visit for families. With over 500,000 acres, it offers miles of hiking trails, stunning waterfalls, and scenic drives. Kids will love the easy trails and the chance to splash in natural pools. Popular family-friendly hikes include Looking Glass Falls and the Cradle of Forestry, which offers educational exhibits and historic buildings.
FAQ
Q: Are there easy hiking trails in Pisgah National Forest?
A: Yes, trails like the Pink Beds Loop and Moore Cove Falls are perfect for families.
Lake Powhatan Recreation Area
Located within Pisgah National Forest, Lake Powhatan offers fishing, swimming, kayaking, and camping. The surrounding trails are perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. It’s a great spot for a family picnic and some fun in the sun. The lake features a sandy beach area, making it ideal for young children.
FAQ
Q: Can you swim at Lake Powhatan?
A: Yes, there is a designated swimming area with a sandy beach.
French Broad River Tubing and Kayaking
For a thrilling adventure, try tubing or kayaking on the French Broad River. Several outfitters offer rentals and guided tours, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages. The calm sections of the river are perfect for families with younger children, while older kids might enjoy more adventurous stretches.
FAQ
Q: Is tubing on the French Broad River safe for kids?
A: Yes, the calmer sections are very safe for kids and families.
North Carolina Arboretum
Families can explore 65 acres of cultivated gardens and trails, learn about native plants, and enjoy interactive exhibits. Special events like campfire stories and nature workshops make it an engaging outing for kids. Don’t miss the Bonsai Exhibition Garden and the EcoLab.
FAQ
Q: Are there interactive exhibits for kids at the North Carolina Arboretum?
A: Yes, the EcoLab and various seasonal exhibits are designed to engage children.
Asheville Treetops Adventure Park: Kids Favorite in NC
For a high-flying adventure, try the Asheville Treetops Adventure Park. It features over 60 unique climbing, swinging, walking, jumping, and rappelling challenges on a self-guided obstacle course with varying difficulty levels. There’s also a KidZip, specifically designed for younger adventurers.
FAQ
Q: Is the Asheville Treetops Adventure Park suitable for young children?
A: Yes, the KidZip is perfect for younger kids, while the main park has courses for all skill levels.
Carrier Park
One of Asheville’s largest parks, Carrier Park offers playgrounds, picnic areas, sports facilities, and a paved trail for biking and skating. The French Broad River Greenway runs through it, providing paths for walking and biking. There’s also a large lawn for flying kites and playing games.
FAQ
Q: What activities are available at Carrier Park?
A: Carrier Park offers playgrounds, sports facilities, picnic areas, and trails for biking and walking.
Educational and Interactive Experiences For Kids in Asheville, NC
Asheville Museum of Science (AMOS)
AMOS offers hands-on exhibits and educational programs that spark curiosity. Kids can dig for fossils in the Dino Pit, explore interactive science exhibits, and participate in workshops. The museum also features a STEM Lab and regular events like Science Pub.
FAQ
Q: What kind of exhibits are at the Asheville Museum of Science?
A: Exhibits include a Dino Pit, STEM Lab, and interactive science displays.
Western North Carolina Nature Center
This nature center is home to over 60 species of animals native to the Southern Appalachian region, including black bears, otters, and red wolves. The nature trails, interactive exhibits, and educational programs make it a fun and educational experience. Kids will love the petting zoo and the chance to learn about local wildlife.
FAQ
Q: What animals can be seen at the Western North Carolina Nature Center?
A: The center features black bears, otters, red wolves, and more.
Colburn Earth Science Museum
Kids will love the interactive exhibits on minerals, fossils, and local geology. Activities like gem panning and fossil digging add to the excitement. The museum also offers educational programs and special events.
FAQ
Q: Are there hands-on activities at the Colburn Earth Science Museum?
A: Yes, kids can engage in gem panning and fossil digging.
Pack Place Education, Arts & Science Center
Home to multiple museums, including a science museum, art museum, and history museum, Pack Place provides a full day of educational activities. The center hosts rotating exhibits and family-friendly events throughout the year.
FAQ
Q: What can families do at Pack Place?
A: Families can visit various museums and participate in interactive exhibits and events.
Things to Do in Asheville, NC, With Kids: Amusement and Entertainment
Asheville Fun Depot: Kids Love This NC Spot
Asheville Fun Depot offers a variety of activities, including laser tag, a go-kart track, arcade games, and a climbing wall. It’s a perfect spot for a day of indoor fun. The facility also has mini-golf and bumper cars, making it ideal for children of all ages.
FAQ
Q: What activities are available at Asheville Fun Depot?
A: Activities include laser tag, go-karting, mini-golf, bumper cars, and arcade games.
Mountain Play Lodge
This indoor playground features themed play areas, slides, and climbing structures. It’s designed for younger children and offers a safe environment for play. The lodge also hosts birthday parties and special events.
FAQ
Q: Is Mountain Play Lodge suitable for toddlers?
A: Yes, it’s designed specifically for younger children, with safe play areas.
Asheville Pinball Museum
Step back in time at the Asheville Pinball Museum, where kids and adults can play over 35 vintage pinball machines and classic arcade games. It’s both nostalgic and entertaining, offering a unique experience in downtown Asheville.
FAQ
Q: Can kids play the pinball machines at the Asheville Pinball Museum?
A: Yes, the museum is family-friendly, and kids can play all the machines.
Toy Box: A Unique Store For Kids in Asheville, NC
A local toy store in Asheville that not only sells unique toys but often hosts events and activities for children. Visiting can be a fun and different kind of outing. It’s a great place to find educational toys and games.
FAQ
Q: Does the Toy Box host events for children?
A: Yes, the store frequently hosts activities and events for kids.
Cultural and Historical Sites to Visit in Asheville, NC, With Kids
Biltmore Estate
Touring the historic Biltmore Estate is a unique experience. Kids can explore the grand house, gardens, and even enjoy the interactive exhibits in the Antler Hill Village. The estate also features a farmyard and playground, making it family-friendly. Seasonal events and tours keep it exciting year-round and Christmas, in particular, is a great time to visit. The grounds transform into a winter wonderland, making it one of the best places to spend Christmas in North Carolina!
FAQ
Q: Is the Biltmore Estate kid-friendly?
A: Yes, the estate offers a farmyard, playground, and interactive exhibits for children.
Grovewood Village
Explore the historic grounds of Grovewood Village, visit the antique car museum, and enjoy the nature trails. The village also offers educational programs and special events throughout the year. The onsite artists’ studios provide a look into local craftsmanship.
FAQ
Q: What can families do at Grovewood Village?
A: Families can visit the antique car museum, explore nature trails, and participate in educational programs.
Thomas Wolfe Memorial
This historic site offers a glimpse into the life of one of America’s famous writers. The guided tours are educational and can be interesting for older children. The museum provides insights into early 20th-century life in Asheville.
FAQ
Q: Is the Thomas Wolfe Memorial suitable for children?
A: Yes, older children may find the tours and historical insights fascinating.
Family-Friendly Seasonal Activities in Asheville, NC
Cataloochee Ski Area: Let Your Kids Hit the Slopes Near Asheville, NC
In winter, head to Cataloochee Ski Area for skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. The resort offers lessons for kids and a variety of winter activities. It’s one of the best places for families to enjoy winter sports near Asheville.
FAQ
Q: Does Cataloochee Ski Area offer lessons for kids?
A: Yes, they offer skiing and snowboarding lessons for children.
Beaver Lake
During warmer months, Beaver Lake is perfect for picnicking and bird watching. The serene environment is ideal for a family day out. There are also walking trails and opportunities for fishing and canoeing.
FAQ
Q: Can you fish at Beaver Lake?
A: Yes, fishing is allowed with the appropriate permits.
Hickory Nut Gap Farm: A Gem For Younger Kids in Asheville, NC
This working farm offers hayrides, animal encounters, and seasonal events like apple picking. It’s a fantastic way to introduce kids to farm life. The farm also features a farm store with local products and a picnic area.
FAQ
Q: What activities are available at Hickory Nut Gap Farm?
A: Hickory Nut Gap Farm offers hayrides, animal encounters, seasonal events like apple picking, and a farm store with local products.
Exciting Annual Events (approved by kids) in Asheville, NC
LEAF Festival
The LEAF Festival is a bi-annual event celebrating music, arts, and culture. It offers family-friendly activities such as puppet shows, storytelling, crafts, and workshops. The festival takes place in Black Mountain, just outside Asheville, and provides a diverse and enriching experience for kids.
FAQ
Q: Is the LEAF Festival suitable for kids?
A: Yes, the festival features many activities specifically designed for children.
Downtown Asheville Drum Circle
Every Friday night, locals and visitors gather for the Downtown Asheville Drum Circle. This free event is held at Pritchard Park and is open to everyone. Kids can join in the drumming or dance to the rhythmic beats, making it a fun cultural experience.
FAQ
Q: Can children participate in the Downtown Asheville Drum Circle?
A: Yes, the event is open to all ages, and kids are welcome to join.
Apple Festival in Hendersonville
Held annually in nearby Hendersonville, the Apple Festival features parades, live music, and plenty of apple-themed activities. Kids can enjoy carnival rides, face painting, and apple picking. It’s a great way to celebrate the region’s apple harvest.
FAQ
Q: What activities are available for kids at the Apple Festival?
A: The festival offers carnival rides, face painting, and apple picking.
Where to Stay, Best Places to Eat, and Tips for Visiting Asheville,NC, With Kids
Where to Stay in Asheville, NC, With Kids
Consider staying at family-friendly hotels like the Omni Grove Park Inn or renting a cabin in the mountains. Many accommodations offer amenities like swimming pools, game rooms, and complimentary breakfast, making them perfect for families.
Dining with Kids in Asheville, NC
Asheville has many kid-friendly restaurants, such as Farm Burger, which offers delicious and healthy options for kids. Other popular spots include Early Girl Eatery for Southern comfort food and the Asheville Pizza & Brewing Company, where you can watch movies while dining!
FAQ
Q: Are there family-friendly accommodations in Asheville?
A: Yes, many hotels and cabins cater specifically to families with amenities like pools and game rooms.
Q: What are some kid-friendly restaurants in Asheville?
A: Farm Burger, Early Girl Eatery, and Asheville Pizza & Brewing Company are excellent choices.
Best Times to Visit Asheville, NC, For Things to Do With Kids
Spring and fall are ideal for visiting Asheville with kids, as the weather is mild and many attractions are open. Summer offers a host of outdoor activities, while winter is perfect for skiing and enjoying holiday events.
Getting Around Asheville
Asheville is a walkable city, but having a car can be convenient for visiting attractions outside the downtown area. Public transportation and bike rentals are also available. For families, renting a car might be the most comfortable option.
